​Couples counselling

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I enjoy working with couples to facilitate a deeper understanding,
connection and appreciation for each other. This may include:​

 

• Processing past hurts

• Improving communication and understanding

• Discussing important topics

• Expressing concerns

• Sharing emotions and needs

• Envisioning the future

• Nurturing the closeness and connection while allowing individual
  expressions, and needs to be met.

I am comfortable working with a variety of relationship issues including but not limited to: 

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• Improving communication

• Managing conflict including differing opinions

• Navigating life transitions

• Recovery from infidelity

• Recovery from past impact of addiction

• Understanding and managing cultural differences

• Parenting

• Improving closeness and intimacy

Modality

I use Gottman Method Couples Therapy which is a structured approach based on hundreds of empirical studies with over 3,000 couples, over the span of 40 years. 
It offers a clear process for formulating couple strengths and goals, healing the past, becoming present and more open with each other, and re-invigorating a relationship. 

It consists of a thorough intake and assessment phase to ensure I have a complete understanding around the relationship issues and goals of therapy. This is followed by the therapeutic sessions which are very hands-on as you talk directly with each other with myself guiding the process and language used.

Session info

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Sessions are in-person in Newcastle or can be conducted online via Zoom. There are some limitations to providing couples counselling via Zoom which will be discussed during intake.

Assessment phase – first four sessions

 

Initial couple session, 60 minutes

I begin with seeing you both together in order to get a sense of what is currently happening in your relationship as well an understanding of your history together. You will both then be sent an online questionnaire to complete prior to your individual sessions. 

An Individual session with each partner, 50 minutes each

These allow me to touch base with each of you about your particular concerns and needs.

Couple feedback session, 60 minutes
You then return together for your feedback session, where I will take you through the model of therapy I work with with noting your particular strengths and areas to work on, together forming the therapy goals.

Therapeutic sessions

These are 90 minutes to two hours in length. Initially these are weekly, and they become less frequent as improvements are made, and may drop down to 60 minutes. It is recommended to have between 10 and 24 hours of therapy. 

Progress is reviewed regularly to ensure the therapy is on track and aligned with your goals.

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Fees

Initial couple session:

$290 which includes the 60 minute session and couple questionnaire.

Individual sessions:

$160 for each 50 minute session ($320 in total).

Feedback session:

$200 for the 60 minute session.

Therapeutic sessions:
90 minutes, $290
60 minutes, $200
Two hours $380

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Bookings

Before booking in, I like to have a 10-15 minute complimentary intake phone call with each of you. This is to ensure I am the right fit for you and your partner, to answer any questions, explain and begin the process, and to book the first session if you decide to go ahead. 

You can each phone, text or email me to make a time. Or book a 10-15 minute complimentary intake phone call.​​​

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