Common Concerns Addressed in Gottman Method Couples Therapy

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Most couples go through periods of stress or disconnection, and this is a normal part of long-term relationships.

 

When these challenges continue over time or begin to affect your day-to-day wellbeing, many couples choose to seek guidance from a therapist trained in the Gottman Method.

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The kinds of issues often explored in therapy include:

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• Difficulties communicating – feeling unheard, misunderstood, or avoiding certain topics.

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• Changes in sexual intimacy – loss of closeness, passion, or romance.

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• Ongoing disagreements – challenges with decision-making or difficulty compromising.

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• Emotional distance – feeling disconnected or withdrawn from one another.

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• Trust issues – including affairs, secrecy, or problematic behaviours (e.g., pornography, gambling).

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• Parenting and co-parenting challenges – navigating differences in parenting styles, discipline, or family routines.

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• Repeating arguments – conflicts that keep resurfacing without resolution or repair.

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• Long-standing conflict patterns – recurring issues that are difficult to break.

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• External stressors – work pressures, family, or in-law conflicts.

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• Grief or significant life changes – adjusting to loss or major transitions.

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• Feeling unsupported or unsafe – lacking emotional safety in the relationship.

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What You Can Expect in Gottman Method Couples Therapy

 

Safe & Comfortable Environment

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You can share your relationship concerns in a respectful, caring, and non-judgemental space. It’s normal to feel nervous before the first session, but most people find they quickly feel more relaxed as therapy progresses.

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Insight, Understanding & Communication

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You and your partner will have the opportunity to discuss issues openly, gain deeper insight into your relationship patterns, and build mutual understanding. I’ll support you in developing communication, conflict management, and emotional connection skills in a safe environment.

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Timing & Length of Therapy

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Many couples begin noticing changes after several sessions, though this varies for each relationship. The overall length of therapy depends on your progress and current challenges, usually ranging from 8 to 20 sessions.

 

Evidence-Based Approach

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My approach is based on the work of Drs. John and Julie Gottman, supported by over 45 years of research on what makes relationships work. I am a Certified Gottman Therapist.

 

More Information

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For more information, you can follow this link: The Gottman Method

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Gottman Method Couples Therapy

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The Gottman Method Couples Therapy involves a detailed assessment and goal setting to prepare for your sessions.

I offer therapy in three formats: Marathon, Mini-Marathon, or Weekly sessions.

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1. Marathon Therapy

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Format: 4-hour assessment + 2 full days of therapy (typically 8:30 am – 4:30 pm, flexible by arrangement)

This is a condensed and intensive approach to relationship counselling. It provides focused time to address specific issues and make progress efficiently.

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2. Mini-Marathon Therapy

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Format: 4-hour assessment + 4-hour x 4 therapy sessions
Sessions can be scheduled weekly or twice weekly, with flexible timing to suit your schedule.

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3. Weekly Therapy

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Format: 4-hour assessment + 2-hour x 5 therapy sessions
Sessions are scheduled weekly.

 

**Additional sessions may be added based on your situation and progress.​

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Assessment Sessions

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Before your first session, each partner completes the Gottman Relationship Checkup online.

This provides valuable insight into your relationship.

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• First session: Discuss current issues and relationship history.​

• Individual sessions: As part of the assessment, each partner is seen separately to understand their perspective.

• Next session: Explore what makes a strong relationship and how your relationship compares with research-based indicators of a healthy relationship. Goals and therapy approach are then set.

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**Complete the assessment promptly, ideally within a week, and no longer than two weeks, to begin therapy efficiently.

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Therapy Sessions

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Therapy focuses on learning new ways to manage conflict, communicate effectively, and build:

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• Friendship and closeness

• Greater understanding and intimacy

• Shared meaning in your relationship

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Progress is regularly checked against your goals. Research indicates that frequency and intensity in treatment often support meaningful change.

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Maintenance Sessions

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Once therapy goals are achieved, maintenance sessions help you sustain the positive changes:

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• Initially monthly

• Extended to every 6 months

• Continued up to 2 years as needed

 

Fees & Rebates

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• Fee: $220 per hour (increasing to $230 from 1st January 2026)

• Couples therapy is not eligible for Medicare rebates

• Private Health Insurance: Check with your insurer for possible rebates. Item number for couples therapy: 300​  

 

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Booking & Contact

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• Check appointment availability: Click Here

• Call/SMS 0419 738 231 to arrange a 15-minute complimentary phone consultation

• Current availability for new couples: beginning of December

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***This process is best suited for couples who are ready to fully commit both financially and time-wise.

If that’s not possible right now, I encourage you to wait until the timing is right.​​​​ 

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