Couples Counselling in Melbourne
Evidence-based couples therapy guided by the Gottman Method. Improve communication, rebuild trust, and strengthen connection with a registered psychologist in St Kilda.
WHAT IS COUPLES COUNSELLING?
Structured support for the relationship you want.
Couples counselling is a form of therapy that supports partners in improving and strengthening their relationship. Through structured sessions with a trained psychologist, couples explore the patterns, emotions, and dynamics that shape their connection.
At Contemporary Psychology, sessions are guided by the Gottman Method, a leading research-based approach developed over four decades of relationship science. Our focus extends beyond resolving problems as they arise. We prioritise educating and empowering couples with practical, evidence-based tools focused on long-term relationship health.
Contrary to popular belief, couples counselling is not only for relationships in crisis. Many couples who are functioning well also find it valuable, whether they are preparing for major life transitions or simply wanting to strengthen their foundations. Most couples wait around six years after problems begin before seeking help. Starting early makes everything easier.
COMMON REASONS COUPLES ATTEND
Communication difficulties, such as challenges expressing needs, listening deeply, or resolving disagreements without escalation.
Recurring arguments that lead to ongoing tension, with no clear resolution in sight.
Emotional disconnection or distance, resulting in a sense of isolation or feeling misunderstood.
Navigating the aftermath of an affair or betrayal and working toward rebuilding trust.
Difficulties with physical or emotional intimacy that are affecting relationship satisfaction.
Preparing for major life transitions such as marriage, parenthood, relocation, or retirement.
Wanting to strengthen relationship foundations and build long-term connection proactively.
Navigating significant differences in values, parenting styles, or life goals.
YOUR COUPLES THERAPIST
Meet Lucy Adlard, Psychologist.
Lucy is Contemporary Psychology's dedicated couples therapist. Clients describe her as warm and grounded, with a natural ability to bring energy and insight into sessions. She is known for her respectful yet direct style, gently challenging stuck patterns and helping couples move toward meaningful change.
Lucy holds Level 2 Gottman Method training and has a particular interest in supporting couples working through relationship and attachment concerns. She brings a holistic, client-led approach, believing that therapy works best when both partners feel genuinely safe, heard, and comfortable being themselves.
Lucy also works with individuals on anxiety, emotional regulation, mood and personality concerns, life transitions, and LGBTQIA+ affirming support.
HOW IT WORKS
The assessment and session structure.
Gottman Method couples therapy begins with a structured intake process to understand your relationship fully before designing a personalised treatment plan.
90-minute joint intake session
The process begins with a 90-minute session together, exploring your relationship history, current patterns, recurring conflicts, and shared concerns. This gives your therapist a comprehensive picture of your relationship before any intervention begins.
Individual 30-minute sessions
Following the joint intake, each partner meets individually with the therapist for 30 minutes. This provides space to reflect on personal history, individual goals for the relationship, and anything that may be difficult to raise together.
Personalised treatment plan
Based on the intake process, your therapist develops a collaboratively agreed-upon plan. Ongoing sessions are structured around this plan, with flexibility to adjust as your relationship evolves.
More detailed information about the process can be provided by our reception team or emailed on request.
Contact the ClinicTHE GOTTMAN METHOD
Four decades of relationship science.
The Gottman Method is one of the most rigorously researched approaches to couples therapy in the world. It is practical, evidence-based, and focused on building long-term relationship health, not just resolving immediate conflict.
Understanding your relationship
The process begins with a thorough understanding of your relationship's history, strengths, and patterns. The Gottman Method emphasises that a strong foundation of friendship and admiration is as important as conflict resolution skills.
Addressing the Four Horsemen
Research identifies four communication patterns, criticism, contempt, defensiveness, and stonewalling, as particularly damaging. Sessions focus on recognising and replacing these with healthier alternatives.
Building a shared meaning system
Couples who thrive long-term share rituals, goals, and a sense of purpose. This work goes beyond solving immediate problems to help you build a relationship that is genuinely enriching for both partners.
Practical, actionable tools
The Gottman Method is evidence-based and practical. You leave each session with concrete skills and strategies, not just insight. Over time, these become the foundation of how you communicate and connect.
Ready to invest in your relationship?
No referral required. Book a free intake call or go straight to an appointment. Couples sessions are available in person at our St Kilda clinic.
We do not offer bulk billing, prescriptions, or immediate crisis response. For urgent support, please call Lifeline on 13 11 14.
Couples counselling and relationship therapy available in St Kilda and surrounding suburbs including South Melbourne, Southbank, East Melbourne, Port Melbourne, Albert Park, Middle Park, Richmond, Cremorne, South Yarra, Hawksburn, Prahran, Windsor, Balaclava, Elwood, Ripponlea, Toorak, Armadale, Hawthorn, Kooyong, Glen Iris, Malvern, Malvern East, Caulfield North, Caulfield, Elsternwick, Gardenvale, Brighton East, and Brighton.