Whether you're a married couple or near the start of a relationship, every couple can benefit from relationship counselling. And while couples counselling is always a great choice for people with relationship problems, it doesn't need to get to that point. Even healthy relationships can benefit from counselling. Here are just some of the benefits of couples counselling: Prevent relationship issues before they happen Annoyances and slight grievances don't need to be full-blown issues before they're dealt with. Marriage counselling provides a safe space for you and your partner to talk openly a ..read more

When talking about mental health and well-being, counselling and psychotherapy can easily seem to be used interchangeably. This makes sense because they're used in a similar context and work in a similar way. However, there are differences between the two, and knowing those differences will help you choose which one is best for you. How Counsellors and Psychotherapists Are Similar Counsellors and psychotherapists are similar in many ways — it's possible that they're even the same person. One person practising counselling can also practice psychotherapy, using methods from each depending on th ..read more

Sometimes known as PACT therapy, Psychobiological Approach to Couple Therapy is a contemporary counselling method developed by Dr Stan Tatkin. At its core, PACT couples therapy combines attachment theory, developmental neuroscience and arousal regulation to effectively treat challenging issues among couples. PACT Components Like other forms of couple therapy, PACT integrates various aspects of current psychology. Neuroscience This branch of science refers to the study of the human brain. In particular, neuroscience delves into the function and structure of the brain and nervous system. This c ..read more

On the fence about choosing couples counselling in Sydney? If so, it’s time to define your priorities. Here’s how to go about your search for an excellent couples therapist. Related Qualifications While it goes without saying, seeing a qualified online couples therapist is worth your while. Many counsellors or therapists have a background in psychology, social work or marriage and family therapy, though is not a given. In fact, counsellors in Australia are not subject to legal regulation. Professional therapists may have a personal connection to psychology or mental health that extends beyond ..read more

and why you shouldn't wait too long to attend. The most common mistake couples in crisis make is seeking help when it’s too late, says psychotherapist and leading relationship expert Melissa Ferrari. “Couples wait an average of six unhappy years before getting counselling. Many times, the built-up resentment has by then become too over-powering and one person may have already given up. Relationship counselling works but, ideally, it shouldn’t be a last-minute resort,” she explains. Instead, Melissa advises couples to conduct an annual evaluation of their love lives. “We organise yearly hea ..read more

The festive season is a wonderful time for family bonding, relaxing and spoiling everyone; but preparing for the big day can also be incredibly stressful for parents, in particular mums. Unrealistic present wish lists from the kids, a never-ending to-do list, relatives about to descend, pressure to put on an amazing spread – it’s no wonder Christmas sometimes feels more like a chore. But with a clear mindset, taking a step back and giving everyone the opportunity to be involved; families can experience the true joy and meaning of Christmas. Try these simple tips for a smooth and unforgettable ..read more

Counselling isn’t just for unhappy couples. Everyone needs a relationship check-up now and again…As nearly 2 billion people around the world watched, Harry and the love of his life Meghan held hands, declared their undying love for each other, kissed and stepped into a horse drawn carriage where hundreds of thousands danced, cheered and sang as the loving couple headed to their castle, to live ‘happily ever after.’ MOST of us go to the doctor or dentist every year for a check-up — we even go to a mechanic to have our cars tested — and I think it’s about time that we took our relationships jus ..read more

As nearly 2 billion people around the world watched, Harry and the love of his life Meghan held hands, declared their undying love for each other, kissed and stepped into a horse drawn carriage where hundreds of thousands danced, cheered and sang as the loving couple headed to their castle, to live ‘happily ever after.’ Wow the House of Windsor certainly leaves Charles Perrault, the Brothers Grimm and Walt Disney in their wake as they tell a story. Despite the fact that we know the reality is always different from the fairy tale, as the beautiful Diana and the difficult life of Sarah Ferguson ..read more

Getting engaged is one of the most wonderful moments of anybody’s life. Bursting with romance and often surprise, it can create spontaneous joy and a huge rush of excitement that can last for days. The phone runs hot, your social media feed is bubbling over with happy emojis and you are floating on a cloud. Just like the first flush of romance, getting engaged can cause an uprush of ‘feel good’ hormones that can have your pulse racing and your heart fluttering. It also brings with it a whole suitcase of wishes and desires, many of which stem from childhood fairy tales and fantasies mingled wi ..read more

"The most precious gift you can give to to your partner and yourself is to create an environment that is both nurturing and peaceful". - Melissa Ferrari. It's not just vitamins, juices or quality food that can boost your immune system. Research has shown that unhappy marriages and stressed relationships weaken the immune system and couples with healthy relationships have 35% fewer illnesses. You can strengthen your relationship by focusing on micro-exchanges, affectionate touch, nervous system regulation and the awareness of subtle disruptions and separations that can affect the quality of a ..read more