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One of the questions I sometimes get from couples starting Gottman Method therapy is: “Why do we each need to have an individual session?”  It’s a great question and the answer speaks to the heart of what makes couples therapy so unique and effective. Couples Therapy Is VERY different to individual therapy When you're in the room with your partner, it’s not just you  in the session, it's both of your histories, emotions, perspectives, beliefs, attachment styles, communication

I’m in a footy tipping comp with my family at the moment — currently second on the ladder, thank you very much! While I’d love to claim it’s my expert knowledge, it’s really an absolute fluke. But it got me thinking about coaching, training, and something clicked for me about what couples therapy actually is — and what it has in common with good coaching. Okay... hear me out... Let’s be honest — when you hear the word “therapy,” it probably doesn’t sound like something that a

Have you ever felt stuck in your relationship, unsure whether to stay together or separate? If so, you're not alone. Many couples face this dilemma, especially those in their 30s and 40s, overwhelmed by emotional turmoil and uncertainty. This is where discernment therapy comes in. It provides a structured way for couples to reflect on their feelings and make informed choices about their future. Discernment therapy is not just about fixing problems; it's about understanding yo

Sharing the mental load in a relationship can feel like an uphill battle. Maybe you’ve tried practical tools like a shared calendar, a chore list, or even popular toolkits like Eve Rodsky’s Fair Play book and card system. Yet, despite your best efforts, it seems like nothing is working. Why? Often, it’s not just about the tasks—it’s about understanding and empathising with your partner’s experience. The mental load refers to the invisible labor of managing household tasks, sc

If you’ve ever tried to talk to your partner about an issue, only to have them get defensive, you know how frustrating it can be. But why does this happen? According to Drs. John and Julie Schwartz Gottman, defensiveness is one of the key “Four Horsemen” of relationship breakdowns, and it often appears when someone feels criticised or attacked. In their research, they define defensiveness as an attempt to protect oneself by denying responsibility or counterattacking. Essentia

Becoming a parent is one of the most profound shifts you’ll experience in life. If it feels like you and your partner are arguing more or struggling to stay connected since having kids, know that you’re not alone. This is a common experience as couples navigate their new roles and identities. Struggling to Share the Mental Load? Here’s What Might Be Missing Building a New Foundation Think of your relationship like a house. Before kids, you likely spent time laying a solid fou

The moment you discover your partner has been texting someone else can feel like a bomb detonating in your chest. Your heart races, your stomach churns, and the world as you knew it shifts beneath your feet. The initial shock is disorienting, and a wave of emotions crashes over you: anger, disbelief, heartbreak, and deep sadness. Perhaps you came across flirtatious messages, explicit sexts, or an intimate emotional exchange that feels deeply personal and raw. Whatever the con

When people think about investing in their health, a gym membership often comes to mind. Strengthening your body, improving endurance, and reducing stress are all seen as valuable returns on that investment. But what about your relationship health? Much like physical fitness, a strong, connected partnership requires commitment, skill-building, and sometimes, professional guidance. Investing in couples counselling can be one of the best decisions you make—not just for your rel