How to Choose the Right Couples Therapist in Paddington Brisbane
- May 23
- 2 min read
Choosing a couples therapist is one of those decisions that feels harder than it should be. There is a lot of information online, a lot of different practitioners, and no obvious way to know who is actually going to be helpful.
If you are looking for a couples therapist in Paddington or the inner Brisbane area, here is what actually matters when making your decision.
Training specifically in couples work
This is the most important thing most people do not think to check. Many therapists are trained in individual therapy and see couples as well. But couples therapy is a genuinely different clinical skill set. A practitioner with specific training in couples therapy will get you better results than one who primarily does individual work and occasionally sees couples.
Look for training in an evidence-based couples therapy model. The Gottman Method is one of the most well-researched approaches in the world, with over 40 years of research behind it. Emotionally Focused Therapy is another strong option. If a therapist cannot tell you what model they work from, it is worth considering if they will be the right fit for you needs.
PACFA /ACA / AASW / APS membership
In Australia, counsellors are not required by law to be registered, which means anyone can call themselves a therapist. Membership of a professional body like PACFA (Psychotherapy and Counselling Federation of Australia) or ACA (Australian Counselling Association) means the practitioner has met minimum training standards and is bound by a code of ethics.
A PACFA Clinical Member, which is the highest membership category, has completed postgraduate level training and a significant number of supervised clinical hours.
A specialist, not a generalist
A therapist who sees individuals, couples, children, families, and trauma is spread very thin across a lot of different clinical presentations. A practitioner who focuses specifically on couples will have seen more of what you are going through and will have more refined skills in working with it.
Someone whose communication style suits you
This matters more than people expect. Some therapists are warm and gentle. Others are more direct and structured. Neither is better, but one might suit you and your partner more than the other. Reading a therapist’s website copy gives you a real sense of their style before you ever speak to them.
Practical considerations
Location, availability, and session length all matter. If the practice is inconvenient to get to, you are less likely to show up consistently, and consistency is important in couples work.
At Brisbane Couples Counselling, I am located at 108 Latrobe Terrace, Paddington, an easy drive or bus ride from most inner Brisbane suburbs. Sessions run 90 minutes on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Sundays, with online sessions available.
I am a PACFA Clinical Member, hold a Master of Counselling, and am trained in the Gottman Method through Level 3. Couples therapy is my sole clinical focus.
If you would like to ask any questions before booking, reach out. I am happy to have a brief conversation to help you work out whether we are a good fit.
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