Relationships Australia has been helping Australians build resilient and positive relationships for over 60 years. One of the first people Australians may speak to about relationship issues is their GP.

Particular medical conditions may place additional stress on a couple, including chronic illness, depression or cancer. Our counsellors also have expertise in dealing with violence occurring in couple relationships.

Our style of counselling is based on what is called a “systemic” model, in which the couple relationship is seen as a system and the behaviour of each partner has a reciprocal effect on the other. We work with most of our clients fortnightly for five to 10 sessions. Relationships Australia does not provide crisis counselling or long-term therapy.

In addition to counselling work with couples, we provide group work for couples and individuals run by trained facilitators. Educational seminars on couple communication, parenting and self esteem among many others are also available. Detailed information regarding our counselling and group activities are available on this website.

How do I refer clients to Relationships Australia?

A GP can refer patients to Relationships Australia though a referral is not a requirement to access our services.

To refer patients to our services, please give them our central phone number 1300 364 277 to make an appointment. Our office hours are Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm, or they can leave a message outside these times.

Is there a Medicare Rebate for clients referred under the Better Access to Mental Health Care Initiative?

No, there is no rebate, as our services are already subsidized by the government.

What happens when a client is referred to Relationships Australia?

When patients make contact with Relationships Australia they will be offered services appropriate to their situation. Generally this will be an appointment to see a counsellor. All our counsellors are well-trained and skilful professionals, who are dedicated to providing your patients with the highest standard of relationship counselling. Sessions are confidential, with the exception of mandatory reporting of harm to children.

Since relationship counselling deals with highly personal matters, we do not routinely send reports to other professionals. However, with the consent of our clients, there are occasions when such reports are made.

We also provide telephone and online counselling for couples or individuals in remote areas, or who may find it difficult for other reasons to attend our offices.

Fees

The fee for counselling per session is based on a sliding scale, according to household income.

To find out more, or to book an appointment call us on 1300 364 277