Marriage/Couples Therapy
Marriage/Couples Counselling & Psychotherapy
“Insanity is doing the same thing over and over again and expecting different results.”
Couples often say, "We are just going around and around in circles; same problem, different week. "
Over the years, I have worked with hundreds of couples. I have learnt that there is a distinct pattern or theme in their behaviour that has led them to seek help with their relationship. These behaviours stem from upbringing, past experiences, different cultures, values, and belief systems. As a therapist, I have much to consider
As a therapist, I recognise that each couple is unique and should be treated accordingly
- I can see that there is a distinct pattern of behaviour within my work. I implement a process for working with couples.
- I hear the problem and the desired outcomes of the couple.
- I work individually to heal past traumas, which may belong to the individual or come from their family of origin.
- For personal issues, I use a process called E.M.I., and for systemic problems, I use R.C.H. Rapid Core Healing. Both modalities are fast and effective.
The 5 Pillars to a happy & satisfying relationship
We all have the inner wisdom to heal and recover. With the right environment and support a relationship does have the ability to go from shut down survival, to growing and thriving.
Click here to read about the Pillars
Problems within an intimate relationship are not always an issue between the couple as such....
The core of these issue/s may have been present well before the individuals became a couple.
This issue between the couple stems from either childhood experiences or systemic factors. It becomes more apparent when they face life stressors, such as financial concerns, differing parenting styles, or illness. These issues can act as triggers, causing them to react defensively or overreact in certain situations. Due to these unresolved issues and a lack of effective communication, the couple ends up arguing and has unmet needs, which leads to unhappiness, hopelessness, and frustration. As a result, the divide between them widens
I have found that when the core issues are addressed, the couple can return to a happier state. Using RCH Rapid Core Healing, a form of psychotherapy with my clients, clears these unresolved issues quickly and effectively.
Why work with me?
I utilise Psychotherapy to address core issues while incorporating Rapid Core Healing (RCH) to target underlying challenges. Additionally, I apply a cognitive approach to equip individuals and couples with new skills and insights, fostering personal and relational growth. This process allows couples to develop a fresh perspective on themselves and each other’s needs, ultimately guiding them toward a transformative, mutually fulfilling, and loving relationship.
I provide support for various relationship stages, including marriage, unmarried couples, same-sex couples, pre-engagement, engagement, pre-marriage therapy, and post-marriage counseling. I also offer crisis counseling before, during, or after divorce. Sessions are available both in-person and online (virtual).
Reasons Why Couples Seek Relationship or Marriage Counselling
Unhealthy communication styles- yelling or don’t talk.
Financial or emotional stress
Loss of trust due to past verbal, physical abuse or infidelity
Needs not met due to being ineffective communicators
Lack of intimacy & love
No clear personal or relationship boundaries
Anger is affecting your relationship
Past trauma/events are still coming between you
Beneath every fear,
lies the pearl of hope
The first seven years of life lay the foundation for who we become and shape our sense of identity in the world. It’s as if these early years leave an imprint on how we view life, influenced by our unique experiences. Each person carries their own perspective, their own lens through which they see the world.
Our past experiences inevitably shape how we perceive our present reality, and it’s important to remember that no two people share the same perspective. Even though we may have similar experiences, like growing up in the same household, each person’s view of life can be entirely different. This is why it’s easy to misunderstand one another—especially when we expect others, even those closest to us, to see things as we do.
Take That First Step To Improve Your Relationship
Arrange your first session
Use my online booking system to secure a date and time that suits you. I’m flexible.
Packages
I offer affordable and transparent pricing options. Have a look at the packages available.
Get in touch
If you have any questions before for first session with me, please don’t hesitate to reach out.
Marriage & Relationship Counselling Process
Powerful strategies to transform relationships
Most couples enter their first session feeling nervous but leave very excited and happy, as they regain hope.
Session 1
This is always a couples session
This approach ensures that everything discussed is transparent, allowing all parties to be on the same page.
- Both partners will have the opportunity to express their perspectives on the issues they are facing.
- Each partner will be heard with respect, understanding, and without judgment, in a supportive and non-judgmental environment.
Following the initial session, it may be advantageous for each partner to have an individual session before returning for a joint session as a couple. We will discuss this in more detail after the first session.
Session 2
In most cases, they are individual sessions.
Why Individual Sessions?
- In many cases, the challenges a couple faces can be traced back to unresolved past or childhood issues.
- Working one-on-one with the couple allows me to gain a deeper understanding of each person, uncovering underlying factors that may contribute to the current situation difficulties.
- Individual sessions offer a safe and confidential environment where clients can openly share parts of themselves that they may find challenging to discuss in a group setting.
This personalised approach addresses the root causes of issues, facilitating more meaningful progress in the relationship.
Transforming relationships:
Putting couples back on the same path again
Learn Powerful Strategies to Transform Relationships.
As a Qualified and experienced marriage & relationship expert, I will support you throughout each step of the process to enable you both to work towards having these new skills becoming an unconscious part of your relationship.
“Pearls don’t lie on the sea-shore if you want one you must dive for it”
- Support and listen to each other
- Make decisions and develop problem-solving skills
- Communicate effectively
- Change negative patterns
- Understand what each partner’s needs are and how to meet them
- Know your core values in a relationship, and how to create common goals
- Become more present in a relationship
- Learn the behavioral differences between men & women
- Increase intimacy IN-TO-ME-SEE
- Create your unique relationship plan moving forward
- Become more self-aware and present in the relationship
Transform Relationships
Marriage/ Relationship Package
Powerful strategies to transform relationships
With purchasing the package you will receive six, 1-hour sessions in total at a discounted rate.
There are times when further sessions may be required
Included in Package:
- 2 couples sessions = 2
- 2 individual sessions each = 4
- Saving of $83
Not sure if the package is right for you?
You can pay as you go at the hourly rate. Come in and meet me; you may have questions. It’s important that you both feel comfortable.
You can decide after your initial session; no pressure
I am happy to discuss all options with you.
Why the couples package?
1. With experience comes wisdom.
I have worked with many couples, and for the majority, I observe a clear pattern emerging among those presenting issues and concerns. There is no ‘new’ story; instead, there are couples sharing a similar experience. By applying the marriage process, I can swiftly and effectively address the problem areas using specific techniques and modalities. However, I approach all new couples recognising that their situation is unique; I meet them where they are to achieve the results they desire.
2. Commitment to the process.
When the couple decides to choose the package option, it shows a level of commitment to working on their relationship. This can provide hope, allowing the couple to transition from feeling unsure or anxious to feeling more relaxed, knowing there is a plan in place, which positively influences their relationship.
3. Set and forget.
The commitment has been made, and the only thing to focus on now is transforming your relationship.
Take That First Step To Improve Your Relationship
I am here to help you every step of the way!
“Beneath Every Fear, Lies The Pearl Of Hope”
Please note:
- There are no Medicare rebates available.
- Domestic violence is not my area of expertise however I can see clients individually ( not as a couple) for anger issues or victims of abuse. If this is not clear I am happy to have a chat with you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Holistic Counselling, Gestalt therapy, Psychotherapy, Family Constellations, and Clinical Hypnotherapy.
The type of therapy I use with a client is dependant on their issues and their current situation. It’s not always appropriate to use a certain therapy if the client is not ready, I will always work with my clients, meeting them where they are at in their current situation.
Marriage / relationship issues
Over the past 10 years, I have developed my skill set significantly, I see clients for a variety of issues and concerns. I specialise in working with couples who are having relationship issues, these issues can anything from, anger issues, infidelity, lack of communication, earlier trauma or abuse, behavioural issues.
At times I have a client who is unclear on why they are seeing me or they have trouble describing what they feel. This is perfectly fine, it’s my job to support you and guide you through this initial process.
My clients start from 18 years and above. However, I do see families as a whole and at times I see the children individually but for more individual issues I recommend that parents take their children to a therapist that specialises in working with children.
No, appointments can be on a casual basis.
The work that I do is usually fast and effective this does depend on the situation and the individual but psychotherapy does resolve the issue at a core level then the trigger will no longer occur. There are no promises with regards to timing its best to have your first session and I usually have a clearer answer then, once I have time to evaluate your situation.
You can phone 0406 005 177 or email diane@pearlcounselling.com.au to book an appointment. Alternatively, if you would like to talk to me before you decide to book, or you have a query, I offer a free, no-obligation chat to help you attain further clarity.
No, I am unavailable to accept a mental health plan.
