Gottman Method Counselling in Forster, NSW

I am a counsellor, coach and trainer based in Sydney, Australia. I have 19 years of clinical experience assisting families, couples, individuals, adolescents and children. I am Lead Trainer for Relationships Australia Professional Training (RAPT) and train for ACAP and Uniting. Why should you choose to see me? I find the most satisfying part of my work has been watching people understand their underlying issues and grow to understand how to care for themselves and to make deeper connections with their partners and families.
I am a counsellor, coach and trainer based in Sydney, Australia. I have 19 years of clinical experience assisting families, couples, individuals, adolescents and children. I am Lead Trainer for Relationships Australia Professional Training (RAPT) and train for ACAP and Uniting. Why should you choose to see me? I find the most satisfying part of my work has been watching people understand their underlying issues and grow to understand how to care for themselves and to make deeper connections with their partners and families.

Counselling Solution—Forster & Port Macquarie
Counsellor, MC, ACA-L2
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Forster, NSW 2428
When people first speak with us, they express feelings like, desperate, angry, helpless, stressed, lost, no-sense-of–belonging, not-good-enough, overwhelmed, and not-knowing-where-to-start. You may be feeling desperate, finding your life has unravelled, and that you have lost your way… When we meet, you are inviting us alongside you on your journey seeking understanding, meaning, and direction.
When people first speak with us, they express feelings like, desperate, angry, helpless, stressed, lost, no-sense-of–belonging, not-good-enough, overwhelmed, and not-knowing-where-to-start. You may be feeling desperate, finding your life has unravelled, and that you have lost your way… When we meet, you are inviting us alongside you on your journey seeking understanding, meaning, and direction.
More Therapists Nearby

I am a Relationships Therapist and Sexologist. I am extremely passionate about helping clients have healthier more fulfilling relationships. I work with all types of relationships from monogamy to consensual non monogamy. I also work with couples who are experiencing sexual concerns including mismatched desire, erectile difficulties, painful sex, performance anxiety and out of control sexual behaviors. I am passionate about diversity and equality and aim to walk beside my clients on their journey providing a non-judgmental, supportive and safe environment. I am sex-positive, LGBTIQ, Poly and BDSM friendly.
I am a Relationships Therapist and Sexologist. I am extremely passionate about helping clients have healthier more fulfilling relationships. I work with all types of relationships from monogamy to consensual non monogamy. I also work with couples who are experiencing sexual concerns including mismatched desire, erectile difficulties, painful sex, performance anxiety and out of control sexual behaviors. I am passionate about diversity and equality and aim to walk beside my clients on their journey providing a non-judgmental, supportive and safe environment. I am sex-positive, LGBTIQ, Poly and BDSM friendly.

Nerida works with individuals and couples. She treats low libido in all genders, mismatched libidos between a couple, difficulty with reaching orgasm, pain during intercourse, maintaining intimacy whilst managing health issues and/or chronic pain, anxiety related to being diagnosed with an STI, difficulty getting or maintaining an erection, premature ejaculation, delayed ejaculation, porn and sex addiction, kinks and fetishes, and ethical non monogamy. She works with couples to improve communication and restore trust post infidelity.
Nerida works with individuals and couples. She treats low libido in all genders, mismatched libidos between a couple, difficulty with reaching orgasm, pain during intercourse, maintaining intimacy whilst managing health issues and/or chronic pain, anxiety related to being diagnosed with an STI, difficulty getting or maintaining an erection, premature ejaculation, delayed ejaculation, porn and sex addiction, kinks and fetishes, and ethical non monogamy. She works with couples to improve communication and restore trust post infidelity.
Online Therapists

Some of these include ACT, Gestalt therapy, psychodynamic therapy, attachment theory, strength-based therapy, & Gottman Method Couples therapy.
As a counsellor for both individuals and couples, I create a gentle and safe space for self-exploration, facilitating clients to undergo change in areas of life they may be struggling with. Genuine connection and real conversations are at the heart of my sessions, ensuring clients feel safe, empowered and respected. I work sensitively from a trauma-informed framework, and work with clients on a range of issues including stress, anxiety, relationship issues, body image, self -esteem, grief & loss, identity, life transitions, feelings of lack of direction, and anyone needing to connect with a therapist for support.
Some of these include ACT, Gestalt therapy, psychodynamic therapy, attachment theory, strength-based therapy, & Gottman Method Couples therapy.
As a counsellor for both individuals and couples, I create a gentle and safe space for self-exploration, facilitating clients to undergo change in areas of life they may be struggling with. Genuine connection and real conversations are at the heart of my sessions, ensuring clients feel safe, empowered and respected. I work sensitively from a trauma-informed framework, and work with clients on a range of issues including stress, anxiety, relationship issues, body image, self -esteem, grief & loss, identity, life transitions, feelings of lack of direction, and anyone needing to connect with a therapist for support.

Together, we explore ways to:
- Improve understanding with great communication skills
- Resolve conflict and ways to reconnect after an argument
- Identify and communicate healthy boundaries
- Improve intimacy and connection with another
- Healing from sexual challenges or trauma
- Overcome shame, guilt or societal conditioning and experience more pleasure
I combine a range of techniques including counselling, somatic sexology, Gottman Method Therapy.
My work is the culmination of a life-long journey, formalised through extensive training and experience assisting other practitioners. My qualifications include Counselling, Somatic Sexology, Gottman Relationship Therapy. I continue to study in the field of sex and relationships and am the President of the Somatic Sex Educators Association of Australasia.
Together, we explore ways to:
- Improve understanding with great communication skills
- Resolve conflict and ways to reconnect after an argument
- Identify and communicate healthy boundaries
- Improve intimacy and connection with another
- Healing from sexual challenges or trauma
- Overcome shame, guilt or societal conditioning and experience more pleasure
I combine a range of techniques including counselling, somatic sexology, Gottman Method Therapy.
My work is the culmination of a life-long journey, formalised through extensive training and experience assisting other practitioners. My qualifications include Counselling, Somatic Sexology, Gottman Relationship Therapy. I continue to study in the field of sex and relationships and am the President of the Somatic Sex Educators Association of Australasia.

Drawing from the Gottman Method, Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), Sex Therapy and the Trauma Informed Framework, I offer a holistic approach to couples counselling.
Welcome! I’m Aicha, a French couple counsellor with a passion for guiding individuals through the challenging terrain of their relationships. Whether you're experiencing communication breakdowns, constant conflict, trust issues, intimacy challenges, infidelity, or navigating major life transitions such as parenthood or career changes, I'm dedicated to providing you with the tools and support you need to rebuild and strengthen your relationship. I also offer support to couples dealing with mental health concerns such as anxiety or ADHD, helping you navigate these complexities with empathy and practical strategies.
Drawing from the Gottman Method, Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), Sex Therapy and the Trauma Informed Framework, I offer a holistic approach to couples counselling.
Welcome! I’m Aicha, a French couple counsellor with a passion for guiding individuals through the challenging terrain of their relationships. Whether you're experiencing communication breakdowns, constant conflict, trust issues, intimacy challenges, infidelity, or navigating major life transitions such as parenthood or career changes, I'm dedicated to providing you with the tools and support you need to rebuild and strengthen your relationship. I also offer support to couples dealing with mental health concerns such as anxiety or ADHD, helping you navigate these complexities with empathy and practical strategies.

In addition to my training in family and relationship therapy, I am Level 2 trained in Gottman Method of Couples Therapy.
With men in mind! I'm a male counsellor with a commitment to helping men talk about their life goals, challenges & problems. My goal is to help men move towards a greater sense of well-being & a more fulfilling experience of life. I seek to provide a professional, inclusive practice that recognises & respects diversity, meeting people where they are at & respecting their right to make decisions about their own life.
In addition to my training in family and relationship therapy, I am Level 2 trained in Gottman Method of Couples Therapy.
With men in mind! I'm a male counsellor with a commitment to helping men talk about their life goals, challenges & problems. My goal is to help men move towards a greater sense of well-being & a more fulfilling experience of life. I seek to provide a professional, inclusive practice that recognises & respects diversity, meeting people where they are at & respecting their right to make decisions about their own life.

I specialise in trauma, PTSD, ADHD, and relationship issues, offering a holistic approach that integrates EMDR, IFS, hypnotherapy, and the Gottman Method.
My unique range of modalities and experience offers targeted and effective treatments for individuals and couples struggling with trauma, PTSD, ADHD, relationship issues and more. Clients come to me feeling stuck, overwhelmed, and disconnected, seeking healing from past experiences. To break free from limiting beliefs, build confidence, and restore emotional balance. They need a compassionate space where they can feel seen, heard, and supported in their journey to self-discovery. Using a holistic approach with EMDR, IFS, and other powerful modalities, I help my clients to move forward toward healing, connection, and growth.
I specialise in trauma, PTSD, ADHD, and relationship issues, offering a holistic approach that integrates EMDR, IFS, hypnotherapy, and the Gottman Method.
My unique range of modalities and experience offers targeted and effective treatments for individuals and couples struggling with trauma, PTSD, ADHD, relationship issues and more. Clients come to me feeling stuck, overwhelmed, and disconnected, seeking healing from past experiences. To break free from limiting beliefs, build confidence, and restore emotional balance. They need a compassionate space where they can feel seen, heard, and supported in their journey to self-discovery. Using a holistic approach with EMDR, IFS, and other powerful modalities, I help my clients to move forward toward healing, connection, and growth.

With couples I use the Gottman method loosely while incorporating other models in to maximise results.
I am a Hunter Valley based therapist and Clinical Supervisor with over 15 years experience. I offer a wealth of knowledge and in-depth experience of complex trauma, life-controlling issues, addictions and relationships. Co-founder/CEO of a women's rehabilitation program, Destiny Haven, our mission is to see the lives of broken women restored. I have received significant recognition for my achievements, including finalist in Telstra Businesswomen's awards (2017). I use proven approaches offering unique expertise to help you quickly begin to experience relief from life controlling symptoms that hinder your relationships and limit life
With couples I use the Gottman method loosely while incorporating other models in to maximise results.
I am a Hunter Valley based therapist and Clinical Supervisor with over 15 years experience. I offer a wealth of knowledge and in-depth experience of complex trauma, life-controlling issues, addictions and relationships. Co-founder/CEO of a women's rehabilitation program, Destiny Haven, our mission is to see the lives of broken women restored. I have received significant recognition for my achievements, including finalist in Telstra Businesswomen's awards (2017). I use proven approaches offering unique expertise to help you quickly begin to experience relief from life controlling symptoms that hinder your relationships and limit life

Lauren Freele Psychology
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Blacksmiths, NSW 2281
Lauren uses a person centered approach to therapy, meaning she places importance on getting to know you, your needs, and your strengths before tailoring they style of therapy to suit the individual. Lauren works with individuals and couples for all issues, specifically interpersonal relationship issues, trauma, and an array of mental health diagnosis.
Lauren uses a person centered approach to therapy, meaning she places importance on getting to know you, your needs, and your strengths before tailoring they style of therapy to suit the individual. Lauren works with individuals and couples for all issues, specifically interpersonal relationship issues, trauma, and an array of mental health diagnosis.

With over 30 years experience, I work with Individuals and Couples to help support real and lasting change. I use a combination of EMDR, Parts and Attachment informed therapy. I include Gottman for Couples. This can to help change underlying beliefs that form negative patterns. I specialise in Intensive Therapy. I use longer sessions over a shorter period. My extensive experience and skill base alongside my care and compassion can help you get to the bottom of what is going on and to process this, leading to change. Much more than just talking about issues we process them allowing real change to be possible.
With over 30 years experience, I work with Individuals and Couples to help support real and lasting change. I use a combination of EMDR, Parts and Attachment informed therapy. I include Gottman for Couples. This can to help change underlying beliefs that form negative patterns. I specialise in Intensive Therapy. I use longer sessions over a shorter period. My extensive experience and skill base alongside my care and compassion can help you get to the bottom of what is going on and to process this, leading to change. Much more than just talking about issues we process them allowing real change to be possible.

Michelle Kent
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Nelson Bay, NSW 2315
Waitlist for new clients
Life can feel overwhelming when the world isn’t built for the way you think, feel, or process experiences. Many of my clients—children, teens, and adults—struggle with overwhelm, feeling out of control or unsafe, daily functioning, emotional regulation, identity, or relationships. Some seek support in navigating neurodivergence, while others face trauma, anxiety, or depression. Families often feel lost, unsure how to advocate for their children or themselves. My goal is to empower you with understanding, strategies, and confidence to move forward in a way that aligns with who you truly are.
Life can feel overwhelming when the world isn’t built for the way you think, feel, or process experiences. Many of my clients—children, teens, and adults—struggle with overwhelm, feeling out of control or unsafe, daily functioning, emotional regulation, identity, or relationships. Some seek support in navigating neurodivergence, while others face trauma, anxiety, or depression. Families often feel lost, unsure how to advocate for their children or themselves. My goal is to empower you with understanding, strategies, and confidence to move forward in a way that aligns with who you truly are.

I recognises that everybody needs some extra support when facing the challenges and difficulties that life presents us with at times. A warm, encouraging and supportive environment helps my clients achieve their treatment goals. I have experience with varied client groups and work at individually tailoring support and treatment to best suit the unique needs of each client.
I recognises that everybody needs some extra support when facing the challenges and difficulties that life presents us with at times. A warm, encouraging and supportive environment helps my clients achieve their treatment goals. I have experience with varied client groups and work at individually tailoring support and treatment to best suit the unique needs of each client.

I am here to support you through life’s challenges with gentleness, curiosity and a road map to change and self-awareness. I am flexible with the route we take, as the direction and pace is set by you. I will offer suggestions and invite you to explore different options and ways of thinking, feeling, seeing and being. Together creating a clearer path forward, a quiet place to sit and process, a space for activity and action or whatever else you need at any point in time.
I am here to support you through life’s challenges with gentleness, curiosity and a road map to change and self-awareness. I am flexible with the route we take, as the direction and pace is set by you. I will offer suggestions and invite you to explore different options and ways of thinking, feeling, seeing and being. Together creating a clearer path forward, a quiet place to sit and process, a space for activity and action or whatever else you need at any point in time.

I am a psychotherapist and relationship coach with a passion for helping those who find themselves stuck, depressed, anxious, blocked, or those restless and looking for solutions for finding a fulfilling better quality of life.
I am a psychotherapist and relationship coach with a passion for helping those who find themselves stuck, depressed, anxious, blocked, or those restless and looking for solutions for finding a fulfilling better quality of life.

Are you struggling in your relationship with others? Whether that be an intimate partner, parent or your own child? Ashleigh holds space for you and your relationship, to enable you to have a different experience of one another, to finally get out of the same cycle that no longer serves you.
Are you struggling in your relationship with others? Whether that be an intimate partner, parent or your own child? Ashleigh holds space for you and your relationship, to enable you to have a different experience of one another, to finally get out of the same cycle that no longer serves you.

Would you like to grow in confidence and skill to deepen your connection to your self and the ones you love? Do you want to improve your relationships and wellbeing? If you could benefit from discovering how to be kinder to your self, learning skills like boundaries to improve your relationships or understand and heal from the effects of trauma then I might be the person to help you. Sometimes we need a guide to empower us to explore our inner world and discover tools to help us move forward.
Would you like to grow in confidence and skill to deepen your connection to your self and the ones you love? Do you want to improve your relationships and wellbeing? If you could benefit from discovering how to be kinder to your self, learning skills like boundaries to improve your relationships or understand and heal from the effects of trauma then I might be the person to help you. Sometimes we need a guide to empower us to explore our inner world and discover tools to help us move forward.

Do you ever feel like your past still has a hold over you? Are you feeling stuck in your relationships and want deeper connections? Do you yearn for a feeling of being grounded and centred, even when life feels challenging? When you're ready to face the experiences that have shaped your life and relationships, this is your space to explore it all. I am trained in ACT, CBT, EMIT, EFT and solutions-focused therapies and we will find the right combination to help you get to the heart of your challenges, find solutions and implement real change so you can find a new way forward.
Do you ever feel like your past still has a hold over you? Are you feeling stuck in your relationships and want deeper connections? Do you yearn for a feeling of being grounded and centred, even when life feels challenging? When you're ready to face the experiences that have shaped your life and relationships, this is your space to explore it all. I am trained in ACT, CBT, EMIT, EFT and solutions-focused therapies and we will find the right combination to help you get to the heart of your challenges, find solutions and implement real change so you can find a new way forward.

I provide face to face counselling in Newcastle, NSW and telehealth. I am passionate about supporting people through stress, depression, anxiety, grief, burnout and trauma. I am also experienced in skill building including decision making, communication skills, conflict resolution, emotional regulation and boundary setting, from many years providing Employee Assistance Counselling. I see clients under a variety of programs: private clients, Medicare Approved Mental Health Care Plans, Approved Victims of Crime, Employee Assist and Canteen Australia (12-25 year olds impacted by cancer).
I provide face to face counselling in Newcastle, NSW and telehealth. I am passionate about supporting people through stress, depression, anxiety, grief, burnout and trauma. I am also experienced in skill building including decision making, communication skills, conflict resolution, emotional regulation and boundary setting, from many years providing Employee Assistance Counselling. I see clients under a variety of programs: private clients, Medicare Approved Mental Health Care Plans, Approved Victims of Crime, Employee Assist and Canteen Australia (12-25 year olds impacted by cancer).
See more therapy options for Forster
Gottman Method Counsellors
How does the Gottman method work?
One of the core doctrines of the Gottman method is that negative emotions hurt relationships about five times more than positive emotions help them. Thus, couples require five times more positive interactions than negative interactions with each other. The therapist will guide clients on how to improve communication and understanding of each other to manage conflict and have their emotional needs met. The therapist will also advise couples on how to repair relations with each other when conflict arises, and therefore avoid lasting damage.
Is the Gottman method evidence-based?
Yes, this method is an evidence-based approach to couples therapy. The method is based on more than 40 years of research by Drs. John and Julie Gottman, the psychologists who developed the method. The Gottmans analysed decades of data to draw conclusions about what types of interactions are likely to lead to specific results, and which interventions are most likely to lead to success. Studies have found that this approach leads to improvements in relationship satisfaction, intimacy, communication skills, and a lower rate of divorce.
How long does the Gottman method take?
The duration of treatment depends on the specific challenges clients face. Sessions are typically 60 to 90 minutes long, and an average course of treatment is around 10 sessions. In some cases, such as for couples dealing with a critical problem, the therapist will suggest an intensive course of treatment, with daily sessions over the first two to four days. Treatment is complete when the couple is satisfied and has met the goals they’ve set, and when the therapist believes they have the skills to continue on their own.
Is the Gottman method effective?
Through the Gottman method, couples can achieve changes that are real and sustainable. This treatment has been used for more than 40 years; the method is supported by empirical research, including randomised controlled trials that have demonstrated effectiveness in improving relationship outcomes for couples. Like any talk therapy, success or failure depends in large part on how committed the clients are to making positive changes and working toward results.