Family Psychologists and Therapists in North Wollongong

Photo of Christina Perez, Psychologist, MSc, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Christina Perez
Psychologist, MSc, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Serves Area
I’m a Clinical Psychologist with over 25 years’ experience. I provide therapy for adults and provide treatment across a range of presenting difficulties such as relationships, trauma, anxiety, depression, adjustment difficulties, emotion regulation difficulties and other complex mental health conditions. I provide both individual therapy and couples therapy. I am a Level 3 Gottman Relationship Therapist and qualified in providing EMDR & EMDR 2.0 therapies.
I’m a Clinical Psychologist with over 25 years’ experience. I provide therapy for adults and provide treatment across a range of presenting difficulties such as relationships, trauma, anxiety, depression, adjustment difficulties, emotion regulation difficulties and other complex mental health conditions. I provide both individual therapy and couples therapy. I am a Level 3 Gottman Relationship Therapist and qualified in providing EMDR & EMDR 2.0 therapies.
(02) 4210 5870 View (02) 4210 5870
Photo of Dr Emma Ruth Mayhew - Creative Remedies, Social Worker, PhD, AASW
Creative Remedies
Social Worker, PhD, AASW
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Waitlist for new clients
This includes working through issues such as grief and loss, anxiety, depression, past trauma; as well as general life transitions and challenges (personal, family, and professional).
My approach is holistic, person-centred and collaborative. I am a fully qualified and registered social worker and have an Advanced Diploma in Transpersonal Art Therapy. I strive to create a partnership with my client based on trust, empathy, and respect. Depending on my client's needs and goals, I use many approaches (including expressive art modalities) in an integrated way to support my clients explore themselves, their relationships and heal from past losses and difficult experiences. I have a special interest in helping people with trauma, as well as grief and loss.
This includes working through issues such as grief and loss, anxiety, depression, past trauma; as well as general life transitions and challenges (personal, family, and professional).
My approach is holistic, person-centred and collaborative. I am a fully qualified and registered social worker and have an Advanced Diploma in Transpersonal Art Therapy. I strive to create a partnership with my client based on trust, empathy, and respect. Depending on my client's needs and goals, I use many approaches (including expressive art modalities) in an integrated way to support my clients explore themselves, their relationships and heal from past losses and difficult experiences. I have a special interest in helping people with trauma, as well as grief and loss.
(02) 4214 4517 View (02) 4214 4517
Photo of Dr Melody Tan, Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Dr Melody Tan
Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Taking the first step to reach out for support can feel like a big leap and I want you to know that you're not alone in this. Therapy is not a one-size-fits-all experience. We are all unique, and my goal is to work alongside you to create a treatment plan that is as individual as you are. Together, we will explore your struggles, discover your strengths, and find practical ways to improve your wellbeing. I take a warm, compassionate approach to therapy, creating a space where you feel heard, supported, and ready to take on new challenges with confidence.
Taking the first step to reach out for support can feel like a big leap and I want you to know that you're not alone in this. Therapy is not a one-size-fits-all experience. We are all unique, and my goal is to work alongside you to create a treatment plan that is as individual as you are. Together, we will explore your struggles, discover your strengths, and find practical ways to improve your wellbeing. I take a warm, compassionate approach to therapy, creating a space where you feel heard, supported, and ready to take on new challenges with confidence.
(02) 4214 8202 View (02) 4214 8202
Photo of Rainbow Shiva - Soul Counselling with Rainbow, Counsellor, ACA-L4
Soul Counselling with Rainbow
Counsellor, ACA-L4
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I work with individuals and families who feel stuck in cycles of addiction, trauma, mental health or ADHD, seeking deeper healing beyond surface-level coping.
I offer somatic therapy, Root Cause Therapy, Embodied Processing, and Human Design to support healing from trauma, addiction, ADHD, and mental health challenges. My trauma-informed approach helps release emotional blocks, break patterns, and build resilience, creating a safe space for growth and authentic self-connection.
I work with individuals and families who feel stuck in cycles of addiction, trauma, mental health or ADHD, seeking deeper healing beyond surface-level coping.
I offer somatic therapy, Root Cause Therapy, Embodied Processing, and Human Design to support healing from trauma, addiction, ADHD, and mental health challenges. My trauma-informed approach helps release emotional blocks, break patterns, and build resilience, creating a safe space for growth and authentic self-connection.
(02) 4210 5402 View (02) 4210 5402
Photo of Cathy Hayes - Mind Mode, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Mind Mode
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Serves Area
I work with clients from all backgrounds, and any gender, using techniques to help people suffering from a range of mental health issues including mood and adjustment disorders, anxiety, depression, PTSD, bipolar & adjustment disorder. I feel passionately about working with people on increasing their self-esteem and assertiveness skills, improving their interpersonal and self care skills. I also love working with couples to rebuild and strengthen relationships.
I work with clients from all backgrounds, and any gender, using techniques to help people suffering from a range of mental health issues including mood and adjustment disorders, anxiety, depression, PTSD, bipolar & adjustment disorder. I feel passionately about working with people on increasing their self-esteem and assertiveness skills, improving their interpersonal and self care skills. I also love working with couples to rebuild and strengthen relationships.
(02) 4058 4423 View (02) 4058 4423
Photo of Johanna Meyer - Inner Calm Clinical Psychology, Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Inner Calm Clinical Psychology
Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Serves Area
Are you seeking a way to address a low mood that just won't shift or anxiety that rules your life? Maybe you have experienced trauma in your life or struggle to establish or maintain close relationships? Inner Calm Clinical Psychology provides effective treatment that is evidence-based and is tailored specifically for YOU. We create a relationship of trust and collaboration so you can grow and develop the skills and tools so you can lead a life that is balanced and meaningful. We are about working intensively with you over a short period of time and then gradually stepping away as you grow so you don't do therapy for years.
Are you seeking a way to address a low mood that just won't shift or anxiety that rules your life? Maybe you have experienced trauma in your life or struggle to establish or maintain close relationships? Inner Calm Clinical Psychology provides effective treatment that is evidence-based and is tailored specifically for YOU. We create a relationship of trust and collaboration so you can grow and develop the skills and tools so you can lead a life that is balanced and meaningful. We are about working intensively with you over a short period of time and then gradually stepping away as you grow so you don't do therapy for years.
(02) 9159 6616 View (02) 9159 6616
Photo of Isaac Bailey - Yurandalli Counselling & Consulting Services, Psychotherapist, PACFA
Yurandalli Counselling & Consulting Services
Psychotherapist, PACFA
Online Only
Our counselling service is open to all and designed around you. We use evidence-based approaches and regularly measure outcomes so you can see what’s working and feel confident in your progress. Sessions are person-centred, we move at your pace whilst also facing into challenges, focus on what matters most to you, and work together on clear, achievable goals. If you’re ready for support that is respectful, inclusive, challenging and grounded in what the research shows really helps, reach out to arrange a brief conversation or schedule your session.
Our counselling service is open to all and designed around you. We use evidence-based approaches and regularly measure outcomes so you can see what’s working and feel confident in your progress. Sessions are person-centred, we move at your pace whilst also facing into challenges, focus on what matters most to you, and work together on clear, achievable goals. If you’re ready for support that is respectful, inclusive, challenging and grounded in what the research shows really helps, reach out to arrange a brief conversation or schedule your session.
(02) 4214 8995 View (02) 4214 8995
Photo of Rhyle Baker, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Rhyle Baker
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Serves Area
I am a registered psychologist with experience supporting people through a number of different concerns. I consider your needs, and aim to tailor therapy to be relevant to yourself. I am motivated to see people engage with their values, connect to the world around them, and build the action that contributes positively to life. It can be challenging to explore your current difficulties, so I appreciate the steps you have taken to better your life. I hope by working together with openness and respect, you might see the change you are after.
I am a registered psychologist with experience supporting people through a number of different concerns. I consider your needs, and aim to tailor therapy to be relevant to yourself. I am motivated to see people engage with their values, connect to the world around them, and build the action that contributes positively to life. It can be challenging to explore your current difficulties, so I appreciate the steps you have taken to better your life. I hope by working together with openness and respect, you might see the change you are after.
(02) 4210 5092 View (02) 4210 5092

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Joanne Maree Cairney - Internal Harmony Counselling, Counsellor, ACA-L2
Internal Harmony Counselling
Counsellor, ACA-L2
Online Only
Clients often seek support for anxiety, relationship difficulties, family stress, life transitions, or feeling disconnected from themselves or others.
Hi, I’m Jo, a qualified counsellor and psychotherapist offering online therapy across Australia wide. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or not quite yourself, I offer a calm and supportive space where you can talk openly and begin to make sense of things. You don’t need to have it all figured out, just a willingness to start. I provide online therapy for anxiety, relationships, parenting, and addiction, helping you understand what’s beneath the surface and find a steadier way forward.
Clients often seek support for anxiety, relationship difficulties, family stress, life transitions, or feeling disconnected from themselves or others.
Hi, I’m Jo, a qualified counsellor and psychotherapist offering online therapy across Australia wide. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or not quite yourself, I offer a calm and supportive space where you can talk openly and begin to make sense of things. You don’t need to have it all figured out, just a willingness to start. I provide online therapy for anxiety, relationships, parenting, and addiction, helping you understand what’s beneath the surface and find a steadier way forward.
(02) 8403 1451 View (02) 8403 1451
Photo of Shahid Hussain - Green Valley Psychotherapy Practice, Psychotherapist, MPsych, PACFA
Green Valley Psychotherapy Practice
Psychotherapist, MPsych, PACFA
Serves Area
Many clients come to therapy when they feel: • Overwhelmed by stress, anxiety, or emotional pressure • Stuck in unhelpful patterns of thinking or behaviour • Struggling with relationship or family difficulties • Impacted by past trauma or difficult life experiences • Experiencing low confidence, self-doubt, or loss of direction • Coping with addiction, recovery, or behavioural challenges • Navigating life transitions or personal change
With 20+ years’ experience, Shahid provides psychotherapy for individuals, couples, and families facing anxiety, depression, trauma, stress, addiction, and relationship challenges. Using CBT, strengths-based counselling, and emotional regulation strategies, he supports clients to build resilience, insight, and practical coping skills, in-person or online.
Many clients come to therapy when they feel: • Overwhelmed by stress, anxiety, or emotional pressure • Stuck in unhelpful patterns of thinking or behaviour • Struggling with relationship or family difficulties • Impacted by past trauma or difficult life experiences • Experiencing low confidence, self-doubt, or loss of direction • Coping with addiction, recovery, or behavioural challenges • Navigating life transitions or personal change
With 20+ years’ experience, Shahid provides psychotherapy for individuals, couples, and families facing anxiety, depression, trauma, stress, addiction, and relationship challenges. Using CBT, strengths-based counselling, and emotional regulation strategies, he supports clients to build resilience, insight, and practical coping skills, in-person or online.
(02) 8105 5120 View (02) 8105 5120
Photo of Krutika M, Psychotherapist, MPsych, PACFA
Krutika M
Psychotherapist, MPsych, PACFA
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Life can sometimes feel confusing and overwhelming, leaving us unsure of where to go next or what to do. In those moments, the sense of being stuck can be unsettling, making us question everything. Our thoughts, feelings, and actions may feel unclear. Yet, there's a part of us that yearns to grow—a curious part that seeks to learn and evolve through these experiences. This part wants to develop emotional resilience, embrace uncertainty, and foster greater self-awareness. Ultimately, it's the part that strives to become the most authentic and reliable version of ourselves.
Life can sometimes feel confusing and overwhelming, leaving us unsure of where to go next or what to do. In those moments, the sense of being stuck can be unsettling, making us question everything. Our thoughts, feelings, and actions may feel unclear. Yet, there's a part of us that yearns to grow—a curious part that seeks to learn and evolve through these experiences. This part wants to develop emotional resilience, embrace uncertainty, and foster greater self-awareness. Ultimately, it's the part that strives to become the most authentic and reliable version of ourselves.
(02) 9158 6366 View (02) 9158 6366
Photo of Ari Daly, Social Worker, MSc, AMHSW
Ari Daly
Social Worker, MSc, AMHSW
1 Endorsed
Fairy Meadow, NSW 2519
I specialise working with children, adolescents, adults and families in the context of complex trauma, violence and abuse, perinatal, attachment and parenting (0-18 years), relational difficulties i
I see the person in the context of their family, environment and history while providing holistic, integrative and evidence based therapy. I am trained in attachment and trauma specific modalities, mental health counselling, family systemic therapy, eye movement desensitisation reprocessing (EMDR), interpersonal therapy, and narrative therapy.
I specialise working with children, adolescents, adults and families in the context of complex trauma, violence and abuse, perinatal, attachment and parenting (0-18 years), relational difficulties i
I see the person in the context of their family, environment and history while providing holistic, integrative and evidence based therapy. I am trained in attachment and trauma specific modalities, mental health counselling, family systemic therapy, eye movement desensitisation reprocessing (EMDR), interpersonal therapy, and narrative therapy.
(02) 4214 8399 View (02) 4214 8399
Photo of Chelsea Ho, Psychologist, MSc, PsyBA General
Chelsea Ho
Psychologist, MSc, PsyBA General
Serves Area
To assist clients in meeting their unique therapeutic goals, Chelsea draws upon the following evidence-based treatment modalities: Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Problem-Solving Therapy, and Family-Based Therapy for eating disorders in her practice.
Chelsea is a warm and empathic psychologist. As therapy can be a vulnerable but rewarding experience, Chelsea brings compassion, curiosity, and humour where appropriate to create a safe space to explore your experiences. Chelsea is trained in providing therapy for a range of mental health concerns including anxiety, depression, stress, psychosis, eating disorders, and trauma. She has particular interest and training in working with adolescents and adults with eating disorders.
To assist clients in meeting their unique therapeutic goals, Chelsea draws upon the following evidence-based treatment modalities: Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Problem-Solving Therapy, and Family-Based Therapy for eating disorders in her practice.
Chelsea is a warm and empathic psychologist. As therapy can be a vulnerable but rewarding experience, Chelsea brings compassion, curiosity, and humour where appropriate to create a safe space to explore your experiences. Chelsea is trained in providing therapy for a range of mental health concerns including anxiety, depression, stress, psychosis, eating disorders, and trauma. She has particular interest and training in working with adolescents and adults with eating disorders.
(02) 8105 5269 View (02) 8105 5269
Photo of Violeta Paicu - Violeta Paicu - VP Counselling, Counsellor, MA, ACA-L4
Violeta Paicu - VP Counselling
Counsellor, MA, ACA-L4
Moss Vale, NSW 2577
Within the confidentiality and safety of a counselling session, we can work together on exploring your past and present hurts, family of origin issues, feelings, thought patterns and communication skills, aiming for personal restoration to wholeness.
Nothing is too small to address as long as it is big enough to keep you awake. It takes courage to reach out for support, so well done in recognising that it would be helpful for you to find strategies to protect yourself from further emotional or physical pain. Whether it is a couple or individual therapy, I am here to hold the space for you non-judgmentally and help you navigate your challenges if you are willing to. I am a caring, compassionate, skilled counsellor passionate about repairing emotional disengagement and building a successful couple's relationship.
Within the confidentiality and safety of a counselling session, we can work together on exploring your past and present hurts, family of origin issues, feelings, thought patterns and communication skills, aiming for personal restoration to wholeness.
Nothing is too small to address as long as it is big enough to keep you awake. It takes courage to reach out for support, so well done in recognising that it would be helpful for you to find strategies to protect yourself from further emotional or physical pain. Whether it is a couple or individual therapy, I am here to hold the space for you non-judgmentally and help you navigate your challenges if you are willing to. I am a caring, compassionate, skilled counsellor passionate about repairing emotional disengagement and building a successful couple's relationship.
(02) 3816 2625 View (02) 3816 2625
Photo of Maureen Deeb, Counsellor, PACFA
Maureen Deeb
Counsellor, PACFA
Serves Area
I now have the privilege of helping others through their life challenges, family, parenting, relationship issues, grief, mental health, whatever the struggle is.
I believe the counselling process is sacred and it is an honour and privilege to be trusted with someone’s story. I understand counselling is not necessarily an easy process, thus I believe it is important to meet my clients where they are at and work at a pace that suits them. Encouraging clients to work with me and always give them choices along the way.
I now have the privilege of helping others through their life challenges, family, parenting, relationship issues, grief, mental health, whatever the struggle is.
I believe the counselling process is sacred and it is an honour and privilege to be trusted with someone’s story. I understand counselling is not necessarily an easy process, thus I believe it is important to meet my clients where they are at and work at a pace that suits them. Encouraging clients to work with me and always give them choices along the way.
(02) 8105 6747 View (02) 8105 6747
Photo of Elizabeth Fuentes, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Elizabeth Fuentes
Psychologist, PsyBA General
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I use a warm and empathic therapist style, with a practical focus on collaboratively helping my clients move towards meaningful and achievable goals" Areas I am passionate to work with: Anxiety Disorders such as Social Phobia & Panic Disorder, Depression and Low self-esteem, Trauma and PTSD, Work/Life stressors, Self- improvement, Assertiveness and effective communication skills, Adjustment issues, Grief and loss, Interpersonal and family difficulties.
I am experienced in working with individuals across the lifespan and enjoy working with adolescents, adults and older adults. I have worked in a variety of clinical settings including primary schools and high schools as a School Psychologist, in rehabilitation and WorkCover as well as a Psychologist at a University Psychology Clinic.
I use a warm and empathic therapist style, with a practical focus on collaboratively helping my clients move towards meaningful and achievable goals" Areas I am passionate to work with: Anxiety Disorders such as Social Phobia & Panic Disorder, Depression and Low self-esteem, Trauma and PTSD, Work/Life stressors, Self- improvement, Assertiveness and effective communication skills, Adjustment issues, Grief and loss, Interpersonal and family difficulties.
I am experienced in working with individuals across the lifespan and enjoy working with adolescents, adults and older adults. I have worked in a variety of clinical settings including primary schools and high schools as a School Psychologist, in rehabilitation and WorkCover as well as a Psychologist at a University Psychology Clinic.
0468 887 908 View 0468 887 908
Photo of Sam Forbes, Social Worker, AASW
Sam Forbes
Social Worker, AASW
Serves Area
I've worked with people going through the Royal Commission IR CSA, Family Court and recipients of NDIS funds.
What do you want to change in your life? Counselling can help. I've been a therapist for 33 years and I support people to make significant changes in their lives and relationships. There's nothing you can't overcome. I specialise in complex trauma and relationship counselling, and I work with people affected by trauma, child abuse & sexual or domestic violence, mental health issues, racism, disability, bullying, critical incidences, crime, grief and bereavement, including for companion animals/pets. I'm queer and LGBTIQ, trans, NB, poly, ENM, sex work & kink/BDSM affirming. I am trained in EMDR & EMDR 2.0. ONLINE & In person.
I've worked with people going through the Royal Commission IR CSA, Family Court and recipients of NDIS funds.
What do you want to change in your life? Counselling can help. I've been a therapist for 33 years and I support people to make significant changes in their lives and relationships. There's nothing you can't overcome. I specialise in complex trauma and relationship counselling, and I work with people affected by trauma, child abuse & sexual or domestic violence, mental health issues, racism, disability, bullying, critical incidences, crime, grief and bereavement, including for companion animals/pets. I'm queer and LGBTIQ, trans, NB, poly, ENM, sex work & kink/BDSM affirming. I am trained in EMDR & EMDR 2.0. ONLINE & In person.
(02) 8074 5968 View (02) 8074 5968
Photo of Maddy Austin, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Maddy Austin
Psychologist, PsyBA General
1 Endorsed
Dapto, NSW 2530
Hi, I’m Maddy. I’m a registered psychologist with the goal of providing a warm, supportive, and inclusive space for my clients so that we can work with their unique needs and navigate their challenges with compassion and understanding. In my practice, I help people with a variety of concerns. Whether you're dealing with anxiety, depression, PTSD or trauma-related issues, facing workplace stress, struggling with life transitions and adjustment, or experiencing relationship difficulties, I'm here to support you. Whatever brings you here, know that you'll find a non-judgmental, empathetic listener in me.
Hi, I’m Maddy. I’m a registered psychologist with the goal of providing a warm, supportive, and inclusive space for my clients so that we can work with their unique needs and navigate their challenges with compassion and understanding. In my practice, I help people with a variety of concerns. Whether you're dealing with anxiety, depression, PTSD or trauma-related issues, facing workplace stress, struggling with life transitions and adjustment, or experiencing relationship difficulties, I'm here to support you. Whatever brings you here, know that you'll find a non-judgmental, empathetic listener in me.
(02) 4210 5266 View (02) 4210 5266
Photo of Kate Jeffery, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Kate Jeffery
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Woonona, NSW 2517
Hi I’m Kate. With over 20 years of experience working alongside individuals, I provide a compassionate and reflective therapeutic space for people from all walks of life. We all face challenging times—whether it’s anxiety, low mood, relationship strain, disconnection from ourselves, grief, guilt, shame, or navigating life transitions. In therapy, we gently explore the internal and relational patterns that may be keeping you stuck, overwhelmed, or emotionally depleted. These patterns can be shaped by past experiences, trauma, and current stress.
Hi I’m Kate. With over 20 years of experience working alongside individuals, I provide a compassionate and reflective therapeutic space for people from all walks of life. We all face challenging times—whether it’s anxiety, low mood, relationship strain, disconnection from ourselves, grief, guilt, shame, or navigating life transitions. In therapy, we gently explore the internal and relational patterns that may be keeping you stuck, overwhelmed, or emotionally depleted. These patterns can be shaped by past experiences, trauma, and current stress.
(02) 4214 4578 View (02) 4214 4578
Photo of Luke Fullagar, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Luke Fullagar
Psychologist, PsyBA General
3 Endorsed
Dapto, NSW 2530
I work with clients who may be struggling with stress or trauma related to their relationships, family or work.
Hi, I'm Luke. I work with adults & kids to recover from their symptoms & build a life full of meaning, safety, purpose & happiness. I work with a client-focussed & trauma-informed approach that seeks to affirm your inherent strengths & values & considers you as the authority on your own life. I’m committed to psychological safety & work to maintain an inclusive environment for all identities & cultures. I affirm & validate the unique experiences that every person brings to their therapy & try to build a container of respect & dignity which is a dependable place for healing. I commit to your care for as long at it takes.
I work with clients who may be struggling with stress or trauma related to their relationships, family or work.
Hi, I'm Luke. I work with adults & kids to recover from their symptoms & build a life full of meaning, safety, purpose & happiness. I work with a client-focussed & trauma-informed approach that seeks to affirm your inherent strengths & values & considers you as the authority on your own life. I’m committed to psychological safety & work to maintain an inclusive environment for all identities & cultures. I affirm & validate the unique experiences that every person brings to their therapy & try to build a container of respect & dignity which is a dependable place for healing. I commit to your care for as long at it takes.
(02) 4214 8209 View (02) 4214 8209
FAQ - About Family Therapy
What issues does family therapy help with?
Family therapy can help families navigate the complex dynamics of family life, including communication challenges and recurring conflict between family members. A therapist can help family members identify dysfunctional patterns in communication and develop healthier ways of relating. Family therapy may also be helpful during major life transitions or stressful events that affect the family system, such as grief, divorce, trauma, relocation, or a serious illness. In some cases, family therapy can support families coping with specific mental health concerns such as anxiety, depression, alcohol or substance use disorders, and eating disorders. In these situations, therapy can provide education and support to family members, as well as to the individual with the mental health diagnosis.

How do I know if my family needs counselling?
Family therapy may be helpful if a family consistently struggles with conflict or communication in a way that affects daily life or relationships. It can also be beneficial when someone in the family is experiencing significant emotional or behavioural changes, such as a family member becoming aggressive, withdrawing, or struggling to cope after a traumatic event. Additionally, some concerns, such as addiction or eating disorders, may be especially important to address in the context of the family unit.

Who attends family counselling sessions?
Family counselling sessions are often attended by members of the immediate family, such as parents, caregivers, children, or siblings. However, other family members may attend when appropriate, including grandparents, stepparents, stepsiblings, or co-parents. Who attends may depend on the family’s needs, the therapist’s recommendations, and the goals of treatment.

Can family therapy be done online?
Family therapy can often be done online. Virtual sessions may be especially convenient when family members live in different locations, have busy schedules, or live in an area where family therapists are less accessible. However, online therapy may not be the best fit for every family. In-person care may be more appropriate when there are safety concerns, severe conflict, limited privacy at home, or when young children have difficulty engaging through a screen.

What therapeutic approaches are used in family counselling?
Family therapy can take different forms, including systemic family therapy (exploring how individual actions affect the family), structural family therapy (uncovering the structure and relationship dynamics of the family unit), and attachment-based family therapy (focusing on how bonds between family members shape relationships). Family therapy may also include psychoeducation, which helps family members learn more about a mental health condition and how to respond to it more effectively.

How much does family therapy cost and is it covered by insurance?
Family therapy sessions, which typically last about an hour, often range from around AUD $150 to $250 or more, depending on factors such as location, therapist experience, session length, and practice setting. Family therapy often costs more than individual therapy because it involves multiple participants and more complex treatment planning. In Australia, family therapy is often paid out of pocket, although some private health insurance policies may provide partial rebates, depending on the provider type and policy. Medicare rebates may be available in limited circumstances when a person has a Mental Health Treatment Plan established by their GP and is referred to an eligible mental health professional. However, these rebates only apply when services are provided by Medicare-eligible providers and are often subject to a limited number of sessions.