How do I find a counsellor who’s right for me?
Is there any way I can get free relationship counselling?
How do I find a counsellor who’s right for me?
Counsellors can help with emotional issues that affect the way you live your life. They are there to listen to your problems and help you deal with them without the use of medication.
Choosing a counsellor is a personal decision, and it’s important that you choose the right person so you can feel comfortable enough to talk honestly about your problems. You should think about whether:
- You want a male or female counsellor
- You want someone older or younger than you
- You would like someone from the same ethnic group as you
- It is important that your counsellor understands your religious and cultural beliefs
- You would like the counsellor to have a particular philosophy or approach to dealing with problems
- You need the counsellor to have a specific type of qualification
You could ask your friends and family if there is a counsellor that they can recommend. You can always change counsellors if you don’t feel comfortable with them.
Is there any way I can get free relationship counselling?
Free counselling services are available through the Family Court. You can ask for counselling at any time – the Family Court doesn’t have to be involved in the dispute for you to apply. The Family Court offers up to six free counselling sessions to couples, whether they are in a marriage, civil union or de facto relationship. You can apply for these free sessions online, through the nearest Family Court, or through your lawyer.
Family Court counselling sessions are available for married couples, people in a civil union or living in de facto relationships, and can help with:
- Relationship problems
- Arrangements for care of children
- Guardianship disputes
- Separation of relationship property
You can request counselling by going to your local Family Court and filling in a request form, or else your lawyer can ask on your behalf. You can also download a Request for Counselling form.
More information is available in the counselling pamphlet, and on the Family Court website.
Relationship Services is another option – they are a non-profit, nationwide organisation, offering counselling to families and individuals for a range of problems. They offer a number of different types of counselling, including counselling for extended families. The counsellors can give both parents and children help on how to deal with the new living situation, and any emotions you’re struggling to cope with. While their services aren’t free, they are made more affordable through government subsidies. To find a counsellor near you, visit their website.