Our Locations
We have practices across Sydney, the coast and the Illawarra, and online. You can also access counselling through Zoom, Teams or Meet.
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St Leonards
Suite 3, Level 4/66 Pacific Highway
St Leonards NSW 2065
T:(02) 8004 9966 View details
Ryde
Suite 7, 117 North Road
Ryde NSW 2112
T:(02) 8004 9966 View details
West Ryde
79 Ryedale Rd
West Ryde NSW 2114
T:(02) 8004 9966 View details
Online
Teams - Zoom - Meet
Online
T:(02) 8205 0566 View details
Cronulla
Level 1, 26-32 Ewos Parade
Cronulla NSW 2230
T:(02) 8004 9961 View details
Earlwood
Boomerang Ave
Earlwood NSW 2206
T:(02) 8004 9969 View details
Glebe
1 Arundel St
Glebe NSW 2037
T:(02) 8094 1796 View details
Elizabeth Street
411/185 Elizabeth St
Sydney NSW 2000
T:(02) 8205 0566 View details
Miranda
29 Kiora Road
Miranda NSW 2228
T:(02) 8004 9960 View details
Surry Hills
302/88 Foveaux St
Surry Hills NSW 2010
T:(02) 8094 1790 View details
Bondi Junction
404/332 Oxford Street
Bondi Junction NSW 2022
T:(02) 8094 1792 View details
Parramatta
26 Marion Street
Parramatta NSW 2150
T:(02) 8897 0803 View details
Castle Hill
Suite 14, 15-17 Terminus St
Castle Hill NSW 2154
T:(02) 8090 0817 View details
Caringbah
Level 1, 418 Kingsway
Caringbah NSW 2229
T:(02) 8094 1799 View details
Erina Central Coast
Suite 10, 166A The Entrance Rd
Erina NSW 2250
T:(02) 8004 5170 View details
Dapto
Laver Road
Dapto NSW 2530
T:(02) 4210 6170 View details
Wollongong
81 Keira St
Wollongong NSW 2500
T:(02) 4210 6170 View details
Macquarie Street
504/135-137 Macquarie St
Sydney NSW 2000
T:(02) 8205 0566 View details
Cabramatta

Cabramatta West NSW 2166
T:(02) 8897 0803 View details
Campbelltown
3/167 Queen St
Campbelltown NSW 2650
T:(02) 8897 0811 View details
Dulwich Hill
Challis Ave
Dulwich Hill NSW 2203
T:02 8004 9963 View details
Lilyfield
1/358 Catherine St
Lilyfield, NSW 2040
T:(02) 8007 7337 View details
North Strathfield
Level 1/5 George St
North Strathfield NSW 2137
T:(02) 8004 9964 View details
Norwest
Suite 20/1 Maitland Place
Norwest NSW 2153
T:(02) 8820 0717 View details
Stanhope Gardens
1 View St
Stanhope Gardens NSW 2768
T:(02) 8820 0717 View details
Beecroft
Karril Ave
Beecroft NSW 2119
T:(02) 8820 0717 View details
Bella Vista
Q Central Building, Suite 208A, 10 Norbrik Drive
Bella Vista NSW 2153
T:(02) 8820 0717 View details
Hornsby
202/16 Hunter St
Hornsby NSW 2077
T:(02) 8004 9965 View details
Northbridge
343 Sailors Bay Rd
Northbridge NSW 2063
T:(02) 8094 1793 View details
Chatswood
54/47 Neridah St
Chatswood NSW 2067
T:(02) 8004 8510 View details
Mosman
The Cottage, 44 Avenue Road
Mosman NSW 2088
T:(02) 8897 0810 View details
Cremorne
4/350 Military Rd
Cremorne NSW 2090
T:(02) 8897 0810 View details
Lane Cove
Room 3, 67 Burns Bay Rd
Lane Cove NSW 2066
T:(02) 8002 1201 View details
Narrabeen
9/12 Rickard Rd
North Narrabeen NSW 2101
T:(02) 8404 0622 View details
Dee Why (Narraweena)
Mundara Place
Narraweena NSW 2099
T:(02) 8404 0622 View details
Kogarah
Suite 5.01, Level 5, 15 Kensington Street
Kogarah NSW 2217
T:(02) 8897 0806 View details
Gosford
54 Hills St
North Gosford NSW 2250
T:(02) 8094 1785 View details
(02) 8205 0566
Mon-Fri: 9:00am - 6:00pm
Booking Request
We'll be in touch the same business day with some great options.


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    We have received your enquiry.

    We will call you today to discuss your enquiry. normally within 2 hours.

    We offer each caller a personalised service to help you to make an informed choice about counselling. Part of our service is to take the time to answer your important questions and to help you decide on the practitioner who is best suited to your needs.

    On busier days there may be a delay. Please wait as we will call you and intend to offer you our full attention and assistance within 24 hours.

    With ‘Associated Counsellors’ you are in good hands assured that your therapist is professionally registered and bound by a code of professional ethics and conduct.

    Grieving Couple
    Difficulty in Relationships

    Relationship Counselling for Unproductive Arguments

    Counselling, in person or online.

    Argument cycles

    Read more

    Couples often get into argument cycles, where they are always arguing about the same thing. These argument cycles are usually caused by negative communication patterns that restrict understanding and respect in a relationship. A couples counsellor can help you and your partner understand and improve your communication habits and stop the constant arguments.

    Communication is key

    Psychologists and relationship counsellors will tell you that good communication is key to a successful relationship. And if you are arguing all the time, then chances are you are no longer communicating well!

    Couples, especially couples who have been together for a long time, often get into argument cycles, where you find yourself constantly arguing about the same thing. Interestingly, while the topic of the repeated argument may change, the underlying triggers for the argument and the pattern the argument takes is often the same.

    Think about what you and your partner fight about most. Probably something mundane like why the dishes weren’t put away, or why the kids aren’t in bed yet, or why you are out of tomatoes…

    We see people for relationship problems at our Bella Vista, Lane Cove, Castle Hill, St Leonards and Miranda practices, and online.

    marriage counselling sydney

    Clinicians offering relationship counselling

    Naomi

    Naomi

    Psychologist & Couples Counsellor

    Bondi JunctionOnline

    Naomi is a Registered Psychologist with over 20 years experience. Warm, empathetic and client-centred, Naomi works with individuals and couples to draw on their strengths to overcome difficulties. She is Gottman certified.

    Individuals ✓Couples ✓

    Phone bookings weekdays 9am-6pm02 8205 0566
    Book with Naomi
    Claire

    Claire

    Counsellor & Relationship Therapist

    Sydney CBDOnline

    Claire is a Masters-qualified Registered Counsellor and Psychotherapist working with individuals and couples on relationships, attachment and emotional wellbeing. Warm and collaborative, she creates a supportive space for clients to work through what feels difficult, at their own pace.

    Individuals ✓Couples ✓Weekends ✓

    Phone bookings weekdays 9am-6pm02 8205 0566
    Book with Claire
    Mike

    Mike

    Clinical Psychologist & Couple Counsellor

    Online

    Mike has a Doctorate in Clinical Psychology and over 20 years experience working with individuals and couples. His success as a counsellor is consistently demonstrated by the deep clinical relationship he has with clients.

    Individuals ✓Couples ✓After hours ✓

    Phone bookings weekdays 9am-6pm02 8205 0566
    Book with Mike
    Jennifer

    Jennifer

    Counsellor & Relationship Therapist

    Castle HillOnline

    Jennifer is a Masters-qualified counsellor with many years of experience. Collaborative and process-orientated, Jenny works with both individual and couples clients to develop healthier relationships with themselves and with others.

    Individuals ✓Couples ✓After hours ✓

    Megan

    Megan

    Counsellor & Relationship Therapist

    St LeonardsNarrabeenOnline

    Megan is a Registered Counsellor with extensive experience supporting individuals and couples. Warm and empathetic, Megan uses an evidence-based, person-centred approach to help clients gain insight and create meaningful change. She is also an Accredited Mediator.

    Individuals ✓Couples ✓After hours ✓

    Atia

    Atia

    Counsellor & Relationship Therapist

    GlebeOnline

    Atia is a degree-qualified counsellor with over 15 years experience working with individuals and couples. Compassionate and supportive, Atia supports her clients to develop self-awareness, empowering them to improve their wellbeing.

    Individuals ✓Couples ✓Weekends ✓Czech ✓

    Graciela

    Graciela

    Counsellor & Relationship Therapist

    DaptoOnline

    Graciela is a Masters-qualified counsellor with over 15 years experience working with individuals and couples. With a gentle approach, Graciela helps her clients develop awareness and gain control of their lives and relationships.

    Individuals ✓Couples ✓Weekends ✓Spanish ✓

    Neri

    Neri

    Counsellor & Relationship Therapist

    CabramattaOnline

    Neri is a Masters-qualified counsellor and psychotherapist with over 10 years experience working with both individuals and couples. Compassionate and insightful, Neri empowers her clients to transform their lives and relationships.

    Individuals ✓Couples ✓After hours ✓Vietnamese ✓

    Revi

    Revi

    Counsellor & Relationship Therapist

    Bondi JunctionOnline

    Revi holds a Master of Social Work (Counselling) and has over 20 years experience counselling both individuals and couples. Compassionate and client-centred, Revi is passionate about helping her clients navigate life’s challenges.

    Individuals ✓Couples ✓After hours ✓Hebrew ✓

    Jenna

    Jenna

    Accredited Mental Health Social Worker & Couple Therapist

    West RydeOnline

    Jenna is an Accredited Mental Health Social Worker with over 15 years' experience across government health services and private practice. Warm and trauma-informed, Jenna works with individuals and couples to build safety, understanding and stronger connection, and build more secure connections with themselves and others.

    Individuals ✓Couples ✓After hours ✓

    Howard

    Howard

    Registered Psychologist

    NarraweenaOnline

    Howard is a Registered Psychologist with over 25 years experience working with individuals, couples and families. He uses a practical but supportive approach, aiming to assist his clients to achieve their goals as quickly as possible.

    Individuals ✓Couples ✓Weekends ✓

    Christine

    Christine

    Counsellor & Relationship Therapist

    Lane Cove

    Christine is a tertiary-qualified counsellor with over 20 years experience working with individuals and couples. She emphasises a collaborative approach to therapy, working with the client as an active partner in their treatment.

    Individuals ✓Couples ✓Weekends ✓

    Chris

    Chris

    Counsellor & Psychotherapist

    Surry HillsOnline

    Chris is a Masters-qualified Counsellor and Psychotherapist who works with individuals and couples. Open and empathetic, Chris draws on his clients’ curiosity, creativity and inherent strengths to make a meaningful and empowering difference in their lives.

    Individuals ✓Couples ✓After hours ✓

    Gaul

    Gaul

    Accredited Mental Health Social Worker & Relationship Counsellor

    CampbelltownOnline

    Gaul is an Accredited Mental Health Social Worker with over 17 years experience supporting individuals, couples and families, in hospital settings and private practice. Transparent, curious and collaborative, he works in partnership with his clients.

    Individuals ✓Couples ✓

    Laura

    Laura

    Counsellor & Relationship Therapist

    CronullaOnline

    Laura is a Masters-qualified counsellor with extensive experience. Known for her warm and grounded presence, Laura helps individuals, couples and parents to uncover their own capacity for healing and meaningful change.

    Individuals ✓Couples ✓Weekends ✓

    Andrea

    Andrea

    Psychologist & Couples Counsellor

    Chatswood

    Andrea is a Registered Psychologist with over 20 years experience working with individuals and couples. Andrea helps her clients process and regulate their emotions, working with mind and body to sustain long-lasting change.

    Individuals ✓Couples ✓Weekends ✓German ✓

    John

    John

    Counsellor & Relationship Therapist

    Online

    John is a tertiary-qualified counsellor and one of our most experienced therapists. John works with individuals and couples to build awareness of the patterns behind their decisions and lead more empowered and fulfilling lives. He is Gottman qualified.

    Individuals ✓Couples ✓

    Rose

    Rose

    Counsellor & Couple Therapist

    Sydney CBDOnline

    Rose is a Masters-qualified counsellor and Registered Mental Health Social Worker with over 20 years experience. Working with both individuals and couples, Rose empowers her clients to enhance their wellbeing and achieve their goals.

    Individuals ✓Couples ✓

    Di

    Di

    Counsellor & Psychotherapist

    Online

    Di is a Masters-qualified counsellor with over 10 years private practice experience. Empathic and collaborative, she works alongside her clients to make sense of what they are facing and find a way forward.

    Individuals ✓Couples ✓

    Pauline

    Counsellor & Relationship Therapist

    ErinaOnline

    Pauline is a Registered Counsellor with almost 20 years of experience in both New Zealand and Australia. Warm and caring, Pauline works with individuals, couples and families, helping them build understanding and stronger connections.

    Individuals ✓Couples ✓Weekends ✓

    Alexandra

    Counsellor & Relationship Counsellor

    EarlwoodOnline

    Alexandra is a degree-qualified counsellor and relationship therapist with 15 years of experience across government and not-for-profit services. Accepting and down-to-earth, Alexandra works with individuals and couples, inviting clients to come as they are and work towards meaningful change.

    Individuals ✓Couples ✓Weekends ✓Greek ✓

    Daniel

    Counsellor & Relationship Therapist

    Bondi JunctionOnline

    Daniel is a tertiary-qualified counsellor with over 10 years of experience, working with both individuals and couples. Easy to talk to and quick to build trust, Daniel recognises each person’s strengths and helps them gain greater agency in their lives.

    Individuals ✓Couples ✓After hours ✓

    Theodora

    Psychologist & Relationship Counsellor

    Dulwich HillOnline

    Theodora is a Registered Psychologist with over 10 years of experience, working with both individuals and couples. Warm and compassionate, Theodora helps her clients make sense of their experiences and build stronger, more secure relationships.

    Individuals ✓Couples ✓Weekends ✓Greek ✓

    Ali

    Counsellor & Couples Therapist

    ParramattaOnline

    Ali is a Masters-qualified counsellor with over 15 years of experience. Calm and compassionate, Ali works with individuals and couples, helping them feel safe, understood and better equipped to move forward.

    Individuals ✓Couples ✓Weekends ✓Arabic ✓

    See all our clinicians

    Not sure who to choose?

    Call 02 8205 0566

    Weekdays 9am to 6pm, a person answers

    Request a callback

    After hours, or any time

    Why people choose us

    How we help you find the right clinician

    We have practices across Sydney, the coast and the Illawarra, and a full telehealth team. Our intake specialists know who works with what, and they will point you to the right person, whether that is near home, near work or online.

    Step 1

    A person answers the phone

    Call us weekdays between 9am and 6pm and one of our intake team picks up. They will ask what is going on and talk you through the options before you commit to anything.

    Step 2

    We match you to a clinician

    The fit between you and your therapist is the strongest thing we know of for making therapy work. We match on what you are facing, the approach you prefer, gender, language and how far you can travel.

    Step 3

    Your booking is scheduled

    We confirm your booking in writing so that you know when and where you’ll be meeting your new therapist.

    The guide

    Arguments like these probably aren’t really about the dishes, the kids or the tomatoes… rather, you are probably getting into arguments about these things because you are simply not communicating well.

    Often, couples get into arguments about minor transgressions as a way to cover up real issues that have been left unaddressed. Failing to address and communicate about significant issues or concerns leads to resentment and repressed anger, both of which will ultimately lead to a dissatisfying relationship or relationship breakdown.

    At other times the silly arguments are the result of negative communication patterns where both you and your partner are making assumptions and insinuations about what each of you are saying, playing into your frustrations and fears, failing to properly listen to each other.

    This kind of unhealthy communication is not always indicative of the way that you actually feel about each other, it’s just a nasty argument cycle that you can’t seem to avoid.

    Couples counselling can help you understand and improve the way you communicate with your partner, teaching you skills such as empathy, patience and listening which can help you break your argument cycles.

    Relationship counselling gurus Dr John Gottman and Dr Julie Schwartz Gottman* explain the four main communication issues which lead couples into negative argument cycles. These are:

    1. Criticism

    Criticism happens when you are critical of your partner’s personality, rather than their action or behaviour. The Gottman’s distinguish a criticism from a complaint. They argue that expressing a complaint is an important component of a healthy relationship and reduces the likelihood of built-up suppressed anger.

    Expressing a criticism, however, involves making an accusation against the person’s personality. A complaint often starts with an “I”, whereas a criticism will often start with “You”. For example, a complaint might be “I’d love to eat less fattening food for dinner” whereas a criticism might be “You always cook such fattening food for us”.

    2. Contempt

    Contempt commonly follows criticism and it is problematic because it can be poisonous for your relationship. Contempt, according to the Gottman model, is statements made with the intention of insulting or psychologically wounding your partner.

    Common ways in which contempt is often expressed in a relationship is through sarcastic remarks, antagonistic commentary, mocking behaviour or hostility. Contempt is a strong emotion but you would be surprised how often it is used amongst otherwise well-meaning couples. Contempt hurts your partner, and hurts your relationship.

    3. Defensiveness

    Couples are often so focused on feeling defensive that it often becomes an instinctual reaction. It doesn’t matter what was said, or what was intended when they said it, the other person feels hurt and reacts defensively.

    Effectively, defensive reactions means you are likely pre-guessing, not listening, and probably over-reacting. You are also not going to be very good at solving real problems in your relationship and you are probably highly reactive and fighting a lot of the time.

    4. Stonewalling

    Stonewalling happens in a relationship when one or both people in the relationship stop reacting or responding to each other. This occurs most often after all of the other communication patterns, criticism, contempt and defensiveness, have been a standard part of your relationship for some time.

    Likely, the couple is feeling so overwhelmed by the problems in their relationship that they simply withdraw emotionally from each other.  Stonewalling is an active gesture in that it clearly intends to convey a lack of interest or care. Stonewalling is an indication that your relationship is coming unstuck.

    All relationships suffer from these 4 communication patterns from time to time. It’s when these patterns become cyclical and habitual that you risk losing your relationship to ongoing arguments and intense dissatisfaction.

    A trained relationship counsellor or couples therapist can help you identify your communication style, and offer you tools to help you avoid these negative communication patterns. With the help of a qualified psychologist or relationship counsellor, you can stop cyclical arguments in their tracks, and start enjoying your relationship again.

    * Gottman, The Seven Principles for Making Marriage Work, Random House 2000

    Questions

    Questions about relationships

    Before you book

    Do I need a referral?

    No referral is needed to start. For Medicare rebates, ask your GP about a Mental Health Treatment Plan. Please speak to our team about your options.

    How soon can I get an appointment?

    Most new clients are seen within days, sooner by telehealth. Many of our practices offer early morning, evening and weekend appointments, and our intake team will find the times that suit you.

    Can I see someone in person or online?

    Yes, you can choose either. You can see a clinician at one of our practices across Sydney, the coast and the Illawarra, or by video from anywhere in Australia, and many clients switch between the two.

    What happens in the first session?

    Your clinician listens to what’s brought you in, asks about your goals, and agrees to a plan with you. There is never any pressure to share more than you’re ready to.

    What are the fees, and can I claim Medicare?

    Sessions run for 55 minutes, and the fee depends on who you see. Counsellors start from $150, social workers and psychologists from $200, and clinical psychologists from $230. With a GP Mental Health Treatment Plan, a Medicare rebate may apply to sessions with a psychologist or a registered mental health social worker, so please speak to our staff about your options.

    Fees & rebates

    Clear fees, no surprises

    Counsellors

    From $150per 55-minute session
    No referral needed · start straight away

    Social workers

    From $200per 55-minute session
    Medicare rebate may apply, please speak to our staff

    Psychologists

    From $200per 55-minute session
    Medicare rebate may apply, please speak to our staff

    Clinical psychologists

    From $230per 55-minute session
    Medicare rebate may apply, please speak to our staff

    Every clinician is fully registered and insured, and bound by their professional association's Code of Ethics, as our counsellor guarantee sets out.

    How to get started, and how Medicare can help
    Pathway A · Start now
    Book directly
    • No referral needed, so you can start straight away.
    • No Medicare rebate on this path.
    • You can still get a plan from your GP later and start claiming Medicare then. If a rebate matters, ask for a psychologist.
    Pathway B · With Medicare
    See your GP
    • Your GP assesses you. If you are eligible you get a Mental Health Treatment Plan.
    • The plan lets you claim Medicare rebates.
    • Tell us you have a plan and ask for a psychologist or registered mental health social worker when you book.
    • The rebate only applies to services provided by psychologists or registered mental health social workers.

    Not sure which suits you? Speak to our team about your options.

    Getting started

    From first call to first session

    Book with Sydney’s most trusted network
    With a wealth of experience and a board of certified professionals, you know you’re in safe hands.

    Call us, or ask us to call youMon to Fri 9am to 6pm a live intake specialist answers. No referral needed.
    We listen and matchBy concern, therapy style, gender, language and location across our practices and telehealth.
    Your first sessionIn person at a practice near you or by video, with evening and weekend times available.
    Review the fitIf it doesn't feel right, tell us, we'll rematch you quickly.
    Reviews

    What clients say about getting matched

    4.8
    189 Google reviews across our 20 practice listings
    Counted 7 October 2026. Read them all on Google
    ★★★★★

    I don’t usually write reviews but I was so impressed with Counselling Sydney I had to. They took such great care of my husband and me and really made us feel calmer about this whole process during the phone call. I'm confident they will find us the right counsellor. Great effort!

    Tyson B · April 2022
    ★★★★★

    For reasons of our own, my husband and I decided to get marriage counselling. We both rang ACS and were happy with the process and started with our new counseller next week.

    Jane C · December 2021
    ★★★★★

    I can’t lie, I was a bit sceptical when my boyfriend suggested we use Counselling Sydney to find ourselves a therapist. They proved me wrong however and were so fast in getting back to us! Props to their customer service team for truly listening to what we needed!

    Esther H · April 2022

    Reviews are shown as written, about our booking and matching service.

    We are not a crisis service. If you or someone you know is in immediate danger, call 000. For 24/7 support, call Lifeline on 13 11 14.
    Request a Booking