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Counselling FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions

What is relationship counselling?

Relationship counselling is a type of therapy that helps couples or individuals address and resolve issues within their romantic or interpersonal relationships. It provides a safe, neutral space to improve communication, rebuild trust, and strengthen connection.

Who is relationship counselling for?

Counselling is for any couple or individual experiencing difficulties in their relationship whether dating, engaged, married, separated, or even considering ending the relationship. It’s also helpful for those who simply want to improve their relationship dynamics

What issues can relationship counselling help with?

Some of the common issues that bring couples and individuals to Waverley Counselling are:
Communication problems
Trust issues or infidelity
Intimacy concerns
Conflict resolution
Parenting disagreements
Blended family challenges
Life transitions (e.g., moving, illness, job change)

Do we have to be in crisis to seek counselling?

Not at all. Relationship counselling can be preventive or proactive. Many couples seek support early to build strong foundations and improve communication before problems escalate.

Can I come alone, or do both partners need to attend?

Both options are available. While joint sessions are typically most effective for relationship concerns, individual sessions can also be helpful if one partner is not ready or willing to attend.

What if my partner refuses to come to counselling?

You can still benefit from attending on your own. Many people find that personal insight and growth can positively influence their relationships even if their partner isn’t ready to participate.

Will the therapist take sides?

No. A relationship counsellor remains neutral and does not take sides. The goal is to help both partners feel heard and supported, and to facilitate mutual understanding.

Can counselling save our relationship?

While counselling can be very effective, outcomes depend on both partners’ willingness to engage and make changes. In some cases, it may help couples separate amicably if that is the healthiest path forward.

What is family counselling?

Family counselling is a type of therapy that helps families improve communication, resolve conflicts, and strengthen relationships. It involves working with a qualified therapist who supports the family in understanding each other better and developing healthier ways of interacting.

What kinds of issues are addressed in family counselling?

Some of the common issues that brings families to Waverley Counselling include:
Communication breakdowns
Parenting challenges
Blended family issues
Divorce or separation
Behavioural concerns in children or teens
Grief, trauma, or loss
Mental health or substance abuse issues in a family member
Major life transitions

How many sessions will we need?

This varies depending on the issues and goals of the couple. Some may benefit from a few sessions, while others require ongoing support. We will work with you to create a plan that suits your needs.

What are the fees and how long is each session?

At Waverley Counselling your initial session will last 1.5hrs with subsequent sessions lasting 60 minutes. Please refer to our Fees page for session prices.

How long is a counselling session?

Session times vary depending on the type of counselling you are attending. Individual counselling sessions are generally 60 minutes, while initial couples, marriage and family counselling sessions are longer to allow time to understand your circumstances and concerns.

Full details about session duration and fees are available on our Sessions & Fees page.
VIEW SESSION FEES

What can I expect at my first counselling session?

Your first session is an opportunity for us to get to know you and understand what has brought you to counselling. You will have time to talk about what has been happening, any concerns you may have and what you would like to achieve from counselling.

There is no expectation that you need to share everything in the first session. We work at a pace that feels comfortable for you, with the focus on creating a safe, supportive and non-judgemental environment where you can speak openly.

What happens at the first couples counselling session?

The first couples counselling session provides an opportunity for each partner to talk about their concerns and what they would like to be different in the relationship.

We begin by gaining an understanding of your relationship, the difficulties you are experiencing and the patterns that may be contributing to conflict or disconnection. The aim is not to decide who is right or wrong, but to help both partners feel heard and begin identifying constructive ways to move forward.

What if my partner doesn’t want to attend couples counselling?

It is quite common for one partner to be more ready for counselling than the other. If your partner is unwilling or not yet ready to attend, you can still come to counselling on your own.

Individual sessions can help you better understand your relationship, explore your own thoughts and feelings, consider how you respond to difficulties and identify changes that may improve the way you communicate and relate to your partner.

Sometimes, when one person begins making positive changes, it can also create a different dynamic within the relationship.

How many counselling sessions will I need?

There is no set number of sessions, as every person, couple and family comes to counselling with different circumstances and goals.

Some people find that a small number of sessions provides the support and clarity they need, while others benefit from counselling over a longer period. We can discuss this together and regularly review how counselling is progressing so that the support remains appropriate for you.

Do I need a referral from my GP?

No. You do not need a GP referral to make an appointment with Waverley Counselling. You can contact us directly to discuss your circumstances or arrange a counselling appointment.

How much does counselling cost?

We believe it is important that you have clear information about fees before making an appointment. Fees vary depending on the type of counselling or support you require, and full details are available on our Sessions & Fees page.

There are no hidden costs, and if you are unsure which type of appointment is right for you, please feel welcome to contact us and we can help you determine the most appropriate option.
VIEW SESSION FEES

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Our therapists provide practical well-established counselling techniques customised to address your specific needs. We collaborate with you on the journey to emotional stability and fulfilment.

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