Find a Mental Health Professional for Relationship Difficulties & Conflict

About Relationship Difficulties & Conflict support

Relationship difficulties are common and can develop gradually over time or appear suddenly in response to stress, change, or conflict. They may involve communication breakdowns, recurring arguments, differences in values or parenting approaches, emotional distance, power imbalances, or difficulty resolving hurt and resentment. Seeking support does not mean a relationship has failed; many couples and families find that working with a therapist helps them reconnect and develop new patterns. Both individual and couples therapy can support people experiencing relationship difficulties. Individual therapy helps a person understand their own patterns, needs, and responses. Couples counselling offers a structured space to improve communication, address specific conflicts, and strengthen the relationship. Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) and the Gottman Method are among the most well-researched couples therapy approaches. In Australia, Relationships Australia operates nationally and offers affordable counselling for individuals, couples, and families. Many private practitioners also specialise in relationship work. Medicare does not directly subsidise couples sessions, though individual therapy accessed through a GP Mental Health Treatment Plan can still support relationship-related concerns. Some private health funds include relationship counselling in extras cover.