What is Online Relationship Counselling?

Online Couples Counselling connects you to an expert relationship counsellor or psychologist who has been trained both in working with couples on marriage and relationship issues, but also in how to work effectively online.  Relate is New Zealand’s largest relationship and marriage rescue team and a number of our therapists and psychotherapists also specialise in working with couples online to help them improve their marriages and relationships.

Who can offer Online Couples and Relationship Counselling?

An expert relationship, marriage and couples therapist will be trained in one or more of the following advanced approaches Imago Relationship Therapy, Emotionally Focussed Therapy, Gottman Method, Psychobiological Approach to Couples Therapy (PACT), Presence Oriented Relationship Therapy (PORT), the Developmental Approach to Couples Therapy, or The Humanistic Existential Approach to Relationship[ Therapy (HEART) and will ideally have some training in how to adapt these approaches to working online.  All of the Relate clinicians listed below are trained in at least 2 of these approaches.

How do I find the right Marriage or Relationship Counsellor or Therapist for me?

Once you have decided to do couples’ therapy, check that therapists you are considering are trained in one of the specialist approaches for working with marriages and relationships. Then have a look at  each counsellor’s picture and bio and see who you feel most drawn to. Ask for your partner’s preference.  Assuming your therapist is properly trained your sense of comfort with them is a strong predictor for success in your relationship and marriage counselling.  NB: If you have a complex issue like violence or an affair look to see if the therapist specialises in this area and try one of these clinicians first. Our senior counsellors would all be suitable. Check them out here.

Setting yourself up for success in your Online Marriage and Relationship Counselling

Online Couples Therapy provides an amazing opportunity to be connected to a world-class marriage or relationship therapy expert. However it does rely on you using technology effectively. To prepare for your couples counselling session ensure that you have a backup handy. A headset can improve sound quality and eliminate feedback. Trial using Zoom or Skype before the session so we can use your time more effectively.

FAQ About Counselling