What to Expect in Couples Therapy

Couples Therapy - Sunshine Coast

If you and your partner are considering couples therapy for the first time, you might be wondering what to expect and whether it’s the right choice for your relationship.

At With Grace Therapy, we offer couples counselling in Caloundra, on the Sunshine Coast, and online, using the Gottman Method – a structured, research-based approach developed by Drs. John and Julie Gottman. This evidence-based method is grounded in over 40 years of research and offers practical tools to strengthen your relationship.

The Process Starts with a Thorough Relationship Assessment

The first few sessions are focused on exploring and understanding your relationship in depth. Here’s what that looks like:

  • Joint Session: You and your partner will meet with your therapist to discuss your relationship history, current concerns, and shared goals.

  • Individual Sessions: Each of you will have a one-on-one session to share your personal experiences and perspectives.

  • Gottman Relationship Checkup: You’ll complete a comprehensive online questionnaire that assesses key relationship dynamics, including communication, intimacy, trust, values, and conflict.

  • Feedback Session: Your therapist will provide insights into your relationship strengths and challenges, along with a personalised treatment plan to guide your journey.

Whether you attend in-person couples counselling in Caloundra or choose online therapy from anywhere in Australia, this initial assessment phase sets the foundation for meaningful change.

Therapy Tailored to Your Relationship Goals

In the treatment phase, your therapist will guide you through a range of structured interventions from the Gottman Method designed to create lasting relationship improvements.

Key focus areas include:

  • Friendship & Emotional Connection: Rebuilding fondness, intimacy, and everyday joy in your partnership.

  • Conflict Management: Learning how to handle disagreements constructively, communicate without criticism or defensiveness, and navigate recurring issues with more compassion.

  • Shared Meaning & Future Planning: Exploring your shared values, rituals, dreams, and goals to deepen your connection and sense of purpose as a couple.

These areas are particularly relevant for couples seeking relationship counselling on the Sunshine Coast or online, whether you’re navigating a rough patch, planning for the future, or simply wanting to improve communication and connection.

Learn Research-Based Tools for a Stronger Relationship

At With Grace Therapy, couples therapy sessions include practical, science-backed strategies that you can use between sessions and for years to come. Some of the tools you’ll learn include:

  • Identifying the “Four Horsemen” (criticism, contempt, defensiveness, stonewalling) and replacing them with healthy communication habits.

  • How to reconnect through a stress-reducing conversation at the end of the day.

  • Repairing after conflict to rebuild trust and understanding.

  • Enhancing listening skills and emotional responsiveness.

Whether you’re in Caloundra, elsewhere on the Sunshine Coast, or accessing online couples therapy, these skills can support long-term relationship satisfaction.

Ready to Take the First Step?

Starting couples therapy can feel daunting but it’s also a courageous and loving step toward a healthier, more connected relationship. At With Grace Therapy, we’re here to support you with compassionate, evidence-based care.

We offer:

  • In-person couples therapy in Caloundra (Sunshine Coast)

  • Online couples counselling across Queensland and Australia

We’re ready to help you and your partner reconnect and thrive.

More from our community

Sunshine Coast Disability Expo

Sunshine Coast Disability Expo We’re thrilled to be participating in the upcoming Sunshine Coast Disability Expo! This community-focused event is a wonderful opportunity for individuals,

— Read More