This course gives you the comprehensive knowledge and skills needed to confidently assist couples experiencing a range of difficult issues. Designed for counsellors new to working with couples, or practitioners in related fields looking to enhance their skills, our 12-week program is a practical pathway to becoming a highly effective couple therapist.
Upon completing the course, you will have gained the knowledge, skills, and confidence to work effectively with couples, helping them overcome challenges and build stronger, healthier relationships.
12 weeks involving 7-8 hours a week of study. This includes weekly 2-hour online seminars and independent study time.
Course content and topics include:
Our next course intake is scheduled for 14 August 2026.
| Week | Module | Commence Dates |
|---|---|---|
| Week 1 | Foundations and Efficacy of Couples Counselling | 14 August 2026 |
| Week 2 | Person and Practice of the Couples Counsellor / Neurobiology of Couples | 21 August 2026 |
| Week 3 | Theoretical Frameworks and Models | 28 August 2026 |
| Week 4 | Assessment and Formulation in Couples Counselling | 4 September 2026 |
| Week 5 | From Theory to Contemporary Practice | 11 September 2026 |
| Week 6 | Ethical Practices in Couples Counselling | 18 September 2026 |
| Week 7 | Assessing Risk and Managing Domestic Violence | 2 October 2026 |
| Week 8 | Multiculturalism and Diversity in Couples Counselling | 9 October 2026 |
| Week 9 | Neurodiversity and Strengths Based Practices in Couples Counselling | 16 October 2026 |
| Week 10 | Integrative Models and Practices with contemporary issues | 23 October 2026 |
| Week 11 | Sex and Intimacy in Couples Counselling | 30 October 2026 |
| Week 12 | Treatment Planning,Evaluation and Endings in Couples Counselling | 6 November 2026 |
To apply, you must:
You will be notified of the outcome of your application within 2 weeks of your interview.
Watch an introductory video about the course below, and register to join our “Learn More” webinar, a free one-hour Q&A session.
Webinars are relaxed and informative. We’ll provide information about the course, placement programs, accreditation pathways and address any questions you may have, to help you to make a decision about applying.
Please note: This webinar will be recorded for participants attending the live event.
This course offers a unique blend of online, interactive sessions, self-paced learning and practical workshops, ensuring a dynamic and flexible educational experience that caters to different learning styles and schedules.
Interactive, self-paced online modules
Through our learning management system, online modules provide access to evidence-based readings on each topic. Students are expected to complete weekly online modules prior to weekly seminars.
Independent study
Each week of the course builds on knowledge and skills practiced in the previous week. Proactive and self-directed study is required to ensure students keep up with study requirements and can progress through the course.
Assessments
Weekly knowledge checks built into the self-paced modules will reinforce learnings to validate key understandings and foundational knowledge as you progress through the course. Two written essays involving audio visual and case study components form part of the overall course requirements.
Live, interactive seminarsSeminars will include weekly group discussions with peers and expert instructors on each of the self-paced module topics. You’ll also apply weekly learnings through role plays, case studies, group discussions, and recording yourself using audio visual materials so that you can reflect back on your progress.
Practice workshop
Commitment: 2 full days
When: To be advised
Held as a one-off online workshop midway through the course, expert clinical educators will guide you to work with your peers and apply your skills in a range of interactive role plays.
Couple counselling is a highly specialised field and we strongly encourage students who wish to further strengthen their practical skills and experience to consider additional professional development.
Our specialised, post-course options include:
All nationally accredited training is delivered by Relationships Australia Victoria (RAV), a Registered Training Organisation (RTO 21977). As an RTO, we comply with the Standards for RTOs 2015 under ASQA regulation. Each course aligns with the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF), ensuring your qualification is portable and widely recognised.
RPL enables students to have their existing skills and knowledge relating to FDR acknowledged and status granted where appropriate.
This is available for people with extensive and relevant experience in family law, mediation, counselling or family and domestic violence.
To apply for RPL, you will need to provide evidence of the competencies needed for FDR by completing our RPL Application and Assessment Form, which we can provide on request.
Course fees differ by program, and flexible payment arrangements may be available. Many students choose instalment plans following the payment of a deposit. Full fee details, including any required upfront payments, will be shared during enrolment.
FAQs and contact information
Receive the latest news, upcoming courses, events, and valuable resources directly to your inbox.
Subscribe