The renowned Specialist Course in Integrative Couple Therapy (SCICT) is your opportunity to develop rigorous, specialist skills in working with couples. For 36 years, this course has been the benchmark for counsellors and psychologists wanting to apply an integrative therapeutic approach grounded in evidence-based models and contemporary practice.
This is your pathway to becoming a highly skilled couple therapist. As an accredited component of the Swinburne University Master of Social Science (Couple Counselling), you'll gain the skills and practical experience to respond flexibly to a wide range of couples' needs and situations. Recognising the limitations of using a single theoretical model, our course provides training in a range of theories and practices, including:
It incorporates research findings by Gottman and considers emerging ideas and practice trends.
The course's ‘Therapeutic Self’ module enhances participants’ understanding of what shapes them as therapists, enabling them to remain reflective in what is often an emotionally charged field.
Upon completing the course, you will have developed the specialist knowledge and emerging skills needed to confidently assist couples facing a range of difficult issues.
Outcome
The course provides nationally recognised training and assessment for the CHCSS00142 Mediation Skill Set through the Australian Qualifications Framework.
Completion of the course meets the requirements for entry into our CHC81115 Graduate Diploma of Family Dispute Resolution.
Students are eligible to apply for AMDRAS Accreditation upon successful completion of the course and assessment.
Course content encompasses societally relevant topics, including:
The next course intake runs from 9:30 am to 3:30 pm on Tuesdays, beginning on February 3, 2026, and concluding on June 30, 2026. Please note there will be no class on April 7 or June 9.
The course is held at the Relationships Australia Victoria office at 1183 Toorak Road, Kew, VIC 3124.
Applicants are required to:
Register to watch our introductory course video and join an experienced course facilitator for a free, one-hour Q&A webinar. The webinars are a relaxed and informative way to learn about the course, placement programs, and accreditation pathways. We'll answer your questions to help you decide about applying.
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.
Our courses are designed to balance theory and practice. Assessment tasks may include written reflections, role-plays, observed practice, online activities, or workplace evidence. Successful completion of all assessments is required to be awarded your qualification or skill set.
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.
We are committed to supporting every learner. You’ll have access to high-quality resources, guidance from experienced facilitators who are also practitioners, and help from our Centre for Learning and Innovation. Where appropriate, reasonable adjustments are available to support diverse learning needs and different learning styles.
To get the most out of your study, you’ll need a computer or tablet with a stable internet connection, webcam, and audio. Courses delivered online or in blended formats require regular engagement in live webinars, discussion groups, and interactive learning activities.
In addition to scheduled workshops, webinars, or placements, you should plan extra time for reading, reflection, and assessment tasks. The weekly study commitment will vary depending on your program, but allowing additional hours each week beyond formal teaching is strongly recommended for success.
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.
All enrolments are covered by RAV’s participant policies, which include information about withdrawals, refunds, conduct, complaints, and grievances. These details will be outlined clearly during your enrolment so you can make an informed decision with confidence.
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:
FAQs and contact information
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