At Chapman Marques Psychology and Relationship Counselling, my work with couples is grounded in two approaches that have stood the test of research and time, the Gottman Method and Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy (EFCT). Both are widely recognised as gold-standard models for relationship therapy because they are practical, evidence-based and deeply human.
These methods focus on helping couples move from conflict and disconnection toward understanding, trust and emotional safety. Studies show that when couples fully engage with these approaches, most see significant improvements in their relationship, often 80 to 90 percent report positive change. Those numbers are reassuring, but what really matters is how therapy helps you communicate, repair and reconnect in ways that feel real and lasting.
When therapy works, and when it can be challenging
Relationship therapy asks both partners to be open, curious and sometimes vulnerable. The process can stir difficult emotions or reveal patterns that feel uncomfortable to face. Occasionally, couples come to realise that separation is the healthiest next step. That outcome can still be a form of healing if it brings clarity and peace rather than ongoing conflict.
You are always free to pause or end therapy at any time. I’ll help you make that decision thoughtfully, understanding what it means for your progress and wellbeing. Consistency matters and stopping therapy too soon can make it harder to sustain the gains you’ve made, but the choice is always yours.
Protecting your privacy
Whilst confidentiality applies to your case, both the. Gottman method and EFCT stress your therapist cannot keep secrets from your partner. Hence, it is stated up front that the therapist cannot provide confidentiality with respect to keeping information from your partner. Relationship therapy simply cannot work otherwise. I keep brief notes on a secure, encrypted device that is stored under locked conditions. Sometimes, with your written permission, sessions may be recorded so that I can review my work anonymously with a professional peer psychologist supervisor. The supervisor is bound by confidentiality. These recordings are used only for supervision or skill refinement, not as part of your clinical record, and are deleted once that purpose is fulfilled.
No one outside your therapist and their fellow psychologist supervisor will access your information, and even then, supervisors only see de-identified material. You are known to them by first name only. Please note that recording sessions yourself is not permitted, as it is illegal to record therapy without consent in the ACT.
Your clinical information is kept for seven years as required by professional standards, and then securely destroyed. Our technology consultants help ensure systems remain protected and respond promptly if a data issue ever arises. You would be informed immediately if your information was possibly affected by a breach.
Appointments and contact
Our reception team manages enquiries and scheduling and will respond as quickly as possible. You’ll find our confidentiality, cancellation and non-attendance policy in your Intake Information folder emailed to you when you first contact us. Therapy may be paused or ended if there is disrespectful behaviour, risk of harm to a partner, long gaps between sessions, or if essential information has been withheld.
Our current fees are listed on the website. Note that as Relationship Therapy is not covered by Medicare there is no eligibility for any rebate.
When safety needs to come first
In accordance with industry standards and legislation if at any time I believe there is a risk of harm to you or someone else, I may contact other professionals or services for support. This could include your GP or psychiatrist, a family member, or crisis services such as the Domestic Violence Crisis Service or the AFP. My goal in these moments is always to ensure safety first while maintaining as much collaboration and consent as possible.
Working online
Many clients choose telehealth sessions because they are convenient and private. For most people, online therapy works very well, though it does have some limits. A few psychological issues are better handled face-to-face, and online sessions can’t offer the same options for crisis intervention should this be required. Couples undertaking online therapy must sign the additional form that they agree to comply with requirements.
Technology can also introduce small barriers. Internet glitches, delayed audio, or limited non-verbal cues can occasionally create misunderstandings. We can usually manage these easily, but it’s good to be aware of them. It’s also important that your space and devices are private, especially if you share a home or workspace.
Email or message responses might take time outside session hours, and online therapy requires specific computer capabilities. These are small practicalities, but worth considering. Therapy works best when communication and expectations are clear.
Finally, we ask that you keep our communication private. Sharing therapy notes or emails with others can lead to confusion or harm, much like taking someone else’s medication. What we discuss is tailored for you and your situation.
What to expect in the room or on the screen
When we work together, we’ll set clear goals, use proven tools, and regularly check what’s helping and what’s not. The Gottman Method focuses on understanding each partner’s perspective, reducing destructive conflict, and rebuilding the friendship and shared meaning that sit at the core of strong relationships. Emotionally Focused Coupes Therapy helps couples identify the emotional patterns that keep them stuck and create new ways to reach for each other.
You can expect a safe, structured and collaborative process. We’ll take the science seriously but keep it human, real people, real feelings, real change. Confidentiality, consent and respect guide every session, whether we meet in person or online.
If you have any questions about how therapy works, privacy or online therapy, we can discuss them at your first session or anytime during the process. The more you understand the framework we’re working in, the more empowered you’ll be to make it your own.