- Thank You
Dr Karin Du Plessis
Relationship Therapist
Relationships Squared
Carlton North, Melbourne VIC 3054
In Person + Online Therapy Australia-wide
Philosophy & Vision
I believe that my clients have the desire and the capacity to grow towards fulfilling their true potential, and that they are the experts on their own lives. I am accepting and understanding of each person's reality. I'm open-minded, fair and non-judgmental. I will be active and direct to work with you break patterns that are not working for you, and bring you closer to your partner.
I specialise in couples counselling and hold advanced postgraduate qualifications (MA, PhD) in psychology focused on couples, Diploma of Counselling, and clinical training in the Gottman Method of Couples Therapy (Level 3). I am a registered counsellor and clinical supervisor through the Australian Counselling Association.
I also have a special interest in providing clinical supervision/case consultation to counsellors/clinicians, with a particular focus on couples and relationship issues (including using the Gottman Method), and running private
Background
Originally from South Africa (I speak Afrikaans too), I've also lived in New Zealand, before coming to Australia in 2008. I hold advanced post-graduate research degrees in which I observed and surveyed couples: My PhD in Psychology focused on couples' conflict and attachment; I have also completed a Masters in Psychology focused on couples' conflict styles and relationship satisfaction. I hold a Diploma in Counselling, and have done specialised training the Gottman Method (Level 3), in online counselling, Relational Life Therapy (Terry Real), Imago couples therapy, sex therapy, addiction and working with groups. I am also an Australian Counselling Association accredited clinical supervisor.
Services
Specialising in Gottman Method couples counselling (face-to-face and online) from the comfort and privacy of your home. In-clinic consultations on Saturdays in Carlton North.
Areas of Special Interest
Accreditations
- Ph.D. (Psychology) - 2008 - Massey University
- M.A. (Psychology) - 2002 - Massey University
- B.A. (Psychology) - 1999 - Potchefstroom University
- Diploma of Counselling - 2020 - Australian Institute of Professional Counsellors
Modalities
Attachment Theory - Gottman Method - Interpersonal - Marriage and Family
Therapy Approach
Are you frustrated about not feeling heard or understood by your partner? Do you feel as if you are living with a roommate instead of a lover? Do you feel like you are constantly arguing and not able to see the good in each other? Do you compare your relationship to other happier couples and feel you fall short? Many couples want a safe space to talk through their issues with an experienced professional, and a clear plan for how to navigate back to closeness, warmth and understanding. I also see couples for pre-marital counselling, and specific problems such as sexual difficulties, unfaithfulness, money, in-laws and parenting.
I mainly use the evidence-based Gottman Method. Many couples enjoy this structured approach which focuses on your relationship strengths too, gives you tools, and also allows us to go to deeper emotional issues. My clients describe me as warm, non-judgmental, fair, equal and professional. If you are reading this, there is still hope and a part of you that wants to save your relationship and strengthen your connection.
You may have tried many times to make changes and nothing has worked, or you feel it can work even better. We can overcome this in the safe space of couples counselling where you can talk this through with a neutral third party. I also offer a free 15-minute phone consult to see if we are a good fit.
Professional Associations
- Australian Counselling Association - Level 2
Practice Locations
Lygon Therapy
622 Lygon Street
Carlton North VIC 3054
Street parking on Lygon Street
Tram (Princess Street/Lygon Street, Carlton North)
Appointments
Saturday in-clinic (Carlton North)
Sun, Mon: Zoom
Fees & Insurance
Initial Query - Mobile (15 minutes) Free: https://calendly.com/relationshipssquared
Standard session (50 minutes) $235
Long session (100 minutes) $470
Bookings can be made via my website below or enquire via email.
Payment Options
I accept all major debit/credit cards as forms of payment. The Halaxy booking system includes card capture at the time of booking. The fee will be automatically processed at the time of our scheduled appointment.
Contact Karin
Please contact me to book a 15 minute free initial consult