Commitment. communication. COMPRoMISE.
Pre Marriage Education
How can I help?
Frequently Asked Questions
There are many reasons why a couple might require my support. Perhaps a couple feel that they have drifted from each other. Concerns may relate to sex, intimacy and desire. Perhaps the pressures of managing work and home life is causing conflict. Couples also often seek help after an affair or betrayal.
Whatever the reason you come to Couple Therapy, I cannot promise to 'fix' your problem, however I can promise you do not have to face it alone.
COUPLE THERAPIST
About Me
My name is Suzie Norwood. I am a graduate of the University of Melbourne, where I obtained my Social Work qualification. I have worked extensively in front line crisis roles in within the Child Protection system before commencing work in the Couple Therapy space. I have undertaken specialist training in Couple Therapy. I am a member of the Australian Association of Social Workers (AASW), the Marriage and Relationship Educators Association of Australia (MAREAA) and I am a trained facilitator for the Prepare/Enrich program.
In my specialist couple therapy practice, I am particularly influenced by the work of Dr John Gottman and Esther Perel.
My practice is located in Highett, Victoria. My rooms are both easily accessible and discreet. Sessions are available both in-clinic or via zoom.
Research all over the world supports the view that participation in pre marriage education programs improves outcomes for the couple in the long term. All sorts of couples choose to enter marriage with a solid foundation by participating in a marriage preparation program. These include young couples, couples who have lived together prior to marriage, couples with children, remarriages and blended families.
It is important to understand that pre marriage education is not designed to test your relationship. I will not give you a pass or fail. It is a series of discussions that will highlight the areas of your relationship that work well and the areas that you can grow and develop together.
Perhaps you have been in your relationship for a long time and you think you know all there is to know about your future spouse. Experience of this program suggests that you might be surprised how much you take away, that will equip you for a long and fulfilling marriage.
Where are your consulting rooms?
My consulting rooms are located at Nepean Health Care.
1104 Nepean Hwy, Highett, VIC.
If couples are not local to Bayside or prefer to remain at home for sessions, zoom consults are available. In-clinic appointments are available during business hours on weekdays only. After Hours sessions are available via zoom.
How many sessions will be needed?
For Couple Therapy, one to two sessions are generally required to undertake an assessment of the couple and the presenting concerns. Further sessions are then be discussed depending on the needs of the couple. Sessions are approximately one hour in duration. The average number of sessions is six to eight.
For those couples attending for pre-marriage education, they should expect four to six sessions would be required, dependant on your circumstances.
Do I need to attend with a partner?
Definitely not. I will often see individuals who may be struggling with a relationship issue, or who has a partner that does not wish to pursue counselling as a couple at that time.
I am also happy to offer support to those who are post separation and divorce, either individually or as a co-parenting couple. My preference is to always start with both parties in attendance at the initial session, where possible.
What are the costs involved?
Consultations are $250 per session.
As my clinic is fully private, rebates from Medicare, Mental Health Care Plans or Private Health Funds do not apply.
Please note that a strict cancellation policy is applicable.
How do I make an appointment?
Please phone Suzie directly on 0417115541 to discuss any questions or to schedule an appointment.