Couples and relationship counselling in Brisbane and online
Maybe you keep having the same argument, feel distant from each other, or are struggling to find your way back after conflict. I’m Julie Grucza, and I offer counselling for couples and partners, in person and by telehealth, where each person has room to be heard.
I welcome monogamous, ENM and polyamorous relationships, LGBTQIA+ couples, and neurodivergent partners. I don’t treat any one relationship structure as the right one, and I won’t steer you towards a particular outcome.
You might come to counselling if...
You keep having the same argument, and nothing seems to change
You feel disconnected, lonely or like you’re living parallel lives
Trust has been broken and you’re trying to rebuild it
You’re struggling with intimacy, or you want different things from each other
You’re navigating a big change, such as a new baby, a move, a career change, or opening or closing a relationship
You want to communicate better, or repair after conflict
You’re unsure whether to stay together and want space to work out what you each want
How I work
I draw on Emotionally Focused Couple Therapy (EFCT). Rather than focusing on who’s right or wrong, we look at the pattern that takes over when things get hard, and at the feelings and needs underneath it. The aim is greater understanding, emotional connection and repair, with attention to what each of you hopes for from counselling.
I’ll make room for each person’s experience, and I won’t take sides. My practice is LGBTQIA+ and neurodiversity-affirming, and I offer kink/BDSM and sex worker-affirming support. Sessions can include conversations about boundaries, agreements and change, with respect for each person’s autonomy.
What to expect
In your first session, we’ll talk about what’s brought you here and what each of you is hoping for, and you can see whether I feel like the right fit. We’ll discuss goals and pace together, and nobody needs to share anything they’re not ready to.
Our first session will be as a couple. Together we will get to know each other and go through your goals and the processes that will be used. Typically I will then have a single session with each member of the couple one-to-one to discuss individual needs, desires, and backgrounds in more depth. From that point onwards we will return to couples counselling and working together to meet your desired outcomes.
Ways to meet
Sessions are available in person in Sherwood or Milton and by telehealth Australia-wide. Couples can join from separate locations if that suits you.
Frequently asked questions
Do we both need to want to come?
Ideally, yes, but it’s fine if one of you is less sure. We can talk about that honestly together. I will be there to answer any questions that you both have in that first session.
Can I come on my own if my partner won’t?
Yes. Individual counselling is a good option for working through a relationship on your own, and you’re welcome to book it.
Do you only work with monogamous couples?
No. I work with monogamous, ENM and polyamorous relationships.
Do you work with LGBTQIA+ or neurodivergent couples?
Yes. Here is my neurodivergent page and my LGBTQIA+ page.
What if there’s been an affair or breach of trust?
We can work on this together, at a pace that suits both of you. In couples counselling, your relationship is my client and therefore where my focus lies. Should a breach of trust or similar be disclosed privately, I will not keep this a secret. What I will do is work with you to help you address this within your sessions together.
Is there anything you won’t work with?
Current family violence or safety fears do not lend themselves to effective couples counselling, and I would have to refer you to different services. If there are issues that arise during our sessions that I am not qualified to assist with, I will assist you in finding the support that you need.
Is this confidential?
Yes, within the limits of my privacy policy
Not sure if I’m the right fit?
Book a free 15-minute call to ask questions first, or book a session directly.