Couples Therapy

Our Approach

At Althea Collective, couples therapy is designed to be both emotionally supportive and grounded in research. We know that relationships don’t come with a rulebook—and that when you're stuck in the same arguments, feeling distant, or unsure how to repair after a rupture, it can be hard to know where to turn.

Our work is guided by evidence-based models of relationship health. Sessions are led by Bethanie Hannagan, an Accredited Mental Health Social Worker (AMHSW) with specialist training in both the Gottman Method and Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT).

As an AMHSW, Bethanie is recognised by Medicare and the Australian Association of Social Workers as having advanced clinical expertise in mental health. She brings years of experience working with complex trauma, emotional regulation, and relationship repair—and holds a deep understanding of how past experiences can shape how we connect, communicate, and cope within our closest relationships.

Bethanie has completed Level 1 and Level 2 training in the Gottman Method, which is one of the most researched frameworks for couples therapy worldwide. This method focuses on helping couples:

Improve communication

Manage conflict effectively

Rebuild trust

Strengthen friendship and emotional intimacy

She also integrates Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), a powerful approach grounded in attachment science that helps couples understand and respond to each other’s emotional needs with greater safety, empathy, and connection.

Therapy at Althea Collective is:

Collaborative

Emotionally safe

Trauma-informed

Inclusive and affirming

Whether you’re facing challenges around conflict, intimacy, parenting, or something harder to name, we’re here to help you navigate the tough moments and grow stronger together.