Our Psychologists have availability for face-to-face and online appointments for adults, adolescents and children.

Relationship Difficulties

Sometimes relationships hit rough patches, and it can feel hard to find your way back to each other. Support for relationship difficulties can give you the space to talk openly, understand different perspectives, and work through challenges in a safe, non-judgmental setting. Our psychologists work with individuals to explore and address relationship concerns, however we do not provide therapy for couples. Whether the strain comes from miscommunication, trust concerns, life pressures, or simply feeling distant, we’re here to help you rebuild connection and strengthen what matters most.

Signs of Relationship Difficulties

All relationships have bumps, but when challenges stick around, they can take a toll. Here are some common signs of relationship difficulties.

What you may not be aware of about
relationship difficulties...

1

79% of Australians have faced pressures in their main relationship in the past six months

2

26% say mental health is a major strain on their relationship

3

Only 6% seek professional help for relationship challenges

4

If you feel unsafe in a relationship, 1800RESPECT (1800 737 732) offers free, confidential support

Relationship Difficulties – MindBox Psychology, St Leonards

What the research says about relationship difficulties

Relationship difficulties can affect your mental health, confidence and overall wellbeing. Ongoing conflict, trust concerns, communication problems or changes in a relationship can contribute to stress, anxiety and low mood.

How can individual therapy help with relationship difficulties?

Although MindBox Psychology does not provide couples therapy, working with a psychologist can help you understand and navigate relationship challenges. Research supports psychological approaches that help people recognise unhelpful patterns, manage difficult emotions and develop healthier ways of responding to conflict.

Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) can help you explore how your thoughts, feelings and behaviours influence your relationships. For example, you might learn to recognise assumptions that lead to misunderstandings, communicate your needs more clearly and respond more constructively when disagreements arise.

Psychological support can also help you explore boundaries, rebuild confidence after a difficult relationship and decide how you want to move forward. The focus is on understanding your own experiences and developing practical skills that support your wellbeing.

When should you seek support?

You don’t need to wait until a relationship reaches breaking point to speak with a psychologist. If relationship difficulties are affecting your mood, sleep, confidence or daily life, individual therapy can provide a space to explore your concerns and work towards meaningful changes.

If a relationship involves intimidation, coercion, threats or abuse, your safety comes first. Individual psychological support may help you explore your options, but abuse is never your fault, and you are not responsible for changing another person’s behaviour.

*Sources:

Australian Psychological Society (APS) — Relationship problems

Patel, Abber and Cougle (2024) — Do treatments for mental disorders affect relationship satisfaction?

Tips for managing relationship difficulties

How to get started

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Get in touch

Call us on 02 9438 2511, email hello@mindboxpsychology.com.au or send us an enquiry. Our reception team will answer your questions.

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We match you with a psychologist

We’ll match you with a clinical psychologist who works with your concern, face-to-face in St Leonards or through online counselling anywhere in Australia.

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Your first session

Your first session is 60 minutes. You don’t need a referral to book, but with a GP Mental Health Treatment Plan and referral you may be eligible for a Medicare rebate.

Picture of Written by Dr Elizabeth Woodcock

Written by Dr Elizabeth Woodcock

Clinical Psychologist, Director of MindBox Psychology

Our Psychologists are highly qualified, with Masters or Doctorate degrees in Clinical Psychology. We use evidence-based approaches, including Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT), to provide tailored support for individuals experiencing relationship difficulties, helping improve communication, resolve conflicts, and strengthen emotional connections.