About Dr Karin du Plessis – Specialist Couples Counsellor in Melbourne
Dr Karin du Plessis
PhD (Psychology) MA (Psychology)
BA (Psychology) DipCouns
MACA, Registered Supervisor Australian Association of Mental Health Practitioners (AAMHP)
Hello and welcome! If you are curious about how you can have a stronger and more loving bond with your partner, you have come to the right place.
It can feel uncomfortable to take the first step towards asking for help, but reaching out to a professional who specialises in structured, evidence-based relationship therapy can give you a clear path forward. My clients describe me as warm, caring, and approachable. I am here to help you feel at ease so that you can share your story in a safe, supportive space of absolute acceptance.
Specialised Expertise: The Gottman Method
My core clinical specialisation is the Gottman Method Couples Therapy (Level 3 Clinical Training). This highly sought-after, evidence-based framework is built on over 40 years of research with thousands of couples. Unlike traditional talk therapy, the Gottman Method is practical, structured, and active.
I am an approved Gottman Checkup provider, a certified 7 Principles Gottman Leader, and an active member of the Gottman Referral Network. In my practice, I use their comprehensive diagnostic tools—including the Couples Relationship Health Assessment—to map out your relationship's unique strengths and challenges. This allows us to target unproductive communication patterns right away, without wasting time playing a "blame game."
To ensure a comprehensive toolkit for every couple, I also integrate insights from other world-renowned frameworks, including Relational Life Therapy (RLT), Imago Relationship Therapy, Discernment Counselling, Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), addiction, and specialised Sex Therapy.
Areas of Clinical Focus
Working within these structured frameworks, I help couples navigate a wide range of common relationship hurdles, including:
-
Constant conflict and circular arguments that never feel resolved.
-
Emotional distance, loneliness, and feeling like roommates instead of lovers.
-
Infidelity recovery, providing a structured, safe pathway to process trauma and rebuild transparency.
-
Intimacy and physical connection difficulties, helping you restore deep warmth and affection.
-
Life-stage transitions, such as adjusting to life after having children or realigning goals when moving towards retirement.
-
Pre-marital counselling to build healthy, lifelong communication habits from the start.
-
Couples who are doing well, but want to keep improving their bond
My Global Journey & Language Skills
Originally from South Africa, I later lived and studied in New Zealand before making Australia my permanent home. Having navigated these major life transitions myself, I bring a deep cultural awareness to my therapeutic work. I am fluent in and can speak Afrikaans, and I warmly welcome couples from all nationalities, cultures, and backgrounds. You can explore my broader professional portfolio, academic background and creative pursuits outside the clinic at my personal website: drkarinduplessis.com.
Academic Grounding & Over 20 Years of Research
Your relationship benefits from a therapist whose work is firmly anchored in science. Alongside my private practice, Relationships Squared, I have over 20 years of mental health and medical research experience. My academic credentials include:
-
PhD (Psychology) from Massey University, New Zealand (on couples' conflict and attachment)
-
MA, BA (Psychology), and a Diploma in Counselling
-
Adjunct Associate Professor at the Institute of Sustainable Industries and Liveable Cities (ISILC), Victoria University
-
Extensive publishing history with 62 peer-reviewed manuscripts and 3 books in the medical and psychological fields
Professional Standards, Ethics & Governance
I am deeply committed to maintaining the highest standard of professional clinical care.
-
I strictly uphold the ethical and professional conduct framework of the Australian Counselling Association (ACA), where I am a registered Level 2 Member.
-
My practice complies fully with the Victorian Code of Conduct for General Health Services.
-
I am an AAMHP Registered Supervisor, providing professional clinical supervision and case consultations for other mental health practitioners looking to build their relationship practices.
Take the Next Step Together
Investing in your relational health is one of the most impactful choices you can make for your long-term well-being and life satisfaction. Let's work together to get your relationship squared.
-
Book Your Free Discovery Call: Get your questions answered and see how we fit by booking a free 15-minute discovery phone call on our digital calendar
-
Alternative Bookings: If you prefer a personal arrangement or cannot find a time on the automated calendar, email me directly via karin@relationshipssquared.com.
-
Ready for a Full Session? Weekend face-to-face appointments at our Carlton North clinic or Monday online Zoom slots can be booked immediately through our Halaxy clinical portal: Book a Full Session.
Acknowledgment of Country
Relationships Squared acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the lands on which our Melbourne clinic operates and the diverse lands across Australia from which our online sessions connect. We pay our respects to their Elders past and present, and recognise their continuing connection to land, waters, and community