Family Counsellor · Wollongong

A safe space to talk about what matters.

Individual, couples and family counselling in Wollongong. Whether you're working through a difficult period or looking to strengthen your relationships, you don't have to do it alone.

Claire Montague

Counselling that meets you where you are.

Everyone's situation is different. My approach is warm, practical and tailored to what you need — not a one-size-fits-all formula.

Individual Counselling

A confidential space to work through anxiety, stress, life transitions, grief, self-esteem, and anything else you're carrying. Sessions are guided by what matters most to you.

Couples Counselling

For couples navigating conflict, communication difficulties, trust issues, or simply wanting to reconnect. A neutral space where both people feel heard.

Family Counselling

When family dynamics feel strained — whether between parents and children, blended families, or extended family — we work together to improve understanding.

Telehealth Available

Can't make it in person? Sessions are available via secure video call, so you can access support from wherever you are.

Areas I work with.

These are some of the areas I commonly support clients with. If you're unsure whether counselling is right for your situation, you're welcome to get in touch.

  • Anxiety & stress
  • Relationship difficulties
  • Communication breakdown
  • Grief & loss
  • Parenting challenges
  • Life transitions & adjustment
  • Self-esteem & confidence
  • Blended & separated families
Calm office

Qualified, registered, and invested in your progress.

I'm a registered counsellor based in Wollongong with experience supporting individuals, couples and families through a wide range of challenges.

More about my background →

Ready to take the first step?

Reaching out can be the hardest part. There's no pressure and no commitment — we can start with a conversation about what you need.

Book a Session
Claire

Hi, I'm Claire.

I'm a registered counsellor based in Wollongong, working with individuals, couples and families. I believe everyone deserves a safe, non-judgemental space to talk about the things that weigh on them.

My practice is built on warmth, empathy and a belief that people have the capacity to grow and change — sometimes they just need the right support.

Why I became a counsellor.

I came to counselling after a career change. I'd always been the person friends and family turned to, and eventually I realised that helping people work through difficult things was what I wanted to do with my life.

I went back to study, completed my qualifications, and built a private practice here in Wollongong. I work with people from all walks of life — individuals navigating anxiety, couples trying to reconnect, families going through transitions.

What I offer isn't advice or quick fixes. It's a space to be heard, to make sense of what you're experiencing, and to find a way forward that feels right for you.

My approach.

I draw on a range of evidence-based modalities and tailor my approach to each person. There's no rigid framework — we work together to find what's most helpful.

Sessions are warm, conversational and confidential. Some people come with a specific issue. Others just need space to talk. Both are welcome.

I offer sessions in person at my Wollongong practice, and via secure video call for those who prefer telehealth.

Qualifications & registration.

Registered Counsellor

Registered with the relevant professional body for counsellors in Australia.

Tertiary Qualified

Completed formal qualifications in counselling through an accredited institution.

Ongoing Development

Regular supervision and continuing education to maintain best practice.

Insurance & Ethics

Fully insured and bound by a professional code of ethics and practice standards.

Ready to have a conversation?

There's no pressure and no commitment. If you'd like to chat about whether counselling is right for you, I'm happy to answer any questions.

Get in Touch

How I can help.

I offer individual, couples and family counselling — in person in Wollongong or via telehealth. Here's what each looks like.

Individual Counselling

One-on-one sessions in a confidential, non-judgemental space. We work at your pace on whatever matters most to you — whether that's something specific or a general sense that things aren't quite right.

Sessions are conversational, warm and guided by your goals. There's no rigid structure.

Common areas:
AnxietyStressSelf-esteemGriefLife transitionsBurnout

Couples Counselling

A safe, neutral space for both partners to feel heard. Whether you're navigating conflict, rebuilding trust, or simply wanting to communicate better — we work together to understand the patterns and find a path forward.

Both people are equally supported. The goal isn't to assign blame — it's to build understanding.

Common areas:
CommunicationConflictTrustReconnectionSeparation support

Family Counselling

When family relationships feel strained — between parents and children, siblings, blended families, or extended family — sessions focus on improving communication and understanding each other's perspectives.

Common areas:
ParentingBlended familiesAdolescent issuesSeparation & co-parenting

Telehealth Sessions

All services are available via secure video call. Telehealth sessions work exactly the same as in-person — just from wherever you're comfortable. Ideal if you're outside Wollongong, have mobility issues, or prefer the flexibility.

Practical details.

Session Length

Sessions typically run for 50 minutes. Couples and family sessions may run slightly longer.

Location

In-person sessions at my Wollongong practice, or via secure video call from anywhere.

Fees & Payment

Fees are discussed at the time of booking. Payment is made at the time of the session.

Common questions.

The first session is about getting to know each other and understanding what's brought you here. There's no pressure to share everything at once. We go at your pace and figure out together how sessions can be most useful for you.

It depends on your situation and goals. Some people come for a few sessions to work through something specific. Others prefer ongoing support. There's no fixed number — we review regularly to make sure it's still working for you.

Yes. What you share in sessions is confidential. There are some legal exceptions — such as risk of harm to yourself or others — which I'll explain clearly at the start of our work together.

Eligibility for rebates depends on your circumstances and referral pathway. This is something we can discuss when you get in touch, and I can let you know what applies to your situation.

Absolutely. It's common for one partner to be more keen than the other. Sessions are designed to be a safe space for both people, and I'll make sure your partner feels comfortable and respected.

Ready to take the first step?

Reaching out can be the hardest part. There's no pressure — you can start with a question or go straight to booking.

Book a Session

Get in touch.

Whether you're ready to book or just want to ask a question, I'm happy to hear from you. There's no pressure and no commitment.

Contact details.

The easiest way to book is through the form. You can also email or call directly.

Practice Location

Wollongong, NSW
(Full address provided on booking confirmation)

Telehealth

Secure video sessions available Australia-wide

Not sure if counselling is right for you? That's completely fine. You're welcome to reach out with any questions before booking. There's no obligation.

Book a session.

Fill in the form below and I'll be in touch to arrange a time.

I'll respond within a few business days to arrange a time.

Request received.

Thank you for reaching out. I'll be in touch soon to arrange your session. If you have any questions in the meantime, email hello@clairemontague.com.au