Family therapy

Why study family therapy?

We offer postgraduate coursework programs in Family Therapy for those with qualifications and experience in related disciplines. Our courses focus on the integration of theory with contemporary systemic practice to maintain effective therapeutic relationships and produces graduates with high levels of clinical skill to effectively respond to the needs of families presenting with a range of challenges.

Our Masters program in family therapy offers a solid foundation in systems thinking and experiential work in supervised clinical practice settings. This course is ideal for psychologists, social workers, occupational therapists, youth workers, drug and alcohol counsellors, psychiatric nurses or workers from professions such as teaching and general nursing who want a change of career.

As a La Trobe graduate, you may be eligible for our 10% Alumni Advantage when you apply for a full-fee postgraduate coursework program.

Career opportunities

Family therapy graduates may work as a family therapist and counsellor or teacher and supervisor in family therapy.

Your study experience

Family therapy placements

Clinical experience in family work and family therapy is an important aspect of all Bouverie courses. You are required to secure some opportunity to practice with families. At Graduate Certificate in Family Therapy level  this can consist of some working relationship with at least 2 families on an ongoing basis. At levels1, 2 (Graduate Diploma) and 3 (Masters), you are required to have a counselling caseload of at least 5 at any one time.  A proportion of these cases can be individuals or couples but you must be working with at least 1 family at any one time and be working in a context that supports further family work. This can be either paid or voluntary.

Course Co-ordinators

Graduate Certificate in Family Therapy
Colleen Cousins +61 3 8481 4800
Master of Clinical Family Therapy
Robyn Elliott +61 3 8481 4800

Overseas study opportunities

You may be eligible for our student exchange program.

About the academic staff

You'll get to meet a large number of academics during your course, from tutors through to lecturers.

Meet staff in family therapy.