Matt James
Couples Therapy Specialist & Counsellor
Matt James - Couples & Individuals, including ADHD Relationship Counselling
B.Couns, Advanced Clinical Training (Gottman Level 2), ACA (Level 2)
Matt is a highly experienced and compassionate counsellor specialising in couples therapy, men’s mental health, and relationship counselling. As a recognised Level 2 Member of the Australian Counselling Association, Matt has undergone extensive training and has demonstrated a high level of proficiency in providing therapeutic support to couples and individuals. In addition to this Matt has undertaken further clinical training in Gottman Method Couples Therapy at an advanced level (Level 2 Clinical Training), and he is one of Lighthouse Relationships’ Couples Therapy Specialists. Matt is able to assist couples in rebuilding connection and trust after an affair using the Gottman Method Couples Therapy ‘Affair Recovery’ technique. He also has a strong interest in working with couples impacted by ADHD, helping partners understand its relational dynamics and develop practical strategies to reduce conflict, improve communication, and foster mutual support.
Matt enjoys helping couples where one or both have a diagnosis of ADHD - including those who have known about their ADHD for a while, and those seeking to manage in light of a recent diagnosis. He understands the unique relational patterns that can emerge, including differences in attention, emotional regulation, follow-through, and communication - often leading to cycles of frustration, misunderstanding, and unintended hurt on both sides. Matt helps partners make sense of these dynamics through a compassionate, non-blaming lens, reframing challenges in a way that fosters empathy rather than criticism. He works collaboratively with couples to develop practical, evidence-informed strategies - with a focus on improving emotional attunement and creating clearer communication pathways. Matt helps both partners feel understood, supported, and more securely connected.
He can conduct sessions in person or via telehealth. He has a depth of experience helping people through communication barriers, finding shared purpose with their spouse, depression, anxiety, and addiction. His warmth and calmness helps his clients to share their feelings with ease in session.
As already mentioned, Matt has undertaken advanced clinical training in Gottman Method Couples Therapy, a powerful, research-based method of therapeutic assessment and intervention for couples. (In fact, Gottman Method is the gold standard method to help couples with sticking points they may be experiencing). Clients who have worked with Matt often describe his approach as warm, caring, and welcoming. He has a special skill for helping couples ‘translate’ what the other is really saying for a greater depth of understanding. He creates a safe space for clients to share their feelings and concerns with ease during sessions. Matt's strong theoretical knowledge, combined with his calming demeanour, ensures that clients have the best possible chance of achieving quality outcomes.
Matt has a colourful background providing him with a wealth of experience and insight into both men’s mental health and the impact of high pressure industries. As a teen he was an elite level athlete (golf), and in his adult years performed in a heavy metal band for nearly a decade. All of his experiences contribute to Matt being a well-rounded, down to earth person with a depth of understanding when it comes to the pressures that high pressure roles in sport and the arts bring to bear on an individual as well as the impact for relationships. His experience has exposed him to a very diverse group of individuals which makes him uniquely approachable and welcoming in session.
Included in Matt’s impressive background experience is work he has done providing counselling within SAE Creative Arts University. Matt has also been an invited speaker on mental health in higher education settings, his topics include the importance of mental health, and seeking professional help when needed. He brings a unique understanding of contemporary issues and can approach them with empathy and respect.
Outside of his counselling practice, Matt is happily married and father to one beautiful baby girl. When possible, he still enjoys playing golf, lifting weights, and listening to heavy metal music. His diverse interests and approachable nature make him relatable to a wide range of individuals, fostering a comfortable and non-judgmental environment for therapy.
Whether in person or via telehealth, Matt is dedicated to helping couples and individuals achieve healthier and more fulfilling relationships and lives. Book Matt now to schedule an appointment.