This is important.
I firmly believe that working together as a global community to flatten the COVID-19 infection curve is the responsible thing to do. However, I also think it’s totally irresponsible to leave struggling couples without in person support, especially right now. It is totally possible to do both at the same time so long as we are all sensible.
The Psychotherapy and Counselling Federation of Australia feel the same way. ‘ PACFA encourages all counsellors and psychotherapists to continue operating as your services are essential for the mental health of the community ‘ So long as I follow NSW’s social distancing rules.
For a lot of very good reasons mental health services are considered essential and you’re allowed to travel outside of your LGA for this reason.
Here’s the official advice on providing health care face to face during COVID-19:
I understand that having therapy remotely doesn’t work for everyone. I understand that trying to get help with your relationship with your children in the house isn’t going to work for everyone. I am happy to support you with whatever decision you have made for yourselves. I see a maximum of 3 couples a day. If I’m doing an intensive that’s 1 couple in a day. I have disinfectant and a big enough office which meets all reasonable health requirements.
Please be careful with each other right now. I have couples that are normally delightful having significant problems with each other as a result of all this added stress. These are unprecedented times; the trauma and triggering are relentless.