Australian Association of Relationship Counsellors

The Australian Association of Relationship Counsellors is a professional association, established in 1978 to promote standards of excellence in the specialised field of relationship counselling across Australia. It has approximately 500 members in all states and territories working in private practice, government funded and non-government agencies, government departments and educational institutions.

To become a Clinical Member a counsellor must meet the following requirements post-training: 3 years standing as a counsellor; 750 hours of clinical experience which must include 500 hours of couple and/or family counselling; and 75 hours of supervision. Clinical Membership is based on the applicant's demonstrated ability to work effectively with couples and/or families and to integrate theory and practice. Members may use a range of therapeutic approaches. Clinical members may apply for accreditation as registered supervisors and these applications are also assessed by a national committee against clearly documented standards.

AARC has a commitment to ongoing supervision and professional development in relationship counselling. Clinical Members can be identified by the letters AARC. Choosing an AARC Clinical Member guarantees a counsellor who has a commitment to high quality relationship counselling in accordance with a non-discriminatory code of ethics.

PACFA Section Family/Relationship Therapy

Website link www.aarc.org.au