Family Therapy

The Master of Family Therapy at La Trobe University is a comprehensive postgraduate program designed to equip students with the theoretical knowledge and practical skills necessary to become effective family therapists. This program focuses on developing a deep understanding of family dynamics, communication patterns, and psychological frameworks that underpin healthy relationships, as well as strategies to assist families facing various challenges. Students will engage in rigorous coursework covering systemic therapy approaches, assessment techniques, ethics, and multicultural considerations, ensuring a well-rounded education tailored to diverse family structures and cultural backgrounds. The program emphasizes experiential learning through supervised clinical placements, where students apply their learning in real-world settings under the guidance of experienced practitioners. By integrating theory with practice, graduates will be prepared to work in a variety of settings, including mental health clinics, community agencies, private practices, and educational institutions. The curriculum is designed to foster critical thinking, reflective practice, and cultural competence, enabling students to tailor interventions to meet the unique needs of each family. Throughout the course, students will explore contemporary issues affecting families, such as family violence, mental health disorders, substance abuse, and life transitions. Upon completion, graduates will be eligible for registration with relevant professional bodies and will be equipped to make meaningful contributions to the well-being of families and communities. The program is suitable for mental health professionals, social workers, psychologists, counselors, and others committed to family-centered practice. With flexible study options, including part-time study and close access to experienced faculty, La Trobe’s Master of Family Therapy offers a supportive and enriching environment for aspiring family therapists to develop their expertise and advance their careers.

The Graduate Certificate in Family Therapy is Licensed by the Australian Association of Family Therapy (AAFT). Graduates of the Graduate Certificate in Family Therapy can apply for associate membership using the AAFT. Membership may be susceptible to additional or ongoing conditions beyond finishing the amount. Please contact the relevant body to get details.

• Under graduate degree in any area but preferably in counseling, health or welfare
• Conclusion of the Bouverie Centre's Introductory into Family Therapy Workshop is highly recommended
• NB: Meeting minimum requirements will not guarantee an offer of a location. Entrance in to all of La Trobe classes relies on competitive selection and there may be limited places available.

The La Trobe University offers a comprehensive funding and financing framework for students enrolled in the Family Therapy postgraduate programs. Students have access to a variety of financial support mechanisms designed to make higher education more accessible and affordable. The university provides detailed information on tuition fees, which vary depending on the specific program and student status (domestic or international). Domestic students are eligible for several government-funded schemes such as the Commonwealth Supported Place (CSP), which significantly reduces the cost of tuition as the government subsidizes part of the fee, with students contributing a student contribution amount. International students are typically required to pay full tuition fees, which are outlined in the official fee schedule on the university's website.

In addition to tuition fees, students can explore various financial assistance options, including scholarships, grants, and bursaries offered by La Trobe University. These awards recognize academic excellence, financial need, or specific demographic characteristics, which can substantially offset the costs associated with study. Prospective and current students are encouraged to regularly review the university’s scholarship portal for updated opportunities, application procedures, and eligibility criteria.

For students needing financing solutions beyond scholarships, La Trobe University collaborates with financial institutions to offer student loans and payment plans. The university’s Student Money team provides advice on managing study-related expenses, budgeting, and accessing external financial resources. Many students also utilize external government loans such as HECS-HELP for eligible domestic students, which allows deferment of tuition fees until after graduation.

Part-time study options are available for many of the Family Therapy programs, enabling students to work concurrently with their studies, thus helping offset costs while maintaining academic progress. The university also supports students in seeking part-time employment opportunities both on and off-campus through its Career Ready program and job placement services.

International students should note that they are subject to visa conditions that may influence their ability to work alongside their studies. La Trobe University provides guidance on complying with visa regulations and maximizing income opportunities, including internships and practicum placements integrated into the Family Therapy curriculum.

For detailed, up-to-date information on tuition fees, payment options, scholarships, and financial aid policies, students are advised to consult the official La Trobe University website or contact the university’s Student Finance office directly. Overall, La Trobe University strives to ensure that financing a Family Therapy education is manageable through a combination of governmental support, institutional aid, and external funding options, making it feasible for a diverse student body to pursue their professional development in this field.

The Master of Family Therapy at La Trobe University is a specialized postgraduate program designed to equip students with the skills and knowledge necessary to work effectively within family and systemic contexts. This program emphasizes understanding family dynamics, psychological theories related to family functioning, and evidence-based therapeutic practices. Students gained practical skills through supervised clinical placements, where they apply their theoretical knowledge in real-world settings, engaging with diverse clients and complex family situations.

The curriculum covers a broad range of topics including family development, intervention strategies, ethics in therapy, cultural competence, and multidisciplinary collaboration. The program promotes a strong theoretical foundation in systemic therapy approaches, such as structural family therapy, strategic family therapy, and narrative therapy, ensuring graduates are prepared to adapt interventions to meet the needs of diverse family groups. La Trobe University’s emphasis on experiential learning allows students to participate in role plays, case studies, and supervised practice, fostering confidence and competence in their therapeutic skills.

The program is suitable for individuals with backgrounds in psychology, social work, counseling, or related fields who wish to specialize further in family therapy. Graduates of this program are prepared for careers in mental health agencies, private practice, community services, and family support organizations. The program also encourages ongoing professional development and may include opportunities for further research or specializations within the field of family therapy.

La Trobe University’s dedicated faculty bring extensive clinical and academic expertise, providing students with mentorship and industry connections that facilitate professional growth. The university's facilities include well-equipped counseling labs and access to a network of clinical placements, ensuring students gain comprehensive practical experience. The program aims to foster not only clinical skills but also a strong ethical framework and cultural sensitivity, recognizing the importance of respectful and inclusive therapeutic practices.

Overall, the Master of Family Therapy at La Trobe University offers a comprehensive, hands-on education designed to develop competent, ethical, and culturally aware family therapists who can contribute meaningfully to individual and family well-being in various professional settings.