How Much Does Marriage Counselling Cost?
Even though there an untold benefits to therapy, it’s hard not to consider the price tag associated with it!
So, how much does marriage counseling cost? And, why do different therapists charge such varying amounts for their services?
To answer all these questions and more, we’ve brought in licensed marriage and family therapist Moraya Seeger DeGeare to clear up all the confusion — and to make sure you’re putting your money in the right place! (Or, if your insurance company can cover couples' marriage counseling costs!)
Or, if you feel you’re not quite ready for the cost of couples therapy or married counseling, Paired offers the perfect opportunity to open the conversation with your couple — resolving conflicts before they even appear.
"When couples answer Paired questions thoughtfully and honestly, they gain a better understanding of their strengths and areas where they struggle to communicate,” says Seeger DeGeare.
“If you decide to seek the help of a couples therapist, you are already taking steps to work on your relationship. By practicing daily conversations, you reduce the shame associated with certain topics and cultivate a habit of expressing love in your relationship!”
What is marriage counseling?
Marriage counseling, also known as couples therapy, is a type of psychotherapy that helps couples recognize and resolve conflicts in order to improve their relationship.
Through counseling, couples are given the tools necessary to make thoughtful decisions about strengthening their relationship or if it’s time to call it quits.
While it’s important to choose the right counselor as a team, both partners should know what to expect from couples therapy, and why it’s worth the money you spend for your relationship growth!
How much does marriage counseling cost?
The cost of marriage counseling varies depending on a multitude of factors — from what family therapist you have chosen, to the number of sessions that you require. The price of couples counseling will also depend on the level of training the therapist has obtained, and what certifications they may have earned.
Therefore, it’s more difficult to give an exact cost on how much couples therapy or counseling will cost — as it varies widely from couple to couple depending on their needs.
However, if you’re opting for private practice online or in-person relationship counseling sessions as a couple, marriage counseling costs between $90 to $350 per session out of pocket, with some insurance options for payment or reimbursement. Different types of therapy, such as individual therapy sessions or premarital counseling, may vary also.
“If you were looking for a more accessible option, working with a training intern at a group practice or clinic, who is being supervised would be a great option, you are getting the support of two therapists really,” says Seeger DeGeare.
“Additionally, some online therapy companies could provide a more low-cost alternative, because they work with the insurance companies directly and can negotiate better rates for mental health care, and save you on the commute! For example, companies such as Alma offer counseling services for individuals at reasonable rates.”
Some relationship therapists or marriage counselors provide sliding scale options, offering a reduced hourly rate based on income. Depending on your needs, some counselors offer discounted rates for buying multiple sessions or offer payment plans to suit you.
In some cases, insurance can cover your marriage counseling costs. Another option is to use a Health Savings Account, especially great if your employer matches your contributions to it — so it’s important to explore any reimbursement options that your health insurance may offer!
Why do marriage counselors charge different rates?
Marriage counseling sessions can vary greatly depending on a number of factors, from the relationship issues you’re facing to the specific counselor’s expertise in question.
Since couples therapy sessions can dent one’s pocket, it’s important that you put your money in the right place! So why do marriage therapy counseling prices vary so much?
1. Type of counseling
There are an array of family therapy options for married couples, with each one varying in terms of price.
The type of therapy you choose should be entirely based on your requirements, so you can come to an agreement as a team.
2. Location
The location of the family counseling sessions also naturally affects the price.
“The price of your session is highly dependent on the cost of living in your area,” says Seeger DeGeare.
“A session in New York City online or in person will be priced higher than a therapist located in a rural area. Remember even for online, your therapist must be licensed in the state you are located in at the time of the session.”
As previously mentioned, online marriage therapy may offer a more accessible price point due to the flexibility it offers to couples. However, if you prefer to do sessions in person, there may be additional costs.
This all entirely depends on your choice of counselor or service provider.
3. Time
Another reason for the significant variance is the time the clinician spends with each couple.
Therapy session costs are usually gauged per time spent, with a specific rate allotted per hour or per minute!
While some couples counselors offer 90-minute sessions, others prefer 50-minute slots — which naturally carry a lower price range.
4. Experience
One of the main factors in price range revolves around the therapist's certifications, for example, if they have a master’s degree or other certification.
When choosing your couples therapist or marriage counselor, we recommend selecting only licensed therapists. For example, look out for Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists (LMFT) or Licensed Professional Counselors (LPC).
“If you are choosing between a licensed mental health professional and a relationship coach think about the issues you need support around in your relationship,” says Seeger DeGeare.
“If you are working on getting on the same page and having a parenting plan, working with a coach might make sense as it is less about digging into deeper history and more about education. If you want to work on deeper family history, have any mental health concerns, or desire deeper connection you will want to choose a licensed, therapist, social worker, clinical psychologist, or counselor.”
Is marriage counseling worth it?
The cost of couples therapy can leave you feeling out of pocket, but unlike the money you might throw away on new clothes or an expensive holiday, counseling provides huge value to your life.
“After completing couples therapy, the work does not stop,” says Seeger DeGeare.
“Studies show that couples who complete 20 sessions of Emotionally Focused Therapy with their partner continue to apply what they have learned for years after finishing. Why? Because they understand how to listen, respond, and become curious about what is happening in their relationship.”
“As life unfolds, they do not get trapped in arguments; instead, they find themselves stuck in a pattern of feeling connected and close,” says Seeger DeGeare.
“Relationship work can absolutely be one of those use it or lose it things, so the everyday practice is a key part of not getting sucked back into your old patterns.”
After all, can you put a price on a healthy relationship?
In many cases, it’s impossible to forget, the cost of therapy is innumerably lower than the cost of divorce. So you can’t say that your money isn’t being well spent!
