Couples therapy, also known as marriage counseling or relationship therapy, is a form of counseling that aims to help couples improve their communication, resolve conflicts and strengthen their emotional connection. Many couples seek couples therapy to address issues such as infidelity, financial problems, and parenting disagreements. However, one of the biggest factors when considering therapy is the cost.
You might be wondering, how much is couples therapy? This can vary widely depending on several factors including therapist’s qualifications, location and the type of therapy offered. According to Psychology Today, couples therapy can range between $150 to $400 per one-hour session, usually conducted weekly by a private practitioner. Although, some therapists offer sliding-scale fees based on income. Fees may also be based on insurance plans that may cover the cost of therapy.
What is Couples Therapy?
Couples therapy is a type of psychotherapy that can help partners improve their relationship. It is typically administered by licensed therapists who have specialized training and experience in working with couples.
The therapy sessions are designed to help couples identify and address the underlying issues that are causing problems in their relationship. These issues can range from communication problems to trust issues to sexual problems.
It can be helpful at any stage in a relationship. “Couples therapy can address a wide range of relationship issues, including recurring conflicts, feelings of disconnection, an affair, issues related to sex or difficulties due to external factors,” according to Brian Mueller, PhD, a psychologist at Columbia University Medical Center specializing in couples therapy.
Common Benefits of Couples Therapy
Many people believe that couples therapy is only for partners who are struggling to survive, but the truth is that all types of couples can enjoy the benefits of therapy. “People report feeling more connected to their partner and their own feelings, as well as more secure, spontaneous and playful in the relationship. When people feel more secure in their relationship, they can become more assertive and adventurous in other parts of their life,’ says Mueller.
Overall, relationship therapy is designed to help couples develop the skills and tools they need to build a healthy, happy, and fulfilling relationship. By working with a skilled therapist, couples can learn to overcome the challenges that are preventing them from achieving their goals and build a stronger, more resilient relationship.
Some of the common benefits of couples therapy include:
- Identify Relationship Issues: Your therapist can help you and your partner identify the root cause of your issues that are leading to recurring conflicts, lack of trust and feelings of disconnection.
- Better Understanding and Empathy: Couples therapy can help you understand your partner better. Not only will you gain a new perspective about your partner’s thoughts and experiences, but it can help both of you express your feelings, hopes, fears, priorities, values and beliefs in a healthy manner.
- Improve Communication Skills: Many couples fail to express their thoughts and feelings appropriately. Working with a relationship therapist can help you and your partner share concerns and emotions without the need to attack or blame. Additionally, your therapist will teach you how to choose the right time and place to have difficult conversations.
- Create a Safe Space: The role of a therapist is to create a safe haven for the attending couple. All information shared will be kept confidential and the therapist will remain neutral during the session. Ultimately, each partner will have the chance to speak.
- Strengthen Friendship and Attachment: In a romantic relationship, several problems may get in the way and couples may start to lose their connection. Couples therapy can help you and your partner regain and strengthen your friendship, attachment, bonding and intimacy.
- Work On Life Challenges: Even the happiest of couples will face life challenges such as infertility, mental health issues, traumatic events and financial problems. A therapist can guide you through these obstacles and develop the skills to work through them.
- Resolve Conflicts: No relationship is perfect and with the help of a therapist, you and your partner can work through and solve any disagreements to sustain a successful relationship. A therapist can also help you develop conflict resolution skills. Otherwise, resentment may build up when you and your partner struggle to move past issues or sweet concerns under the rug.
Effectiveness of Couples Therapy
Every relationship is dynamic and unique. Incidentally, the majority of potential couple-clients never choose any form of therapy, regardless of the severity of their problems, which has become a real concern. (Norcross & Goldfried, 2019).
Below is a body of research that suggests how couples therapy can be an effective tool for anyone in a relationship.
- A 2016 study discovered that “brief, integrating” counseling has helped to meaningfully enhance emotional intimacy and marital quality.
- A 2011 study found that couples therapy has positively impacted 70% of those receiving this type of treatment. Outcomes were deemed as “vastly superior” to those who did not receive any treatment.
- Reviews and meta-analyses affirm the effectiveness of couple therapy in reducing relationship distress among couples in the 2020s.
- Emotionally-Focused Therapy (EFT) is a commonly used therapy used to help adults improve their relationships. According to the American Psychological Association, EFT is 75% effective in improving couple relationships.
Couples can reap the benefits of therapy as its designed to help them develop the necessary skills and tools they need to build a healthy, happy and fulfilling relationship. By working with a skilled therapist, they can learn to overcome the challenges that are preventing them from achieving their goals and building a stronger, more resilient relationship.
Who Should Go to Couples Therapy?
Couples therapy is a valuable resource for couples who are struggling with communication, intimacy, and other issues that can arise in a romantic relationship. However, not all couples need therapy, and it’s important to recognize when therapy is necessary and when it isn’t.
Recognizing Relationship Issues
The first step in determining the need for therapy is recognizing relationship issues. Some common issues that couples face include:
- Communication problems
- Trust issues
- Infidelity
- Sexual problems
- Financial problems
- Parenting disagreements
- Differences in values or goals
If couples are experiencing any of these issues, it’s important to address them as soon as possible. Ignoring these issues can lead to resentment, anger and ultimately, the breakdown of the relationship.
When to Seek Professional Help
While some couples can work through their issues on their own, others may need professional help. Couples should consider seeking therapy if:
- They have tried to work through their issues on their own, but have been unsuccessful.
- They are experiencing intense emotions such as anger, sadness or hopelessness.
- They are considering separation or divorce.
- They are experiencing physical symptoms such as headaches or stomachaches due to relationship stress.
It’s important to note that seeking therapy does not mean that a relationship is doomed to fail. In fact, therapy can be a valuable tool for couples who are committed to working through their issues and strengthening their relationship. Therefore, recognizing these issues and knowing when to seek professional help is key to determining the need for couples therapy.
Types of Couples Therapy
Relationship therapy is a form of psychotherapy that helps couples, families and individuals to work through their problems and improve their relationships. There are various types of relationship therapy, each with its own unique approach and techniques. Some of these include:
Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT)
This type of therapy focuses on emotions and attachment between you and your partner. It helps couples identify negative patterns in their relationship and learn new ways to communicate and connect with each other. According to the American Psychological Association, EFT is 75% effective in improving couple relationships.
Gottman Method
This method focuses on building a strong friendship and a deep level of intimacy between you and your partner. It also equips you with problem-solving skills in order to manage conflicts better in your relationship.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
Also referred to as cognitive behavioral couples therapy (CBCT), this form of therapy focuses on changing negative thoughts and behaviors that cause problems in the relationship. CBT for couples is typically short-term and focuses on specific goals.
Narrative Therapy
This type of therapy focuses on the stories that couples tell about themselves and their relationship. This helps identify negative patterns in their relationship and reframe these patterns in a more positive light. Narrative therapy has shown to be effective in improving relationship satisfaction and reducing relationship distress.
Solution Focused Therapy (SFT)
This type of therapy that focuses on solutions rather than problems in relationships. Couples who undergo SFT identify what is working in the relationship and build on those strengths. SFT for couples is typically short-term and focuses on specific goals.
Cost Factors of Relationship Therapy
When considering the cost of relationship therapy, there are several factors to keep in mind. Here are some of the most important cost factors to consider:
Therapist Qualifications
The qualifications of the therapist can have a significant impact on the cost of relationship therapy. Therapists with advanced degrees and specialized training tend to charge more than those with less experience or training. However, it’s important to remember that the cost of therapy should not be the only factor in choosing a therapist. The quality of the therapy and the therapist’s ability to help the couple should also be taken into account.
Session Length and Frequency
Most therapy sessions last between 45 and 60 minutes, but some therapists may offer longer or shorter sessions. The frequency of sessions can also vary, with some couples meeting weekly and others meeting less frequently. In general, the more frequent and longer the sessions, the higher the cost of therapy.
Insurance and Coverage
Many couple’s consider if their insurance covers relationship therapy in order to make their decision. While some insurance plans cover therapy, others do not. Therefore, couples should check with their insurance provider to see what is covered. If therapy is not covered, the couple may need to pay for therapy out of pocket. Some therapists offer sliding scale fees or other payment options to help make therapy more affordable.
With these factors in mind, couples can carefully consider choosing the right therapist for their needs. Additionally, they must be prepared to pay for therapy out of pocket if necessary.
Alternatives to Traditional Therapy
While traditional therapy can be effective, it may not be the best fit for everyone. Fortunately, there are several alternatives to traditional therapy that can help individuals and couples work through their issues.
Online Counseling Platforms
Online counseling platforms offer a convenient and affordable alternative to traditional therapy. These platforms allow individuals to connect with licensed therapists through video, phone, or chat sessions. Studies have shown that online therapy can be just as effective as in-person sessions with a couples counselor. Some popular online counseling platforms include BetterHelp, Talkspace, and Regain.
Self-Help Resources
Self-help resources can be a great option for individuals who prefer to work through their issues on their own. There are many self-help books, workbooks and online courses available that cover a wide range of topics related to relationships and mental health. Some popular self-help resources include The Seven Principles for Making Marriage Work, Hold Me Tight and The Couples Therapy Workbook.
Recommended Self-Help Books
Community Support Groups
Community support groups provide individuals with a safe and supportive environment to connect with others who are going through similar experiences. These groups can be especially helpful for individuals who may not have access to traditional therapy or who prefer a more informal setting. Some popular community support groups include Al-Anon, Codependents Anonymous and SMART Recovery.
If you are not financially capable of receiving couples therapy, these may be alternatives to help you and your partner work through your issues. Whether you prefer online counseling platforms, self-help resources or community support groups, there is an option out there that can work for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does insurance typically cover the cost of relationship therapy?
Many health insurance plans cover the cost of relationship therapy, however it will depend on the plan and the provider. Some insurance plans may cover a portion of the cost, while others may cover the entire cost of therapy. Insurance coverage for relationship therapy may depend on the reason for seeking therapy, the type of therapy and the therapist’s credentials.
What are the average monthly expenses for ongoing relationship therapy?
The average monthly expenses for ongoing relationship therapy can vary depending on the cost per session, the frequency of sessions, and the duration of therapy. Assuming a couple attends one 60-minute session per week at an average cost of $150 per session, the monthly expenses would be approximately $600 to $750 per month.
How do therapy costs for couples vary by state, such as in California or Texas?
Therapy costs for couples can vary by state and region. In California, the average cost of couples therapy per session is approximately $150 to $200, while in Texas, the average cost is approximately $100 to $150 per session ReGain. However, these costs are not fixed and may vary depending on the therapist’s experience, qualifications, and location.
Can the effectiveness of couples therapy justify its cost?
There is evidence to suggest that couples therapy can be effective in improving relationship satisfaction and reducing relationship distress according to the American Psychological Association. However, the effectiveness of couples therapy can vary depending on the type of therapy, the therapist’s approach and the couple’s willingness to participate and engage in the therapeutic process. While the cost of couples therapy may seem high, the potential benefits for the long run may justify the cost.
How long is the typical duration of therapy for most couples?
The duration of therapy for most couples can vary depending on the couple’s needs and goals. However, research suggests that the average duration of couples therapy is approximately 12 to 16 sessions according to the American Psychological Association. The length of therapy may also depend on the type of therapy, the therapist’s approach, and the couple’s progress in therapy.
What if my partner isn’t open to couples therapy?
While 79% of males think their partner would be open to couples therapy, only 66% of women think their partner would go. However, various studies have shown that 52% of people who have never tried couples therapy say they would consider attending. If you’re nervous to approach your partner about it, be sure to bring up the conversation without putting anyone on the defense. Rather, share your desire to learn about tools that could benefit your relationship.
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