Couples therapy, as most people perceive, is not usually a “one quick appointment” decision. People often consider it after being stuck in a cycle of repeated arguments, silent treatment, distance, trust issues, or the feeling that the relationship is on the brink of ruin. However, before booking a couples counselling session, many couples stop at the same question: how much will this actually cost?
There is no single or rigid answer to this question, as couples therapy fees can vary a lot depending on many different factors. For example, some therapists charge per hour, while others charge per 50-minute session, and longer couples sessions are common (as there is a lot to uncover).
Therefore, if you’re asking the same question, then this guide is for you. Read on to learn more about couples counselling cost:
How much does couples therapy cost in Canada?
In Canada, many private-pay couples therapy sessions range from $170 to $300 CAD per session. However, it can be higher in some regions and major cities. It helps to remember that the data for counselling costs often mixes individual and couples sessions.
For example, according to available Canadian therapy pricing data, average therapy fees (not couples-only) can range roughly between $170 and $230 CAD per session, depending on province and provider type.
Hence, it can be presumed that couples sessions are often priced higher than individual sessions because they involve longer appointments and more specialized relationship-focused work.
Couples therapy costs more than you expect for one main reason
Couples therapy requires a different kind of specialization. It is not like having “two individual sessions” at once.
Therefore, it requires a therapist who is experienced in managing communication patterns, conflict cycles, emotional safety, trust, and repair between two people.
That is the main reason why couples sessions are priced higher than individual sessions and are commonly scheduled for longer durations.
What determines the cost of couples therapy?
Here are some factors that affect the cost of couples counselling:
1. Location and cost of living play an important role
Fees are higher in larger cities and high-demand areas. In smaller towns, prices may be lower due to reduced demand. Therefore, if you’re living in a metropolitan area, you should expect to pay higher fees for couples therapy. This is also partly due to higher operating expenses such as rent, utilities, and administrative costs.
2. Provider certifications and licensing
Pricing varies depending on the provider type. In Canada, couples therapists may hold titles such as Registered Psychotherapist, Registered Clinical Counsellor, Social Worker, or Psychologist, depending on the province.
These credentials require years of education, supervision, and licensing, which contribute to higher professional fees.
3. Session length (this is a huge deal for couples)
Couples therapy sessions are commonly booked as:
- 50–60 minutes
- 75 minutes
- 90 minutes
Longer sessions often cost more, and couples are more inclined to choose longer sessions when there is a lot of disagreement or complexity to address.
4. The therapist’s experience and specialization
Fees could be higher if the therapist specializes in:
- High-conflict relationships
- Infidelity recovery
- Trauma-informed relationship work
- Structured couples approaches (e.g., the Gottman Method, EFT, or other evidence-based models)
Specialization does not always imply “better,” but it can explain price differences.
Is couples therapy covered by insurance in Canada?
Ask your insurer or benefits provider the following questions:
- Is couples therapy covered at all?
- Which provider types are eligible (social worker, psychologist, psychotherapist)?
- Do we need a diagnosis or referral?
- What is the reimbursement per session?
- Is there a yearly maximum?
If you are paying out of pocket and submitting claims later, ask the therapist if they provide detailed receipts and what information is included. These points are crucial if you are seeking reimbursement through extended health benefits.
How many sessions do couples generally require?
There is no single number, but having a fair estimate is useful.
According to data commonly referenced in relationship therapy research, marital or couples therapy averages approximately 11.5 sessions. This does not imply that every couple requires 11–12 sessions, but it provides a helpful reference point for budgeting.
What can couples therapy cost over time?
Total cost is typically driven by:
- Session fee
- Duration of a session
- Number of sessions attended
- Whether you have coverage
Here are some planning examples:
- 10 sessions × $180 = $1,800
- 12 sessions × $200 = $2,400
- 12 sessions × $250 = $3,000
How to select a couples therapist without overpaying?
A higher cost does not guarantee better outcomes. A practical approach is:
- Confirm the session length and fee in advance (preferably in writing).
- Inquire about their approach to couples work and any couples-specific training.
- Ask how sessions are typically structured (weekly at first, then biweekly).
- If possible, schedule a brief consultation to ensure fit and clarity.
Why couples choose online therapy with Your Doctors Online?
Many couples choose online therapy because it reduces barriers such as travel, time off work, childcare, and limited local availability.
Your Doctors Online provides access to licensed Canadian mental health providers through virtual appointments, making it easier for couples to attend regularly from a private setting.
- Privacy and convenience
- Online sessions from home
- Flexible scheduling
- Licensed providers
Consult today and discuss what you’re going through. Start with a conversation!
