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 counseling 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 counseling cost:
How much does couples therapy cost in the U.S.?
In the United States, many private-pay couples therapy sessions range from $150 to $250 USD per session. However, it can be higher in some markets. It helps to remember that the data for counseling costs mostly mixes individual and couples sessions.
For example, according to one dataset, the average therapy fees (not couples-only) vary by state to state, roughly between $122 and $227 in 2025.
Hence, it can be presumed that couples sessions can be priced higher than individual sessions because they often involve longer sessions and specialized relationship 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, an expert 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 longer.
What determines the cost of couples therapy?
Here are some factors that affect the cost of couples counseling:
1. Location and cost of living play an important role
Fees are higher in larger cities and high-demand areas due to scarcity. In smaller towns, prices may be lower, as the demand is low. Therefore, if you’re living in a metropolitan area, then you should expect to pay higher fees for couples therapy. That is also partly due to the fact that the therapist has to cater to higher expenses, such as rent, bills, etc.
2. Provider certifications and licensing
Pricing varies depending on the provider type. Many couples therapists in the United States hold the Marriage and Family Therapist (MFT/LMFT) license, which is a common relationship-focused credential.
Depending on the state, Registered Psychotherapists, Registered Clinical Counselors, Social Workers, and Psychologists may be present. These credentials require years of experience and study, contributing to a higher price range for the provider.
3. Session length (this is a huge deal for couples)
Couples therapy sessions are 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.
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 techniques (e.g., the Gottman Method, EFT, or other evidence-based models)
Specialization does not always imply “better,” but it can explain price disparities.
Is couples therapy covered by insurance?
Ask your insurer the following questions:
- Is couples therapy covered at all?
- Which provider types are eligible (social worker, psychologist, psychotherapist, LMFT)?
- 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 submit later, ask the therapist if they provide receipts/superbills and what details are included. All these points are crucial if you are looking to reimburse expenses.
How many sessions do couples generally require?
There is no single number, but having a fair estimate is useful.
According to the American Association of Marriage and Family Therapy, marital/couples therapy takes approximately 11.5 sessions on average. This does not imply that every couple requires 11-12 sessions, but it provides a useful reference point for expenditure budgeting.
What can couples therapy cost over time?
Total cost is typically driven by:
- Session fee
- Duration of a session
- Number of sessions that you attend
- Whether you have coverage or not
Here are some planning examples that you should give some thought to:
- 10 sessions x $180 = $1,800.
- 12 sessions x $200 = $2,400.
- 12 sessions x $250 = $3,000.
How to select a couples therapist without overpaying?
A higher cost does not guarantee better outcomes. A pragmatic approach is:
- Confirm the session length and fee up ahead (preferably in writing).
- Inquire about their approach to couples work and whether they have received any couples-specific training.
- Ask about how they generally structure sessions (weekly at first, then biweekly).
- If possible, schedule a brief consultation to ensure proper fit and clarity.
Why couples choose online therapy with Your Doctors Online?
Most couples prefer online therapy because it eliminates hurdles such as travel, time off work, childcare, and limited local availability.
Your Doctors Online provides access to licensed mental health providers via virtual appointments, making it easier for couples to visit regularly from a private location.
- Online sessions from home.
- Flexible scheduling
- Licensed providers
- Privacy and convenience.
Consult today and discuss what you’re going through. Start with a conversation!
