Every relationship has struggles, but if you’re having more downs than ups, it may be time to get help. Find out how couples therapy works and its benefits.
Couples therapy helps partners work through conflict, improve communication and build healthier relationships, but finding the right support can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re in crisis. This page offers a starting point for couples looking for qualified, accessible mental health care.
Whether you’re dating, married, living together or separated, emotional distance or unresolved conflict can take a toll on your well-being. Relationship distress is one of the most common reasons people seek therapy, but not everyone knows where to begin or what’s available to them.
This guide breaks down how to find couples therapy, what to expect from the process and where to look for free or low-cost resources.
Why Couples Seek Therapy
Relationship struggles don’t have to reach a breaking point before seeking help. In fact, many couples benefit most from therapy before things become unmanageable.
Common reasons couples start therapy include:
- Frequent arguing or poor communication
- Loss of intimacy or emotional connection
- Recovering from betrayal or infidelity
- Co-parenting struggles or disagreements
- External stressors (money, in-laws, work)
- Life transitions like marriage, parenting or moving
- Differing values, goals or long-term visions
- Desire to build stronger emotional or sexual bonds
Even if your partner isn’t willing to attend, there are solo options that can help you work through relationship challenges from your side.
What Makes Couples Therapy Different?
In couples therapy, the relationship — not just the individuals — is the client. The therapist remains neutral and helps both partners:
- Express feelings honestly and safely
- Identify patterns that keep you stuck
- Build empathy and listening skills
- Create shared goals for moving forward
The goal isn’t to “fix” one person — it’s to help both people understand and support each other more effectively.
Where to Find Affordable or Specialized Couples Therapy
Many couples worry about cost or availability. Fortunately, there are several national and local options to explore, especially for those without insurance.
- Open Path Collective
Open Path Collective is a nonprofit network offering low-cost counseling (typically $40–$70/session) for individuals and couples. - National Marriage Encounter Programs
These retreat-style programs focus on relationship enrichment and communication. While religious in nature, many are inclusive and affordable. - University Counseling Clinics
Local universities with graduate programs in psychology or social work often run training clinics offering low-cost sessions with supervised interns. - Community Health Centers
Federally qualified health centers (FQHCs) may offer sliding-scale counseling services. - Telehealth Platforms With Couples Support
Some online therapy services offer couple-specific options:- BetterHelp
- MindGlow Health
- Talkspace
- Couples Therapy, Inc
These may or may not accept insurance, so check with the platform and your provider.
- Faith-Based Counseling
Many churches, mosques and synagogues offer free or donation-based pastoral counseling for couples regardless of religious affiliation.
Navigating Insurance Coverage
Couples counseling isn’t always covered by insurance. Plans typically cover therapy for individuals with a mental health diagnosis, but not always for relational issues alone.
Tips for checking coverage:
- Call your insurance provider directly.
- Ask therapists if they can bill under one partner’s diagnosis (if applicable).
- Inquire about FSA/HSA reimbursement.
If your plan doesn’t cover couples therapy, many providers offer sliding scale rates — don’t hesitate to ask.
Things to Consider When Choosing a Therapist
- Licensure. Look for LMFTs, LPCs, LCSWs or psychologists.
- Specialties. Some focus on LGBTQ+ relationships, trauma recovery or infidelity repair.
- Modality. Consider evidence-based methods like the Gottman Method, Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) or Imago Therapy.
- Accessibility. Evaluate both in-person vs. telehealth options.
Reading bios and reviews and scheduling a phone consultation can help you feel out a therapist’s approach and personality.
For Marginalized Couples: Inclusive Therapy Matters
Couples in LGBTQ+, BIPOC, neurodiverse or nontraditional relationships may face additional barriers to safe, affirming care. Look for therapists who:
- Advertise culturally competent or trauma-informed practices
- Offer gender-affirming and inclusive language
- State explicit experience with your community
Platforms like TherapyDen or Inclusive Therapists can help you search by identity and focus area.
When One Partner Isn’t Ready for Therapy
It’s common for one person to be hesitant. If you’re facing this dynamic, try:
- Suggesting a short-term trial of 2–3 sessions
- Framing therapy as a way to “check in” or maintain your relationship
- Offering to attend solo until they’re ready
- Sharing articles or videos about the process to demystify it
Therapy isn’t about proving someone wrong — it’s about understanding each other better. Framing it this way can help reduce resistance.
Frequently Asked Questions
It varies. Some couples attend 6–12 sessions to work through a specific challenge. Others stay for months or longer if they’re rebuilding trust or navigating deeper issues.
Not all therapists are the right fit. If you feel stuck, consider trying a different therapist or approach. Progress takes time, but you should feel safe and heard throughout the process.
Many therapists now offer telehealth options for couples — either via video call or secure messaging. This can be helpful for busy schedules or long-distance relationships.
Therapy can help couples decide if they want to stay together, part amicably or redefine their relationship moving forward.
You Don’t Have to Navigate This Alone
If you’re feeling disconnected, overwhelmed or unsure about the future of your relationship, you don’t have to figure it out by yourself.
The Mental Health Hotline is available 24-7 to help you find affordable, compassionate therapy services, including relationship and couples counseling in your area. All calls are free and confidential, and our trained specialists can guide you to the right support.
Call today. Healthier communication, connection and healing are possible, and it starts with asking for help.
