How Much Does Couples Therapy Cost in California?
Takeaway: If you’re struggling in your relationship, know that you’re not alone and that therapy can help. Here, I break down the average cost of couples counseling across California so you can have a better sense of the investment before getting started.
Thinking about couples therapy but worried about the price tag? Here’s what you need to know before you book a session in California. I’m Lisa Franks, licensed clinical social worker and owner of Journey to Wellness Counseling in Temecula, and I have been working in mental health in California for over 10 years. I provide individual therapy and marriage counseling in California. You may be wondering, how much does couples therapy cost or, is couples therapy covered by insurance, or does in-person couples counseling cost more than virtual? The biggest question may be, is it worth the money? I plan to answer these questions to help you make an informed decision.
What’s the average cost of couples counseling in California?
On average, couples counseling costs in California can range from $100 to $300 per session. When asking, how much do marriage counselors cost and is marriage counseling worth the money? It may be helpful to explore factors that impact the cost of marriage therapy. These rates can vary based on a array of factors. The table below breaks down the average cost of therapy sessions for the state of California.
| City in California | Average Cost of a Couple's Therapy Session |
|---|---|
| Temecula | $206 |
| Los Angeles | $248 |
| San Diego | $213 |
| San Francisco | $254 |
Why is couples therapy so expensive?
Couples counseling costs are often at a higher rate than individual therapy sessions for many reasons.
Location
It may be helpful to take a look at marriage counseling prices in several areas when determining which couples' counselor to work with. Urban areas often have higher marriage counseling costs due to higher cost of living, while inland and suburban area marriage counselors may offer lower rates.
Therapist Credentials and Experience
Licensed professional counselors, marriage and family therapists, clinical social workers, and psychologists typically charge more than pre-licensed marriage therapists. Licensed private practice therapists with specialized training, like Gottman Method, may also have higher fees.
Session Length
While standard sessions tend to be 50-60 minutes in length, many marriage counselors offer extended relationship counseling sessions lasting 80-90 minutes at an increased cost. Longer sessions, like intensives, may offer be offered at a higher hourly rate, while workshops may be provided for a flat fee.
Private Pay vs. Insurance
Insurance companies generally do not cover the cost of couples counseling sessions as they are not seen as medically necessary. However, if one individual has a mental health diagnosis, some couples' therapists may bill an insurance plan under that diagnosis, though not all do.
Session Format
Furthermore, in-person therapy sessions may cost slightly more due to overhead, but in California, online couples counseling are often comparable to face to face marriage counseling sessions.
Number of Sessions
The overall cost of couples therapy also fluctuates based on how many sessions are needed to meet your goals. While some couples may benefit from a few focused sessions, others may engage in therapy over several months, impacting the total financial investment.
Does insurance cover marriage counseling?
Generally, insurance doesn’t cover marriage counseling because relationship issues like communication problems or marital dissatisfaction aren’t considered mental health diagnoses. Insurance companies only reimburse for treatments that are deemed medically necessary to address a diagnosable mental illness. Since marriage counseling often focuses on relational dynamics rather than a specific illness, it falls outside the scope of most insurance coverage.
Insurance may cover couples counseling costs when one partner has a diagnosable mental health condition and the therapy is being used to support treatment for that condition. To qualify for coverage, the therapy must be considered medically necessary and clearly documented as such in the treatment notes. Furthermore, the therapist must be in-network with the client’s insurance plan and accept the policy.
As an out-of-network provider, I do not bill the insurance company directly, which means couples pay upfront for sessions and may seek reimbursement through their out-of-network benefits if available. The key difference between in-network and out-of-network benefits lies in flexibility and choice. In-network providers often follow insurance-dictated guidelines and working with an out-of-network couples therapist allows for more personalized, uninterrupted care without restrictions on session length, frequency, or treatment focus. Without the limitations imposed by insurance, therapy can be more focused on your goals rather than diagnosis-driven requirements. If you're seeking meaningful progress and a high level of expertise, working with an out-of-network provider may be the best investment in your mental health.
Other options for paying for couples counseling
If you're concerned about marriage counseling costs, and feeling unsure about how to cover the expense, you're not alone. While many assume couples counseling must be paid out-of-pocket or through health insurance, there are several alternative options that can make this important investment more accessible. Below are a few creative and practical ways to manage the expense of couples therapy without compromising the quality of care.
Health Savings Accounts (HSA) of Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA)
These tax-advantaged accounts can often be used to pay for therapy services, like couples therapy, if deemed medically necessary. This form of payment is often processed like a debit or credit card payment.
Sliding Scale Fees
Some couples counselors may offer a reduced rate based on your income or financial need. This option is typically available upon request and may require documentation of your financial situation.
Employee Assistance Programs (EAP)
Some employers provide short-term counseling services, including couples counseling, at no cost. Sessions are often limited, so it's important to ask your HR department about what's covered and how to get started.
University Training Clinics
Local universities with counseling programs may offer low-cost services, including couples therapy, provided by graduate interns under supervision working toward their masters degree. These clinics are a great option for quality care at a significantly reduced price, though availability may vary by semester.
Nonprofit Counseling Centers
Community health clinics may offer reduced-fee or donation based mental health services. These organizations often provide individual therapy, family therapy, and couples therapy to those who do not have health insurance or are underinsured.
Online Therapy Platforms
Some platforms offer online couples therapy at lower rates than in-person private practice. They may also provide more scheduling flexibility, making it easier to fit therapy into your routine.
Is couples therapy worth it?
Couples therapy is not just for relationships in crisis. Therapeutic treatment can be a proactive and powerful way to strengthen connection, deepen understanding, and improve overall relationship satisfaction. Whether you are navigating conflict, communication issues, changes in intimacy, or just desiring to nurture a healthy relationship, a licensed therapist can offer tools and insights to help both partners feel more secure and supported. Below are several key benefits to think about when considering couples counseling.
Improved Communication Skills
Couples counseling helps partners develop healthy and effective communication techniques, enabling them to express thoughts and feelings more clearly and listen effectively to one another. This can foster mutual understanding and reduce misunderstandings. Check out this article Communication Competence in Your Marriage: The Basics | Psychology Today to learn some strategies for improving communication.
Deeper Understanding of Relationship Dynamics
Couples therapy sessions provide a space to explore and improve understanding of underlying patterns and dynamics within a relationship. By increasing awareness of these patterns, couples can work toward healthier interactions and strengthening bonds.
Conflict Resolution Skills
Couples often seek counseling to learn strategies to resolve conflicts constructively. A licensed therapist can guide partners in addressing disagreements in ways that strengthen the relationship rather than causing harm.
Rebuilding Trust and Emotional Intimacy
Couples counseling sessions can assist in rebuilding trust and enhancing emotional intimacy, especially after breaches of trust or periods of emotional distance. A couples counselor can facilitate open and honest dialogues that foster reconnection. Check out this blog to learn more on How to Build Trust in Your Relationship.
Safe and Neutral Environment
Couples counseling, including in-person and online counseling, offer a confidential and neutral setting where both partners can express themselves without fear of judgment. This collaborative process encourages honest communication and mutual respect.
Support for Major Life Transitions
A couples counselor can provide support during significant life changes, such as marriage, parenthood, or retirement. A couples therapist can help navigate these transitions and help couples adapt to new roles and responsibilities.
Enhanced Relationship Satisfaction
Engaging in therapy with a couples counselor has been associated with a healthy and fulfilling relationship. By addressing issues and improving communication, partners often experience more meaningful and harmonious connection.
Improved Sexual Intimacy and Connection
Couples therapy can address challenges related to physical intimacy, discrepancies in desire, or emotional barriers that may impact a couples sex life. Many people seek therapy to discuss vulnerable topics and better understand one another's needs, preferences, and concerns, without judgment. There are many benefits to prioritizing a healthy sex life, including improved physical health. Read here to learn more 10 Surprising Health Benefits of Sex.
How to choose a couples therapist
There are many things to consider when choosing a couples therapist. Here are a few things to consider when deciding who is the best fit for you and your partner.
Specialization and Training
Most therapists have extensive training in the areas in which they specialize. Specialized training, like the Gottman Method or Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), often means the couples counselor has tools and training tailored to meet the needs of those seeking to improve relationship dynamics.
Experience with Similar Issues
Consider whether the couples counselor has worked with couples facing similar challenges to yours, such as parenting differences, trauma, or communication breakdowns.
Therapeutic Style and Fit
This may be the most important factor. Some therapists are more structured and directive while others may be reflective or take an exploratory approach. Take advantage of free consultations to help determine compatibility.
Availability and Scheduling
Make sure that the therapists availability aligns with you and your partners schedules. Evening and weekend appointments may be a consideration, and many therapists offer these options.
Format and Setting
Decide if you and your partner prefer in-person or online therapy. Virtual therapy can provide convenience and flexibility while face to face sessions may feel more personal and provide a neutral space for reflection outside of your home.
What to expect from couples therapy
Every relationship has its own unique needs and therefore, the experience in couples therapy can vary for each couple. Factors like level of conflict, how long issues have been present in the relationship, trauma histories, mental health concerns, and each partners willingness to participate can influence the frequency, duration, and overall length of treatment. It is important to go at a pace that feels right for both partners. Healing and growth take time and rushing the process can lead to missed opportunities for lasting change.
Final thoughts
Couples therapy can be a powerful investment in the health and longevity of your relationship, but it is important to understand the various factors that influence it cost, structure, and efficacy. Treatment should be tailored to meet you and your partners specific needs, and it should be a collaborative process approached with openness and patience. With the right therapist, couples therapy can offer meaningful, lasting change for your relationship.
I help partners break free from the cycles that keep them feeling misunderstood, unseen, or unheard. With a compassionate, practical, direct approach, I assist clients in moving forward from past trauma and toward healthier communication, stronger emotional bonds, and deeper trust, even after years of struggle. Whether you're navigating parenting stress, rebuilding after a betrayal, or simply want to feel more connected, I provide a safe space for growth, repair, and healing. Let's work together to help your relationship feel like a safe place again.
