How Much Does Couples Therapy Cost? (+ Affordable Alternatives)

Couples therapy is one of the most effective tools for improving relationship health and resolving conflict. In fact, over 90% of people say it helps their relationship — and one survey found a staggering 99% reported a positive impact on their relationship after therapy. (Source)

So what’s stopping more couples from doing it?

One word: Cost.

How Much Does Couples Therapy Cost?

In the U.S.: In-person couples therapy typically ranges from $100 to $250 per session. Top-tier therapists in major cities like NYC or LA can charge up to $500 per session. Rates vary based on location, credentials (PhDs and licensed specialists cost more), and demand.

In Europe: Therapy tends to be more affordable. Sessions in the UK and Germany range from $90 to $200, and even less in emerging economies — around $30 in India, $50 in Brazil.

Why Is Couples Therapy So Expensive?

1. Specialized Training:

   Therapists often train in advanced methods like Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) or the Gottman Method — increasing their expertise and rates.

2. Longer, More Complex Sessions:

   Couples therapy sessions are typically 60–90 minutes, compared to 50 for individual therapy. The emotional labor and complexity of managing two people also adds to the workload.

3. Limited Insurance Coverage:

   Insurance often doesn’t cover couples therapy unless a diagnosable mental health condition is present. Most people pay out of pocket.

4. High Demand, Low Supply:

   Fewer therapists specialize in couples work — and many are overbooked.

Affordable Alternatives That Actually Work

The good news? Therapy isn’t the only path to a better relationship. A new wave of tools is making relationship support more accessible, affordable, and effective.

1. AI-Powered Relationship Apps

   Modern apps combine behavioral science with technology to help couples grow together — at a fraction of the cost.

   
   

   1. Relatable (Free) : https://relatable.love/

      Relatable is a next-gen app that offers real-time AI advice for couples struggling with communication, conflict, or emotional disconnection. It’s especially helpful if one partner isn’t ready for therapy — you can start solo or together.

      1. Get topic-specific advice

      2. Self-reflection mode available

      3. Step-by-step guidance for navigating tough conversations

         → Currently free for early users (as of April 2025)

         
         

   2. Other Apps

      Lasting – Guided sessions and conversation prompts. ($7/month)

      Paired – Daily questions, quizzes, and communication games. ($10/month)

2. Online Therapy Platforms

   Services like BetterHelp, Talkspace, and Regain offer couples therapy at lower prices than traditional in-person sessions. You get flexible scheduling, licensed therapists, and options to switch easily.

   
   

3. Books & Workshops

   1. Hold Me Tight by Dr. Sue Johnson (based on EFT)

   2. The Seven Principles for Making Marriage Work by Dr. John Gottman

   These books include exercises and communication strategies used in actual therapy.

   
   

4. Faith-Based Counseling

   Many churches, mosques, and synagogues offer free or donation-based marriage counseling with trained clergy. While not therapy in the clinical sense, it can be helpful for values-aligned couples.

Our Recommendation

If you’re just starting out or unsure about therapy, apps like Relatable are a fantastic entry point. They’re private, affordable, and give you practical tools you can use immediately — without scheduling or stigma.

Then, as you gain clarity on your relationship patterns, you can move into targeted, occasional sessions with a couples therapist (online or in-person) for deeper work.

TL;DR – Couples Therapy Costs & Alternatives

Option	Avg. Cost	Notes
In-person therapy (US)	$100–$250+	Often not covered by insurance
Online therapy	$60–$100	More flexible, less expensive
Relatable app https://relatable.love/	Free	AI-based, self-guided, low-barrier
Other apps	$7–$10/month	Educational and engaging
Books/workshops	$10–$30	Great starting point