Online Couples Therapy: Online Therapy Options for Relationships
Online relationship counseling or online therapy can be a way to connect with your partner. However, many partnerships may struggle to find in-person relationship counseling due to couples counseling cost or scheduling barriers. In these cases, they may turn to online couples therapy services, which they may easily find through online therapy platforms.
Many individuals seeking couples therapy may face conflict and challenging times in their relationships. Other couples might use online couples counseling to improve communication and grow as a couple. If you're looking to work through marriage problems, dating difficulties, or relationship conflicts, relationship or marriage counseling may offer you unique tools and professional help for various challenges.
Online couples therapy for relationships
When you think of marriage or couples counseling, you may envision a couple in a traditional in-person clinic discussing their concerns in front of a therapist. However, there are many other types of couples counseling services, and couples therapy online is a viable alternative. Research shows that online couples counseling is as effective as in-person counseling for many relationships. The benefits of online couples counseling typically include a more cost-effective and flexible structure, as compared to traditional face-to-face services. Online therapy can be conducted through video sessions, messaging, or voice calls, and it is often easier to create or modify appointments through a website than through an office. Live video sessions provide an interactive, face-to-face environment for clients to engage with their therapist in real time. Platforms like Regain provide therapy services catered to couples looking for relationship support. These counseling services provide flexible options for couples who cannot attend in-person sessions for just $260-$360 per month or $70-$100 per week.
Married partners can participate in online marriage therapy sessions with licensed therapists through specific virtual therapy websites. However, it’s important to note you do not need to be in a married couple in order to seek therapy services.
When a couple opts for online counseling, they can search for an online counselor from anywhere with an internet connection. In many cases, virtual therapy sessions can be used from different locations, which may be helpful for those in separate locations. Alternatively, couples in the same physical location can engage in therapy from the comfort of their shared home. Online couples counseling may also feel less stressful for couples as live sessions can be conducted in an environment where they feel safe. With the convenience of online therapy platforms, clients can find support from home or anywhere with an internet connection.
Benefits of online couples therapy
Consistently participating in couples counseling may lead to several long-term benefits for couples, including improved intimacy, connection, communication, and mutual respect. Couples who participate in online couples therapy services may find it convenient to address these challenges without the need for physical appointments. Below are a few benefits you and your partner may experience from online relationship counseling:
Improved communication
For example, through couple counseling, partners might experience an increased ability to effectively address disagreements over finances, feelings of blame, or family conflict.
Re-engagement in your relationship
Many couples may feel they can re-engage in their relationship and rekindle the "spark" they may have first felt in the early stages of their love through fostering a deeper connection in couples counseling.
Maintaining a foundation for healthy behaviors
You and your partner may learn to develop and maintain a foundation for your relationship to discuss challenging topics and feel confident in your ability to establish healthy behavioral patterns. Part of this foundation may include each of you taking time for individual self-care.
Alignment of goals
You and your partner may learn to develop goals and priorities together rather than focusing on individual goals that may conflict with or strain your relationship.
Team skills
You and your partner may learn to work together to develop a team outlook. Instead of seeing each other as individuals working "against" each other, you may learn to see each other as a team "against the problem." Working together through significant life transitions and challenges may help you feel closer overall.
Finding success through couples therapy
Ensuring you and your partner are properly prepared for remote couples therapy can help you both get the most out of the experience. When considering virtual marriage therapy, it can be essential to find a platform that meets both of your needs and provides a comfortable space for open communication. Below are several tips for making the most out of online couple counseling:
Agree on therapists for couples counseling
When couples decide to find online marriage counseling or relationship counseling, they might have a difficult time finding a marriage counselor or couples therapist they both feel comfortable with. Therapists should not value one partner over the other. A skilled couples therapist can help balance each partner’s perspective and create a safe environment for open communication. Additionally, if one partner does not like the marriage therapist, it may be best to consider a few other candidates before deciding. Through virtual therapy, you and your partner can switch therapists, if necessary, often in a more efficient manner than with in-person therapy.
The professional you work with will often depend on the type of couples therapy you are seeking. There are several modalities that may be utilized by an expert in marriage and family therapy, including emotionally focused therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, and the Gottman method.
You may also want to work with someone who accepts insurance. However, online couple therapy typically isn’t included in health insurance coverage (the same is usually true for in-person counseling). While some virtual relationship counselors might not accept insurance, membership costs for internet therapy platforms are often as affordable as—or more affordable than—the costs of copays through an insurance plan.
Communicate in a healthy way with online couples counseling
Healthy communication can be a cornerstone of a healthy relationship. According to research, healthy communication increases rates of marital satisfaction. A virtual family and marriage therapist can guide you through healthy discussions, give you relationship advice, help you understand your communication limitations, and provide you with tools to practice at home.
According to a study published by the National Library of Medicine, one of the top reasons marriages dissolve is the presence of conflict and frequent arguments, demonstrating that communication can be a crucial skill to discuss with your partner in a therapeutic environment.
Combine online couple counseling with individual counseling
Many couples pursue online individual counseling while also participating in joint counseling. Those who pursue therapy often find that both couple and individual therapy can work together to strengthen their bond. In individual talk therapy, each partner can focus on personal growth, which can positively impact the relationship. Through individual therapy, each partner can explore personal challenges that may be contributing to issues within the relationship. As marriage therapists are there to serve the relationship as a whole, an individual therapist can focus primarily on you and your concerns, which may also positively impact the relationship. For example, during individual therapy, you may address a mental health condition that contributes to conflict in your relationship.
Online therapy for couples
There are a few methods to find a therapist online. The following are some online therapy services (and other options) for couples seeking support:
- An online therapy platform for couples, like Regain
- A self-practice online therapist in your state that offers telehealth therapy
- A group therapy for couples led by a licensed therapist
- An online individual therapy platform, like BetterHelp
In addition to couple therapy, there are other online therapy services available, such as individual and family therapy.
What to expect through an online counseling platform
Below are a few steps you might encounter when signing up for virtual therapy services:
Registration for online counseling
After selecting an online therapy platform, you will typically be guided through a registration and intake process. You and your spouse or partner may begin the process of online therapy by registering for an account through a platform. When you register, you can use your real name or choose a nickname.
After you complete your registration, you may be prompted to complete an intake questionnaire. This questionnaire is one of the tools that mental health professionals may use to tailor their service to each partner. It may ask you for the following information:
- If you're struggling with your mental health
- What you hope to discuss in therapy
- Whether you want a BIPOC therapist
- Whether you want an LGBTQ+ therapist
- Whether you and your partner have any cultural or spiritual preferences when it comes to therapy
- Any notes you have for your potential therapist before the therapy session begins
The first session
Your therapist can create an assessment unique to your relationship based on the answers in your questionnaire. In your initial couple intake session, the therapist might also ask you and your partner what you hope to get from therapy and start developing a treatment plan personalized to your needs. Your therapist may provide focused relationship support based on the needs identified in your treatment plan.
Working through mental health and relationship issues in couples counseling
In future live sessions, you and your partner may bring up concerns to your therapist and discuss them together. Addressing these concerns can significantly improve both your relationship and your overall mental health care. If underlying issues such as anxiety or depression are present, mental health treatment may be integrated into the therapy plan. In the virtual format, your therapist may send you links to resources, worksheets to print or download, and messages. These resources can be valuable for providing ongoing relationship support between sessions. You can also message your therapist throughout the week at any time, and they will respond as soon as they are able. Some platforms offer unlimited messaging, allowing you to reach out to your therapist whenever issues arise.
Online vs. in-person
Sessions with an in-office therapist often last around 45 minutes to an hour. In online therapy sessions, the length can vary depending on the platform and the specific needs of the couple. Virtual sessions can be more flexible, lasting around 30 minutes, sometimes more and sometimes less. Scheduling can also be flexible, with many therapists having options for late at night, early in the morning, or on the weekends. Clients can engage in therapy without the hassle of commuting to a therapist's office. For busy couples, evening and weekend appointments make it easier to find time for therapy. A typical couples therapy session can be adapted to fit each partner's specific needs and schedules. They can also attend sessions from two separate locations if they are in a long-distance relationship or have busy schedules. Couples counseling through Regain costs between $65 and $100 per week and $260-$400 monthly (based on factors such as your location, referral source, preferences, therapist availability, and any applicable discounts or promotions that might apply) to have sessions with a qualified therapist. In virtual therapy, you have the flexibility to create a therapy room at home where you and your partner feel most comfortable. A licensed therapist ensures that your therapy is provided by a professional with the necessary qualifications and expertise. All ReGain therapists are licensed and have at least three years of clinical experience.
Remote marriage therapy services often offer an individualized approach to treatment. If you find that one method is not working, your therapist can work with you to change their approach. You can also request a new therapist and leave feedback if you have a challenging or exceptional experience. In contrast, the process of starting in-person counseling or changing therapists in an in-person setting may be more complicated.
You can participate in multiple methods of online counseling, including:
- Premarital counseling or therapy
- Marital counseling or therapy
- Family therapy
- Individual therapy focuses on relationships
Communicate your relationship goals before beginning counseling sessions
Another benefit of virtual counseling is that you can participate in sessions with a provider from a location that feels comfortable to you, which may allow you to immediately practice skills with your partner after therapy instead of waiting hours after a session to consider your assignments or lessons learned. Virtual relationship counseling services can also eliminate the stress of distant commutes and travel expenses that may be associated with in-office therapeutic services.
Takeaway
Online couples counseling can offer various benefits to couples looking for support. If you're experiencing challenges with resentment, attention, affection, or other concerns, consider rebuilding your connection and gaining personalized skills with a licensed online therapist through a platform like BetterHelp for individuals or Regain for couples. With online counseling, you can connect with a therapist via live video sessions from the comfort of your home at a time that works for you. Take the first step toward getting support and contact BetterHelp to get started soon.
Is online counseling and therapy effective?
Online couples counseling has become increasingly popular, and research indicates its effectiveness in addressing various relationship challenges and common relationship issues. The results of these studies consistently demonstrate high satisfaction rates among participants in a couple and significant effectiveness when compared to in-person therapy.
Studies focusing specifically on online couples therapy have also shown promising results. These studies indicate improvements in relationship satisfaction, mental health, and all other outcome scores over time.
As with other forms of therapy, the effectiveness of online relationship counseling may hinge on the willingness and engagement of each partner. The benefits largely depend on the participants' commitment to the process and openness to change and growth within the relationship.
How much does online therapy cost?
The cost of online couples counseling can vary significantly and depends on several factors. Factors such as the cost, the duration of sessions, and the therapist’s qualifications will impact the total expense. The pricing structure for online therapy services can differ; some charge a monthly fee with an average cost of $260 and $400 per month, while others charge per session ranging from $65 to $100.
Here are some key factors that can influence the cost of therapy for a couple:
- Length of therapy or couples counseling session
- Frequency of couples therapy sessions
- Therapist's qualifications and experience
- Billing structure for couples therapy
- Health insurance coverage for couples therapy
- Additional services alongside couples therapy
Given these variables, the cost of online couples therapy can range widely. Prospective clients can research different services, compare prices, and inquire about the specific costs associated with the type of therapy they require. Doing so can help them find the best online service for their budget and needs. It may also be helpful to inquire about financial assistance for counseling services. Some platforms may allow you to use health savings accounts to pay for therapy, which can reduce the financial burden.
What are the benefits of online counseling and therapy?
Partners who address relationship challenges with the help of mental health services, like couples therapy, often experience significant improvements in their emotional well-being. They can also reduce stress and heart-related risks that contribute to physical health issues. Mental health concerns like anxiety and depression are also closely tied to relationship quality.
Through therapy, clients can learn healthier communication styles, understand each other’s perspectives, and develop conflict management strategies. Emotionally focused therapy (EFT), one of the most commonly used approaches in counseling, is particularly effective in helping clients improve their relationships and mental health.
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is another approach often used in relationship counseling, and it focuses on developing skills to improve communication and manage conflicts. Available online, a virtual therapy session with video chat and other options can provide the same level of support and guidance as an in-person session, making it a valuable option for those seeking help.
When you consider couples therapy as an investment rather than an expense, its value becomes clear. The benefits of having a satisfying and healthy relationship are immeasurable and can positively impact all areas of life. Furthermore, the potential costs of ongoing conflict or an unhealthy relationship far outweigh the financial investment in counseling.
What type of online therapist is best for couples?
The best type of therapist for couples depends significantly on the nature of their relationship, the specific issues they’re experiencing, and their goals for therapy. Many types of counseling professionals can offer support, each suited to different needs and situations:
- Licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT): Licensed marriage and family therapists are specifically trained to work with couples and families. They are particularly skilled in navigating complex family dynamics that may contribute to relationship issues. If your relationship is facing significant challenges and you and your partner seek to work through deep-seated issues, an LMFT may be the most beneficial choice.
- Relationship coach: For couples who might not be experiencing deep-seated issues but are looking to strengthen their relationship, improve communication, or resolve specific conflicts, a relationship coach may be sufficient. Engaging in relationship coaching can provide tools to enhance the partnership without addressing psychological disorders.
- Premarital counseling: In-office or online premarital counseling can be highly beneficial if you plan to get married. Professionals who offer premarital counseling for engaged partners typically specialize in helping them to prepare for marriage, addressing expectations, communication, financial planning, and other key aspects of married life.
- Marriage counseling: Specifically aimed at married partners, marriage therapy focuses on issues that may arise during a marriage. Marriage counselors can help couples navigate through challenges, learn effective communication skills, and make decisions about their future.
- Licensed clinical social workers (LCSW): In addition to connecting people to local support services, LCSWs can also offer talk therapy. It may be important to ask specific social workers if they work with couples in addition to individuals.
- Specialized therapists: For clients dealing with specific issues like substance use, mental health disorders, or trauma, seeking a therapist with expertise in these areas alongside the couple's therapy experience can help address underlying concerns.
Depending on what you hope to achieve through therapy, they may work with one or a combination of these professionals. You can start by assessing your goals for therapy and seeking a counselor who specializes in addressing those needs.
How do I start online relationship counseling & what do I need to ask?
Starting couples counseling can seem intimidating, especially if you've never been to therapy. However, taking the first step towards improving your relationship is crucial and may be easier than you think.
Here are some steps you can take to begin couples counseling:
- Talking to your partner: Before starting counseling or therapy, having an open and honest conversation with your partner about your feelings and concerns is essential.
- Researching therapists: There are many different types of counselors, and it can be crucial to find a therapy approach that is a good fit for you and your partner.
- Scheduling an initial session: Many therapists offer a consultation where you can discuss your current situation, ask any questions, and determine if they fit your needs for therapy
- Being open-minded: Therapy requires a willingness to work together and make changes. It's essential to approach therapy with an open mind, even if it sometimes feels uncomfortable or challenging.
- Communicating honestly: During therapy sessions, it's helpful to communicate openly and honestly about your feelings, concerns, and experiences.
As you begin relationship counseling, be patient with yourself and your partner. Improving a relationship takes time and effort, but the potential benefits are worth it. By approaching therapy with compassion, empathy, and a commitment to growth, you can create positive changes in your relationship that will have long-lasting effects on your life.
How does online counseling impact relationships?
Clients who have successfully gone through couples therapy can attest to its positive impact on their relationships. While there is no guarantee that couples therapy will work for every relationship, research suggests that it can improve satisfaction and communication.
Moreover, couples therapy's success depends significantly on both partners' willingness to engage in the process actively. When both parties are committed to working on the relationship and are open to change, relationship therapy can be a helpful tool for strengthening and enriching the partnership.
Should we go to counseling?
Depending on the relationship's status and each individual's goals, therapy can benefit many couples. Couples therapy may not be helpful for new relationships who are just getting to know each other. However, if partners have been together for a while and is facing recurring challenges or difficulties, couples therapy can be highly beneficial.
The decision to go to therapy should be made by both individuals in the relationship. When both partners are committed to making the relationship work and are open to actively participating in therapy, it can be a valuable asset in strengthening the bond and creating a healthier partnership.
Is therapy or counseling helpful at the beginning of a relationship?
Therapy can be helpful at any relationship stage, including the beginning. Seeking couples therapy early in a relationship can help prevent future conflicts and misunderstandings.
However, if the relationship is not serious or committed, seeking therapy may not be necessary.
Can online or in-person counseling help a broken relationship?
Broken relationships can result from several factors, such as communication problems, trust issues, or unresolved conflicts. In these cases, counseling can be useful in repairing and rebuilding the relationship. Generally, clients seek therapy to address concerns with the intention of working through them.
Can counseling fix all relationships?
However, it's important to note that counseling does not guarantee fixing all relationships. Some relationships may not be salvageable, and in those cases, therapy can help individuals navigate the separation process and move forward healthily. The success of therapy depends on the commitment and effort put forth by both partners.
Are there disadvantages to online counseling?
While counseling can be highly beneficial, there are some potential disadvantages to consider:
- Cost: Couples therapy can be expensive (usually between $85 and $135 per session), and not all therapists accept insurance.
- Time commitment: Therapy requires a significant time commitment, with most sessions lasting 50 minutes to an hour. It may also take several weeks or months to see progress.
- Emotional discomfort: Working through issues and discussing sensitive topics in therapy may be uncomfortable or emotionally taxing for some individuals.
You should weigh the potential disadvantages against the benefits of couples counseling and decide what is best for your relationship. It may also be helpful to discuss any concerns with your therapist beforehand. While typically, the benefits outweigh the drawbacks, it's essential to have a realistic understanding of what couples therapy entails and be prepared to invest the time and effort needed for it to be effective.
What are the different types of therapy approaches?
There are various therapy approaches to address mental health conditions and promote well-being. Here are some common types of therapy:
- Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)
- Psychodynamic therapy
- Interpersonal therapy (IPT)
- Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT)
- Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) therapy
- Acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT)
- Mindfulness-based cognitive therapy (MBCT)
- Family therapy
- Art therapy
- Group therapy
- Online therapy
- Play therapy (for children)
It's important to note that the most appropriate type of therapy depends on the individual's specific needs and circumstances. Consulting with a qualified mental health professional is essential for determining the best treatment plan.
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