Navigating the turbulent waters of relationships can be daunting. That’s where online couples counseling steps in, offering a lifeline. 

In 2024, Online-Therapy.com emerged as a top choice, blending affordability with comprehensive support. This service stands out with flexible sessions, interactive CBT tools, and a user-friendly interface. Couples can now address their issues without the logistical hassle of traditional therapy. 

If you’re seeking a way to enhance your relationship, read on to discover the best online therapy solutions available today.

Quick Overview: Best Online Couples Counseling Services 2024 

• Online-Therapy.com – Best for online couples counseling overall
• Regain – Most affordable online couples counseling
• Calmerry – Best for individual relationship therapy
• Talkspace – Online couples counseling with insurance coverage
• OurRitual – Most flexible online couples counseling sessions

Detailed Reviews of the Best Online Couples Counseling

Several online services offer couples counseling. Here is an overview of some of the best online couples counseling and online therapy services.

1. Online-Therapy.com – Best for Online Couples Counseling Overall

Online-Therapy.com is the go-to platform for couples seeking mental wellness. Their service is rooted in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), known for its effectiveness in tackling mental health issues. 

Dr. Elizabeth Lombardo, a renowned expert, guides their comprehensive sections and resources. Their interactive format, including live sessions, worksheets, and yoga, ensures a well-rounded therapy experience. Conditional on your effort, their tools could help you build a healthier, happier relationship. 

Your personal therapist will be there to help you navigate through challenges, making therapy accessible, effective, and tailored to your needs.

Key Features of Online-Therapy.com

• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): Proven methods for mental health.
• Qualified Therapists: Personalized guidance from experts.
• Live Sessions: Weekly video, voice, or chat options.
• Interactive Sections: Video, audio, and texts to suit your learning style.
• Worksheets: Daily tips and tools from your therapist.
• Unlimited Messaging: Always stay in touch.
• Journal & Activity Plan: Track progress and plan activities.
• Yoga Videos: Boost your mental health with guided sessions.

Pros of Online-Therapy.com

• Highly qualified therapists
• Flexible communication options
• Comprehensive CBT-based program
• Affordable and accessible from anywhere
• Comprehensive CBT approach

Cons of Online-Therapy.com

• No hold option for subscriptions
• Live sessions limited by subscription plan

Plans and Pricing

• Basic Plan: Unlimited messaging with the therapist, access to worksheets, yoga, and meditation videos, journal, activity plan, and tests. Costs $40 per week.
• Standard Plan: Everything in the Basic plan, plus one live 45-minute weekly therapy session. Costs $64 per week.
• Premium Plan: Includes everything in the Basic plan, plus two live 45-minute weekly therapy sessions. Costs $88 per week.
• Couples Therapy Plan: Everything in the Basic plan, plus one live 45-minute couple therapy session per week. Costs $88 per week.

Customer Experience with Online-Therapy.com

For couples seeking free couples counseling online, platforms like Online-Therapy.com offer valuable resources. A Reddit reviewer on r/therapy who used a scoring system to review the service noted the following: 

• The platform’s hybrid of online courses and therapy sessions earned a B-. 
• Their courses, graded A/A-, excel in deep and personal focus, yielding real results since 2009, provided users diligently complete the often tedious homework.
• Therapy sessions lag, scoring B-/C+, due to booking delays that can stretch up to four weeks, frustrating users, especially when switching therapists. The short 30-minute sessions, particularly text chats, further limit their effectiveness. 
• Billing practices, rated C-, also disappointed, feeling misleading with their monthly upfront cost despite weekly ads.

 

Despite its flaws, the user said Online-Therapy.com holds potential, especially for therapy newcomers or self-help seekers, but needs improvements in scheduling, transparency, and billing. For those exploring free online couples counseling options, it remains a viable choice.

>>Get Quality Online Couples Counseling at Online-Therapy.com

2. Regain – Most Affordable Online Couples Counseling

Regain is one of the best online counseling services dedicated to couples counseling. It’s also the couples version of BetterHelp, one of the most popular online therapy sites in the world. 

Tailored for modern couples, Regain offers flexible therapy sessions via desktop or mobile. The platform connects users with credentialed therapists who specialize in relationship issues. Couples can join sessions from separate locations, ensuring accessibility regardless of schedules or geography. 

Regain’s unique approach enables therapy through text, video, or phone, providing versatile communication options. This makes them a strong contender in the online couples counseling space, offering tailored, flexible, and professional support. 

Whether tackling minor disagreements or deeper relationship hurdles, Regain might offer a supportive, therapeutic environment.

Key Features of Regain

• Credentialed Therapists: Every therapist is registered and experienced.
• Flexible Access: Use it on a computer or smartphone.
• Joint or Individual Therapy: Start therapy alone or with a partner.
• User-Friendly Interface: Simple, intuitive platform for ease of use.
• Variety of sessions: Text, video, and phone options
• Affordable rates: $60-$90 per week

Pros of Regain

• Convenient for busy schedules
• Access to licensed professionals
• Flexible therapy options
• User-friendly interface
• High privacy standards

Cons of Regain

• No free trial
• Limited insurance coverage
• Limited to text-based communication for most interactions

Plans and Pricing

Regain’s subscription, which includes unlimited messaging and 30-minute live sessions, ranges from $60 to $90 per week. This depends on factors like location, personal preferences, and counselor availability. 

 

Billing occurs every four weeks via PayPal or credit card, and it starts once you’re matched with a counselor. While this might seem high, it’s a fraction of the $100 to $200 per session typical for in-person therapy. 

 

Plus, switching counselors is free, and you can cancel anytime. This makes it as close to free as you can get if you’re looking for free couples counseling online alternatives.

Customer Experience with Regain

One couple on r/DeadBedrooms decided to try Regain’s free online couples counseling. They appreciated the platform’s chat room feature, where their counselor responded within 24 hours. 

 

Although early sessions involved sharing medication lists and introductions, they found the transparency enlightening. Communication improved, avoiding typical arguments, and both could see each other’s points clearly.

 

Another couple on r/couplestherapy experienced a rough start with a Regain therapist who used unprofessional language, causing discomfort. Despite this, they decided to switch therapists, believing in Regain’s potential value. They hoped the new therapist would offer the supportive, non-judgmental help they needed to strengthen their relationship.

>>Get Quality Online Couples Counseling at Regain

3. Calmerry – Best for Individual Relationship Therapy 

When seeking free online couples counseling, consider paid ones like Calmerry. Although they don’t offer free couples counseling online, their personalized services could be more beneficial.

Calmerry understands that some relationship problems should be addressed individually first, and after a thorough check, we think they’re the best at this service. 

It’s not that they promote hearing one side of the story; more like they seek clients who want to share their feelings without fear of being judged by their partner as they try to see if they can address it on their own.

Their vast network of over 1,000 licensed counselors specializes in everything from anxiety and stress to depression and OCD, ensuring you find the support you need.

Remember, couples counseling online free options are rare, but investing in the right service can lead to better outcomes.

Key Features of Calmerry

• 1-Hour Matching: Connect with a relationship expert in just 60 minutes.
• Expert Content Library: Access articles and resources on common relationship pitfalls.
• Flexible Therapy Options: Choose between text or video sessions based on your comfort.
• Digital Aids: Utilize reflective exercises and tips to enhance relational skills.

Pros of Calmerry

• Fast counselor matching
• Extensive resource library
• Flexible session formats

Cons of Calmerry

• No free trial
• Insurance not accepted

Plans and Pricing

• Messaging only: Perfect for text lovers. Unlimited messaging with responses 5 days/week. You get extras like a mood tracker, guided journaling, and a personalized therapy plan. $198/month with a welcome discount.
• Messaging + 1 live video: Need a bit more? This plan adds a 30-minute live session to the messaging package. Ideal for ongoing text support plus a monthly check-in. $247/month with a discount.
• Messaging + 2 live videos: Double the live sessions. Two 30-minute sessions monthly, along with unlimited messaging. Best for those wanting more frequent video interactions. $264/month with a discount.
• Messaging + 4 live videos: Comprehensive care. Four live sessions per month plus messaging. Perfect for those seeking a mix of communication modes. $295/month with a discount.
• 4 live videos: For those preferring only video therapy. Four 30-minute sessions, no messaging. Traditional therapy-feel at home. $218/month with a discount.
• 1-time live video: Try before you commit. One 60-minute session to see if the online format fits. $120 with a discount.

Each package includes free features like mood tracking, guided journaling, weekly reports, a self-help library, and the option to switch counselors.

Customer Experience with Calmerry

A user on r/DecidingToBeBetter subreddit enjoyed three fantastic months with Calmerry, benefiting from almost daily, insightful sessions. Suddenly, their therapist was no longer with the platform. Despite the unexpected change and lack of explanation, Calmerry quickly offered a new therapist. They chose not to continue but appreciated the quality of care they received during their time.

>>Get Quality Online Couples Counseling at Calmerry

4. Talkspace – Online Couples Counseling Service with Insurance Coverage

With Talkspace couples therapy, you can start therapy from the comfort of your home and get support whenever you need it. The platform is known for its flexibility, offering therapy through live video sessions and unlimited messaging.

When looking for free online couples counseling, Talkspace might not offer free couples counseling online, but its insurance coverage can make it more affordable. Covered members only need to give an average copay of $30. Just make sure to check coverage with providers like Cigna, Optum, and GatorCare.

Though not a couples counseling online free service, the reduced out-of-pocket costs through insurance can make Talkspace couples therapy a viable option for many couples.

Key Features of Talkspace

• Licensed Therapists: Access to professional and experienced therapists.
• Flexible Scheduling: Book sessions at times that work for you.
• Multiple Communication Channels: Options for video, audio, and text sessions.
• Insurance Coverage: Many plans accepted to reduce out-of-pocket costs.
• Personalized Match: Get paired with a therapist who fits your needs.

Pros of Using Talkspace

• Convenient online access
• Flexible therapy options
• Insurance coverage available
• Continuous support through messaging
• High user satisfaction

Cons of Using Talkspace

• Some platform features are not user-friendly
• Users experienced technical issues with the video platform

Plans and Pricing

• For couples therapy, the basic plan starts at $436 per month. This includes live sessions and unlimited messaging with your therapist. If you need more live sessions, you can add them at $65 each.
• You only need one subscription per couple. This means one partner subscribes, and both get access. It’s cost-effective and straightforward. The service is flexible, allowing you and your partner to join live sessions from different devices, even if you’re in separate states.
• Talkspace also offers out-of-network reimbursement options, and it’s worth checking if your insurance covers any costs. This makes it easier to manage expenses while getting quality therapy. 

 

With Talkspace, you get a win-win scenario: professional therapy tailored to your schedule without breaking the bank.

Customer Experience with Talkspace

After much deliberation with his wife, who benefited greatly from regular therapy, a Redditor on r/therapy decided to try Talkspace. 

 

With a full-time job and tight schedule, traditional therapy wasn’t feasible. He downloaded the app, set up with a therapist, and began candidly sharing his feelings. New to marriage and plagued by insecurities, he wasn’t expecting much. Yet, after just one week of daily messaging and one video session, his wife noticed a significant positive change in him. 

 

She saw his newfound happiness and appreciated the app’s impact. The surprising efficacy of Talkspace left him quite pleased, exceeding his initial expectations.

>>Get Quality Online Couples Counseling at Talkspace

5. OurRitual – Most Flexible Online Couples Counseling Sessions

Backed by robust scientific research and practical experience, OurRitual’s model is rooted in Couple Relationship Education (CRE). Their experts reveal that brief sessions focusing on clear goals can be just as impactful as traditional, longer sessions. This flexibility ensures that even busy couples can benefit from professional relationship support.

Driven by renowned experts like Dr. Orna Guralnik, who has normalized relationship struggles through her work, and Dr. Susan Heitler, a pioneer in online marital counseling, OurRitual stands at the forefront of accessible, effective relationship support.

Key Features of OurRitual

OurRitual is not just about online relationship therapy services; it offers an engaging user experience with several unique features:

• Customized Therapy Programs: Tailored to individual relationship needs.
• Expert Therapists: Access to highly qualified professionals.
• Convenient Sessions: Flexible scheduling and session lengths.
• Science-Backed Methods: Techniques grounded in the latest relationship research.
• Interactive Tools: In-app exercises and videos to reinforce therapy sessions.

Pros of OurRitual

• Expert relationship guidance
• Personalized video sessions
• Science-backed methods
• Flexible, schedule-friendly support
• Strengthen relationship communication

Cons of OurRitual

• Lack of in-person interaction
• Limited insurance coverage

Plans and Pricing

• With my partner 3 Months Plan: Starting at $260 per month, you get weekly 1:1 expert sessions. This plan is perfect for couples aiming to grow together. Here’s what you get:
  • 4 video sessions per person monthly, divided between solo and couple sessions
  • Personalized learning path
  • Science-backed tools and exercises
  • Exclusive video content
• With my partner 6 Months Plan: Priced at $208 per month with a 14-day money-back guarantee. Cancel risk-free if not satisfied after the first session.
• Flying solo 3 Months Plan: Ideal for structured support, starting at $100 per month for Bi-weekly sessions and $160 per month for Weekly. You get:
  • 1:1 video sessions with a relationship expert
  • Personalized learning path
  • Science-backed tools and exercises
  • Exclusive video content
• Flying solo 6 Months Plan: At $80 per month for Bi-weekly or $128 per month for Weekly, it offers the best value with the same features as the Flying solo 3 Months Plan.
• All Flying solo plans include a 14-day money-back guarantee, allowing you to cancel risk-free if you’re not satisfied after the first session.

Customer Experience with OurRitual

We could not find bonafide customer reviews on OurRitual that aren’t on their website. 

 

However, we did stumble upon many articles that said OurRitual is a flexible and convenient way to access professional relationship guidance, fitting sessions into their schedules with ease. The personalized content—tailored videos, guided reflections, and activities—enhanced their experience, ensuring relevance and effectiveness. 

>>Get Quality Online Couples Counseling at OurRitual

What Is Online Couples Counseling?

Online couples counseling is a form of therapy that helps couples address relationship issues over the Internet. Using video sessions, phone calls, and messaging, couples can navigate complex relationship challenges.

 

The American Association of Marriage and Family Therapy states, “After receiving treatment, almost 90% of clients report an improvement in their emotional health, and nearly two-thirds report an improvement in their overall physical health” [1].

 

Online couples counseling therapy is ideal for those with busy schedules or living in remote areas. Licensed professionals trained in relationship therapy conduct these virtual counseling sessions.

How Online Marriage Counseling Works

Online marriage counseling mirrors traditional therapy but with the convenience of being online. Start with an assessment to understand your issues, followed by scheduled sessions. The therapist facilitates discussions, helping you explore issues, understand perspectives, and develop strategies to resolve problems. 

 

Session frequency depends on your needs and issue severity.

Benefits of Online Couples Therapy 

Choosing online couples counseling offers several benefits [2]. 

• Convenience: Schedule sessions that fit your lifestyle without the need for travel.
• Privacy: Conducted in the comfort of your home, ensuring confidentiality.
• Affordability: Often cheaper than traditional therapy, making it more accessible [3].
• Accessibility: Ideal for those in remote areas or with limited access to therapists.
• Flexibility: Evening and weekend sessions available.

>>Get Quality Online Couples Counseling at Online-Therapy.com

Finding the Right Couples Therapist Online

Finding the right therapist is crucial. Look for someone you both trust and feel comfortable with, who has experience with relationship issues. Research couples online counseling platforms to see detailed profiles of therapists, including qualifications and reviews. Referrals from friends, family, or other professionals can also help. 

Remember, therapy is personal; what works for one couple may not work for another.

Couple Therapy Techniques

Couples therapy is a valuable resource for partners who are seeking to improve their relationship. However, not all therapy approaches are the same. Various types of couples therapy techniques can be tailored to address specific issues and needs. 

Reflective Listening

Reflective listening is a powerful technique enhancing communication. Each partner listens actively, creating a safe space to express feelings freely. Using “I” phrases instead of “you” statements fosters more productive conversations [4].

Emotion-Focused Therapy (EFT)

Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) identifies and addresses destructive patterns hindering emotional bonding. By focusing on these patterns, couples can heal and develop healthier ways to connect [5].

 

The American Psychological Association states EFT helps about 75% of couples [6].

Narrative Therapy

Narrative therapy encourages partners to describe relationship problems in story form. This technique helps couples understand their experiences better and rewrite their stories. It’s beneficial when both partners feel responsible for the relationship’s decline and need to reframe their perspectives [7].

Solution-Focused Therapy

Solution-focused therapy is goal-oriented, perfect for couples wanting to address specific issues. It helps create practical solutions, focusing on positive change and identifying relationship strengths. Small steps toward change can lead to significant improvements [8].

Gottman Method

The Gottman method emphasizes understanding and connection, even during conflict. Developed by Drs. John and Julie Gottman, it provides specific problem-solving skills to enhance intimacy and friendship. This method uses past experiences to learn constructive ways to address issues, focusing on trust and respect [9].

>>Get Quality Online Couples Counseling at Online-Therapy.com

Cost of Online Couples Therapy

Online couples therapy prices vary. Why? It depends on the platform and services. Some charge per session. Others have subscription plans. These plans may include a set number of sessions each month.

Role of Individual Therapy for Relationship Issues

Individual therapy is essential for relationship problems, even with online couples therapy. It offers a safe space to delve into personal thoughts and feelings. This type of counseling helps you learn life skills like setting boundaries, maintaining open communication, and managing conflict. These skills are invaluable, even if your partner skips counseling.

 

You’ll understand your role in relationship dynamics and how your actions impact your partner. It provides tools to manage emotions and improve communication.

 

Sometimes, individual therapy precedes couples therapy, especially if personal issues affect the relationship, making it a helpful step before engaging in online couples therapy.

Online Couples Therapy vs Relationship Coaching

While online couples therapy and relationship coaching may seem similar, they are quite different. 

What Is Couples Therapy?

Couples therapy delves into the psychological roots of relationship issues. It aims to improve communication and resolve conflicts through various therapeutic methods. Therapists often hold sessions in a structured setting, either in-person or via online platforms, providing a deep dive into underlying problems.

What Is Relationship Coaching?

Relationship coaching, on the other hand, focuses on setting and achieving specific relationship goals. Coaches provide actionable plans to improve relationship skills. They help couples identify weaknesses and develop strategies to address them. 

Unlike therapy, coaching is more solution-oriented and less about delving into psychological issues. This method is often quicker and more affordable.

Key Differences

• Focus: Coaching targets immediate goals; therapy addresses deeper issues.
• Method: Coaching uses goal-setting and practical solutions; therapy uses psychological techniques.
• Duration: Coaching is often shorter-term; therapy can be long-term.
• Cost: Coaching is usually cheaper; therapy can be more expensive and might not be covered by insurance.

Advantages of Online Options

Both coaching and therapy can be effectively delivered online. Online couples counseling offers convenience and flexibility, especially for partners who are too far to pair up in one room or couples with busy schedules. This is where online couples counseling long distance relationships services can work. 

In short, online counseling for couples can be as effective as in-person sessions. 

We also have to mention platforms that offer online Christian couples counseling and affordable online couples counseling make these services accessible to a wider audience.

Choosing the Right Service

Choosing between relationship coaching and online couples therapy depends on your specific needs. If you seek to resolve deep-seated issues, therapy is the way to go. If you need to work on specific relationship goals, coaching might be more appropriate. 

If you’re after convenience, online couples counseling that takes insurance or free online therapy options can be explored.

How to Choose an Online Couples Therapy Platform

Navigating the sea of online therapy options can feel overwhelming. Here’s a checklist to make your choice easier:

• Therapist Licensing: Confirm the platform hires only licensed therapists skilled in online couples therapy. Credentials matter.
• Cost Comparison: Examine pricing plans. Some platforms offer flat rates; others bill per session. Budget wisely.
• Communication Modes: Verify if the platform supports your preferred communication—be it video, phone, or text. Flexibility is key.
• Insurance Acceptance: Check if the platform takes insurance. This can slash therapy costs.
• User Reviews: Dive into reviews and testimonials from other couples. Their experiences can guide your decision.

>>Get Quality Online Couples Counseling at Online-Therapy.com

FAQs About Online Couples Counseling

We answer the most popular questions that popped up in writing this guide on online couples counseling.

How Effective Is Online Couples Counseling?

Online couples counseling can be as effective as traditional in-person therapy. However, the success of therapy largely depends on the couple’s commitment to the process and the therapist’s competence.

What Is the Hourly Cost of Online Couples Counseling in the United States?

The cost varies widely. Online counseling for couples is typically more affordable, starting around $65 per session. In contrast, in-person sessions can range from $100 to $300 per hour. Prices depend on the therapist’s qualifications and location.

Can Online Couples Therapy Help With Serious Issues Like Infidelity?

Yes, online couples counseling can help couples deal with serious issues like infidelity. However, the success of the therapy will depend on the couple’s willingness to work through their issues and the therapist’s competence.

What Kind of Therapist Is Best for Couples?

Choosing the right therapist for couples is crucial. A licensed therapist with an MSW or Master’s in Social Work often provides the best balance of expertise and affordability. They tend to be more ideal to psychologists for couples work. Online couples counseling free options are also effective, particularly when accessibility is a concern.

Is There a Difference Between Couples Therapy and Couples Counseling?

Yes, there is a difference. Couples counseling focuses on short-term solutions for present issues. In contrast, couples therapy delves deeper into past experiences to resolve underlying problems. Both are essential, but couples counseling online can offer immediate support.

What Is the Most Effective Form of Couples Therapy?

Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) is highly effective, especially for online couples counseling. It focuses on creating secure attachment bonds between partners. Gottman Method and Relationship Life Therapy (RLT) are also popular for their structured approaches.

Takeaway on the Online Couples Counseling

Online couples counseling offers a hassle-free, effective way to tackle relationship issues. It lets couples work through problems in a secure, supportive space, accessible from anywhere.

 

Leading services include Online-Therapy.com, OurRitual, Calmerry, Regain, and Talkspace. Picking the right therapist and platform is key for success.

 

With the right support, couples can overcome obstacles and strive for a healthier, happier relationship. The road to recovery is smoother with expert guidance and the right tools at hand.

References:

1. Advanced Solutions International, Inc., About marriage and family therapists. Available at: https://www.aamft.org/About_AAMFT/About_Marriage_and_Family_Therapists.aspx.
2. What is cognitive behavioral therapy? (no date) American Psychological Association. Available at: https://www.apa.org/ptsd-guideline/patients-and-families/cognitive-behavioral.
3. Kysely A, Bishop B, Kane RT, McDevitt M, De Palma M, Rooney R. Couples Therapy Delivered Through Videoconferencing: Effects on Relationship Outcomes, Mental Health and the Therapeutic Alliance. Front Psychol. 2022 Feb 4;12:773030. doi: 10.3389/fpsyg.2021.773030. PMID: 35185681; PMCID: PMC8855148.
4. Braillon A, Taiebi F. Practicing “Reflective listening” is a mandatory prerequisite for empathy. Patient Educ Couns. 2020 Sep;103(9):1866-1867. doi: 10.1016/j.pec.2020.03.024. Epub 2020 Apr 4. PMID: 32487470.
5. Shahar B. New Developments in Emotion-Focused Therapy for Social Anxiety Disorder. J Clin Med. 2020 Sep 10;9(9):2918. doi: 10.3390/jcm9092918. PMID: 32927706; PMCID: PMC7565910.
6. Emotion-focused therapy, revised edition edition (no date) American Psychological Association. Available at: https://www.apa.org/pubs/books/4317434.
7. Khodayarifard M, Sohrabpour G. Effectiveness of Narrative Therapy in Groups on Psychological Well-being and Distress of Iranian Women with Addicted Husbands. Addict Health. 2018 Jan;10(1):1-10. doi: 10.22122/ahj.v10i1.550. PMID: 30627379; PMCID: PMC6312564.
8. Jerome L, McNamee P, Abdel-Halim N, Elliot K, Woods J. Solution-focused approaches in adult mental health research: A conceptual literature review and narrative synthesis. Front Psychiatry. 2023 Mar 30;14:1068006. doi: 10.3389/fpsyt.2023.1068006. PMID: 37065885; PMCID: PMC10098109.
9. Davoodvandi M, Navabi Nejad S, Farzad V. Examining the Effectiveness of Gottman Couple Therapy on Improving Marital Adjustment and Couples’ Intimacy. Iran J Psychiatry. 2018 Apr;13(2):135-141. PMID: 29997659; PMCID: PMC6037577.