Online Couples Counseling in 2025: 5 Top Therapy Services Reviewed
- August 29, 2024
- 1535
- Mental Health , News and Blog
Navigating the turbulent waters of a relationship can be both emotionally exhausting and overwhelming. Fortunately, online couples counseling offers a modern, accessible lifeline for those seeking support.
In 2025, Online-Therapy.com has emerged as a top platform for affordable therapy services, blending affordability, flexibility, and comprehensive care into one seamless platform. With features like interactive CBT tools, customizable session formats, and a user-friendly interface, couples can work through challenges without the time constraints and stress of in-person therapy.
If you’re ready to strengthen your bond and communicate more effectively, keep reading to explore the best online couples therapy solutions available today.
Best Online Couples Counseling Services 2025: Quick Overview
- Online-Therapy.com – Best online couples counseling platform overall
- Regain – Best value-for-money online couples counseling platform
- Talkspace – Online couples counseling with insurance coverage
- OurRitual – Most flexible online couples counseling sessions
- BetterHelp – Best for personal issues impacting relationships
Detailed Reviews of the Best Online Couples Counseling Sites
Here we take a closer look at our top picks, exploring their key features, benefits, drawbacks, pricing, and unbiased reviews from genuine users.
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 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
- Highly qualified therapists
- Flexible communication options
- Comprehensive CBT-based program
- Affordable and accessible from anywhere
- 20% discount for the first month
Cons
- No hold option for subscriptions
- Live sessions are limited by subscription plan
Plans and Pricing
- Couples Therapy Plan: $96/week for the first month, then $120/week after
- One live couples session, 45 min/week (video, voice, or text)
- Unlimited couples messaging
- 8-section CBT program with 25 worksheets
- Daily individual worksheet replies from Mon-Fri
- Yoga and meditation videos, journal, activity plan, and tests
Customer Experience
On Trustpilot, Laura praised her brilliant therapist and good resources, but found the subscription frustrating when her therapist was on holiday, resulting in a missed, paid session [1].
Anna also found her therapist professional, but faced frustrating technical issues with the platform, leading to a “no-show” cancellation. However, the CEO kindly extended her subscription, allowing her to make up lost appointments [2].
>>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 couple’s 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
- Convenient for busy schedules
- Access to licensed professionals
- Flexible therapy options
- User-friendly interface
- High privacy standards
Cons
- No free trial
- Limited insurance coverage
- Limited to text-based communication for most interactions
Plans and Pricing
- Couples Therapy Plan: $90/week
- Weekly live session (text, audio, or video)
- Message your therapist anytime, from anywhere
- Schedule weekly live sessions (30 to 45 min)
Customer Experience
Regain receives mixed reviews on Trustpilot. Jen K. praised their excellent customer service, highlighting their kindness and willingness to offer affordable options, though she wished her therapist would push her and her partner more [3].
Conversely, Paul Pelletier found his therapist “awesome” but heavily criticized the “horrible” payment system, citing unauthorized withdrawals and initial refund denials, though he eventually received a refund [4].
>>Join Regain for affordable couples counseling sessions
3. Talkspace – Online Couples Counseling Service with Insurance Coverage
With Talkspace, 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.
Plus, the reduced out-of-pocket costs through insurance can make Talkspace couples therapy a viable option for many.
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 are accepted to reduce out-of-pocket costs.
- Personalized Match: Get paired with a therapist who fits your needs.
Pros
- Convenient online access
- Flexible therapy options
- Insurance coverage available
- Continuous support through messaging
- High user satisfaction
Cons
- Some platform features are not user-friendly
- Users experienced technical issues with the video platform
Plans and Pricing
- Couples Therapy Plan: $109/week or $99/week if you pay every 3 months
- 30-min video sessions + messaging
- Text, video & audio messaging
- Guaranteed daily responses 5 days/week
Customer Experience
On the r/psychiatryquestion subreddit, a Redditor noted that while truly free options are rare, Talkspace offers valuable free trials or discounts, allowing couples to “test the waters” and explore therapy [5].
Conversely, an anonymous reviewer on Trustpilot found their therapist “absolutely amazing” but criticized Talkspace’s video chat for constant issues [6].
>>Explore Talkspace offerings here
4. 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
- Expert relationship guidance
- Personalized video sessions
- Science-backed methods
- Flexible, schedule-friendly support
- Strengthen relationship communication
Cons
- Lack of in-person interaction
- Limited insurance coverage
Plans and Pricing
- Couples Therapy Plan: $52/week
- Weekly 1:1 support with a relationship expert
- Dedicated support every step of the way
- Ideal for couples who want to grow together
- Exclusive video content, tools, and exercise
- 14-day money-back guarantee
Customer Experience
On Trustpilot, Laura J. praised the service’s convenience, highlighting how easy it was to schedule sessions anywhere without leaving her location [7].
However, Alison Dibbs found the customer service “incredibly poor,” stating her account was prematurely canceled without notice, losing booked sessions and incurring a fee, despite only notifying them of non-renewal [8].
>>Get Quality Online Couples Counseling at OurRitual
5. BetterHelp – Best for Personal Issues Impacting Relationships
BetterHelp, founded in 2013, aims to make mental healthcare accessible by removing traditional barriers. Today, it provides professional, affordable, and personalized online therapy through a network of over 30,000 qualified therapists.
Each therapist holds a relevant degree, has at least three years of experience, and is certified by their professional organization after meeting all requirements.
Key Features of BetterHelp
- Qualified Therapists: Connect with experienced professionals in a safe, convenient online setting.
- Affordable Care: Pay a low flat fee for both live sessions and messaging, making therapy accessible.
- Flexible & On-Demand: Communicate with your therapist as often as you need, at your own pace.
- Easy Switching: Join millions benefiting globally; switch therapists anytime if you’re not seeing progress.
Pros
- Offers discounts and financial assistance for eligible individuals
- Personalized match to a qualified and licensed therapist
- Accepts HSA/FSA cards
- Provides supplemental features like journaling and group webinars
- Flexible live session scheduling and (30 to 45 min)
Cons
- Therapist matching isn’t always perfect on the first try
- No direct medication management
Plans and Pricing
- Individual Therapy Plan: $70-$100/week
-
- A weekly live session (video, phone, or chat)
- Message your therapist anytime, from anywhere
- Subscription is billed and renewed every week unless canceled
Customer Experience
On Reddit’s r/psychiatryquestion subreddit, one user highly recommended BetterHelp, praising its convenience, ease of use, and ability to remove common barriers to therapy [9].
Another Redditor found the anytime access helpful during a difficult period, but stressed the need for users to be proactive, like switching therapists if needed. They concluded that despite its imperfections, the convenience of avoiding in-person sessions made it worthwhile for them [10].
>>Find the right therapist on BetterHelp
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” [11].
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 [12].
- 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 [13].
- Accessibility: Ideal for those in remote areas or with limited access to therapists.
- Flexibility: Evening and weekend sessions available.
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.
A good starting point is to search for “Virtual marriage counseling near me or couples therapy near me.” This way, you can find online platforms that offer detailed profiles of therapists, including their 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, whether through general counseling, a specific premarital approach, or to prevent divorce. 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 that enhances communication. Each partner listens actively, creating a safe space to express feelings freely. Using “I” phrases instead of “you” statements fosters more productive conversations [14].
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 [15]. The American Psychological Association states EFT helps about 75% of couples [16].
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 [17].
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 [18].
Gottman Method
The Gottman method emphasizes understanding and connection, even during conflict. It was developed by Dr. John and Julie Gottman to provide specific problem-solving skills that can enhance intimacy and friendship. This method uses past experiences to learn constructive ways to address issues, focusing on trust and respect [19].
Cost of Online Couples Therapy
Online couples therapy costs 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.
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 Counseling for Couples
Both coaching and therapy can be effectively delivered online. Online couples counseling offers convenience and flexibility, especially for partners who are too far apart to pair up in one room or couples with busy schedules. This is where online couples counseling long-distance relationships services can work.
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.
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 or advice 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.
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: Look for online couples counseling that takes insurance. This can slash therapy costs.
- User Reviews: Dive into reviews and testimonials from other couples. Their experiences can guide your decision.
FAQs About Online Couples Counseling
We answer the most popular questions that popped up while writing this guide on online couples counseling.
Is Virtual Couples Therapy Worth It?
Yes, virtual couples therapy offers convenience, flexibility, and often more affordable rates than in-person sessions. This alone makes it easier for couples to access professional guidance from anywhere. Many find it just as effective as traditional therapy for improving communication, resolving conflicts, and strengthening their relationship.
How Much Does Virtual Couples Therapy Cost?
Virtual couples therapy costs typically range from $40 to $275 per session or around $65-$90 per week for subscription services. Factors like the platform, therapist’s experience, and whether insurance is accepted will influence the final price.
What Is the Success Rate of Couples Counseling?
Studies suggest couples counseling has a good success rate, with many reporting 70% seeing positive improvements in their relationship. Factors like both partners’ commitment and seeking help early significantly boost these chances.
Is There Free Online Couples Therapy?
Is there couples counseling online free of charge? Completely free online couples therapy is very rare. While some platforms offer free trials, discounts, or initial consultations, ongoing, comprehensive therapy sessions typically come with a cost. Resources like support groups or educational content can be free, but direct, personalized therapy from a qualified professional usually requires payment.
Is Virtual Couples Therapy Covered by Insurance?
Yes, virtual couples therapy is often covered by insurance, but coverage varies significantly by your specific plan and provider. Always check directly with your insurance provider to understand your benefits.
Takeaways on 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.
Picking the right therapist from trusted services like Online-Therapy.com is the key to finding comprehensive support. In doing this, you set the path to navigate challenges and build a happier, healthier partnership all from the comfort of your home.
References
- “Laura Gave Online Therapy 4 Stars. Check out the Full Review.” Trustpilot, https://www.trustpilot.com/reviews/68179c3dbe7661a69b0ac25a. Accessed 12 July 2025.
- “Anna Gave Online Therapy 3 Stars. Check out the Full Review.” Trustpilot, https://www.trustpilot.com/reviews/677728f275e07be79b1280c3. Accessed 12 July 2025.
- “Jen K Gave Regain 4 Stars. Check out the Full Review.” Trustpilot, https://www.trustpilot.com/reviews/67eebbfc88204e1f8ca970fd. Accessed 12 July 2025.
- “Paul Pelletier Gave Regain 3 Stars. Check out the Full Review.” Trustpilot, https://www.trustpilot.com/reviews/67a372c5baeded2d0c963586. Accessed 12 July 2025.
- Tiffiny_wallace. “Exploring Free Couples Therapy Options.” Reddit.com, https://www.reddit.com/r/psychiatryquestion/comments/1irj2mn/comment/mwgxq30/. Accessed 13 July 2025.
- “Talkspace Member Gave Talkspace 3 Stars. Check out the Full Review.” Trustpilot, https://www.trustpilot.com/reviews/686f09f7192c4ff0b774f172. Accessed 12 July 2025.
- “Laura J Gave Ourritual 5 Stars. Check out the Full Review.” Trustpilot, https://www.trustpilot.com/reviews/6836fb3003a99bc1be08a70a. Accessed 12 July 2025.
- “Alison Dibbs Gave Ourritual 1 Star. Check out the Full Review.” Trustpilot, https://www.trustpilot.com/reviews/6845b5cdab0e0f2b7732f2fb. Accessed 12 July 2025.
- rshultis. “A Quick BetterHelp Review: My Experience Using It.” Reddit.com, https://www.reddit.com/r/psychiatryquestion/comments/1isb2yx/a_quick_betterhelp_review_my_experience_using_it/. Accessed 14 July 2025.
- rshultis. “A Quick BetterHelp Review: My Experience Using It.” Reddit.com, https://www.reddit.com/r/psychiatryquestion/comments/1isb2yx/comment/mhgl7qi/. Accessed 14 July 2025.
- Advanced Solutions International, Inc., About marriage and family therapists. Available at: https://www.aamft.org/About_AAMFT/About_Marriage_and_Family_Therapists.aspx.
- What is cognitive behavioral therapy? (no date) American Psychological Association. Available at: https://www.apa.org/ptsd-guideline/patients-and-families/cognitive-behavioral.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- Emotion-focused therapy, revised edition (no date). American Psychological Association. Available at: https://www.apa.org/pubs/books/4317434.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
