How Much Does Couples Counseling in Texas Cost in 2024?

Takeaway: Wondering how much couples counseling costs in Texas in 2024? Learn about the average rates, factors that can impact the cost, and tips for finding affordable options in this comprehensive guide. Start investing in your relationship today.

Couples therapy can be quite the hot topic. It often feels as though you are unlocking the secrets to a stronger relationship. There are a lot of things to consider, such as the cost of couples therapy, location, the therapist's qualifications, expertise and reputation, and the length of sessions. On average, couples therapy or marriage counseling (terms often used interchangeably here) can range from $100-$200 per session.

In some cases, in-person marriage counseling may incur a higher cost compared to online therapy. This takes into consideration the additional expenses like the therapist's office, utilities, and commuting. Therapy can last anywhere from a few weeks to several months. The complexity of the relationship issues and consistency will determine how many sessions are needed.

During your time in therapy, you'll gather various valuable resources for your relationship, including communication, conflict resolution skills, enhanced emotional intimacy, and a better understanding of each other's needs. Although some insurances provide coverage for marriage counseling, this will depend on your policy coverage and on the marriage therapist.

Let's take a look at all things couples counseling in Texas, where you'll gain insights into average rates and factors influencing the costs, as well as valuable tips for locating affordable options to start investing in your relationship today. If you're wondering, "how much does couples therapy cost?" then read on.

How much does couples counseling cost in texas?

On average, couples counseling sessions in Texas can range from $100 to $250 per session. There are several factors that contribute to this fee range. Therefore, these figures are an approximation and can vary significantly.

To get a more accurate picture of how much couples counseling costs in your city, I’ve compiled averages of 25 local couples therapists in several locations around Texas. Let’s take a look.

City in Texas	Average Cost of a Couples Therapy Session
Arlington	$138
Austin	$172
Corpus Christi	$128
Dallas	$170
El Paso	$137
Fort Worth	$144
Houston	$156
Lubbock	$132
Plano	$149
San Antonio	$144

Remember, these are averages, so the rates of your particular couples therapist may be different than the values reflected here.

The cost of a couples counseling sessions will take into consideration a variety of things, including the location of the therapist, their qualifications, what type of provider they are, the setting in which it is occurring, and how long a session is. Other things to keep in mind are whether or not your health insurance is accepted and what the therapist's demand and availability is.

I'll provide more details about these different factors and what to keep in mind when thinking about how they will influence the cost of a session.

Factors that influence the price of marriage counseling

Although there are a whole bunch of wonderful therapists out there, not all therapists are the same. There are many factors that contribute to making a therapist unique from someone else. Therefore, there will be many factors that contribute to the price of a marriage counseling session. Here is a breakdown of some of these factors.

Qualifications and Experience

It's important to keep in mind that specializations, such as couples counseling, require additional training post-graduation. You may find that some therapists may have specialized training or certification in a certain therapy modality or may have very extensive experience over many years in the area of couples counseling. This is positive for the benefit of your couples counseling journey. At the same time, their expertise and reputation can affect the cost.

Type of Provider

Although we may all refer to ourselves as "therapists" or "counselors", you may find that there are differences in the types of licenses or providers. For example, therapy sessions with licensed psychologists or psychiatrists may be more expensive due to their higher education (psychologists having doctoral degrees and psychiatrists having medical degrees). Sessions with licensed marriage and family therapists (LMFTs), licensed professional counselors (LPCs), or social workers (LCSWs) may have somewhat lower rates. However, it can vary.

Insurance Coverage

If couples counseling is covered by insurance, the cost may vary depending on the individual's insurance plan. Insurance companies generally cover couples counseling. However, things such as deductibles, mental health coverage, and copayments will vary from one plan to the other. Therefore, insurance coverage can influence the out-of-pocket expenses for therapy sessions.

It's also worth noting that some couples therapists may not accept insurance for couples counseling for a variety of reasons. Talk to a licensed professional about this to gain more insight.

Setting

Therapy sessions can take place in many settings, such as private practices, counseling centers, community clinics, or hospitals. All settings have the capacity to provide great service. However, you will notice a difference in fees from one to the other. A private practice tends to have higher fees (they are generally small businesses) compared to community clinics, counseling centers, and nonprofits that may offer sliding scale options (they may receive outside funding, which allows for these options to be available to clients in need).

Location

Therapy costs can vary depending on the location, such as a major city versus small towns and rural areas. Fees will also vary from one state to the other. This is because the cost of living and demand is different in many areas. Generally, therapy in urban areas tends to be more expensive due to higher living costs and demand.

Session Duration

The duration of a therapy session can impact the cost. The standard length of a session is typically 50 minutes to an hour. However, many therapists will offer longer sessions, such as 75 or 90 minute sessions. As the length of session increases, so will the cost.

Demand and Availability

Therapists who are in high demand or have limited availability may charge higher fees. They may become quite popular for specializing in certain approaches or very specific relationship struggles. In many cases, this leads to a higher price due to their expertise and demand.

Couples counseling 101: Everything you need to know

So often, I hear from couples about their longing for a deeper connection and harmony in their relationship. With the right tools, marriage counseling can help you and your partner learn about hidden patterns in your relationship. You can gain insights into the dynamics that strengthen the relationship and the dynamics that weaken it. Knowing how to navigate challenges, reignite passion, and foster a lifelong bond can be accomplished through the invaluable tools that marriage counseling has to offer your relationship.

I'll provide you with information about what marriage counseling is. I'll explore the various types of marriage counseling available and look at the professionals qualified to provide it. I'll also tell you more about who can benefit from it, highlighting the advantages it offers, as well as when marriage counseling may not be suitable for your relationship.

What is couples therapy?

Over the last few years, I have heard some interesting takes on what couples counseling is. There is a broad spectrum of opinions about it. What that tells me is that, unfortunately, there's still a lack of knowledge around the subject of mental health altogether, and I'm here to help bring some of that knowledge!

To put it simply, couples counseling, or marriage counseling, is a form of psychotherapy that focuses on improving the relationship dynamics between romantic partners and married couples. The marriage counselor does this by addressing how conflict occurs, enhancing communication, and promoting overall relationship satisfaction.

Sessions will typically focus on exploring thoughts, feelings, and behaviors within a safe and non-judgmental space. It will also focus on identifying and understanding patterns of interaction, fostering empathy and understanding, and developing effective problem-solving strategies.

There is such a wide range of issues that marriage counseling can resolve. Some of these issues include communication problems, frequent conflicts or arguments, lack of emotional intimacy, infidelity or trust issues, sexual dissatisfaction, differences in parenting styles, and financial disagreements. Other common concerns to keep in mind are those that are less obvious. Some examples of this are adjusting to life transitions and dealing with external stressors (work, family).

What are the different types of relationship counseling?

In the realm of couples counseling, there are many modalities that can be used. Which modalities are used is typically dependent on your therapist's theoretical orientation. This means it can look quite different from one couples therapist to the next. Taking the time to explore different modalities can help couples find the one that resonates most with their unique needs and preferences. Here are some common marriage counseling modalities outlined to help shed light on the distinct techniques and methodologies employed in each.

emotionally focused therapy (EFT)

EFT is a widely recognized and evidence-based approach to couples counseling. It holds a strong foundation in attachment theory by creating and strengthening secure emotional bonds between partners. EFT supports couples in identifying and addressing negative interaction patterns that contribute to distress, while learning to express the underlying emotions and needs. EFT aims to create a safe and supportive environment where couples can rebuild trust, enhance intimacy, and develop a stronger emotional connection.

Cognitive-Behavioral Couples Therapy (CBCT)

CBCT combines cognitive-behavioral techniques with couples therapy. It focuses on identifying and modifying negative thinking and behavior patterns that contribute to relationship distress. Couples will begin to understand how their thoughts and beliefs influence their emotions and actions within the relationship. CBCT aims to improve communication, problem-solving skills, and overall relationship satisfaction.

gottman method

The Gottman Method is an extensively researched approach that emphasizes the importance of building a strong foundation of friendship, enhancing communication, and effectively managing conflicts within a relationship. This modality deeply focuses on supporting couples in the development of skills for deepening their emotional connection, improving intimacy, and fostering mutual respect. One of the best things about this method is that it offers strategies and tools that are very practical for couples to create lasting, healthy, and fulfilling relationships.

Imago Relationship Therapy

Imago therapy aims to help couples understand and heal childhood wounds that may be impacting their current relationship. It focuses on helping couples understand how their early life experiences shape their current relationship patterns and address unresolved emotional wounds. A standout part of Imago therapy is learning to have compassionate dialogue and active listening, which teaches partners to empathize with each other's needs and experiences.

Who can provide marriage counseling?

As you do your research on marriage counseling, you may notice a few different acronyms next to the name of a licensed therapist. You might be wondering, "What do all those letters mean?" Don't worry, you're not alone in your state of confusion! Since there are various types of mental health professionals who can provide marriage counseling, it's normal to hear that someone may feel a bit confused. So, here is a list of licensed professionals who can provide marriage counseling services in Texas.

Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC)

LPCs hold a master's degree in counseling and are trained to offer therapy to individuals, couples, and families. Their primary focus is on counseling and psychotherapy. In addition, they may have additional specialization, training, or certification in a couples therapy modality.

Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT)

LMFTs hold a master's degree and specialize in providing therapy for couples and families. Their education provides them with extensive training in systemic approaches for marriage and family therapy that focus on relationships and family dynamics.

Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW)

LCSWs hold a master's degree and are trained in providing therapy and support to individuals, couples, and families. Because their education is in social work, they often have a focus on social and environmental factors that impact mental health and are able to provide case management, advocacy, and community resource referrals.

Psychologist (Ph.D. or Psy.D.)

Psychologists hold a doctoral degree in psychology and are either a Ph.D.- Doctor of Philosophy or Psy.D.- Doctor of Psychology. They are trained in various therapeutic modalities. Some psychologists may specialize in couples therapy or have expertise in relationship dynamics.

Who couples therapy is for

Too often, I hear someone tell me that their relationship problems aren't "that serious" or that they aren't "serious enough" for couples counseling. To that I say, "Unlikely!" Although most relationships can benefit from couples counseling in some way, regardless of the problem, here are some common issues people reach out for help with their relationship.

Communication

Communication is one of the most foundational parts to a healthy relationship. This issue tends to be the most common couple issue out there. Couples who struggle with effective communication often find it difficult to express their needs, or understand each other's perspectives. Learning about and understanding healthy communication skills can go a very long way in your relationship.

conflict resolution

As an extension to issues with communication, couples may experience frequent arguments, unresolved conflicts, or a pattern of negative interactions. Marriage counseling can provide a safe and structured environment for couples to address and resolve their conflicts in a constructive and respectful manner. Often, it can take the pressure away from addressing your conflicts alone and without guidance on how to do better.

Infidelity and trust issues

When one or both partners have experienced infidelity, it can severely damage trust and intimacy in the relationship. This often results in a growth in conflict or overwhelming amounts of communication that cause someone to feel flooded. Marriage counseling can help navigate the complex emotions, rebuild trust, and gently explore the underlying issues that contributed to the infidelity.

Sexual intimacy concerns

Sexual intimacy is a highly intertwined area in relationships. It can be challenged by internal and external stress, health conditions, and emotional connection. A marriage therapist can address these concerns, better communication around your sex life, and help couples enhance their sexual and emotional connection over time.

Life transitions

As adults, we go through various life transitions. Whether it be marriage, becoming parents, career changes, or retirement, life transitions can put strain on a relationship and can sometimes catch us by surprise. Marriage counseling can assist couples in adjusting to these transitions, managing the associated stress, and maintaining a strong bond.

Relationship enrichment

Even couples with a relatively healthy relationship can benefit from marriage counseling as a means of deepening their emotional connection, improving communication, and strengthening their bond. It can also help prevent new issues from developing over time.

Benefits of couples counseling

Couples counseling can provide really unique benefits from one couple to the next. How your relationship will specifically benefit from it will depend on what kind of issues you are presently dealing with. There are, however, some key foundational benefits from marriage counseling that are essential for any relationship. Here's what we know about how couples counseling can benefit your relationship.

Improved Communication and Conflict Resolution

Marriage counseling provides a safe space for open dialogue between partners. This openness in dialogue lays the framework for learning techniques for active listening, expressing emotions, and problem-solving. Ultimately, this can lead to healthier communication patterns and a reduction in relationship conflicts.

Rebuilding Trust

Trust is such a tricky subject to address, and that's tough because trust is vital in a relationship. Whether trust issues stem from betrayal or from other life experiences, marriage counseling is a great space to rebuild trust. The guidance of a marriage counselor helps provide a feeling of safety and reassurance through the process of addressing trust issues, rebuilding honesty and transparency, and establishing new boundaries to promote trustworthiness.

Enhanced Intimacy and Emotional Connection

A study about the effectiveness of EFT in couples therapy indicates that EFT improved the various dimensions of intimacy, including emotional, psychological, sexual, and physical intimacy. If you believe your relationship could benefit from a deepening of your emotional bond and intimacy, therapists can help you explore your emotions, needs, and vulnerabilities in a gentle way.

Strengthening Relationship Skills

Even if your relationship isn't laced with any deep struggle, there's plenty that marriage counseling can still provide you (because remember, it's not just about the problems that are "serious enough"). A therapist can also help you and your partner develop and enhance other important skills in your relationship, including negotiation, compromise, and working toward shared goals and values.

Who should avoid couples therapy

While I could go on and on about all the ways couples counseling can be beneficial for your relationship, there are some populations that won't find it effective or even appropriate. Here are some issues that may not benefit significantly from couples counseling.

Domestic violence

In the presence of domestic violence, it's very important that safety be the top priority. It's recommended to seek support from family, friends, or women's shelters and instead consider individual therapy, support groups, or legal intervention.

Substance abuse or addiction

If someone is struggling with substance abuse or addiction, it may be necessary to address these issues individually before engaging in couples counseling. Addiction can significantly impact relationship dynamics in a very different way, and specialized addiction treatment may be needed.

Active affairs

If someone is having an ongoing affair and isn't willing to end them, couples counseling may not be effective. Resolving trust and infidelity issues typically requires individual work and a commitment to rebuilding trust.

Severe mental illnesses

Severe mental health conditions, such as unmanaged bipolar disorder, severe personality disorders, or even psychosis can make couples counseling treatment very difficult to manage due to altered states. In these cases, individual therapy and psychiatric intervention may be more appropriate.

Unwillingness to change or commit

Couples counseling requires commitment from both individuals. If one or both partners are not invested in therapy, or if there are fundamental differences that make someone unwilling to find common ground, couples counseling may not be beneficial.

Unresolved trauma

If there is unresolved trauma, couples counseling alone may not be sufficient. It may be recommended that trauma-focused therapy occur before or concurrently to address the underlying issues in couples counseling.

Invest in your relationship today.

Deciding to prioritize the health of your relationship is a victory in itself. It's important to know as much as possible regarding the journey you and your partner are embarking on, including the marriage counseling cost and investment and feeling comfortable and safe with your therapist.

As a couples counselor, I take an integrative approach that allows me to use parts of some of my favorite modalities, such as the Gottman Method and Emotionally Focused Therapy. This is incredibly helpful for couples dealing with their own set of unique challenges that are intertwining with their relationship. In doing so, I pride myself in creating a space that is productive, relaxed and sometimes humorous! If you're ready to start making lasting changes in your relationship, reach out today!