When I decided over a decade ago to dedicate my life to helping couples, I never planned to become a businessman. I just wanted to help people save their marriages. But over the years, one truth has become impossible to ignore — getting a couple in the door is often harder than the therapy itself.
And the number one hesitation? Cost.
Why Couples Hesitate Over the Price of Counseling
Many couples believe therapy should be covered by insurance, or that it’s too expensive to justify — even though they’ll spend just as much on a vacation, car payment, or new TV.
I’ve had couples balk at $70 for a 90-minute session while purchasing expensive items the same week. Not because they didn’t have the money — but because they didn’t see therapy as an investment with a return.
Others hesitate because they aren’t convinced counseling will work, or one spouse is unwilling to participate. When motivation and finances are both uncertain, progress stalls before it even begins.
The Real Cost of Marriage Counseling
While prices vary by location, specialization, and format, here’s what most couples can expect:
| Type of Counseling | Average Cost | Duration | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Traditional weekly counseling | $150–$300 per session | 60–90 min | Can take 4–6 months or longer |
| Sliding scale or intern-led sessions | $75–$125 | 60 min | Limited experience, availability |
| Group workshops | $500–$1,000 total | 1–2 days | Educational, not therapy |
| Private marriage retreat (intensive) | $3,000–$8,000 total | 2–3 days | Equivalent to 6+ months of therapy |
Sources: American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy, Psychology Today provider averages, and internal client data from The Marriage Restoration Project.
Why “Cheaper” Isn’t Always Better
Yes — you can find low-cost counseling, but you often get what you pay for. Inconsistent attendance, therapist turnover, and lack of deep change mean many couples never reach breakthrough.
Couples who invest financially tend to invest emotionally. They show up prepared, do the work, and get results that last.
As I often tell couples:
“Even if counseling costs a few thousand dollars, it’s still cheaper — and far less painful — than a divorce.”
Why We Changed Our Payment Policy
Early in my practice, I offered weekly sessions and sliding-scale rates. But I noticed something consistent — the couples who committed upfront to the full process were the ones who truly transformed.
So now, I only work with couples through our 2-Day Private Marriage Restoration Retreat.
Here’s why:
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You get the equivalent of six months of therapy in one focused weekend.
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We remove distractions about money, scheduling, or commitment.
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Both therapist and couple can focus entirely on healing, not logistics.
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The flat program fee allows you to budget once and move forward.
We also offer payment plans (up to six months through PayPal) and occasional discounts for couples in financial need.
Is Marriage Counseling Worth It?
If your marriage is in crisis, the real question isn’t “How much does it cost?” — it’s “What is my marriage worth to me?”
The most successful couples I’ve worked with share one trait: commitment. They’re all-in. They view therapy as an investment in their future, their children, and their peace of mind.
And it pays off. Years later, I still get calls or emails from couples who say, “We’re still together — and happy.”
Affordable Options for Every Stage
Even if a private retreat isn’t right for you right now, you can still start working on your marriage today:
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5-Step Plan to a Happy Marriage – A self-paced program you can do at home to improve communication and rekindle closeness.
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Marriage School Online – For couples who want structured learning at an accessible price.
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Free resources and articles – Explore our blog for research-based advice, inspiration, and communication tools.
Key Takeaways
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The average cost of marriage counseling is between $150–$300 per session, but results vary widely.
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A private marriage retreat compresses six months of therapy into two days, often saving money and time.
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Couples who commit financially see better outcomes because they’re emotionally invested.
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Therapy is far less expensive — emotionally and financially — than divorce.
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Flexible payment options and online programs make relationship help accessible to nearly everyone.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does insurance cover marriage counseling?
Typically not. Insurance covers “medically necessary” treatment, and couples therapy is considered relational, not medical.
How much is a marriage counseling retreat?
Private retreats range from $3,000–$8,000 depending on location, duration, and follow-up sessions. Our 2-Day Marriage Restoration Retreat includes eight follow-ups and customized support.
Is marriage counseling worth the money?
Yes — especially if you’re both committed. The average cost of divorce in the U.S. exceeds $15,000 per person, while counseling can repair your relationship for a fraction of that.
Can I pay for marriage counseling in installments?
Yes. We offer up to six-month payment plans through PayPal to make professional help more accessible.
What if my spouse won’t go?
Start with our 5-Step Plan to a Happy Marriage. Many partners join later once they see real changes.
