Online Couples Counseling [2023]: Navigating Relationship Challenges Virtually

Relationship challenges can range from minor disagreements and misunderstandings to more serious issues like infidelity, lack of trust, emotional abuse, and physical violence.

Couples face a myriad of issues, each unique in its way. This is where online couples counseling comes in. This form of therapy has been designed to help couples understand their issues better and find ways to address them effectively. It offers couples a platform to express their feelings, understand the root causes of their problems, and find viable solutions.

Understanding relationship challenges is the first step to addressing them. It's only when couples acknowledge the existence of a problem that they can seek help. Online couples counseling offers a convenient and accessible platform for couples to address their issues, improve their communication, and learn to resolve disputes amicably.

Best Online Couples Counseling Services - Overview

• HeyRitual - Most Flexible Online Couples Counseling Service
• Online-Therapy - Most Affordable Online Couples Counseling Service
• Regain - Best Online Couples Counseling Service Overall
• BetterHelp - Best for Individual Counseling
• Calmerry - Best for Flexible Relationship Therapy
• Talkspace - Best Online Couples Counseling Service for Convenient Communication

What is Online Couples Counseling?

Online couples counseling is a form of therapy that allows couples to address their relationship issues over the Internet. This mode of therapy relies on video sessions, telephone calls, and text-based communication to help couples navigate the complexities of their relationship.

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]

With online couples counseling, couples can access therapy from the comfort of their homes, making it a convenient option for those with busy schedules or those living in remote areas. This form of therapy is conducted by licensed professionals who are trained in the field of relationship therapy.

Online couples counseling is not restricted to married couples alone. It can also benefit those in dating relationships, engaged couples, and even those contemplating a breakup or divorce. It offers an accessible and flexible platform for couples to address their issues and work towards a healthier relationship.

Benefits of Online Couples Therapy?

The digital age has ushered in a new way of accessing therapy. Online couples therapy brings with it a host of benefits. One of the key benefits is convenience. With online therapy, couples can schedule sessions at a time that suits them, eliminating the need for travel and making it easier for couples with conflicting schedules to access therapy.

Secondly, online therapy for couples offers a greater degree of privacy. Online therapy provides a safe space for couples who may be hesitant to seek therapy due to the fear of stigma or lack of anonymity. This form of therapy is conducted in the privacy of one's home, ensuring confidentiality.

Finally, online therapy for couples can be more cost-effective. Traditional therapy sessions can be expensive, and only some have the financial resources to afford them. Conversely, online therapy can be more affordable, making it accessible to a larger demographic. [2]

Start at Hey Ritual with a 14-day money-back guarantee

Best Online Couples Counseling Services

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

HeyRitual: Most Flexible Online Couples Counseling Service

HeyRitual is a leading online therapy platform for couples looking to enhance their relationships. Their flexible program model allows users to attend video sessions alone or with a partner, guided by trained therapists using research-backed methods.?

HeyRitual starts with an introductory video call to discuss goals and concerns, followed by a choice of Pathways, which are guided programs with different focus areas. Each Pathway includes daily journal prompts, videos, reflection exercises, and one-on-one meetings with a dedicated expert.?

HeyRitual also provides access to supplementary resources and tools through their app.

Key Features:

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

• Personalized Learning Paths: Users select a pathway based on their relationship issues upon sign-up. This pathway, which includes quizzes and high-quality video lessons, guides self-help work integrated into therapy sessions.
• Flexible Communication Modes: Users can choose between live video, telephone, chat, or email for their therapy sessions.
• Expert-Led Therapy Sessions: Users can book weekly solo or online couples counseling sessions depending on the chosen plan.
• Interactive Components: HeyRitual's platform encourages active participation through interactive components such as text, video, or audio journaling.
• Tailored Therapy Plans: Each user gets a personalized therapy plan created with their therapist.

Why We Chose It

We chose HeyRitual for its unique approach to online couples counseling. By combining traditional therapy methods with a modern, tech-based platform, HeyRitual offers a comprehensive solution to relationship challenges.

Their personalized therapy plans and interactive self-help work provide users with an engaging, effective therapy experience without the hassle of in-person sessions. Moreover, the platform's affordability and convenient scheduling make it an attractive option for many couples.

Pros:

HeyRitual offers several advantages over traditional in-person therapy:

• Convenience: The platform is accessible from anywhere, allowing users to attend therapy sessions from their homes.
• Affordability: Compared to traditional in-person therapy, HeyRitual offers competitive pricing with high value for its services.
• Flexible Scheduling: Users can schedule therapy sessions at their convenience, with appointments available seven days a week.
• Personalized Treatment: Each user receives a personalized treatment plan tailored to their unique relationship challenges.

Cons:

Despite its numerous benefits, there are a few downsides to consider:

• Lack of In-Person Interaction: While online therapy offers convenience, some may miss the personal touch of in-person therapy.
• Limited Insurance Coverage: Currently, HeyRitual does not accept insurance, making it potentially cost-prohibitive for some users.
• Limited Support Options: Customer support is limited to email, with no live chat or telephone support available.

Plans and Pricing

HeyRitual offers three different plans to meet various needs:

• Flying Solo Bi-weekly: This plan is ideal for individuals who want occasional check-ins. It costs $100 per month or $25 per week and includes two one-on-one expert sessions per month.
• Flying Solo Weekly: For individuals seeking dedicated support, this plan costs $160 or $40 per week and includes four monthly one-on-one expert sessions.
• With My Partner: Designed for couples who want to grow together, this plan costs $260 per month or $65 per week. It includes four private sessions for each partner and one extended joint session per month.

Our Experience

Our experience with HeyRitual was largely positive. The sign-up process was straightforward, and we could schedule our introductory session quickly. Our assigned therapist was warm, professional, and attentive to our concerns.

The lessons on our chosen pathway were insightful and directly applicable. They were also interconnected with the therapy sessions, making us feel prepared and focused for each session.

Overall, HeyRitual offers an in-office therapy experience with the convenience of a digital platform, making it a valuable resource for couples seeking to improve their relationship dynamics.

Start at Hey Ritual with a 14-day money-back guarantee

Online-Therapy: Most Affordable Online Couples Counseling Service

Affordability is a crucial factor for many couples considering online therapy. Online-Therapy.com stands out as the most affordable option, offering comprehensive therapy services at a budget-friendly price. With a flat monthly fee, Online-Therapy.com provides unlimited access to therapy materials, worksheets, and messaging with your therapist.

Key Features of Online-Therapy.com

Online-Therapy.com offers a robust online counseling program with features designed to support and guide couples through their journey of understanding, growth, and healing. Here, we highlight the key features that set this platform apart:

• Versatile Therapy Modes: The platform offers relationship therapy sessions via video, voice, and live chat, providing flexibility to couples based on their comfort and convenience.
• Qualified Counselors: All counselors are well-qualified, holding degrees like MA, MS, MSW, PsyD, or Ph.D. in counseling, social work, clinical psychology, or related mental health areas, with at least three years of experience providing counseling services.
• Specialization in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): The counselors at Online-Therapy.com specialized in CBT, a well-researched and highly effective form of talk therapy.
• Pricing Tiers: Online-Therapy.com offers four different subscription plans to cater to varying needs and budgets.
• Interactive Tools: The platform also provides interactive worksheets, a journaling platform, video lessons, and even online yoga sessions to support the therapeutic process.

Pros of Online-Therapy.com's?

Online-Therapy.com's online couples counseling program has many advantages:

• Flexibility and Convenience: The option to choose between video, voice, and live chat sessions allows couples to engage in therapy in a manner that suits their comfort and convenience.
• Affordable Pricing: With four different pricing plans, couples can choose a subscription that best fits their budget.
• Access to Licensed Professionals: The platform guarantees all its counselors are qualified professionals with substantial experience.
• CBT Specialization: The emphasis on Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, a highly effective form of therapy, is a significant advantage.
• 24/7 Access: The platform offers 24/7 access to therapy tools and resources, providing couples with round-the-clock support.

Cons of Online-Therapy.com's?

While Online-Therapy.com's online couples counseling program has many benefits, it also has a few drawbacks:

• No Mobile App: The platform currently does not have a mobile app, which might limit accessibility for some users.
• No Prescription Services: Therapists on the platform are not licensed to prescribe medication.
• No Insurance Support: The platform does not support any insurance provider natively, which may impact affordability for some users.

Plans and Pricing

Online-Therapy.com offers four subscription plans, providing a range of options to suit different needs and budgets:

Basic Plan: Unlimited messaging with the therapist, access to worksheets, yoga, and meditation videos, journal, activity plan, and tests. Costs $50 per week.

• Standard Plan: Everything in the Basic plan, plus one live 45-minute weekly therapy session. Costs $80 per week.
• Premium Plan: Includes everything in the Basic plan, plus two live 45-minute weekly therapy sessions. Costs $110 per week.
• Couples Therapy Plan: Everything in the Basic plan, plus one live 45-minute couple therapy session per week. Costs $110 per week.

Our Experience with Online-Therapy.com's Online Couples Counseling

Our experience with Online-Therapy.com's online couples counseling was overwhelmingly positive. The sign-up process was straightforward, and we appreciated the thoughtful intake questionnaire. We found flexibility in scheduling sessions, even accommodating different time zones.

While the sessions were shorter than traditional in-person therapy, the addition of worksheets and the ability to message the therapist outside of sessions added depth to our therapy experience. The shared "room" for messaging might concern some, but it promotes transparency and joint problem-solving.

One aspect that could be improved is the availability of a mobile app for easier access. However, the overall user interface and experience were commendable.

Get 20% OFF for the first month at Online-Therapy.com

Regain: Best Online Couples Counseling Service Overall

Regain is one of the best online relationship counseling services dedicated to online couples counseling. They offer individual and couples therapy, addressing all relationship aspects. Their service includes unlimited messaging and weekly live sessions.

Key Features:

Regain online couples counseling offers several key features that set it apart from traditional in-person therapy:

• Convenience: With Regain, you can receive therapy anytime, anywhere, without needing face-to-face appointments. This flexibility is particularly beneficial for those with busy schedules or limited access to transportation.
• Privacy and Security: Regain prioritizes the privacy and security of its users. All communication and information shared on the platform are encrypted and protected, ensuring confidentiality and peace of mind.
• Expert Therapists: Regain's team of licensed therapists includes accredited psychologists, licensed marriage and family therapists, licensed clinical social workers, and licensed professional therapists. These professionals have the expertise to address a wide range of relationship issues.
• Multiple Communication Options: Regain offers various communication channels for therapy sessions, including text messaging, video, and phone calls. You can choose the method that works best for you and your partner.
• Unlimited Messaging: With Regain, you can message your therapist anytime. This unlimited messaging feature lets you share your thoughts, concerns, and progress between scheduled sessions.

Pros:

• Convenience and Accessibility: Regain's online platform makes therapy accessible to anyone with an internet connection. You can receive therapy from the comfort of your own home, eliminating the need for travel or waiting rooms.
• Affordability: While traditional in-person therapy can be costly, Regain offers more affordable options. With prices averaging between $60 and $90 per week, Regain provides an accessible alternative for those seeking professional help.
• Privacy and Confidentiality: Regain prioritizes user privacy and confidentiality. The platform ensures that all communication and personal information are encrypted, providing a secure space for therapy sessions.
• Expert Therapists: Regain's licensed therapists are experienced in relationship therapy and have the expertise to address various issues. They can provide guidance, support, and practical tools to help couples navigate their challenges.
• Flexibility: With Regain, you can choose the type of therapy that suits your needs. Whether you prefer individual or couples therapy, Regain can accommodate your preferences.

Cons:

• Matching Process: Some users have reported that the matching process with a therapist can take several days. While Regain strives to match users with therapists as quickly as possible, this delay may be a drawback for those seeking immediate support.
• No Free Trial: Unlike other online therapy platforms, Regain does not offer a free trial period. This may disadvantage those who prefer to try the service before committing to a subscription.
• Limited Insurance Coverage: Regain does not accept insurance or submit claims on behalf of users. This means that therapy sessions are typically paid for out-of-pocket. While Regain's pricing is more affordable than traditional therapy, it may still be a financial barrier for some individuals.

Our Experience with Regain

Signing up for Regain was a breeze, with the platform's intuitive design making the process straightforward. The initial questionnaire was comprehensive, ensuring a more accurate therapist match.

Our therapy sessions were conducted efficiently, with our therapist being punctual, professional, and responsive. The platform's unlimited messaging feature was incredibly useful, allowing us to communicate with our therapist outside the scheduled sessions.

However, during one of our sessions, we encountered a minor hiccup with the video call interface. Despite this, our overall experience with Regain was positive, and we found the platform to be a valuable tool for relationship therapy.

RELATED: Regain Review

Get matched with a Therapist at Regain

BetterHelp: Best for Individual Counseling

BetterHelp is an online therapy platform that offers individual counseling for those seeking help with issues that may be affecting their relationship. Their team of licensed therapists specializes in relationship therapy and can assist individuals in developing new skills and coping mechanisms to strengthen all their relationships.?

BetterHelp provides synchronous sessions via phone calls, video chats, or live messaging, allowing clients and therapists to communicate in real-time. Clients can access BetterHelp through their website or mobile app, making therapy easily accessible. The platform also offers financial assistance based on clients' income and discounts for referrals and promo codes.

Key Features:

• Licensed Professional Counselors: ?BetterHelp takes pride in its network of licensed, accredited therapists possessing the highest level of professional qualifications. This includes psychologists, marriage and family therapists, clinical social workers, and licensed professional counselors.
• 24/7 Access to Therapists: One of the standout features of BetterHelp is its commitment to round-the-clock accessibility. Once matched with a therapist, you can message them anytime via a secure chat room. Although responses aren't real-time, the platform notifies you as soon as your therapist replies.?
• Variety of Communication Methods: BetterHelp offers four ways to connect with your therapist: messaging, live chat, phone calls, and video sessions. This flexibility allows you to choose a method that fits your comfort level and availability.
• Customizable Therapy Experience: BetterHelp's therapy experience is highly customizable. You can choose your therapist based on your preferences for gender, age, and specialty. If you are unsatisfied with your therapist, BetterHelp makes switching easy, ensuring you find the right fit for your needs.

Pros:

• Large therapist network: Offers access to a broad network of over 30,000 therapists.
• Preview and match: Users can preview software and therapist matches before committing to a subscription.
• Availability: With a vast network of therapists, BetterHelp ensures that users can find support whenever needed.
• Financial aid: Offers financial assistance to eligible individuals.
• Flexible subscription: No long-term contracts; users can cancel anytime.

Cons:

• BetterHelp insurance coverage: BetterHelp does not accept insurance, which might make it more expensive for some users.
• Chat sessions: Some users find that the chat sessions differ from in-person therapy, as they need more personal connection and depth of a face-to-face meeting.
• No diagnoses: Therapists cannot provide formal diagnoses for mental health conditions.
• No MD access: Lack of access to medical doctors for prescription-related needs.

Our Experience with BetterHelp

Our hands-on experience with BetterHelp was overall positive. We found the platform user-friendly and the customer service responsive. The flexibility in communication methods catered to different comfort levels.

The online journaling feature was a bonus, providing a private space to process thoughts and emotions. The 'groupinars' fostered a sense of community and connection, which was comforting during the therapy journey.

However, we did encounter some drawbacks. The responses to technical queries from customer service could have been improved. Despite these minor issues, we found BetterHelp to be a practical and reliable platform for online therapy.

Get started with BetterHelp

Calmerry: Best for Flexible Relationship Therapy?

Calmerry is another online therapy platform that offers online couples counseling. They provide affordable and flexible therapy options, with services available seven days a week. They have a team of licensed therapists who specialize in relationship therapy.

Key Features

Calmerry offers a range of features designed to make online couples counseling effective and enjoyable. Here are some key features:

• Flexible Communication: With Calmerry, couples can choose between text therapy and live video sessions. Text therapy allows you to exchange messages with your therapist anytime, while live video sessions provide a more interactive and real-time experience.
• Personalized Matchmaking: When you sign up for Calmerry, you'll be matched with a licensed therapist specializing in online couples counseling. This ensures you receive personalized and targeted support tailored to your unique needs.
• Unlimited Messaging: Calmerry's messaging plan includes unlimited text messaging, allowing you to communicate with your therapist as often as needed. This feature promotes continuous support and facilitates ongoing progress.
• Reflection Tools: Calmerry provides free reflection tools, such as a therapy journal, that allow you to track your progress and stay engaged with the therapy process. These tools can be instrumental in fostering self-reflection and personal growth.
• Free Counselor Switching: If your assigned therapist is not the right fit for you, Calmerry allows you to switch to a different therapist at no additional cost. This ensures that you have the flexibility to find the right counselor who meets your specific needs.

Why We Chose It

We chose Calmerry as one of the top online couples counseling platforms for several reasons. First and foremost, Calmerry offers a user-friendly and intuitive platform that makes it easy to navigate and access therapy services.?

The personalized matchmaking process ensures that couples are matched with qualified therapists specializing in their needs, promoting effective and targeted therapy. Additionally, Calmerry's flexible communication options, affordable pricing plans, and free counselor switching make it a convenient and comprehensive choice for couples seeking therapy.

Pros

There are several advantages to choosing Calmerry for online couples counseling. Here are some key benefits:

• Accessibility: Calmerry makes online couples counseling accessible to individuals who may not have access to in-person therapy due to location or other constraints. It breaks down geographical barriers and ensures everyone can access the support they need.
• Affordability: Calmerry offers affordable pricing plans, making it more accessible to a wider range of individuals. With different subscription options available, you can choose a plan that suits your budget and therapy needs.
• Qualified Therapists: Calmerry carefully vets and selects licensed therapists who specialize in online couples counseling. This ensures you receive professional and expert guidance from qualified professionals with the necessary skills and experience.
• Flexible Communication: The option to choose between text therapy and live video sessions allows couples to communicate most comfortably. This flexibility ensures you can engage in therapy that suits your preferences and communication style.

Cons

While Calmerry offers numerous benefits, it's essential to consider some potential drawbacks before committing to the platform:

• Insurance Not Accepted: Calmerry does not accept insurance as a form of payment. This means that you'll need to pay out-of-pocket for the therapy services. However, the platform offers affordable pricing plans to make therapy more accessible and cost-effective.
• No Free Trial: Calmerry does not offer a free trial, unlike other online therapy platforms. You'll need to commit to a paid plan to access the services. While there is a free cancellation policy, it's still important to carefully consider your decision before signing up.
• Limited to Therapy: Calmerry focuses solely on therapy and does not offer services related to psychiatry or medication management. If you require medication management or a combination of therapy and medication, you may need to seek additional support outside of Calmerry.

Plans and Pricing

Calmerry operates on a subscription-based model with three main plans:

• Messaging Therapy Plan: This plan costs $228 monthly and includes unlimited text messaging with a therapist five days a week, a personalized therapy plan, and access to free reflection tools.
• Messaging + 1 Live Video Plan: Priced at $298 monthly, this plan includes all features of the Messaging Plan plus one 30-minute live video therapy session each month.
• Messaging + 4 Live Video Plan: This plan costs $360 monthly and includes all features of the Messaging Plan, plus four 30-minute live video therapy sessions each month.

Get matched with a Therapist at Calmerry

Talkspace: Best Online Couples Counseling Service for Convenient Communication

Talkspace offers a convenient alternative for couples with busy schedules who may find it challenging to schedule joint therapy sessions. The platform provides therapy through unlimited text, audio, and video messaging, allowing clients and therapists to communicate conveniently.?

For couples who prefer live sessions, Talkspace offers 30-minute video chats for an additional fee. With a roster of 5,000 licensed therapists representing various approaches, Talkspace matches clients with the most suitable therapist based on their needs and preferences.?

The platform also partners with health insurance providers, allowing clients to use their insurance benefits for therapy.

Key Features:

• Offers therapy through unlimited text, audio, and video messaging
• Free consultation during the sign-up process
• Monthly pricing starts at $396

Pros of Using Talkspace

There are several benefits to using Talkspace for online therapy:

• Ease of Access: With Talkspace, you can access mental health support from the comfort of your home. You can schedule appointments and send messages to your therapist at your convenience.
• Flexibility: The platform offers multiple plan options for different user needs. Whether you prefer messaging therapy, live sessions, or a mix of both, Talkspace has a plan for you.
• Premarital counseling is a type of relationship therapy provided by Talkspace licensed marriage and family therapists (LMFT). Online premarital counseling is ideal for engaged couples taking the next step in their relationship or wanting to resolve issues before marriage.?
• Qualified Therapists: All Talkspace therapists are licensed and experienced in their field. This ensures that users receive professional and reliable support.
• Insurance Acceptance: Talkspace accepts insurance, making therapy more affordable for many users.
• User-Friendly App: The Talkspace app is user-friendly and easy to navigate, enhancing the user experience.

Cons of Using Talkspace

Despite its numerous benefits, Talkspace has some drawbacks:

• Limited Information: Some users have reported that they were given limited information about the therapy plans during the sign-up process. This can make it difficult to make an informed decision.
• Privacy Concerns: There have been allegations that Talkspace reads users' private chats with therapists and uses quotes from these conversations for marketing purposes. This has raised privacy concerns.
• Limited Diversity: Some users have expressed disappointment with the lack of diversity among Talkspace therapists, particularly regarding race and age.
• Automated Responses: Some users have received short, impersonal responses from their therapists. This can make the therapy feel less personalized and effective.

Connect with a Therapist at Talkspace

Why Choose Online Couples Therapy?

Online couples therapy offers several advantages over traditional face-to-face therapy:

• Convenience: Couples can attend sessions from the comfort of their homes without the need to travel.
• Flexibility: Sessions can easily be scheduled at a time that suits both partners, including evenings and weekends.
• Affordability: Online therapy is often cheaper than in-person therapy, and some platforms offer flexible payment plans or sliding scale fees.
• Accessibility: Online therapy can be a lifesaver for those living in remote areas or those with limited access to couples therapists in their locale.
• Privacy: Online sessions can be a more comfortable option for couples who prefer to keep their therapy sessions private.

How Online Marriage Counseling Works

Online marriage counseling works similarly to traditional in-person counseling but with the added convenience of being conducted online. Couples can log into the platform from their homes or any location and engage in therapy sessions via video, phone, or messaging.

The first step in online couples counseling is an assessment or intake process. This involves filling out forms or questionnaires that help the therapist understand the couple's issues. Once this is done, the therapist will schedule a session with the couple.

During the therapy sessions, the therapist will facilitate discussions, helping the couple explore their issues, understand each other's perspectives, and develop strategies to resolve their problems. The number and frequency of sessions will depend on the couple's needs and the severity of their issues.

Start at Hey Ritual with a 14-day money-back guarantee

Finding the Right Couples Therapist Online

Finding the right couples therapist online is crucial for the success of the therapy. The therapist should be someone that both partners feel comfortable with and trust. They should be experienced in dealing with relationship issues and have the necessary qualifications.

One way to find a suitable therapist is to research online therapy platforms and see what they offer. Many platforms provide detailed profiles of their therapists, including their qualifications, areas of expertise, and reviews from previous clients.

Another way to find a good therapist is through referrals. Couples can ask for recommendations from friends, family, or other professionals. It's important to remember that therapy is a personal journey, and what works for one couple may not work for another. Therefore, couples should take the time to find a therapist who is right for them.

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 couples therapy technique that enhances partner communication skills. This approach creates a safe and healthy environment where each person takes turns listening actively, allowing the other partner to express themselves freely.?

By using "I" phrases instead of "you" statements, couples can engage in more productive conversations. [4]

Emotion-Focused Therapy (EFT)

Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) is a highly effective online couples counseling technique that aims to identify destructive patterns in a relationship. These patterns often hinder emotional bonding and create disconnection between partners. Couples can begin healing and develop healthier ways to connect by focusing on these patterns and behaviors. [5]

According to the American Psychological Association (APA), EFT has been proven to be helpful for about 75% of couples who have used this approach. It provides a structured framework for couples to express their emotions, improve communication, and establish a strong foundation of trust and intimacy. [6]?

Start at Hey Ritual with a 14-day money-back guarantee

Narrative Therapy

Narrative therapy is a unique technique that encourages partners to describe their relationship problems in narrative form. Through this approach, couples gain a deeper understanding of their experiences and are empowered to rewrite their stories.?

This therapy is particularly beneficial when both partners feel responsible for the decline of their relationship and need support in reframing their perspectives.

Narrative therapy aims to help couples realize that a single story cannot fully capture the complexity of their relationship. By exploring multiple narratives, couples can develop a more nuanced understanding of themselves and their partnership. [7]

Solution-Focused Therapy

Solution-focused therapy is a goal-oriented approach that is ideal for couples who want to address specific issues in their relationship. This therapy helps couples create practical solutions to their problems instead of dwelling on the same issues repeatedly. By focusing on positive change and identifying strengths within the relationship, couples can work towards their desired outcomes.

The key principle of solution-focused therapy is that small steps toward change can lead to significant improvements in the relationship. This approach encourages couples to celebrate their accomplishments and build momentum toward a healthier and more fulfilling partnership. [8]

Gottman Method

The Gottman method is a research-based couples therapy technique that emphasizes the importance of understanding and connection, even during times of conflict. Developed by Drs. John and Julie Gottman, this approach provides couples with specific problem-solving skills to enhance intimacy and friendship.

Traditionally, the Gottman method involves live workshops and take-home training materials. However, many therapists have adapted the techniques to be used in private therapy sessions. By learning effective communication strategies and developing emotional attunement, couples can navigate challenges and build a stronger foundation for their relationship. [9]

The Cost of Online Couples Therapy

The cost of online couples therapy can vary greatly, depending on the platform and the services offered. Some platforms charge per session, while others offer subscription plans that include a certain number of sessions per month.

Online couples therapy can be more affordable than traditional in-person therapy. This is because online platforms must have the overhead costs associated with physical offices.

When considering the cost of therapy, couples should also factor in the convenience and flexibility of online therapy. For example, the ability to schedule sessions at any time can save couples the cost of taking time off work.

Start at Hey Ritual with a 14-day money-back guarantee

Relationship Coaching versus Online Couples Therapy

While online couples therapy and relationship coaching may seem similar, they are quite different. Online couples therapy is a form of psychotherapy that helps couples address and resolve their relationship issues. It is conducted by licensed professionals trained to handle various mental health and relationship issues.

On the other hand, relationship therapy is a form of life coaching that focuses on helping couples improve their relationship skills. Relationship coaches are not necessarily licensed mental health professionals, although they may have training in relationship dynamics.

Role of Individual Therapy for Relationship Issues

While online couples therapy focuses on the relationship, individual therapy can also be crucial in addressing relationship issues. Individual therapy allows partners to explore their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors in a safe and supportive environment.

Individual therapy can help a person understand their role in the relationship dynamics and how their actions affect their partner. It can also give them tools to manage their emotions better and communicate more effectively.

In some cases, individual therapy can be a precursor to couples therapy. For example, if one partner has personal issues affecting the relationship, they may benefit from individual therapy before engaging in online couples therapy.

How to Choose an Online Couples Therapy Platform?

Choosing the right online therapy platform can be daunting, given the myriad of options available. Here are some key factors to consider:

• Licensing and Credentials of Therapists: Ensure that the platform employs licensed therapists with expertise in online couples therapy.
• Cost: Compare the pricing plans of different platforms. Some offer a flat rate, while others charge per session.
• Communication Modes: Check if the platform provides therapy through your preferred communication mode – video, phone call, or text messaging.
• Insurance Coverage: Some platforms accept insurance, which can significantly lower the cost of therapy.
• Reviews and Testimonials: Read reviews and testimonials from other couples who have used the platform.

Start at Hey Ritual with a 14-day money-back guarantee

Overview of Best Online Therapy Services for Couples

Several online therapy services offer online couples counseling. Each platform has its unique features and benefits. HeyRitual offers personalized therapy, while Online-Therapy offers comprehensive therapy resources. Regain specializes in online couples counseling, while BetterHelp and Talkspace offer various services, including individual and couples therapy.

Online Couples Counseling Services: FAQ?

How Effective Is Online Couples Counseling?

Research has shown that 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.

How Much Does Online Couples Therapy Cost?

The cost of online couples therapy can vary greatly, depending on the platform and the services offered. Some platforms charge per session, while others offer subscription plans.

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.

Conclusion: What Are the Best Online Couples Counseling Services?

In conclusion, online couples counseling is a convenient and effective way for couples to address their relationship issues. It allows couples to work on their issues in a safe and supportive environment, with the added convenience of accessing therapy from anywhere.

Some of the best online couples counseling services include HeyRitual, Online-Therapy, Regain, and BetterHelp.

Finding the right therapist and choosing a suitable online relationship therapy platform is crucial for the success of therapy. With the right support, couples can navigate challenges and work towards a healthier and happier relationship.

Start at Hey Ritual with a 14-day money-back guarantee

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 (Accessed: 09 August 2023).

[2] - 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.

[3] - What is cognitive behavioral therapy? (no date) American Psychological Association. Available at: https://www.apa.org/ptsd-guideline/patients-and-families/cognitive-behavioral (Accessed: 09 August 2023).

[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 (Accessed: 09 August 2023).

[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.

Disclaimer: The above is a sponsored post, the views expressed are those of the sponsor/author and do not represent the stand and views of Outlook Editorial.