Article
Best Couples Therapy Online in 2026
Strengthen your relationship from home. Our experts evaluated online couples counseling platforms, marriage therapy services, and relationship coaching to find the best options for every couple.
Whether you’re navigating communication challenges, rebuilding trust, planning marriage, or simply wanting to strengthen your bond, online couples therapy has made relationship support more accessible than ever in 2026.
Our team evaluated over 25 online couples therapy platforms, examining therapist specializations in relationship counseling, evidence-based approaches like the Gottman Method, pricing structures, insurance coverage, and couple experiences. Here are the best online couples therapy services for every relationship need and budget.
Quick Comparison
| Platform | Best For | Weekly From | Insurance | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1. OurRitual | Best Overall for Couples | $32/week | No | ★4.7/5 |
| 2. Ours (OurRelationship) | Best for Evidence-Based Programs | $20/week | No | ★4.8/5 |
| 3. Regain | Best for Communication Support | $70/week | No | ★4.6/5 |
| 4. Talkspace Couples | Best for Insurance Coverage | $69/week | Yes | ★4.7/5 |
| 5. Growing Self | Best for Specialized Relationship Focus | $100/week | Yes | ★4.6/5 |
| 6. SonderMind | Best Insurance Network | $0/week | Yes | ★4.5/5 |
| 7. Doctor On Demand | Best for Immediate Access | $0/week | Yes | ★4.4/5 |
| 8. Couples Therapy Inc. | Best for Gottman Method | $85/week | Yes | ★4.5/5 |
| 9. BetterHelp (Individual for Couples) | Best for Individual Relationship Work | $70/week | Yes | ★4.4/5 |
| 10. Open Path Collective | Best Budget-Friendly Option | $10/week | Yes | ★4.6/5 |
Our Top Picks in Detail
OurRitual
OurRitual offers modern, affordable couples therapy combining the Gottman Method and Emotion-Focused Therapy. The platform focuses on communication skills, intimacy building, and deeper connection through structured therapeutic pathways.
Pros
- ✓Affordable starting at $32/week ($128/month)
- ✓Gottman Method and Emotion-Focused Therapy
- ✓Structured pathways for communication and intimacy
- ✓14-day money-back guarantee
- ✓Modern, approachable platform design
Cons
- ✗No insurance coverage
- ✗Limited therapist selection compared to larger platforms
- ✗Relatively new platform (less established)
Ours (OurRelationship)
Ours (OurRelationship) provides structured, evidence-based relationship programs with licensed therapists specializing exclusively in couples therapy. The one-time fee model offers a clear path from start to finish without ongoing subscriptions.
Pros
- ✓One-time fee model ($79-249, no subscriptions)
- ✓Every therapist trained in evidence-based methods
- ✓Specialized in couples therapy exclusively
- ✓Available in all 50 states
- ✓Clear start and finish program structure
Cons
- ✗No insurance accepted
- ✗Program format may feel less flexible
- ✗Higher one-time cost than monthly subscriptions
Regain
Regain, part of the BetterHelp network, focuses exclusively on couples therapy with unlimited messaging and weekly video sessions. The platform offers comprehensive relationship support at $70-100 per week for both partners.
Pros
- ✓Specialized exclusively in couples counseling
- ✓Unlimited messaging with therapist
- ✓Both partners included in one subscription
- ✓Weekly relationship webinars included
- ✓45-day money-back guarantee
Cons
- ✗Higher cost at $260-400/month
- ✗No insurance coverage
- ✗Some reports of therapist cancellations
Talkspace Couples
Talkspace Couples brings insurance coverage to online relationship therapy, making professional marriage counseling affordable and accessible. The platform offers specialized couples therapists with multiple communication options.
Pros
- ✓Accepts major insurance plans
- ✓Affordable with insurance coverage
- ✓Experienced couples therapy specialists
- ✓Multiple communication formats
- ✓Established, trusted platform
Cons
- ✗Therapist responses only 5 days/week
- ✗Higher out-of-pocket costs without insurance
- ✗Video sessions limited on basic plans
Growing Self
Growing Self specializes exclusively in relationship therapy with licensed marriage and family therapists. The platform offers couples therapy, premarital counseling, relationship coaching, and quick Solution Sessions for targeted advice.
Pros
- ✓All providers are licensed marriage and family therapists
- ✓Specialized relationship-focused practice
- ✓Premarital counseling and parent coaching available
- ✓Solution Sessions for quick advice
- ✓Master's and doctoral-level therapists
Cons
- ✗Higher cost than subscription platforms
- ✗Limited to relationship-specific issues
- ✗Smaller provider network
SonderMind
SonderMind offers extensive insurance coverage for couples therapy, making professional relationship counseling affordable through in-network benefits. The platform provides both online and in-person options with experienced therapists.
Pros
- ✓Partners with majority of insurance providers
- ✓In-network with Medicare plans
- ✓Self-pay options also available
- ✓Large network of experienced therapists
- ✓Both online and in-person options
Cons
- ✗Therapist quality varies
- ✗Availability depends on location
- ✗Less specialized in couples than dedicated platforms
Doctor On Demand
Doctor On Demand provides couples counseling through a comprehensive telehealth platform with extensive insurance coverage. While less specialized than couples-focused platforms, it offers quick access and affordable care for millions.
Pros
- ✓Covered for 98 million Americans
- ✓Sessions cost $0-134 with insurance
- ✓Quick access to licensed therapists
- ✓Flexible session lengths
- ✓Comprehensive telehealth platform
Cons
- ✗Limited to video/phone (no messaging therapy)
- ✗Less specialized in couples therapy
- ✗Higher costs without insurance
Couples Therapy Inc.
Couples Therapy Inc. specializes in the evidence-based Gottman Method, using 40+ years of relationship research to help couples improve communication, resolve conflict, and deepen intimacy through proven therapeutic techniques.
Pros
- ✓Specialized in evidence-based Gottman Method
- ✓Therapists trained in proven techniques
- ✓Research-backed approach to relationships
- ✓Focuses on communication and conflict resolution
- ✓40+ years of relationship research foundation
Cons
- ✗Higher cost for specialized method
- ✗Limited to Gottman approach only
- ✗Smaller therapist network
BetterHelp (Individual for Couples)
While BetterHelp doesn't offer dedicated couples therapy, it allows individuals to work on relationship issues with their own therapist. This approach works well for personal growth that benefits the relationship.
Pros
- ✓Largest therapist network (30,000+)
- ✓24/7 messaging access
- ✓Work on relationship issues individually
- ✓Easy therapist matching and switching
- ✓Financial aid available
Cons
- ✗Not designed for couples therapy
- ✗Both partners need separate subscriptions
- ✗Higher combined cost for both partners
Open Path Collective
Open Path Collective makes couples therapy accessible to those without adequate insurance, offering sessions with licensed therapists at $40-70 after a one-time $65 membership fee for lifetime access.
Pros
- ✓Extremely affordable at $40-70 per session
- ✓One-time $65 lifetime membership fee
- ✓Licensed couples therapists in directory
- ✓Nonprofit mission-driven organization
- ✓Nationwide availability
Cons
- ✗One-time $65 membership fee required
- ✗Only for those without adequate insurance
- ✗Therapist availability varies by location
How We Evaluate Online Couples Therapy
Our comprehensive evaluation process examines critical factors for relationship counseling:
Therapist Specialization
We verify expertise in couples and marriage counseling:
- Credentials: Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists (LMFT), specialized training
- Couples focus: Exclusive or primary focus on relationship therapy
- Evidence-based training: Gottman Method, EFT, or other proven approaches
- Experience: Years practicing couples therapy specifically
Therapeutic Approaches
We evaluate the methods and frameworks used:
- Gottman Method: Research-backed approach focusing on communication and conflict
- Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT): Attachment-based couples therapy
- Imago Relationship Therapy: Understanding childhood patterns in relationships
- Integrative approaches: Combining multiple evidence-based methods
Pricing and Value
We analyze cost structures and affordability:
- Pricing models: Subscription, one-time fee, or per-session
- Insurance coverage: Accepted plans and reimbursement options
- Included partners: One subscription for both vs. separate fees
- Value added: Workshops, resources, and supplementary materials
Platform Features
We test couples-specific functionality:
- Joint sessions: Video quality and ease of both partners joining
- Communication options: Messaging, video, phone accessibility
- Flexibility: Scheduling, individual vs. couples sessions
- Resources: Educational materials, homework, and skill-building tools
Understanding Online Couples Therapy
What is Online Couples Therapy?
Online couples therapy (also called virtual marriage counseling) connects you and your partner with licensed relationship therapists through video sessions, messaging, or phone calls. Couples can attend together from home or separately if distance is an issue.
Types of Couples Therapy Approaches
Gottman Method: Based on 40+ years of research, focuses on communication, conflict resolution, and building friendship. Requires 5:1 ratio of positive to negative interactions.
Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT): Attachment-based approach helping couples understand emotional needs and create secure bonds.
Imago Relationship Therapy: Explores how childhood experiences influence adult relationships and partner choice.
Solution-Focused Therapy: Short-term approach focusing on solutions rather than problems.
When to Seek Couples Therapy
Consider couples therapy when experiencing:
- Communication breakdown or constant arguments
- Trust issues or infidelity recovery
- Life transitions (marriage, children, empty nest)
- Intimacy challenges or sexual difficulties
- Major disagreements about finances, parenting, or future plans
- Feeling disconnected or considering separation
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does online couples therapy cost?
Online couples therapy costs vary widely: affordable options like OurRitual start at $32/week ($128/month), mid-range platforms like Regain cost $70-100/week ($280-400/month), and per-session providers charge $100-200 per session. Insurance can reduce costs to $0-50 copays with platforms like Talkspace or SonderMind.
Does insurance cover online couples therapy?
Some platforms accept insurance, including Talkspace (Aetna, Cigna, Regence), SonderMind (majority of providers including Medicare), and Doctor On Demand (98 million Americans covered). Many couples-specific platforms don’t accept insurance but accept HSA/FSA funds.
Is online couples therapy as effective as in-person?
Research shows online couples therapy is equally effective as in-person for most relationship issues. The convenience of attending from home can actually improve consistency and reduce barriers to seeking help. The Gottman Method and EFT translate well to virtual sessions.
Can we do couples therapy if we’re not married?
Absolutely. Online couples therapy serves all relationship types: dating couples, engaged partners, married couples, same-sex couples, polyamorous relationships, and those considering separation. Therapists specialize in various relationship structures and stages.
What if my partner won’t attend couples therapy?
Some platforms allow individual therapy focused on relationship issues (like BetterHelp), where you can work on your contribution to relationship dynamics. Often, positive changes in one partner can improve the relationship and may eventually encourage partner participation.
How long does couples therapy take?
Couples therapy duration varies: short-term issues may resolve in 8-12 sessions, while deeper challenges might require 6 months to a year. Premarital counseling is typically 6-8 sessions. Platforms like Ours offer structured programs with clear endpoints, while subscription services provide ongoing support.
What is the Gottman Method?
The Gottman Method is an evidence-based approach developed from 40+ years of research by Drs. John and Julie Gottman. It focuses on improving communication, managing conflict constructively, building friendship and intimacy, and creating shared meaning. The method identifies “Four Horsemen” (criticism, contempt, defensiveness, stonewalling) that predict relationship failure.
Can couples therapy save a failing relationship?
Couples therapy can help many struggling relationships, but both partners must be willing to participate and make changes. Research shows couples therapy is most effective when sought early (at first signs of trouble) rather than as a last resort. Success depends on commitment, therapist fit, and both partners’ willingness to grow.