The Best Couples Therapy Services

Wednesday, June 18th

2025 Couples Therapy Reviews

Online-Therapy

• Cost: $480 for 4 weeks ($120/week), includes one 45-minute session weekly
• Financial aid available up to 40% off
• Sessions available via video, voice-only, or text messaging through secure online platform
• Licensed therapists with relationship therapy experience
• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is primary approach
• Worksheets, journal, activity plan, yoga classes, and self-paced courses between sessions
• HIPAA-compliant, automatic data deletion after 2 years
• Unlimited messaging with 24-hour response time (Mon-Fri)
• Combined couples and individual therapy features

Online-Therapy offers couples therapy, helping partners strengthen their relationships with accessible, affordable, and stigma-free relationship counseling. Using evidence-based approaches including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), they've created a flexible system where couples can work on their relationship at times that work for both partners. When you sign up as a couple, you'll be matched with a licensed relationship therapist who'll guide you through your journey together, bringing years of experience to help you overcome whatever challenges you're facing - from communication issues to deeper relationship concerns.

Therapists can help you and your partner with many struggles

Online-Therapy has you begin by filling out a questionnaire to match you with the right therapist. You'll share what you want to improve in your relationship and any specific challenges you're facing (which can include everything from adoption to trauma to postnatal depression). The questionnaire also covers practical details like your age, relationship type, and your preferences for a therapist - including their gender, LGBTQ+ status, or if you'd prefer a BIPOC counselor.

One 45-minute live call each week

You'll get to choose how you want to conduct your live sessions, with options for video, voice-only, or text messaging. The most popular plan includes one 45-minute live session per week, unlimited messaging with your therapist (with responses within 24 hours Monday-Friday), and access to individual therapy features. If you want to text your therapist without your partner seeing those messages, you can do that, too - that's useful when you're not ready to share certain thoughts. The standard cost is $480 for 4 weeks ($120/week), which we think is pretty reasonable for everything included. For couples needing more intensive support, you can pay more for a Premium plan including two 45-minute live sessions per week.

Financial aid makes couples therapy more accessible

During signup, you'll be asked about your financial situation. If you indicate you're struggling, you may qualify for significant discounts - for example, some couples can get 40% off their first two months, bringing the cost down to $288 for 4 weeks. You can also apply to extend financial aid after this initial period.

Insurance not accepted

While Online-Therapy doesn't accept direct insurance payments, you can request itemized receipts to submit for reimbursement from your insurance provider. It's recommended to check with your insurance company beforehand, to understand what online therapy services they'll cover.

A host of other tools to support your relationship

Beyond the weekly live therapy sessions and texting, you and your partner will each receive private worksheets, a journal, an activity plan, plus access to yoga classes that can help both your personal wellbeing and your relationship. Online-Therapy's program for couples guides you through identifying problems, setting long-term goals, and breaking negative patterns, all while working to rebuild trust and connection.

Your privacy is a top priority

You and your partner can maintain your anonymity on Online-Therapy by using nicknames during your sessions, which could help create a more comfortable environment than traditional therapy. While you'll need to provide emergency contact info (for safety reasons), this information stays securely stored and is only accessed if your counselor has serious concerns about someone's wellbeing.

State-of-the-art security keeps your information safe

Online-Therapy does everything right with HIPAA-compliant services and robust protection measures. All your communications - whether they're video, audio, or text - use top-tier 256-bit encryption, and your health information is stored behind secure architecture with encrypted databases. And here's something reassuring - your data isn't kept forever. After two years, your information is automatically deleted, though you can choose to remove it sooner through your privacy settings.

Users generally love the therapists

Your experience with Online-Therapy will likely depend heavily on your therapist. One couple found their therapist Belinda to be "phenomenal," helping them navigate a serious relationship crisis with expertise and compassion. Other customers were paired with therapists they didn't quite click with, but still left positive reviews because their replacements were better fits.

Technical issues and scheduling occur, but customer service makes it right

For the most part, Online-Therapy's web platform does a good job. A couple of people have run into hiccups with video calls on mobile devices, though. We found one complaint about how the strict monthly session schedule can be challenging to manage if you miss appointments or have holiday conflicts. However, when things go wrong, the company seems willing to make things right - they've offered refunds, subscription extensions, and even had their CEO personally reach out to resolve issues.

Affordable yet complete

We're confident recommending Online-Therapy as our #1 choice for couples therapy because they've created something that goes way beyond traditional relationship counseling. You'll get weekly video sessions with a licensed relationship therapist, but what really sets them apart is everything else they offer. The unlimited messaging with 24-hour response times (Monday through Friday) means you're never stuck waiting a whole week to work through an issue. Their financial aid program makes quality therapy accessible to more couples (because money shouldn't stand in the way of relationship health). Plus, the extra tools like worksheets, journaling, and even yoga classes help you actively strengthen your relationship between sessions. This is a service that helps couples create lasting positive change - not just during therapy sessions, but every day.

Couples Therapy

• Cost: $3,500 to $6,500 for weekend retreats, $150 for 50-minute individual coaching sessions
• Weekend retreats, 80-minute follow-up sessions, or 50-minute individual coaching
• Intensive format equals "6 months of therapy in 3 days"
• Both in-person and online sessions available
• Half of therapists have doctoral degrees, one-third are Certified Gottman Therapists, all have decade+ experience
• Therapeutic approaches: Gottman Method, Emotionally Focused Therapy, Discernment Counseling, Imago
• HIPAA compliant, sessions not recorded or stored
• "A+" BBB rating for 9 years
• Available in 33 US locations and internationally
• Specialized help for neurodiverse couples

Couples Therapy Inc. was born from founder Dr. Kathy McMahon's own painful experience with ineffective couples therapy. After going through a divorce and later discovering science-based couples therapy, she was frustrated that no one was addressing how damaging poor couples therapy could be. Taking matters into her own hands, she networked with skilled therapists who were eager to join her vision of providing intensive marriage retreats and online therapy. Today, after more than a decade, the company has helped over 3,500 couples through their intensive format, with a team of exceptional professionals providing both online international services and in-person intensive couples therapy retreats. They offer these retreats in 33 locations across the USA and provide online sessions in 45 states, plus international locations including Canada, Great Britain, Singapore, and the Northern Mariana Islands.

More progress in a weekend than other services offer in months

Instead of traditional weekly 45-minute sessions that often feel rushed and ineffective, this company offers intensive weekend retreats where you work one-on-one with a dedicated therapist. These retreats provide concentrated help that can equal months of regular therapy, allowing you to build momentum and make real progress in your relationship.

All types of couples are welcome

Couples Therapy Inc takes pride in the science behind their approach, using evidence-based methods like John Gottman's techniques and Emotionally Focused Therapy. The retreats are designed to help with a wide range of relationship challenges, from chronic conflicts and affairs to couples simply wanting to improve an already good relationship. They welcome all types of couples - whether you're married or not, LGBTQ+ or straight, or in ethically non-monogamous relationships. What matters most is that you're both willing to look inward and work on improving your relationship.

You'll need to fill out The BIG BIG Book

Before starting therapy, you'll complete a thorough relationship assessment called The BIG BIG Book. This isn't your typical quick compatibility quiz - it's an in-depth tool that takes 3-6 hours to finish, though you can take breaks whenever needed. You'll answer questions about everything from your past experiences and family history to your current relationship dynamics and future hopes. Your answers stay completely private from your partner, so you can be totally honest.

Therapist will use your responses to understand your relationship

You won't get a copy of your answers when you're done, so make sure to copy and paste into a private document if that's important to you. Your therapist will spend several hours analyzing your responses alongside other information they gather about your relationship. They'll use this picture to create a unique path for you and your partner's therapy sessions. While one reviewer found the process tedious, most clients say it helps jumpstart their therapeutic experience and brings clarity to their situation.

Couples Therapy Inc offers specialized help for complex relationship challenges

If you're part of a neurodiverse couple, Couples Therapy Inc has therapists specifically trained to help you and your partner understand each other better. Their AANE-certified professionals help you move past judgments about who's "right" or "wrong" and instead focus on accepting and working with your different ways of understanding the world.

Make tough decisions and heal from betrayal

When you're unsure about staying in your relationship, their discernment counseling offers a structured way to carefully evaluate your options. Unlike regular couples therapy, and some of their other retreats, you'll spend most of your time in private sessions with a therapist, sharing only selected insights with your partner. For couples dealing with infidelity, they use the research-backed Gottman method of "Atone, Attune, Attach" to help rebuild trust and create an even stronger bond than before.

Sexual wellness with a focus on overall relationship health

Their sex therapy services tackle everything from desire differences to intimacy anxiety, but they won't get into the more sensitive topics until you've got solid communication skills and established mutual respect.

Cost not stated upfront, but likely over $3k

The main service at Couples Therapy Inc is their intensive weekend retreat. Although they don't state the price on their website (they encourage you to reach out for a free consultation), our research suggests that they run between $3,500 to $6,500 depending on your location and therapist. If you want ongoing support, you can get 80-minute follow-up sessions that come in discounted 6-session packages. For simpler needs, they offer 50-minute individual coaching sessions starting at $150.

Insurance won't help, but you're protected from surprise bills

Insurance companies typically won't cover any of this since they don't consider couples counseling "medically necessary". However, you'll get a detailed cost estimate upfront, and if you end up being charged more than $400 over that estimate, you have the right to dispute it through Health and Human Services (although there's a $25 fee for filing a dispute).

Sessions aren't recorded or stored

You can trust that your private information is well-protected through multiple security measures. The company keeps your therapy discussions completely confidential by following strict HIPAA healthcare privacy rules. While they'll collect basic details like your name and contact info to provide services, they won't track your location or record your sessions.

Compelling testimonials and an "A+” from the BBB

While Couples Therapy Inc only has testimonials on their own website and no independent reviews elsewhere online, the depth and authenticity of these client stories is compelling. They've also maintained an "A+” Better Business Bureau rating over their 9 years in business. What stands out to us is how the testimonials capture real struggles - from couples describing their relationships as "five-alarm fires” to those who had tried and failed with traditional weekly therapy. The raw honesty about hesitations over the high cost and fears about whether it would actually work (and the occasional complaint embedded in an overall positive review) makes these reviews feel genuine rather than curated.

Real relationships given a second chance

Customer testimonials for Couples Therapy Inc consistently highlight specific, tangible improvements rather than vague praise. Couples describe learning concrete communication tools like the "Soft Start Up" technique, developing weekly check-in routines, and receiving a "neutral relationship bible" of materials to reference at home. Multiple couples emphasize how the intensive weekend format accomplished more than months of traditional couples therapy, with detailed examples of how their relationships transformed from "frozen" to having renewed intimacy and understanding. (When testimonials get this specific about both problems and solutions, they become much harder to dismiss as marketing copy.)

Worth the investment for relationships in crisis

For couples facing serious relationship challenges who are willing to fully commit to the process, Couples Therapy Inc provides a structured path to reconnection with impressive success rates. We think their science-based approach, experienced therapists, and intensive format are perfectly situated to deliver on the promise of "6 months of therapy in 3 days." While the premium pricing will definitely limit accessibility to most couples, those who can afford it will find few better options for relationship rescue. (Just be prepared to do the work - this isn't a magical quick fix, but rather an accelerated path to real change.)

Sesame

• Cost: From $100 for a 45-minute online session
• HSA and FSA payments accepted, Sesame Plus membership discounts available
• Full refund if cancelled 3 hours before virtual visits, 24 hours before in-person
• Licensed clinicians with verified credentials, education, and training
• "A" BBB rating, 4.5 stars from nearly 3,000 reviews
• Direct marketplace model with transparent pricing
• Same-day appointments often available
• Available across all 50 states

Sesame makes it easy to find and book online couples therapists. As America's first direct-to-consumer healthcare marketplace, Sesame connects you with licensed therapists across all 50 states at prices that are often lower than insurance copays. You can browse providers, book appointments, and pay upfront with no surprise fees or insurance requirements. (And yes, the prices really are that good - we were impressed.)

Independent providers with verified credentials

If you choose couples therapy through Sesame, you'll be working with independent clinicians who must share their active licensure, education, training, and specializations to be listed on the platform. While Sesame doesn't directly supervise or endorse providers, they give you all the information you need to evaluate and choose the right therapist for your needs.

Choose from all available providers

Booking your appointment on Sesame is straightforward and takes less than two minutes. First, you'll search for the type of care you need and browse available providers. You won't need to fill out a matching quiz. Instead, you can browse through every licensed and available therapist in your area and read their detailed profiles. You'll get to see their approach in their own words and read patient testimonials, which often gives you a better sense of fit than an automated matching system would.

Couples therapy for as little as $100/session

Once you find a therapist who feels like a good fit, you'll select an appointment time and pay upfront - the price is clearly displayed on the results page, and you'll never get a surprise bill later. When we looked at couples therapy providers in our area, we saw same-day appointments for as low as $100 for a 45-minute online session, which is more than reasonable. Before your visit, you and your partner will each fill out a brief medical history form. When it's time for your couples therapy appointment, you'll click a secure link in your email for telehealth or head to the provider's office. It appears that Sesame only advertises virtual couples therapy, but if meeting in person is important to you, you might be able to work something out with your provider.

Therapists use EFT approach

Your first therapy session will be a "get to know you" meeting where you'll share your story and goals. For couples, this might involve both joint and individual sessions. Many therapists use Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), which focuses on strengthening bonds between partners and is rooted in attachment theory.

Sesame makes healthcare simple and affordable for everyone

You can use Sesame whether you have insurance or not - it's a straightforward healthcare marketplace where you pay providers directly at clear, upfront prices that are often cheaper than insurance copays. If you want to use your insurance for reimbursement later, Sesame will give you a bill to submit.

Flexible payment options and clear cancellation policies

You can pay for couples therapy using HSA and FSA accounts, and Sesame Plus membership (27 cents per day) gets you access to appointments starting at $34 and saves you $10 on every visit, among other benefits. (We think the membership perks are pretty compelling if you plan to use Sesame regularly.) They have reasonable cancellation policies too - you can get full refunds if you cancel virtual visits 3 hours ahead or in-person appointments 24 hours in advance.

Joining your online therapy sessions is simple and flexible

You can easily connect to your therapy sessions using any device you prefer - your phone, tablet, or computer. All you need is a web browser like Chrome, Safari, Edge, or Firefox to get started. Video is supported but optional if you're not comfortable being on camera. While the platform seems very user-friendly, we're not sure if couples can join from separate devices - you might want to check with your provider about this.

Sesame has strong reviews and trustworthy providers

Sesame maintains a stellar 4.5-star average rating from nearly 3,000 reviews and holds an "A" rating from the Better Business Bureau. While there aren't specific reviews for couples therapy, the platform has received positive feedback for both individual providers and the overall service.

Recommended when provider credibility is a priority

There's a lot to like about Sesame's approach to couples therapy, especially when it comes to transparency and affordability. We love that every therapist must verify their credentials, licenses, and specializations before they can practice on the platform, and we like that you get to choose your own therapist. That creates confidence that you're significantly less likely to end up with a questionable therapist who could make your relationship issues worse. With same-day appointments often available and prices starting at just $100 per session, Sesame removes many of the traditional barriers to starting couples therapy, and we recommend them highly.

Growing Self

• Cost: Session fees range from $75 to $170/45min (Doctoral level: $170, Advanced clinicians: $145, Master's level: $125, with sliding scale $75 to $145 available based on income)
• Doesn't work directly with insurance but provides superbills for out-of-network reimbursement. FSA/HSA accepted
• Online video sessions and in-person options in Denver area
• Therapists have at least master's degrees in counseling, marriage and family therapy, or clinical psychology with additional specialized training in evidence-based coaching approaches
• HIPAA-compliant
• No public reviews solicited by ethical choice, but anonymous testimonials available on website
• Multiple service options including marriage counseling, sex therapy, affair recovery
• Alternative support options like group programs and online courses
• Free resources via blog and podcast

Growing Self offers much more than just one-size-fits-all couples therapy. You'll find every relationship-related service, from online marriage counseling, sex therapy, affair recovery, and even financial counseling for couples. Founded by Dr. Lisa Marie Bobby - who brings triple expertise as a psychologist, marriage therapist, and certified coach - this practice focuses on helping you build better relationships, find genuine happiness, and achieve your career goals.

Growing Self's therapists are highly qualified and evidence-based

All therapists at Growing Self have at least a master's degree in counseling, marriage and family therapy, or clinical psychology from accredited universities. They have additional specialized training in evidence-based coaching approaches, allowing them to help you make lasting positive changes. They offer services across multiple U.S. states and even internationally in Canada.

Growing Self offers both psychotherapy and coaching

Psychotherapy is designed to help you heal and treat mental health conditions - it's a healthcare service provided by licensed professionals who use a medical approach to reduce symptoms and help you work through serious issues. On the other hand, coaching is more about personal development and achieving specific goals. Growing Self offers both. If you're mentally healthy but want to improve yourself, your relationships, or your career, coaching might be your best bet. You'll work with a coach alone or with your partner to create action plans and achieve concrete outcomes (think of it as having a personal trainer for your relationship goals rather than a doctor treating an illness).

The matching process is straightforward but therapist profiles are hard to find

To get started, you'll click "get connected" to complete an intake questionnaire. You'll choose your preferred service (like couples counseling or premarital counseling), share your hopes and goals in a text box, and select your preferred meeting method - either online video or in-person at their Denver or Broomfield locations. After providing your contact information, you can schedule a free consultation with their next available therapist. While you can also view therapist profiles and book directly with someone of your choosing, this page is pretty hard to find on the website - it's hidden at the bottom of some of their couples therapy-related blog posts with no direct link in the website's table of contents.

Pricing information is buried in a blog post

How much does couples therapy at Growing Self cost? When looking for pricing information, we had to wade through a lengthy article filled with personal stories and price comparisons to other life-changing purchases (presumably to prepare us for sticker shock). It felt a bit like those recipe blog posts where you have to scroll past someone's entire life story just to find out how many eggs you need.

Pricing depends on your therapist's experience level

After giving up and doing a Ctrl+F search for dollar signs, here's what we found. You can choose from four different types of therapists at Growing Self, with rates that match their experience levels. The most experienced doctoral-level clinicians charge $170 per 45-minute session (ouch) and have both master's and doctorate degrees, plus years of experience. Advanced clinicians with master's degrees and several years (or decades) of experience charge $145. Master's level counselors with 2-10 years of experience charge $125, while early career counselors charge $115. Here's the good news, though - most therapists offer sliding scale rates based on your income, ranging from $75 to $145 per session, which potentially makes Growing Self one of the more affordable couples therapy services in our review. (Just be aware that the most experienced therapists rarely have sliding scale spots available).

Insurance coverage might be possible

While Growing Self doesn't work directly with insurance companies, you might still be able to get some money back for your therapy sessions through your insurance plan. You'll need to pay for your sessions upfront, but Growing Self will give you a superbill that you can submit to your insurance company for reimbursement. To qualify, you'll need to be diagnosed with a mental health condition, be working with a licensed therapist (not a coach), and have insurance that covers out-of-network providers. For couples counseling, one partner needs to have a diagnosis that's the focus of treatment. Once you've met your deductible, your insurance might pay you back for part of the cost. (Good news if you have a Flex Healthcare Spending Account - you can use that too.)

Alternative support options that won't break the bank

If you're not ready to commit to full therapy sessions, Growing Self offers several more affordable ways to work on yourself and your relationship. You can book a one-time "Solution Session" for quick, focused advice, or join group programs like their "Lifetime of Love" premarital class (which saves you 75% compared to private sessions) or their supportive Divorce & Breakup Recovery group. They also offer online courses - there's the Happiness Class with 14 sessions worth of tools for under $100 (compared to $2,000 for private sessions), a "Heal Your Broken Heart" course based on scientific research about getting over exes, and a strategic dating course called "Find The One" that helps you avoid those dreaded situationships. Plus, you'll find tons of free resources on their blog and podcast, including relationship quizzes, journaling prompts, and expert advice.

HIPAA-compliant

Your privacy and security at Growing Self are protected through several safeguards. The platform keeps your sensitive information secure in a HIPAA-compliant records system that won't share your data with outside parties (which is exactly what you want from a therapy service). You'll be glad to know that only authorized staff members with password access can view your personal details, and they use encryption to protect sensitive information like credit card numbers.

You won't find public reviews

You won't find many public reviews of Growing Self online, and there's actually a good reason for that. The company takes an ethical stance against asking clients to post public reviews, since therapy is deeply personal and confidential. They believe that asking clients to reveal their therapy experiences on social media or Google would compromise privacy.

Plenty of testimonials to be found on their website

Instead of public reviews, Growing Self shares anonymous feedback from their clients right on their website. Their clients consistently praise the therapists for being good listeners, teaching effective communication techniques, and making couples feel welcomed and heard. Many highlight specific benefits like learning "I feel/I need" communication methods and completing relationship quizzes that reveal similarities and differences between partners. The testimonials paint a picture of Growing Self therapists who are direct, unbiased, and skilled at helping couples work through challenging issues.

Growing Self is worth considering despite some website quirks

While Growing Self's website navigation leaves something to be desired (seriously, who hides important pricing info in a blog post?), the core service offerings are impressive. You'll find highly qualified therapists with advanced degrees, evidence-based treatment approaches, and flexible pricing options through their sliding scale. The combination of therapy and coaching services, along with alternative support options like group programs and online courses, makes this a solid choice for couples seeking relationship help. If you can look past the frustrating website organization, Growing Self delivers what matters most: quality mental health care from experienced professionals at a fair price.

Relationship Hero

• Cost: Regular sessions around $250/hour, intro sessions starting at $150. Coaches set their own rates
• 60-minute sessions
• Sessions conducted through Zoom (video/audio), phone, or text
• Coach certification information available in their profiles
• Focus on present challenges and future goals, providing practical advice and action plans
• Workbooks and guided questions between sessions
• 4.7-star average from nearly 2,000 reviews.
• 24/7 availability
• Comprehensive client handbook

Started in 2017, Relationship Hero offers 24/7 relationship coaching that's focused on helping you achieve specific goals in your dating and relationship life. Whether you're trying to improve your dating life or navigate a breakup, their coaches provide personalized action plans and practical advice through video, phone, or text sessions. While they've helped over 100,000 clients, it's important to understand that this is relationship coaching, not therapy - they can't help with mental health issues, trauma, abuse situations, or provide medical advice. Their approach focuses on present challenges and future goals rather than past traumas.

Coaches set their own prices

You can browse all of Relationship Hero's coaches on the "Coaches” page. The layout could be better - it's just a long, alphabetical-order list with no ability to filter by specific preferences or to sort by price. (Our sympathies to any coach whose name starts with ‘Z' - we doubt anyone is making it that far down the page.) On each profile, however, you'll find detailed information about each coach's background, specialties, and client reviews. For example, take Laura - she specializes in relationship coaching with expertise in trauma-informed care and mindfulness techniques. She creates a judgment-free environment where you can work on everything from dating complexities to self-connection. Laura's pricing structure includes options like a $160 introductory session, standard one-hour sessions at $200, or more cost-effective packages such as the 4-session bundle at $170 per hour ($680 total) or monthly subscriptions starting at $640 for 4 sessions.

All coaches follow the same guidelines

Although Relationship Hero's coaches set their own prices and have their own styles, you can expect any coach you choose to follow a consistent approach focused on helping you reach your goals. Your coach will give you practical advice that's easy to follow and actually helps you make progress. They'll help you gain deeper insights about yourself and your relationships, teaching you specific strategies like how to handle conflict with a partner who tends to avoid tough conversations. Through guided questions and workbooks, they'll help you discover your own answers to challenging questions like whether to reconnect with an ex. Most importantly, you can trust that your coach will look at your situation objectively and give you honest feedback without judgment - even when the truth might be hard to hear.

4-step process to create an action plan

When you start your first coaching session (called a Strategy Session), you'll begin by filling out a Relationship Profiler questionnaire that helps your coach understand your personality and relationships. The session itself follows a clear four-step process: first, there's a discovery phase where your coach asks questions to deeply understand your situation and goals. Next, they'll assess your situation and identify any potential roadblocks you might not have noticed. Finally, they'll work with you to create a personalized action plan, which includes both long-term strategies and immediate steps you can take (and hey, they'll even help you craft the perfect text message if that's what you need). Throughout the whole process, the focus stays on getting you from where you are to where you want to be, with clear progress markers along the way.

Comprehensive handbook available to learn more about their framework

Still apprehensive? We recommend checking out Relationship Hero's "client handbook” to get an idea of the kinds of concepts you'll be working through in a session with your coach. The handbook covers all the essentials - from understanding what relationship coaching is and how it differs from therapy, to practical tools like the Strategy Session Toolkit and communication skills. You'll learn about core relationship issues, ways to handle triggering events, and specific dating advice for different situations (though it's worth noting that while they have sections titled "For Men Dating Women” and "For Women Dating Men” they don't specifically address LGBTQ+ dating, even though their ethics code prohibits any homophobic discrimination). The handbook also explores important personal development areas like self-awareness, compassion, and forgiveness, plus practical skills like message writing.

Not a replacement for therapy...

Because it isn't traditional therapy, Relationship Hero won't be able to help you if your situation involves any kind of violence, abuse, or dangerous behavior. This includes physical violence, emotional abuse, manipulation, stalking, or harassment. They also can't help with legal issues like court cases or protective orders, or if anyone involved is underage or under the influence. Additionally, they don't handle situations involving self-harm, suicidal thoughts, sexual assault, or financial control. Finally, they can't provide medical advice or formal therapy services (so if you need a diagnosis or medication, you'll need to see a licensed healthcare provider). If your situation might fall into any of these categories, they'll need to review it carefully to determine if they can safely provide coaching.

...though it's about as expensive

You won't be able to use your insurance directly with Relationship Hero, though they'll give you documentation if you want to try getting reimbursed from your provider. It's unfortunate that it's impossible to sort coaches by price, but we clicked through several profiles and the cheapest offering we found was $150 for an introductory one-on-one session, with regular hourly sessions typically running about $250 after that unless purchased in bulk. That puts Relationship Hero in the same price range as traditional therapy sessions. It also seems like you purchase credits to be used with a coach rather than purchasing sessions directly, but it's not explored in detail on the main website - we had to find more information in the Terms of Service agreement.

Credits can expire

You can get your money back for any unused coaching credits if you request a refund within 30 days of purchase. If you've already had coaching sessions and want a refund, the company will review your request within 72 hours - but they'll only approve it if they decide you didn't receive their highest-quality coaching. And here's something to watch out for - your credits will expire after 6 months unless stated otherwise, and if you deactivate your account, you'll lose any unused credits with no chance of a refund. For monthly subscribers, there's an automatic safeguard in place - if you haven't used the service for 6 weeks, they'll pause your subscription so you don't keep getting charged.

You can request your data to be deleted

While live coaching sessions happen through Zoom and will therefore be subject to Zoom's data policies, Relationship Hero does collect some of your data. They gather cookies and usage data, plus any personal information you provide during signup and sessions. The company shares your data with various third parties including administrators, marketing teams, and technical service providers. Your data could be transferred to other countries, and they'll keep it as long as they need it for their purposes or legal obligations. (Not exactly the minimal data collection you'd hope for from a therapy-adjacent service, right?). On the bright side, you do have some control - you can request access to your data, ask for corrections, restrict processing, or even have your data deleted. They also promise to take appropriate security measures to prevent unauthorized access, though the details of these measures aren't specified.

Reviews are largely positive

With nearly 2,000 reviews averaging 4.7 stars, most clients seem happy with Relationship Hero's coaching services. Most of the reviews mention specific counselors, which makes sense - Relationship Hero provides the framework for coaching sessions, but otherwise, it only seems to act as a platform for freelance relationship coaches to connect with you, the client. We found lots of glowing reviews praising specific coaches for being understanding, unbiased, and effective at helping with everything from marriage issues to personal growth.

Make sure you understand your coach's policies

If you decide to go with Relationship Hero, there are a few minor drawbacks to keep in mind. Your coach might suddenly leave the platform without warning, which can feel pretty jarring if you've built up a relationship with them. You'll also want to carefully read your specific coach's policies - they can override the platform's standard rules about things like credit expiration dates. (One client learned this the hard way when she lost $458 in credits because her coach had a shorter expiration period than the platform's default 6-month policy.) But, we think you'll get practical, actionable advice focused on your specific goals here. The platform's high ratings and meticulous framework suggest it's worth exploring if you can find a coach you can afford. (Maybe bookmark your favorites instead of trying to find them again in that endless alphabetical list.)

E-Therapy Cafe

• Cost: Trial session $55, Regular sessions $65, Monthly package (8 sessions) $470, Quarterly package (24 sessions) $440, Email support $65
• E-journal option (700 words with 24-48 hour response time)
• One free emergency cancellation per 6 months
• 30-minute video calls, with option to schedule back-to-back sessions
• All therapists are licensed, all coaches are certified
• HIPAA-compliant platform
• 10% discount for military, students, and first responders
• Instant chat messaging capabilities
• Virtual journaling with therapist feedback
• Easy therapist switching process

The E-Therapy Café company emerged from a military spouse's personal experience with virtual counseling during deployment. Today, it's an online therapy platform that offers video sessions, instant chats, and virtual journaling with licensed therapists and certified life coaches. The company has earned recognition from major news outlets like ABC, NBC, and Forbes, and aims to make mental health support accessible and convenient by letting you connect with professionals from anywhere, at any time. Their mission focuses on providing professional, affordable therapy that works around your schedule, with a special emphasis on supporting military families and others with transient lifestyles.

The signup process is straightforward but requires multiple steps

Every E-Therapy Café therapist is fully licensed and every coach (who they call "Life Baristas" - yes, really - they're committed to this bit) is certified, so you can be confident you're getting professional care. You start by choosing your therapist and plan (or getting help with the selection), then complete a registration form on their website. After registering, you'll receive a welcome email with access to your private "E-Space" where you can connect with your therapist and schedule appointments.

Sessions are short, but you can schedule more

E-Therapy Café sessions are short at just 30 minutes long, though you can schedule back-to-back sessions for longer conversations. You can communicate through video calls, chat sessions, or E-journals (which allow you to write up to 700 words and receive a response within 24-48 hours).

Matching and switching made easy

If you're not clicking with your therapist, switching is hassle-free - just email their help desk and they'll handle the change without any awkward conversations. You can either pick a new therapist yourself or get recommendations based on your preferences.

Trial sessions starting at $55

E-Therapy Café offers you flexible online counseling with several pricing options to fit your needs. Here's what you can choose from:

• A trial session for $55 that lets you test the waters
• Regular "ETC Straight" sessions at $65 each, with half-hour slots that you can extend
• A monthly package called "ETC Flex" at $470 for 8 sessions ($58.75 per session)
• A quarterly commitment "ETC90" priced at $440 ($55 per session) for 24 sessions over 90 days
• Between-session email support "ETC Reflect" for $65

And if you need an Emotional Support Animal prescription, that's available for $170. (Worth noting: all fees need to be paid 24 hours before your session.)

Insurance not directly accepted

When it comes to paying for E-Therapy Café's services, you'll need to handle everything through their secure "E-Space" platform where you can safely enter your payment details. They take major credit cards (Visa, MasterCard, and American Express), but keep in mind they're strictly digital - no checks or phone payments allowed. While they don't directly accept insurance, you can request a monthly superbill to submit to your insurance company for possible reimbursement. (Just remember that reimbursement only works with licensed therapists, and your state's laws might affect what's covered.) E-Therapy Café also offers 10% discounts for military, students, and first responders.

Your sessions can expire

E-Therapy Café's cancellation policy could trip you up if you aren't aware of it beforehand. Your pre-paid sessions expire after 30 days from purchase with no rollovers, and you must give at least 24 hours' notice to cancel or reschedule appointments. If you miss this window, you'll be charged the full session fee - and this applies even for work-related cancellations. There's a 15-minute grace period for appointments, and while they generally don't offer refunds, they do make exceptions for serious emergencies like accidents or severe illness (and you get one free emergency cancellation every six months). (Pro tip: For Monday appointments, remember to cancel by Friday, or you'll still be charged.)

Your data is protected

E-Therapy Café takes your privacy and security seriously, using a HIPAA-compliant platform with state-of-the-art protection measures. When it comes to your sessions and personal information, the platform doesn't store sensitive data in emails (only login notifications are sent), and all your data is backed up hourly with encryption. Your therapeutic records, including transcripts and notes, are owned by you and your practitioner - not E-Therapy Café - and are stored according to Virginia state laws. The platform maintains strict confidentiality policies, though there are some legal exceptions where information might need to be disclosed, such as if you're in danger or if there's a court order.

Not much talk about E-Therapy Café

We didn't find many customer reviews of E-Therapy Café online, and even their website doesn't appear to feature testimonials about their services (which is somewhat unusual for a therapy platform). The only place you can actually see what clients think is on individual coach profile pages, where the reviews are consistently positive. While there's no reason to suspect anything concerning about this lack of reviews, it would definitely be helpful to see more real feedback from couples who've used their services.

E-Therapy Café has potential but isn't our first choice

After reviewing E-Therapy Café's services, we have mixed feelings about recommending their platform. While we like their flexible scheduling options, the 30-minute session length is concerningly short for meaningful therapeutic progress - especially for couples therapy where two people need to share that limited time. The lack of substantial user reviews also makes it difficult to fully evaluate their service quality. (And we have to admit, the "Life Barista" terminology feels a bit childish.) While E-Therapy Café might work as a temporary solution if you're in a pinch - particularly for military families or those with unpredictable schedules - we'd recommend exploring other online therapy options first that offer full-length sessions and more established track records.

Regain

• Cost: $70 to $100 per week, billed every 4 weeks
• Session length: 30-45 minutes for live sessions
• Video chat, phone calls, and 24/7 messaging through their portal
• Licensed professionals (PhD, LMFT, LCSW) with at least 3 years and 1,000 hours experience
• Can start solo and invite partner later

Regain is an online platform where you can get relationship therapy from licensed professionals, either by yourself or with your partner. You'll be able to access therapy from anywhere using your computer or phone, which is super convenient if you and your partner have different schedules or live in different places. (Think of it as relationship counseling that fits into your life, not the other way around.) While it's primarily focused on couples, you can start solo if you want to work on relationship issues, and your partner can join later. The service is actually run by BetterHelp, and if you're looking for individual therapy for non-relationship issues, they'll direct you to their main platform instead.

The matching process is thorough and personal

When you sign up for Regain, you'll complete a detailed matching quiz that covers everything from basic demographics to specific therapy preferences. The questionnaire asks about your relationship status (including options for polyamory), living situation, therapy history, and what you're hoping to get out of counseling. You can even specify preferences for your therapist's characteristics, including their religion, ethnicity, or LGBTQ+ status.

Therapist credentials are solid

All Regain therapists must be licensed professionals with impressive credentials - we're talking PhDs, LMFTs, LCSWs, or similar qualifications. They need at least 3 years and 1,000 hours of hands-on experience, plus state licensing. Once you're matched (which usually happens within 48 hours), you can always switch therapists if the fit isn't quite right.

Partner involvement is flexible

You have the freedom to start therapy solo and invite your partner later, or begin together right from the start. Adding your partner is straightforward - just enter their email and phone number, and they'll get an invite link to join your account. (It's nice to have options, especially if your partner isn't quite ready to jump in yet.)

Pricing is straightforward but cancellation can be tricky

You'll pay between $70 to $100 per week for therapy through Regain, with the exact amount depending on factors like where you live and which therapist you're matched with. While they say you can cancel anytime, there's a catch - according to customer reviews, they bill for 4 sessions at once and won't refund unused sessions. It's not made very obvious that you're signing up for a subscription service when you join Regain. To cancel, you'll need to navigate through your account settings, either on your computer or phone, but some users report having trouble actually getting their cancellations processed. If you do sign up, you might want to keep detailed records of your account and any communication with customer service - just to be on the safe side.

Communication happens through messages and live sessions

Once you're matched with a therapist, you can start messaging them right away through the platform. You can write about what's on your mind whenever you want, and your therapist will respond with guidance and feedback when they're available. If you invite your partner to join, they'll be able to see all written messages too. This shared visibility helps keep everything transparent, which is supposed to help you build trust with your partner. However, if you need some one-on-one time with your therapist, you'll need to schedule a private live session.

Live sessions give you face-to-face time with your therapist

When you want to have a real-time conversation, you can schedule a live session that lasts 30-45 minutes. You get to choose between video chat (if you want that face-to-face connection) or phone calls (if you prefer more privacy or flexibility). Booking is straightforward - just pick a time slot that works for you and your partner, then log in when it's time for your session. Your therapist will guide you through joining, whether it's clicking into a video room or waiting for their call.

Your privacy starts with anonymity

When you first sign up for Regain, you'll only need to create a nickname - no need to share your full name or contact details. You'll only need to provide emergency contact information once you start therapy sessions. This way, your therapist can reach out if they're seriously worried about your safety or someone else's.

Your therapist follows strict professional guidelines

Your Regain couples therapist will be a licensed professional who must follow the same confidentiality rules as in-person therapy. While they'll keep most things private, they are required by law to report serious threats of self-harm or harm to others. You can always ask your therapist about their specific confidentiality obligations before starting your sessions.

Your information is protected by serious security

Regain uses bank-level encryption to protect your messages and personal information. Their servers are housed in high-security AWS data centers, and they've earned a HITRUST certification for their security practices. You can delete any messages you've sent, and since Regain doesn't work with insurance companies, your information stays just between you and your therapist.

The reviews tell a mixed story about Regain's service

You'll find quite a divide in how couples rate Regain: while it has impressive app store ratings (4.8 on iOS and 4.5 on Google Play), it only manages a 3.0 on Trustpilot with a polarizing split between 5-star (48%) and 1-star (43%) reviews. The platform has also earned an "F" grade from the BBB. (Yikes, that's quite a range of opinions!)

Most complaints center around billing and therapist matching issues

The biggest frustrations users report include unexpected upfront monthly charges, difficulties getting refunds, and problems with therapist matching. Some users have experienced last-minute cancellations, unresponsive therapists, or being matched with therapists who later couldn't provide the requested services. However, when the matching works out, users report significant benefits - like one couple who found their sessions increasingly helpful and credited Regain with helping save their marriage.

Not recommended

It's true that Regain offers some compelling benefits - licensed therapists, flexible scheduling, and the ability to do therapy from anywhere with your partner. However, you can easily find these same benefits elsewhere - from services that don't trick you into a hard-to-cancel subscription. We can't recommend Regain at this time when there are many better alternatives available for similar prices.

Octave

• Cost: $185 to $195 per session out-of-pocket, or average $32 with insurance
• All therapists accept insurance, coverage ranges from 60-90%
• Handles insurance paperwork directly
• 45-minute sessions
• HIPAA-compliant video platform, with in-person options in LA, SF, Oakland, NY, and Philadelphia
• Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists (LMFT)
• Therapeutic approaches: EFT, IBCT, and Gottman Method
• "A" BBB rating
• Detailed intake process
• Can help with deeper issues beyond basic relationship coaching

Octave was created with the goal to make therapy both easier to access and more effective. Founded in 2018, they focus on creating personalized treatment plans backed by science to help you and your partner work through challenges together. Their therapists use proven methods to help you achieve real, measurable progress in your relationship. And unlike some therapy services that only offer relationship coaching, Octave's licensed professionals can help you tackle deeper issues too.

Couples therapy costs more

When you seek couples therapy through Octave, you'll be working with a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT). These specialists charge more than individual therapists because they're specifically trained for relationship work and handle a higher workload managing multiple clients simultaneously.

Therapists may be trained in EFT, IBCT, and/or the Gottman Method

Your couples therapist at Octave might use one or several proven therapeutic approaches to help strengthen your relationship. These include Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), which helps couples work through trust and abandonment issues to build more secure attachments; Integrative Behavioral Couples Therapy (IBCT), which focuses on building emotional acceptance and understanding between partners; and the Gottman Method, which works to replace negative patterns with positive interactions and helps couples maintain fondness while managing conflicts effectively.

Detailed intake process

You'll start by filling out a comprehensive questionnaire that covers the basics (contact info, location, schedule preferences) and then digs deeper into your specific needs. Unlike basic couples coaching services, Octave is prepared to help you through heavier issues that might be affecting your relationship - from grief and substance abuse to LGBTQ+ concerns. You'll also complete mental health screenings (GAD-7 and PHQ-9), and can specify any particular requirements for your therapist in a text box. It should take no more than 3 days to be matched with your provider.

Pay as little as $32 per session with insurance

If you're paying out-of-pocket, you'll see an estimated price based on the location information you provided in your intake form. We were given an estimate of around $185 to $195 per session. When using insurance for couples therapy at Octave, you'll find that the average copayment is around $32 per session. Your insurance company might cover between 60% to 90% of the total fee, depending on your specific plan. One advantage of working with Octave is that all their therapists accept insurance, and the company handles the insurance paperwork directly - this means your therapist can focus on providing care rather than dealing with administrative tasks. To figure out your exact costs, you can use Octave's cost calculator, which factors in your location and insurance provider to give you a personalized estimate.

In-person appointments possible for a few locations

You'll primarily meet with your therapist through Octave's secure, HIPAA-compliant video platform on a weekly basis. While most appointments are virtual, you might be able to see your therapist in person if you live in Los Angeles, San Francisco, Oakland, New York, or Philadelphia. For virtual sessions, you'll get reminder emails with your unique video link, and if you do opt for in-person therapy, you'll still start with a virtual intake session before getting office details for future meetings. Octave isn't explicit about how long their video sessions last, but most people report them to be 45 minutes long.

Your information is protected by HIPAA regulations

Your privacy and confidentiality are taken seriously at Octave - everything you discuss with your therapist stays private and protected under HIPAA regulations. Your therapist will keep all your conversations confidential, with only a few important exceptions that they'll explain at the start of treatment (like if there's an immediate risk to your or someone else's safety). This commitment to privacy helps create a trusted space where you can work through challenging issues openly and honestly.

Not a subscription service, but canceling could give you trouble

Octave isn't a membership - you'll pay per session, but they're automatically scheduled ahead of time. If you want to cancel your upcoming appointments, you have a few options: you can talk directly with your therapist, reach out to a Care Navigator, send an email to support, or cancel through their Client Portal. (Though based on some pretty heated customer feedback, you might want to double-check that your cancellation went through properly to avoid any surprise charges.) If you're just looking to switch therapists rather than quit completely, your current therapist can help start that process (...awkward...), and a Care Navigator should contact you within 1-4 business days to help find a new match.

Not many people are talking about Octave online

You'll find pretty mixed reviews about Octave's therapy services anywhere you look on the internet, with only a handful of reviews to be found and a mediocre 3-star average rating from these. While Octave maintains an "A" rating from the Better Business Bureau, the "Complaints” page has a little too much traffic for our liking. The biggest issues center around insurance confusion and billing problems, with several users feeling led to believe that their insurance would be accepted by Octave when it actually wasn't. The platform itself seems to have technical hiccups, with scheduling mishaps and poor customer support response times. It's not all doom and gloom, though - a few clients like the convenient pre-booking system and consistency of appointments.

Reviews of couples therapy are only available via website testimonials

When it comes to Octave's couples therapy specifically, you'll only find testimonials directly from their website, and as expected, they paint a positive picture. Clients who've used their couples therapy services consistently report strong results, with several mentioning improved communication skills and finding well-matched therapists who effectively engaged with their relationship issues. You'll hear stories about couples who successfully "graduated" from therapy after learning valuable tools for patience and mutual understanding. The matching process seems to be a particular bright spot, with clients praising how quickly and accurately they were paired with the right therapist for their needs (though it's worth keeping in mind these are company-selected testimonials, so they're naturally going to skew positive).

Doesn't live up to most appealing promises

You might find Octave's couples therapy appealing at first glance with their licensed therapists and promises of insurance coverage, but you should think twice before signing up. While they do offer real therapy with qualified professionals, their biggest selling point - those advertised $32 sessions with insurance - often leads to frustrating surprises when the bill arrives. Between the confusing insurance process and administrative hassles, we can't recommend their service right now.

Talkspace

• Cost: $109/week when paid monthly, or $99/week paid quarterly
• Includes messaging and four 30-minute video sessions per month
• Works with major providers including Cigna, Optum, Aetna, TRICARE. Most users pay $0 copay
• FSA/HSA can be used for reimbursement
• Accessible via web browsers (Chrome recommended, Edge, Firefox, Safari) and mobile apps (iOS/Android)
• Licensed therapists, though many have less than 1 year experience
• Can join sessions together or from separate locations

You've probably seen ads for Talkspace, a New York-based online therapy platform founded in 2012 that promises convenient, affordable mental health care through your phone or computer. They offer both messaging and live video sessions with licensed therapists in your state. Despite their aggressive marketing and big claims about affordability, we have reason to be a bit skeptical about whether they can deliver on all their promises.

5-minute assessment to be matched with a therapist

When you start couples therapy with Talkspace, you'll take a brief 5-minute matching quiz that helps find the right therapist for your needs. (Only one partner needs to fill out the quiz.) You'll be asked about your goals for therapy, including things like improving communication, understanding each other better, or working on intimacy. You can specify what you want in a therapist, such as someone who assigns homework, teaches new skills, or focuses on challenging beliefs. The questionnaire covers practical details like your living situation, relationship history, and scheduling preferences. After sharing some basic information about your identity, location, and payment preferences, you'll be presented with your plan options.

From $99/week when paid out-of-pocket

We opted for out-of-pocket payment and were shown just one plan: couples therapy at $109 a week when paid monthly. It includes messaging via text and audio, as well as four 30-minute video sessions each month. Paying quarterly gets you 10% off, for $99 a week. You won't be charged until you've been matched with your provider.

Covered by most major health insurance providers

Got insurance coverage? Talkspace works with many major insurance providers (including Cigna, Optum, Aetna, and TRICARE), and you can also use employer coverage or Employee Assistance Programs (EAP) to help cover the cost. Talkspace advertises that "most people” pay a $0 copay. Paying out-of-pocket? You can submit your bills to your FSA or HSA and potentially get back 50-90% of the cost.

Limited in-session time could do more harm than good

You might want to think about whether Talkspace's four 30-minute video sessions per month will really give you and your partner enough time to work through relationship challenges effectively. That's just one hour of face-to-face time per person monthly, which feels almost comically insufficient for tackling serious issues like communication breakdowns or trust rebuilding. When you're dealing with complex relationship dynamics, having such limited session time could leave conversations unfinished and emotions unprocessed. It might actually increase tension between sessions, especially if you hit a sensitive topic but run out of time to work through it properly. While there is a messaging feature, it's not the same as having dedicated time with a therapist who can mediate difficult conversations and guide you through emotional moments in real-time.

You can access Talkspace on multiple devices and browsers

You can use Talkspace on your computer through popular browsers like Google Chrome (which they recommend for the best experience), Microsoft Edge, Firefox, or Safari. The platform is also available on iPhones, iPads, and Android devices, so you can continue text conversations across different devices. Couples can join therapy sessions either together on one device or separately from different locations, with each person using their own device for the video call.

Technical issues could seriously disrupt your therapy

Unfortunately, many Talkspace users report significant technical problems with the live session platform. We found quite a few complaints about sessions where video and audio wouldn't work properly for one or both parties, despite trying different devices and browsers. In some cases, technical difficulties ate up almost the entire session time, leaving just minutes for actual therapy - and users were still charged for the full session.

Most providers have minimal experience

According to customer reviews, one common frustration with Talkspace's couples therapy is that you'll only see one provider match at a time, so you might have to go through a dud (or a few) before you find a couples therapist you like. There's also no private chat room outside the shared therapy space. Many people express concerns about therapist experience levels, with some providers having less than a year of practice. (But at least Talkspace is transparent about their therapists' experience levels, even if some are relatively new to the field).

You should know about some serious privacy concerns with Talkspace

There have been multiple controversies surrounding Talkspace's handling of user data and privacy. In 2020, the New York Times revealed that Talkspace employees had been reading therapy session transcripts and were told to post fake app store reviews using burner phones. The company has faced criticism from psychologists for violating patient confidentiality, using questionable psychological practices, and employing therapists with uncertain qualifications. In 2018, the American Psychological Association was so troubled by these issues that they banned Talkspace from their conferences. (Talkspace tried to fight back with a $40 million defamation lawsuit that was ultimately dismissed.)

Not recommended

We also found reports of therapists showing up to sessions from their cars, some who appeared to be under the influence of drugs or alcohol, and of therapists who don't seem interested enough to ask questions. (That's probably a consequence of hiring inexperienced therapists.) Talkspace has a lot of positive reviews and high average ratings when you look them up on independent review platforms, but knowing they've been caught leaving fake reviews in the past, that isn't worth much. It's also quite expensive at $3.30 per minute of face-to-face session time. The bottom line: you have much more credible options for online couples therapy than Talkspace. Check out one of our higher-rated services instead.

Our Ritual

• Cost: Individual $128/month (20-minute sessions), couples from $208/month (40 minutes)
• Team includes psychologists, marriage and family therapists, and clinical social workers
• Emotionally Focused Therapy and Gottman Method approaches
• Video lessons, quizzes, and journaling exercises through their app
• Can work individually or as a couple
• Organized into "Pathways" matched to specific goals
• Flexible scheduling

OurRitual (previously known just as Ritual) is an Israeli startup that wants to make an important distinction upfront: they're not offering traditional therapy. Instead, they provide a hybrid approach that combines therapy elements with relationship education. However, what they don't say outright is that their "not-therapy” classification means your sessions aren't protected by standard medical privacy laws, and your data and recorded sessions could potentially be shared with third parties or law enforcement.

40-minute sessions for couples

You'll work with licensed professionals (including psychologists, marriage counselors, and social workers trained in methods like Emotionally Focused Therapy). The program includes regular video sessions over Zoom (though they don't specify how regular), and you'll get access to their app with videos and exercises targeting your specific needs. They've designed it so you can work on your relationship either individually or with your partner. Video sessions for individuals appear to be 20 minutes, while couple sessions are 40 minutes - a bit shorter than traditional couples therapy, but still longer than some of OurRitual's rivals.

The structure is flexible but focused

The program is organized into units called "Pathways" that are matched to your specific goals. Most people spend 1-2 months on each Pathway and often continue with additional ones afterward. (Though unfortunately, they keep the actual Pathway content under wraps until you sign up).

Quizzes, journaling, and video lessons to complete

When you begin the first week of your chosen Pathway, you'll get access to a variety of learning materials including video lessons, quizzes, and journaling exercises that you can complete through text, video, or audio responses. Your therapist will review everything you submit and discuss it with you in your next session. You'll even get notifications when your therapist is reviewing your work and when their feedback is ready.

The matching process starts with a detailed quiz

To sign up for OurRitual, you'll go through an intake quiz that helps match you with the right expert and program. You'll answer questions about your relationship status, length of relationship, and specific areas where you need support - whether that's communication issues, managing conflict, or working on intimacy. The quiz also covers personal details like your age, sexual orientation (which they somewhat oddly call a "preference”), gender identity, and whether you have children. They also screen for mental health issues you've experienced in the last 6 months, and they make sure you know that OurRitual can bring up sensitive or triggering subjects that might require traditional therapy to deal with if you're not in a good place.

You have flexibility in how you proceed

After the quiz, you can choose whether to start therapy individually or as a couple. (Interestingly, they claim that 70% of relationship improvements can be made individually). If you're not satisfied with your expert, you can request a switch by contacting their support team.

Couples' sessions start at $52/week

OurRitual shows you different pricing tiers based on whether you're joining solo or as a couple. Individual plans start at $128 monthly ($32/week). For couples, you can choose between weekly payments at $78/week, a 3-month plan at $65/week, or get the best value with a 6-month commitment at $52/week.

Watch out for the fine print

OurRitual isn't covered by insurance, and there are some important terms to keep in mind. While they offer a 14-day money-back guarantee, it comes with strict conditions like having only attended the welcome session (no follow-ups) and not having canceled or no-showed it. Here's something sneaky to watch for - if you cancel a multi-month plan early, you'll be charged the difference between your discounted rate and the regular monthly rate for the months you used.

Video sessions may be recorded

According to one customer review we found, OurRitual will record your video sessions. You can keep your camera off if you prefer, but you can't opt out of recording. (We would have appreciated OurRitual being more upfront about this on their website.) The platform encrypts all your lesson data, at least, and you can choose how much personal information you want to share in your responses.

Not HIPAA-compliant

That said, there are a few more privacy concerns to be aware of when using OurRitual's services. They collect and use your personal information in various ways. You must provide basic details like your name, email, and phone number when registering. (While they allow you to sign up with a nickname, we imagine that your real name will still be attached to your account if you're paying with a credit card.) The company says they use your data to personalize services, improve their platform, and send you marketing materials. However, they also share information with service providers, affiliates, and potentially new owners if the company is sold. Most worryingly, they explicitly state that none of your shared information is privileged or protected by typical therapy privacy standards. Despite their claim to protect your information with "commercially reasonable" security measures, they may share your data (including your recorded video sessions) with law enforcement if they believe there's a safety threat (which seems concerningly broad and subjective).

Legitimate reviews are hard to find

You'll find very few legitimate reviews of OurRitual online, with most positive reviews appearing on paid sites or seeming suspiciously AI-generated. One detailed negative review from a real customer describes a frustrating experience where they received short, unproductive sessions (15 minutes for one-on-one, 30 minutes for a couple's session) with an unqualified "Expert” who relied heavily on worksheets and pre-recorded content.

You have to hunt down a hidden email address to cancel

That reviewer faced major billing issues too - after deleting their account and app, they were charged triple their original amount. When they complained, the company first promised a refund but then backtracked, claiming the customer hadn't properly canceled their subscription by emailing a hidden address. (If a therapy platform makes it this hard to cancel and charges you sneakily, that's a pretty big red flag.)

OurRitual raises too many red flags to recommend

While OurRitual's advertised pricing for couples therapy starting at $52/week might draw you in, we're seriously concerned about this company's practices. The short session lengths, hidden cancellation requirements, and questionable billing practices are bad, sure, but common enough. What really alarms us is their surveillance-heavy approach - with mandatory session recordings and broad data collection policies that aren't HIPAA-compliant. OurRitual seems like a service with ulterior motives (and come to think of it, the name doesn't exactly inspire overwhelming feelings of trust, either). We'd encourage you to choose a more established and transparent online therapy platform for your relationship counseling needs.