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Couples Learn Review

Monday, February 10th

2025 Online Marriage Counseling Reviews

Couples Learn Review 4 Star Rating

Couples Learn

4 Star Rating
  • Price ranges from $175 to $450
  • Free 30-minute consultation
  • Highly qualified therapists with master's or doctoral degree in psychology and additional training in love and relationships
  • Weekend and evening availability
  • Additional features and services, including quizzes and e-learning opportunities
  • Positive feedback from Google and Yelp reviews

Couples Learn was founded in 2014 by Dr. Sarah Schewitz, a highly respected therapist with a passion for helping couples. Dr. Schewitz's approach has been lauded as both empathetic and insightful, and she draws from her expertise in relationship and trauma recovery therapy to provide practical advice that really works.

Wide ranging expertise

She's been featured in outlets like Forbes, CNN, and The Washington Post. Her expertise includes Trauma Recovery and Imago Relationship Therapy, and she's highly trained in marriage counseling, attachment styles, and recovering from codependency, betrayal, infidelity, and narcissistic abuse. Dr. Sarah believes that exploring past experiences can help us understand our current behavior and make positive changes.

Straightforward sign-up

The journey to becoming a part of Couples Learn is simple, streamlined, and user-friendly.

  • First, you'll set up a free 30-minute chat with a therapist of your choosing. You set the date and time for the appointment. No payment is needed to reserve an appointment; however, a $50 charge applies for no-shows or cancellations made less than 24 hours before the appointment.
  • The next step involves disclosing personal details for you and your spouse. This includes basic data like names and contact information, and filling out a survey to indicate the services you're seeking and your location. We did think the questionnaire would benefit from having a more comprehensive set of questions to help you be matched with the right therapist, but some might prefer to wait to divulge personal information until they've gotten to know their therapist a little better.
  • Once you're registered, a skilled counselor will be assigned to join you on your therapeutic journey. The registration page is easy to navigate, making it simple to find what you're looking for.

Most Couples Learn therapists can only work in California

Couples Learn is primarily based in California, and their therapists may or may not be able to work with clients outside of the state. This information is available on each therapist's profile. However, some clients outside of California may be eligible for coaching services if their needs align with coaching goals. Dr. Sarah Schewitz, the founder of Couples Learn, is licensed in over 35 states and can provide therapy to couples in those states. That's great, but most of the rival marriage counseling services we've reviewed show you only the therapists licensed to work where you live, and there are far more options to choose from on those platforms.

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Counseling vs. coaching explained

Couples Learn offers both counseling and life coaching, but aside from life coaching being offered outside of California, what's the difference? When it comes to personal and mental health, counseling and coaching have different roles to play.

  • Counseling is best for people who have been diagnosed with severe mental illnesses like depression, anxiety, OCD, addiction, PTSD, and others. The focus is on feelings and delving into past problems that might be causing issues in the present. Some health insurance plans cover counseling, which can offer financial relief.
  • On the other hand, life coaching is more directive. It helps clients define and achieve their goals, create plans, and stay accountable. This type of service is generally better suited for clients who are doing okay but need some guidance or motivation in specific areas of their life. Unlike counseling, insurance companies typically don't reimburse life coaching services.
  • When it comes to relationship coaching compared with marriage counseling, there are some differences too. Both focus on building skills and equipping individuals with tools to improve their relationships. However, relationship coaching is usually more appropriate for people who aren't dealing with severe mental health diagnoses or substance abuse. It's important to understand the unique aspects of each service offered by Couples Learn so that you can choose the one that's right for your marriage.

Pricing is high, no discounts

Therapy sessions with Couples Learn can set you back anywhere between $175 to $450 per session. While these rates align with other top-notch specialists based in Los Angeles, they are far higher than other services we have reviewed. Couples Learn also does not offer a sliding scale fee structure due to limited client hours, and we saw no mention of discounts. However, Couples Learn therapists do seem to have more qualifications than the therapists who work for rival marriage counseling services.

Counselors have extensive training

All the counselors at Couples Learn are highly qualified with their master's or doctoral degree in psychology and additional training in love and relationships. They maintain high ethical standards and are regulated by a board. On the other hand, life coaches are not regulated by a board and may still be effective, but you'll need to do your due diligence when hiring an unregulated professional.

No in-network insurance accepted

At Couples Learn, you'll need to pay your therapist directly after each session, and then you can submit a superbill to your insurance for reimbursement. They don't accept in-network insurance, but they're happy to accept out-of-network PPO insurance. Keep in mind that most PPO plans will only reimburse a portion of the session fee (usually between 20-60%), and the amount you receive will depend on your specific plan. Also, if you have a high deductible plan, the reimbursed amounts will likely go towards your deductible instead of being paid out to you.

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Smaller pool of therapists

The Couples Learn team consists of five counselors. This is a much smaller staff than the other services we've reviewed, but if they primarily operate in California, that makes sense. We noticed during the consultation booking process that most appointments were only available 3 weeks out, so if you and your spouse's issues are urgent, you might not be able to get that help right away with Couples Learn.

Detailed therapist info

Under the "Our Team” tab, you can find detailed info on each therapist's approach and values, expertise, and qualifications, and any advanced training they've undergone. This section also includes pricing, with some therapists offering 50-80 minute sessions. The 50-minute sessions range from $135 to $300, while 80-minute sessions cost between $215 and $480. And if you're looking for a quick check-in, some therapists offer shorter, 30-minute sessions at lower rates.

Convenient web-based sessions

Couples Learn makes it easy to connect with a counselor from the comfort of your own home or office. No traffic, no parking, no problem. Couples Learn offers individual therapy, premarital counseling, coaching, and of course, marriage counseling through video calling. You can have sessions once a week or every other week, and the sessions usually last 50 minutes for individuals and either 50 or 80 minutes for couples therapy. The benefit of online counseling sessions is that they will require less time and provide a level of privacy that's hard to match.

Free 30-minute consultation

If you're not sure whether online sessions will work for you and your spouse, Couples Learn offers a free 30-minute consultation. If you're in a long-distance relationship, you'll be glad to see that their online portal allows you and your partner to connect from different places using the provided link in the confirmation email. How's that for convenience?

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Weekend and evening availability

If your schedule is busy during the day, no worries. Dr. Sarah may not be available in the evenings after 6pm, but other therapists can accommodate you with evening and weekend appointments. And if your preferred therapist is fully booked, just shoot them an email to ask about their waitlist. They can usually get you in within a couple of weeks.

Customize your plan based on your needs

Most clients start with weekly sessions during the first 4-6 weeks of marriage counseling with Couples Learn. After that, many switch to a bi-weekly or monthly schedule. The length of therapy can range from short-term (8-10 sessions) for a specific issue to long-term (20+ sessions) for more difficult patterns or personal development. So, depending on what you need, you can work with your counselor to create a plan that works best for you and your relationship.

Couples are front and center

Couples Learn is unique among online therapy services because its therapists are highly trained in couples therapy and have specialized expertise in working with long-distance couples. Unlike therapists who only work with individuals, Couples Learn's therapists have undergone additional training in working with couples, which is an art form that requires years of practice, advanced training, and continued supervision to master.

Additional features and services from Couples Learn

Couples Learn not only offers counseling sessions and online courses, but they also have a ton of additional resources to help with self-discovery and improving relationships. It's great to see a platform that goes beyond traditional therapy and offers tools for people to take control of their own growth and development.

  • Quizzes: The website has several quizzes that aid in understanding your conflict resolution styles, evaluating the health of your relationship, and identifying your attachment style.
  • Blog: Couples Learn's blog, written by Dr. Sarah, is a great resource for articles on a variety of topics, from emotional regulation techniques to the timeline for couples therapy. You can also find information on taking breaks in relationships and understanding EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing).
  • 82-Question Quiz: One interesting feature on the Couples Learn homepage is a free 82-question quiz that helps couples reconnect and deepen their mutual understanding. It's a great way to learn more about yourself and your partner, and it's available for everyone to try out.

Specialize in online couples counseling

The Couples Learn team knows how to handle the unique needs of both partners and make sure the relationship stays healthy. They even give you tools to take home and use on your own, which means you won't have to spend as much time in therapy. In addition, Couples Learn specializes in online couples counseling, which is a rare expertise among therapists who offer online sessions and accommodate couples more as an afterthought.

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E-Learning opportunities with Couples Learn

Couples Learn extends its boundaries beyond online marriage counseling sessions to include two noteworthy courses tailored for self-paced learning.

  • One course, "Getting to Secure Attachment", costs $299 and is aimed at people who want to improve their marriage by changing their attachment style. The course covers topics like identifying your attachment style, effective communication, resolving conflicts, building trust, and understanding the concept of the couple bubble. It's a self-directed learning approach, so you can learn at your own pace. The course is conducted by Hanna Stensby, LMFT, a licensed marriage and family therapist who specializes in healing attachment trauma to foster secure attachments for both couples and individuals alike.
  • If you're dealing with codependency in your life or in a relationship, the "Codependency 101" course might be just what you need. At the time of this evaluation, it was on sale for $19.99 down from $50. Dr. Sarah Schewitz, the licensed psychologist and relationship expert behind Couples Learn, leads the course. You'll learn about recognizing codependency, differentiating between active and passive codependency, and understanding the connection between codependency and narcissism, among other topics.

Negative reviews are rare

According to Google and Yelp reviews, Couples Learn has received overwhelmingly positive feedback. We found one review from a client who had a bit of a rough experience when their therapist quit without warning after only two sessions. The company offered them a free session with a less experienced therapist (but, FYI, they didn't get a refund for those two sessions they had already paid for). Another client found Dr. Sarah's approach transformative in helping them overcome codependency and control issues in their marriage, to the point of saving their relationship. A third client was initially skeptical of marriage counseling but was pleasantly surprised by therapist Kirsten Siewert, who helped them strengthen their relationship through essential communication skills. Overall, Couples Learn has earned more than fifty 5-star reviews on Google and Yelp, indicating that most clients are happy with the service. That's good enough for us.

Strong choice

Overall, Couples Learn seems like a solid choice for online marriage counseling. They have a team of highly qualified therapists who specialize in this type of therapy, and they offer a lot of resources and courses to supplement their services. However, the counseling sessions are a bit pricey and they operate primarily in California, so there's room for improvement in terms of accessibility. But if you're looking for professional relationship assistance and are willing to pay the price, Couples Learn is definitely worth considering. The team seems dedicated to constantly improving and providing practical advice, which is always a good sign when it comes to marriage counseling.

Where Can You Find the Best Online Marriage Counseling?

Online marriage counseling, or couples therapy, is a relatively new way for couples to receive therapeutic services through the internet. This alternative to traditional, in-person therapy sessions is becoming increasingly popular and is a modern solution that provides much-needed intervention and support for struggling relationships.

At the heart of online marriage counseling are licensed therapists. These professionals have a background in psychology or a related field and have specialized training in helping couples navigate the challenges in their relationships. These counselors can provide guidance, strategies, and tools to help partners communicate more effectively, resolve conflicts, and strengthen their emotional connection.

The Best Online Marriage Counseling Services Compare Online Marriage Counseling Services Compare Online Marriage Counseling Reviews What are the best Online Marriage Counseling Services Best Online Marriage Counseling Reviews

Online Marriage Counseling FAQ

Marriage counseling can be helpful for any couple experiencing challenges or conflicts, or seeking to enhance their relationship. It's not just for married couples, but also for those in long-term relationships, engaged couples, or partners facing communication issues, trust concerns, or other difficulties. Seeking the guidance of a professional can offer valuable insights and tools to navigate through these obstacles and foster a healthier, more fulfilling partnership.
In traditional in-person counseling, couples meet face-to-face with their therapist in a physical office setting. On the other hand, online marriage counseling takes place virtually, utilizing video conferencing platforms or chat applications. Both approaches aim to provide support and guidance, but online counseling offers greater flexibility and accessibility, allowing couples to engage in sessions from the comfort of their own homes or other convenient locations.
Online marriage counseling provides a safe and confidential space for couples to address their issues openly. Through interactive discussions with a trained professional, couples can explore their feelings, concerns, and communication patterns. Therapists or counselors can offer practical tools and techniques to improve communication, rebuild trust, and strengthen emotional bonds. The convenience of online sessions also makes it easier for busy couples to prioritize their relationship and work on their issues despite their hectic schedules.
Yes, online marriage counseling can be effective. Studies and real-world experiences have shown that online counseling can yield positive outcomes for couples. The key to its success lies in the commitment and active participation of both partners in the counseling process. Choosing a reputable and qualified therapist with experience in online counseling can further enhance the effectiveness of the sessions.
In marriage counseling, a therapist is a licensed mental health professional with specialized training in psychology, counseling, or social work. They are equipped to diagnose and treat emotional and psychological issues that may be affecting the relationship. A coach, on the other hand, is typically not a licensed mental health professional but may have expertise in relationship coaching and provide guidance and support to improve specific aspects of the relationship, such as communication or conflict resolution. It's essential to choose the professional that aligns best with the couple's needs and goals.
Yes, signing up for online counseling is often straightforward and convenient. Many online counseling platforms have user-friendly registration processes that allow couples to create accounts, choose a suitable therapist, and schedule appointments quickly. The platforms may also offer various payment options and flexible scheduling to accommodate the couple's availability.
The length of online counseling appointments can vary depending on the therapist's approach and the couple's needs. Typically, sessions last around 45 minutes to an hour. Some therapists may offer longer or shorter sessions based on the complexity of the issues being addressed and the couple's preferences.
The number of counseling sessions required can vary based on the specific circumstances and goals of the couple. Some couples may find significant improvements after just a few sessions, while others may benefit from more extended support and ongoing counseling. Ultimately, the couple and their therapist can collaboratively determine the most appropriate duration and frequency of sessions to achieve the desired outcomes.
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Continued from above...

Online marriage counseling can help with a wide range of issues, from infidelity and trust issues to communication breakdowns, parenting conflicts, sexual dissatisfaction, financial stress, and more. And it's not just for couples in trouble: even healthy relationships can benefit from therapy as a way to strengthen their connection and build a strong foundation.

So, how does this work remotely? Online marriage counseling operates through various digital platforms like video conferencing, phone calls, text messages, emails, and chat platforms. Therapists might use one or a combination of these methods to deliver their services. This flexibility can be highly beneficial, especially for couples who are geographically separated due to work or other commitments. Therapy sessions can be scheduled at a time that suits both partners, eliminating commuting time and the hassle of coordinating schedules. It also provides a level of privacy that might not be available with in-person sessions.

This type of counseling is particularly beneficial for couples who live in rural areas with limited access to therapy services. Additionally, it eliminates the geographical barriers that often come with choosing a therapist. This means that couples can find a counselor that suits their needs from a wider range of professionals across the country or even the world.

Wondering about the cost? Online marriage counseling can be affordable, with fees varying depending on the therapist's experience and the length and frequency of sessions. Some insurance plans cover it, so it's worth checking with your provider. There are also low-cost online therapy options and platforms that work on a sliding scale, making therapy accessible to more people.

If you're searching for a marriage counseling service, it's important to keep a few things in mind to make sure you get the best possible care and support. Here are some key factors to consider:

  • Therapist's Credentials and Experience: It's vital to verify that the counselor is a licensed professional with a background in psychology, social work, marriage and family therapy, or a related field. Look for a therapist who specializes in couples or marriage counseling, as they will have more knowledge and experience dealing with relationship issues.
  • Therapy Approach: Therapists use various approaches to address relationship issues, including Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), the Gottman Method, and others. Each technique has a different focus, so research these approaches and consider what might be most helpful for your relationship.
  • Accessibility: The counseling service should be accessible, both in terms of location and scheduling. If you're considering online therapy, make sure you have a reliable internet connection and a quiet, private space where you can talk openly.
  • Communication Style: Every therapist has a unique communication style, and it's crucial to find one that you and your partner both feel comfortable with. Some therapists are more directive and will give you tasks and homework, while others might be more reflective, helping you uncover deeper feelings and patterns.
  • Initial Consultation: Many therapists offer a free or low-cost initial consultation. Use this time to ask questions about their approach, experience, and what you can expect from therapy. It's also a chance to see if you feel a good connection with the therapist, which is crucial for successful therapy.
  • Confidentiality and Privacy: Ensure the service has strict privacy policies and uses secure, encrypted platforms if you're engaging in online therapy.
  • Fees and Insurance: Counseling services can vary widely in cost, so consider your budget and whether the therapist accepts insurance. Some therapists work on a sliding scale, which can make sessions more affordable.
  • Reviews and Recommendations: Reviews from other couples or recommendations from trusted sources can provide insight into the counselor's style and effectiveness.

Top Consumer Reviews has taken the time to evaluate and rank the top online marriage counseling services available today, with the goal of helping you identify the right one for your needs. Our hope is that this information will help you reconnect with your partner, or bring your relationship to new heights.

Compare Online Marriage Counseling Services

Select any 2 Online Marriage Counseling Services to compare them head to head

best-online-marriage-counseling
  • E-Therapy Cafe
  • Sesame
  • Octave
  • Couples Learn
  • Couples Therapy
  • Growing Self
  • Online-Therapy
  • Relationship Hero
  • Regain
  • Ritual
  • Talkspace
E-Therapy Cafe vs Sesame E-Therapy Cafe vs Octave E-Therapy Cafe vs Couples Learn E-Therapy Cafe vs Couples Therapy E-Therapy Cafe vs Growing Self E-Therapy Cafe vs Online-Therapy E-Therapy Cafe vs Relationship Hero E-Therapy Cafe vs Regain E-Therapy Cafe vs Ritual E-Therapy Cafe vs Talkspace Sesame vs Octave Sesame vs Couples Learn Sesame vs Couples Therapy Sesame vs Growing Self Sesame vs Online-Therapy Sesame vs Relationship Hero Sesame vs Regain Sesame vs Ritual Sesame vs Talkspace Octave vs Couples Learn Octave vs Couples Therapy Octave vs Growing Self Octave vs Online-Therapy Octave vs Relationship Hero Octave vs Regain Octave vs Ritual Octave vs Talkspace Couples Learn vs Couples Therapy Couples Learn vs Growing Self Couples Learn vs Online-Therapy Couples Learn vs Relationship Hero Couples Learn vs Regain Couples Learn vs Ritual Couples Learn vs Talkspace Couples Therapy vs Growing Self Couples Therapy vs Online-Therapy Couples Therapy vs Relationship Hero Couples Therapy vs Regain Couples Therapy vs Ritual Couples Therapy vs Talkspace Growing Self vs Online-Therapy Growing Self vs Relationship Hero Growing Self vs Regain Growing Self vs Ritual Growing Self vs Talkspace Online-Therapy vs Relationship Hero Online-Therapy vs Regain Online-Therapy vs Ritual Online-Therapy vs Talkspace Relationship Hero vs Regain Relationship Hero vs Ritual Relationship Hero vs Talkspace Regain vs Ritual Regain vs Talkspace Ritual vs Talkspace
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