Couples Counseling Near Me?

One of the most common terms searched by people looking for relationship counseling is “couples counseling near me.” It’s about 10 times as common as searches for “couples counseling online.” Is one better than the other? What’s the difference between couples counseling in person and couples counseling online?

Let’s take a look at the pros and cons of each.

Is online therapy as effective as in person?

What the research on couples counseling seems to show is that outcomes for couples therapy are more or less the same whether it’s done online or in person. So if you are finding it difficult to get out to a therapist’s office, whether because of distance, or scheduling, or general convenience, you don’t have to worry that you’re getting second best.

That said, you also have to know yourself. Younger folks, of course, tend to be more comfortable with using a computer or phone as a standard method of communication. If you’re of a younger generation, you might feel totally at home on a video call.

Older couples, on the other hand, are more likely to feel a little less comfortable talking through a screen (especially those who struggle to navigate online easily).

The bottom line is it’s really a matter of personal preference. If the convenience appeals to you and the medium feels natural, online couples counseling is a great option. If you’re not sure about having a sensitive conversation through a computer screen, in-person couples counseling might be the better option for you.

Does in person couples counseling cost more than virtual?

Most therapists don’t charge different rates for couples counseling online vs. in person. What you’re paying for is the therapist’s time and expertise; that doesn’t change based on where they are!

Some therapists have gone fully virtual, and are able to charge a lower fee overall because they have less overhead; but the price for couples counseling tends to be more or less the same regardless of the venue.

What affects rates more is how long the therapist has been in practice and the area where the therapist is located (couples counseling Baltimore is less expensive than in, say, New York or Los Angeles, but more expensive than in Wisconsin or Louisiana).

What’s the difference between virtual couples counseling vs. in-person?

The main difference that studies found between virtual and in-person couples counseling is that the therapeutic alliance developed more quickly when therapy was happening in person. The therapeutic alliance refers to the relationship between the therapist and the clients.

This is actually an important factor, because clients who don’t like their therapist tend not to see very good results! Again, this may come down to personal preference and how natural it feels to you to relate to someone on Zoom. (The studies indicated that more research is needed on this point.)

Otherwise, the difference is largely a question of comfort and convenience. It will take you more time to drive out to a therapist’s office, which might make coordinating your schedule with your partner more challenging.

Some people also really appreciate the ability to sit at home on their own couch (possibly in their pajamas) while dealing with the difficult issues at hand; others find it more conducive to seriously working on things in a professional office, outside of their usual setting.

Again, at the end of the day it comes down to personal preference. There is no right or wrong; what works best for you in your situation is just as likely to succeed as the alternative.

So should I still look for couples counseling near me?

Well, that is up to you! And the truth is, you don’t even have to decide up front. You can try a session online and a session in person and see which feels right for you.

You can also think through it together with your therapist and see what will get you the most bang for your buck.

Ultimately, the most important thing when you’re looking for couples counseling is – go start couples counseling! Indecision about who or where or how to do it may delay you from getting the help you need to fix up a relationship that needs help.

Do your research, check out a few places, then give it a shot – you’re not locked in by trying any one therapist or practice. Let’s get you the help you need sooner than later.

Looking for “couples counseling near me?” Contact us today and we’ll get you a session (in person or online!) as soon as you’re ready!