Cost is one of the most common reasons people put off couples therapy. This article breaks down what you can actually expect to pay in Atlanta, what affects the price, and what your options are if cost is a barrier.
What couples therapy costs in Atlanta
In the Atlanta area, most couples therapists charge between $150 and $300 per session. The average is around $175 to $225 for a standard 50 to 60 minute session.
Therapists with more experience, specialized training, or certifications like Gottman Method or EFT tend to charge more. Therapists who are newer to practice or working toward full licensure often charge less.
Does insurance cover couples therapy?
Most insurance plans do not cover couples therapy. Insurance typically covers treatment for a diagnosed mental health condition. Couples therapy, which focuses on the relationship rather than an individual diagnosis, usually does not qualify.
Some therapists will see one partner as the identified patient and file insurance under an individual diagnosis. This is not standard practice and varies by therapist and insurance plan.
What is a superbill?
Many therapists who do not take insurance directly will provide a superbill. This is an itemized receipt you can submit to your insurance company for possible out-of-network reimbursement. Not all plans cover this, and reimbursement is not guaranteed, but it is worth checking your plan.
Sliding scale options
Some therapists offer sliding scale fees, which means they charge based on what you can afford. This is not advertised by everyone, but it is worth asking directly on your consultation call. Many therapists keep a few sliding scale spots available.
How much does it add up to?
Most couples attend therapy weekly or every other week. At $175 per session, weekly therapy costs about $700 per month. Every other week is about $350 per month.
That is a real expense. But one new client from a therapist's perspective, or one avoided divorce from a couple's perspective, more than covers the cost many times over.
Free resources while you wait or budget
If cost is a barrier right now, our free assessment and Toolbox articles are a good place to start. Understanding what you are dealing with is valuable even before you are ready to book a session.