Who Pays for Couples Counseling? How to Decide and Split the Cost
So, you and your partner have decided to try couples therapy; how amazing!
But now, the big question comes up:
Who’s going to pay for it?
Do you split it evenly? Should the person who suggested therapy cover it? What if one of you makes more money? And what if you are way more excited about counseling than the other?
Money can be a sensitive topic in any relationship, and therapy is meant to help, not add more stress. The good news? There’s no one “right” way to handle the cost. It’s all about finding what works for both of you.
1. Splitting the Cost 50/50
Splitting the cost between you both can be an option if you feel it’s right. If you choose this, ensure you’re both comfortable with the cost of 50%; if one partner makes more or less, it might be a factor to consider. There are other options as well.
2. Paying Based on Income
If one partner earns significantly more than the other, a 50/50 split might not make sense. Some couples decide to divide the cost proportionally. It’s a great way to ensure therapy feels like a team effort without putting financial strain on one person.
3. The Partner Who Wants Therapy More Pays (At Least to Start)
Sometimes, one person is more eager to start therapy than the other. In that case, they might offer to cover the cost. This can be a great way to get started immediately instead of waiting for both partners to feel equally motivated. Therapy works best when both people think similarly and are invested financially and emotionally. Even if one person pays, the other can contribute differently.
4. Using a Joint Account or Household Budget
Therapy can be treated like any other shared expense for couples who share finances, like rent, groceries, or vacations.
If you agree that therapy is important, paying for it together might feel natural.
This approach works especially well for couples who combine finances and see therapy as a way of maintaining a strong and healthy relationship.
5. Finding Affordable Therapy Options
If therapy feels out of reach financially, don’t worry. There are ways to make it more affordable:
Sliding scale rates – Many therapists adjust their fees if you fall into a particular income category or lose your job and must budget accordingly.
Health Savings Accounts (HSA) or Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA)
Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs)
Therapy Is an Investment—Not Just Another Bill
Couples therapy is about investing in your relationship. If you and your partner aren’t sure how to split the cost, have an open conversation about what feels fair. The most important thing is if you are committed to making therapy work.
If you’re ready to take the next step, reach out today to explore therapy options that fit your budget.
Because of a strong, loving relationship? That’s always worth investing in.
