How many sessions should I expect?
For Discernment Counseling, it is one to start and up to five sessions total. This structured process helps couples gain clarity about the future of their relationship, whether they decide to work on it or part ways.
For Couples Therapy, we start with an assessment phase. The first session is a joint intake where we gather background information about your relationship. In the second session, we conduct individual sessions—either sharing an 80-minute session (split between both partners for 40 minutes each) or each partner scheduling a 50-minute individual session. The third session is a joint feedback session, where we present what we’ve learned about your relationship and propose a customized treatment plan focused on your goals.
The number of sessions it takes to accomplish your goals varies depending on several factors, such as the history of concerns, relationship dynamics, and the complexity of the issues at hand. While it’s difficult to predict exactly how many sessions are needed, many clients report noticing improvements between sessions 8-12. These improvements may include better awareness of their own reactions, the ability to navigate difficult conversations, and a deeper appreciation for their partner.
Our approach is customized to meet your specific needs. Some couples schedule therapy regularly—weekly or every other week—in order to build momentum, address important issues, and gain the necessary skills to strengthen their relationship. This approach helps create a foundation for healthier patterns and deeper connection.
Once couples achieve some important milestones or progress, they may schedule therapy monthly. Others may return years later when new challenges arise. Relationships evolve over time, and we want you to know that you have a trusted resource to turn to whenever future needs arise.
Is couples therapy worth the cost?
Couples therapy is an important investment in your relationship. Research shows that more than 75% of couples experience positive outcomes from working with a licensed therapist.
Additionally, a 2023 survey by Verywell Mind found that 94% of participants believed couples therapy was worth the investment, and 83% considered it a priority in their relationship. In fact, many couples stop going to therapy because it worked!
Compared to the average divorce cost of $12,000–$15,000, therapy is often the more affordable and emotionally rewarding option.
Do you accept insurance for therapy sessions?
We are a private pay practice and do not accept insurance directly. However, if you have out-of-network benefits, we’re happy to provide a superbill for potential reimbursement. Many of our online therapy clients in AZ, FL, NC, SC, TN, TX, and VT are able to get partial reimbursement.
Learn how to request a superbill and navigate out-of-network claims in our blog post, “What is a Superbill?”
Can I get reimbursed for therapy sessions?
Yes, therapy may be reimbursed by your insurance plan if you have out-of-network benefits. The reimbursement depends on:
Your plan’s coverage
Whether couples therapy is covered
The diagnosis and CPT codes used
Before starting therapy, we recommend that you:
Contact your insurance company to confirm your out-of-network benefits.
Inquire about reimbursement rates for therapy services with specific codes (e.g., CPT and diagnosis codes).
Ask about deductibles, required documentation, and other limitations.
We provide the following codes upon request:
90791 – Therapy Intake
90837 – 50-minute Individual Psychotherapy
90847 – 80-minute Couples Session (with family member present)
Diagnostic Codes: V61.10 or Z63.0
📌 Note: We do not alter diagnostic codes to match insurance requests.
What are my rights around surprise billing?
Under federal law, you are protected from surprise billing when receiving emergency care or care from an out-of-network provider at an in-network facility. However, since we are out-of-network private pay providers, your full session fee is due at the time of service.
