How much does a marriage counselor cost?
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Hiring a marriage counselor can be a confusing process. This is especially true in the area of the cost of a marriage counselor. A variety of factors can influence the amount that you will need to pay for a marriage counselor. These can include:
- Your geographic location. Costs for some services can cost substantially less in some areas than they do in another. This is no less true for marriage counselor costs.
- The qualifications of the marriage counselor. If your marriage counselor is an M.D. you can expect to pay more than if your marriage counselor has earned a Doctor of Philosophy degree in Psychology. If your marriage counselor has earned a Ph.D., you can expect to pay more than if your marriage counselor has earned an Masters degree in Social Work. In addition, some states have recognized licensing boards and/or organizations that certify marriage and family counselors. Using a certified or licensed marriage counselor is recommended, but it may also be more expensive.
- The type of marriage counselor or clinic that is offering marriage counseling services. It is possible that your religious organization provides marriage counseling at a low fee or even free. There are free- and reduced-cost mental health clinics, as well, that may offer marriage counseling.
- How many sessions you need to have with the marriage counselor. Most marriage counselors charge a specific hourly rate, ranging anywhere from $75 to $200 per hour. If you meet with a marriage counselor once a week, it becomes a lot more expensive than if you meet with a marriage counselor once a month.
- Insurance or community health services. Some insurance plans will cover counseling, even marriage counseling. If this is the case, you may have a small co-pay for each session. Some employers have agreements with a variety of counselors, as well, so that you may be able to get a reduced rate there. Some marriage and family therapists will offer their services on a sliding fee schedule, based on your income level.
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