More information exchanged between you and your counselor is usually better than less information when making this decision. Most couples who see us are in a state of crisis. With that in mind, time is of the essence. You cannot wait weeks for your first appointment. In fact, you should probably be seen the same day you call.
Cost varies widely among marriage counselors.
But before we talk about cost, we strongly advise you against counselors that cannot see you soon and often. That rules out most H ealth M aintenance O rganizations which are free or low cost because their overworked counselors are usually weeks away from taking new couples, and they tend to schedule follow-up appointments weeks apart. Furthermore, their counselors are not likely to talk to you on the telephone prior to an appointment. Insurance generally will not pay for marriage counseling unless the counselor finds you or your spouse suffering from a mental disorder. Marriage counseling is covered as treatment for the disorder, but not usually otherwise.