Catholic Marriage Counseling: Best Local Services [2024]

Written By

Helen Kaminski, MSc

Fact Checked

A couple sits in a cozy office, holding hands and talking to a counselor. A crucifix hangs on the wall behind them

Note: This post is supported by our readers and contains affiliate links, which will earn us a small commission at no extra cost to you. Therapy Helpers does not accept money for reviews.

If you’re searching for a Catholic therapist near you, this guide will help you navigate the process and find the right fit for your unique needs. Check my top recommendations below!

For couples who are looking for Catholic marriage counseling near them, there are a variety of options available.

One option is to search online for Catholic therapists or counselors who specialize in marriage counseling.

Many Catholic therapists have websites or online profiles that provide information about their experience, credentials, and approach to counseling.

Another option is to contact local Catholic churches or dioceses to inquire about counseling services that they may offer.

Regardless of the approach, Catholic marriage counseling can be a valuable resource for couples who are looking to strengthen their relationship and build a stronger, more fulfilling marriage.

Erica Barnes, Sr. Researcher

Seeking therapy is a proactive way to address mental health concerns and improve overall well-being.

For Catholics, working with a therapist who integrates faith and psychology can offer a holistic approach to healing, addressing both spiritual and emotional needs.



Finding the Best Catholic Marriage Counseling Near Me or Online

Best Catholic Therapists For Couples Online

Let me share with you an incredible discovery – locating a therapist who truly grasps the special connection between spirituality and closeness felt like stumbling upon a precious gem.

The experience was nothing short of life-changing! This is precisely where BetterHelp shines, dear friends.

BetterHelp.com is the top online platform offering faith-based relationship counseling from licensed therapists who integrate Biblical perspectives into their sessions.

BetterHelp’s therapists are highly qualified, including licensed counselors, therapists specializing in relationships, experienced social workers, and skilled psychologists.

They’re ready to address your specific needs. It’s worth mentioning that although the therapists are practicing Christians, their availability may vary.

Cost Comparison: In-Person vs Online Catholic Marriage Counselors

A couple sits in a cozy office with a Catholic marriage counselor, engaging in deep conversation. Another couple sits in front of a computer, participating in an online session with a counselor via video call

Seeking in-person Catholic marriage counseling can be beneficial, but the costs can add up. You might expect to pay $190 – $310 for each 75-90 minute couples’ session.

A more affordable alternative exists!

BetterHelp platform offers a more budget-friendly approach:

Weekly live session with a qualified counselor online starting from $65, billed every four weeks.

A monthly cost ranging from $260-$400 including four live sessions, messaging with your counselor for extra support, and access to therapist-led group classes if desired.

The service takes great care in connecting you with a licensed therapist who is well-suited to address your specific requirements and concerns, and who is conveniently located in your area.

FeatureIn-Person Catholic CounselingOnline Therapy
Cost per Couples’ Session (75-90 min)$190 – $310 weekly$65-100 weekly (as part of the monthly plan)
Monthly Cost (including regular sessions)$760+$260 – $400
Additional FeaturesVariesMessaging with therapist, optional group sessions available
FlexibilityAppointment-basedAccess platform 24/7

If you’re looking for a cost-effective way to receive quality Catholic marriage counseling, exploring online options may be a valuable solution.

Please Note: Costs can vary between in-person practices and online platforms. Some Catholic parishes or charities may offer sliding-scale fees.

Get Matched With the Best Catholic Marriage Counselor Near Me

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Fill out a brief questionnaire and get matched with an experienced therapist online in as little as 24 hours.

✓ Over 35K licensed professionals

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✓ Subscriptions as low as $65/week, billed every four weeks

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Some Of the Therapists Available on BetterHelp

Photo of Sonya Belletti Meet Sonya Belletti, MSW, LCSW

As a licensed therapist with over 20 years of experience, I have counseled diverse clients of all ages. I hold a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology with a minor in Child and Family Studies from Syracuse University, and a Master’s in Social Work from San Jose State University, where I focused on child and family issues. My experience spans private practice, community, and school-based settings, where I have helped clients with ADHD, anxiety, and hypersensitivity, among other concerns.

Photo of Jeri Anne Meet Jeri-Anne Trotta, LMHC

I have professional counseling experience and am licensed to practice. Over the past 8 years, I have worked with clients dealing with stress, anxiety, relationship struggles, trauma, and depression. My approach is to treat every person with respect, sensitivity and compassion. Therapy is a collaborative process – I will listen closely to understand your specific needs and work with you to develop a personalized plan to support your healing and growth. Making the decision to start therapy can take courage. I commend you for taking this positive step to care for your well-being.

Photo of Renee Abayan Meet Renee Abayan-Rosenstein, MSW, LCSW

I hold a Clinical Social Worker license and have eight years of experience working with individuals and groups in clinical settings. I am adept at helping individuals cope with hyper-sensitivity, depression, anxiety, mood disorders, addiction, self-esteem issues, and challenges with community engagement. I have also assisted Veterans with their unique concerns. My therapeutic approach is holistic, tailored to each individual’s needs and preferences, and integrates DBT, CBT, and motivational interviewing techniques.

Review of Catholic Marriage Counseling Services

According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), approximately 1 in 5 adults in the United States experiences mental illness each year [1].

When selecting a Catholic marriage counseling service, it’s important to consider various aspects such as pricing, therapy approaches, session availability, and extra services provided.

The table below offers an overview of the different choices accessible:

Service ProviderPricing StructureTherapy ApproachesSession SchedulingExtra Features
CatholicTherapists.comSliding Scale FeesCognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)Flexible scheduling optionsExtensive network of Catholic therapists
InsightAnchors.comRates depend on chosen therapistCBT, DBTAdaptable appointment timesVirtual therapy sessions
CatholicCounselors.comCosts differ per therapistCBT, DBTFlexible appointment availabilityIn-person and online therapy choices
MountTaborCounseling.comVariable pricing based on therapistCBT, DBTAdjustable scheduling possibilitiesFace-to-face and virtual therapy options

When selecting a Catholic marriage counseling service, it’s important to consider various aspects such as pricing, therapy approaches, session availability, and extra services provided.

Recommendations

Online Vs In Person Catholic Marraige Counselors discussion being taken place in between a married catholic couple

The table compares four Catholic marriage counseling service providers: CatholicTherapists.com, InsightAnchors.com, CatholicCounselors.com, and MountTaborCounseling.com.

All providers offer flexible scheduling and a choice between Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT).

Pricing structures vary, with some using sliding scale fees and others having rates that depend on the chosen therapist.

Extra features include extensive therapist networks, virtual therapy sessions, and in-person therapy options.

  1. Consider your budget and look for a provider with a pricing structure that suits your financial situation. CatholicTherapists.com offers sliding scale fees, which may be helpful if you have a limited budget.
  2. Determine whether you prefer in-person or virtual therapy sessions. InsightAnchors.com and MountTaborCounseling.com offer virtual therapy options, while CatholicCounselors.com and MountTaborCounseling.com provide both in-person and online choices.
  3. Evaluate the importance of having access to an extensive network of Catholic therapists. CatholicTherapists.com highlights this feature, which may be beneficial if you prefer a wider selection of therapists or need to find a specialist.
  4. Assess your preferred therapy approach. While all providers offer CBT and DBT, some may have therapists specializing in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), which is mentioned for CatholicTherapists.com.
  5. Contact the providers you’re interested in to inquire about therapist availability, as all of them mention flexible scheduling options. This can help you find a therapist whose schedule aligns with your preferences.

Ultimately, the best Catholic marriage counseling service for you will depend on your specific needs, preferences, and budget.

Consider reaching out to multiple providers to gather more information and find the most suitable fit for your situation.

About Catholic Marriage Counseling

Finding A Good Catholic Marriage Therapist research amongst a couple and a Church member

Catholic marriage counseling is a type of therapy that is specifically designed to help couples who are experiencing difficulties in their marriage.

The counseling is rooted in the Catholic faith and is based on the belief that marriage is a sacred bond between a man and a woman.

Sacrament of Matrimony

Catholic marriage counseling integrates Church teachings with therapeutic support, honoring marriage as a sacred, lifelong covenant between spouses.

The approach combines faith-based principles with relationship guidance to strengthen both spiritual and emotional bonds.

Role of Faith in Counseling

Catholic marriage counselors incorporate faith elements like prayer and scripture alongside therapeutic techniques, recognizing God’s role in strengthening marital bonds and resolving challenges.

The counseling is based on the teachings of the Catholic Church and is designed to help couples grow in their faith and their love for each other.

Ad, keeps our community free. The perspectives presented on this website are genuinely our own and we do not accept money for reviews.

betterhelp logo
review

4.5 (7,802+) FROM TRUSTPILOT

Fill out a brief questionnaire and get matched with an experienced therapist online in as little as 24 hours.

✓ Over 35K licensed professionals

✓ Financial aid available

✓ Subscriptions as low as $65/week, billed every four weeks

✓ Cancel plan or change therapist anytime

20% off your first month through Therapy Helpers

How To Choose The Right Counselor?

How To Choose A Catholic Therapist instructions sign with a cross in a modern therapy room

When seeking Catholic marriage counseling, finding the right counselor can make all the difference.

Here are some tips on how to find a qualified counselor who is compatible with your needs.

Qualifications of a Catholic Counselor

It is important to find a counselor who is qualified to provide Catholic marriage counseling.

Look for counselors who are licensed or certified by reputable organizations, such as the American Counseling Association or the National Board for Certified Counselors. Additionally, a Catholic counselor should have training in Catholic theology and values.

FactorConsiderations
Credentials and experienceLicensed mental health professional with relevant education and experience
SpecializationExpertise in areas such as marriage counseling, addiction treatment, or trauma recovery
Personality fit and communication styleComfortable, trusting relationship with open communication

How to Search for Counselors

There are several ways to search for Catholic marriage counselors near you. One option is to ask for recommendations from friends, family, or your church community.

Another option is to search online directories, such as CatholicTherapists.com or WellCatholic.com.

These directories allow you to search for counselors based on location, specialty, and other criteria.

Evaluating Counselor Compatibility

Once you have a list of potential counselors, it is important to evaluate their compatibility with your needs.

Consider factors such as their experience working with couples, their counseling style, and their availability.

It may also be helpful to schedule an initial consultation or phone call to get a better sense of their approach and whether it is a good fit for you.

By taking the time to find a qualified and compatible Catholic marriage counselor, you can set yourself up for success in your counseling journey.

Additional Resources

YouTube video

There are several ways to find a Catholic therapist in your area:

1. Online Directories

Online directories like CatholicTherapists.com, PsychologyToday allow you to search for therapists based on location, specialty, and other criteria.

These resources can help you find qualified Catholic therapists near you and provide information about their credentials and approach.

2. Asking Your Parish or Priest

Your local parish or priest may have recommendations for Catholic therapists in your community. Religious communities often have connections with mental health professionals who share their faith values.

Don’t hesitate to reach out and ask for guidance.

3. Insurance Considerations

When searching for a therapist, it’s important to consider your insurance coverage. Contact your insurance provider to obtain a list of in-network mental health professionals in your area.

Some Catholic therapists may accept insurance, while others may offer sliding-scale fees or alternative payment options.

Counseling Services & Support

YouTube video

Catholic marriage counseling services are available to couples seeking support and

guidance in their relationship.

These services offer a range of counseling and coaching options to help couples strengthen their bond and overcome challenges.

Pre-Marital Counseling

Pre-marital counseling is designed for couples who are engaged or planning to get married.

This counseling can help couples identify potential areas of conflict and develop strategies for addressing these issues.

Pre-marital counseling can also help couples establish healthy communication patterns and build a strong foundation for their marriage.

Marriage Enrichment

Marriage enrichment counseling is designed for couples who are looking to strengthen and deepen their relationship.

This counseling can help couples identify areas of strength in their marriage and build on these strengths.

Marriage enrichment counseling can also help couples develop new skills and strategies for improving their relationship.

Conflict Resolution

Conflict resolution counseling helps couples identify underlying issues, improve communication, and develop effective strategies to address relationship challenges together.

Family Planning Guidance

Catholic marriage counseling helps couples make informed family planning decisions while navigating parenthood challenges.

The services offer comprehensive support to strengthen marriages through various counseling approaches.

Pros & Cons: Online Vs In-Person Counseling

Cathlic Family For Counseling standing near a church

When it comes to Catholic marriage counseling, couples have the option of choosing between online and in-person sessions.

Both options have their own advantages and disadvantages, and it ultimately depends on the couple’s preferences and needs.

Benefits of Online Counseling

Online counseling is becoming increasingly popular due to its convenience and accessibility.

Couples can attend counseling sessions from the comfort of their own home, without having to worry about travel time or scheduling conflicts.

Another benefit of online counseling is the ability to choose from a wider range of counselors.

Couples can choose a counselor that specializes in Catholic marriage counseling, regardless of their location.

This allows couples to find a counselor that is the best fit for their needs, rather than settling for a counselor that is geographically convenient.

Advantages of In-Person Sessions

In-person counseling offers unique benefits like stronger personal connections with therapists and hands-on activities such as role-playing exercises.

While it may be particularly effective for complex issues, couples should evaluate both online and in-person options to determine which format best suits their situation.

Fascinating Facts About Counseling for Catholics

Ongoing Support

The Catholic Church has a longstanding tradition of providing spiritual guidance, which spans centuries.

Recently, the Church has acknowledged the importance of blending psychological and emotional well-being with spiritual health.

Many dioceses now offer counseling that merges faith principles with evidence-based therapeutic practices, providing a holistic approach to mental health care.

Fascinating Facts About Counseling for Catholics:

  1. Over 70% of Catholic dioceses in the United States offer some form of counseling services.
  2. Catholic Charities, a nationwide network of social service organizations, provided mental health services to more than 400,000 individuals in 2020.
  3. The Catholic Psychotherapy Association, founded in 2019, has grown to include over 500 mental health professionals dedicated to integrating faith and psychology.

Ongoing Support and Maintenance

Couple In A Therapist Office



Catholic marriage counseling provides ongoing support for couples looking to strengthen their relationships through regular sessions with trained therapists.

This counseling helps prevent small issues from escalating into larger conflicts, reducing resentment and negative emotions that can lead to divorce.

Additionally, it fosters connection and engagement, offering a supportive space for couples to share feelings and find solutions.

Many programs also provide various resources and services for continued support.

These may include:

  • Regular counseling sessions with a trained and experienced therapist
  • Workshops and retreats that focus on specific issues, such as communication, conflict resolution, and intimacy
  • Online resources and support groups that provide information, advice, and encouragement
  • Referrals to other professionals, such as financial advisors and legal experts, who can help couples address specific issues that may be affecting their relationship.

Overall, ongoing support and maintenance is an essential part of any successful Catholic marriage counseling program.

Have you considered how working with a Catholic therapist could support your mental health and spiritual well-being? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below.


References:

  1. National Alliance on Mental Illness. (2021). Mental Health By the Numbers. Retrieved from https://www.nami.org/mhstats
  2. “Faith-based Promising Practices: Innovative Forms of Collaborative Social Services” by PW Spoto (2009)
    • This study examines the role of faith-based programs, including explicit religious messages and activities, in providing social services. Read more here.
  3. “Families at the Center of Faith Formation” by J Roberto, L Kehrwald, G Roehlkepartian (2016)
    • This document highlights the integration of faith-centered approaches in family life and its impact on developing family faith formation. Read more here.
  4. “The Persuasiveness of Faith-Centered Health Behavior Change Messages” by DB Harris (2021)
    • This dissertation explores how a faith-centered approach employing Christian theology can influence health behavior change. Read more here.
  5. “Multidisciplinary perceptions and considerations for spiritual care and biblical framework counseling in mental health” by V Oji, B Powell (2024)
    • The article discusses the benefits of integrating biblical counseling in mental health practices across various health professionals. Read more here.

Looking for more mental health tips? Make sure to follow our Mental Health Board on Pinterest!

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About the author

Helen Kaminski, MSc

Helen Kaminski, MSc

Mindful living for a happier, healthier you. I’m a medical writer, Licensed Mental Health Counselor, and a mental health advocate in Warsaw, Poland, with nine years working as a therapist. I hold a Master's in Clinical Psychology degree from the University of Warsaw. I specialize in writing about mental health, using my experiences and academic background to educate and inspire others. In my free time, I volunteer at a Disability Learning Center and go for nature walks. My writing aims to break down mental health stigma and help others feel understood. Social connections are vital to mental well-being, and I am dedicated to fostering communities of support and empathy. By sharing knowledge and personal insights, I strive to create a more compassionate world. Social

6 thoughts on “Catholic Marriage Counseling: Best Local Services [2024]”

  1. It’s encouraging to see an article addressing the importance of nurturing and strengthening marriages, especially during challenging times.

    Reply
  2. I appreciate that the article provided some specific organizations and resources to check out, like Catholiccounselors.com and the National Association of Catholic Family Life Ministers. It saves a lot of time and guesswork trying to find reputable providers.

    Reply
    • Thank you for your comment and for highlighting the specific resources mentioned in the article. I’m glad you found the information helpful. My aim was to provide readers with a starting point for finding trustworthy, faith-based support. Knowing that this saved you time and effort in your search for reputable Catholic marriage counseling providers is truly rewarding feedback. I hope these resources prove to be valuable in your journey towards mental and spiritual well-being.

      Reply
  3. It’s really helpful to know that there are both in-person and online counseling services specifically for Catholic couples. The convenience of online sessions sounds appealing, especially with our busy schedules, but I think we might prefer the more personal feel of face-to-face meetings if possible.

    Reply
    • I’m so pleased to hear that you found the information about both in-person and online counseling services for Catholic couples helpful. It’s important to have options that cater to different preferences and lifestyles. While online sessions offer convenience and flexibility, I completely understand the appeal of face-to-face meetings for a more personal touch. The good news is that many Catholic counseling providers offer both, so you can choose what works best for you and your partner. Whether you opt for online or in-person support, the most important thing is that you’re taking a proactive step towards nurturing your relationship and faith together. Wishing you the best!

      Reply

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