Image of a therapist and client in a counseling session.

2,717 people sought couples & marriage counseling help at Columbia in the last year

Discover how starting couples & marriage counseling can support your own journey toward a happier, more fulfilling life.

Meet with a provider as soon as this week

Good news! We have 31 therapists in South Carolina available for an online or in-person session.

Starting Couples & marriage counseling

What is couples & marriage counseling?

Couples therapy and marriage counseling, also known as relationship counseling, helps couples work through their specific relationship issues. Some examples of common focuses within couples therapy and marriage counseling include:

  • Jealousy
  • Trust issues
  • Infidelity
  • Opposing values
  • Different visions for the future
  • Disagreements in parenting
  • Lack of trust
  • Financial distress
  • Sex issues

What type of therapy is used in couples therapy?

The types of therapy used in couples and marriage counseling include:

  • The Gottman Method
  • Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)
  • Emotionally-focused therapy (EFT)
  • Solution-focused brief therapy (SFBT)
  • Strength-based therapy

What kind of therapist is best for couples?

At Thriveworks, Couples & marriage counseling is led by licensed professionals — often licensed marriage and family therapists (LMFTs) — who are experts in their field and best-equipped to help couples.

What is the Gottman Method of couples therapy?

The Gottman Method of couples therapy is a research-supported approach designed to enhance relationships by bolstering the bond between partners, resolving conflicts, and fostering shared meaning in their relationship through comprehensive assessments and tailored interventions that improve communication, trust, and the overall health of the partnership.

How to tell if I need couples therapy?

If you’re facing persistent relationship problems, communication breakdowns, or unresolved conflicts that are impacting your emotional well-being and happiness, Couples & marriage counseling may be beneficial for you.

Should every couple go to couples therapy?

While marriage and couple’s counseling is typically recommended for couples who are experiencing persistent or severe relationship issues, any relationship can benefit from attending these sessions.

Is couples & marriage counseling conducted in person or online?

Marriage and couples counseling at Thriveworks is conducted both in person and online by video. We encourage you to choose the option that works best for you and your partner.

How long does couples & marriage counseling last?

On average, couples attend marriage and couples counseling for 12 weeks. However, couples & marriage counseling may last longer or shorter, dependent on the couples’ needs, the challenges they’d like to work through, and the pace of their progress.

How much does couples & marriage counseling cost?

At Thriveworks, we take most major forms of insurance, which means that many of our clients only pay $0-$50 co-pay per session. However, there are also self-pay options that sit around $200 per session, depending on the service and location, for those who are out-of-network.

Need more help deciding?

All couples can experience challenges in their relationship from time to time, especially as the years go by. Don’t let issues or disagreements get the better of you, though. If you’re not seeing eye to eye like you used to, you may be interested in learning how Columbia SC marriage therapy can help.

If you’re feeling unsure about the idea, consider it like an investment in your relationship. If you’re feeling ill, you see the doctor; if your car isn’t running properly, you take it to a mechanic. Don’t deny your marriage the support or maintenance it so deserves.

The Highs and Lows of Relationships

As mentioned earlier, it’s not uncommon for partnerships to have highs and lows, but that doesn’t mean they should be ignored or taken lightly. If you’re experiencing more of the downs than the ups, perhaps it’s time to try Columbia SC couples counseling and move forward, happier and stronger, together.

An Otherwise Happy Partnership

Quite often, couples initially dismiss the idea of seeking help because their relationship has been good overall. They might think it’s “not bad enough” to warrant therapy. But why wait until things get even worse? A little help now might prevent bigger issues in the future.

Experts in Marriage Therapy

Regardless of the issue you’re facing, our therapists can help you find resolution—they’ve heard it all and have a wide range of experience with the challenges spouses can face.

  • Are you having trouble communicating with each other?
  • Do you find yourself struggling to control your anger?
  • Is your partner frustrated that you work too much?
  • Are you struggling to raise children when you come from two different cultural backgrounds?
  • Do you fear your spouse may be unfaithful?

93% of couples recently surveyed by the American Association of Marriage and Family Therapy reported that after seeing a professional counselor, they felt far better equipped to deal with disagreements or issues that may arise in the future.

Whatever is at the heart of your worries, sensitive and discreet Columbia SC marital therapists are available to address them, providing you with appropriate guidance and support.

Why Try Couples Counseling?

Still not sure whether marriage therapy is the right choice for you and your spouse? Consider this: counseling is excellent for couples that know they have issues in their relationship, but are stuck on how to fix them. This is more common than you may think! If you know something doesn’t quite feel right between you and your partner, a professional can help you move forward and achieve resolution. What’s more, therapy can also help both of you develop better problem solving and communication skills that will benefit you for years to come.

Navigating Through the Tough Times

Despite best efforts and intentions, sometimes it turns out divorce is the only option—even after participating in therapy. It may be the case that a breakup is the healthiest choice for each person involved.

Some people are quick to point out that approximately 50% of marriages in the United States end in divorce. Don’t let that put you off trying, or make you feel like you’re just giving up! That statistic has actually been quite constant for the last three decades; the difference is lately our society has eased up on the stigma that once came with divorce.

Lately, couples have been more willing—and perhaps feel more able—to admit when things aren’t working. It’s made them more open to therapy, which often has a positive outcome. It’s also assured them that they can speak up and move on if they feel it’s the best option.

Have you and your spouse made the decision to divorce? You may still wish to pursue Columbia SC couples counseling in order to resolve your situation. This is especially beneficial for former partners who will be co-parenting children, and can result in far less stress and acrimony.

Are you open to exploring your relationship through counseling, even if the possibility of divorce is on the table? A skilled therapist can help, whether you want to give your marriage another shot or would like to move on in a way that’s respectful of you and your spouse.

Think back to when you exchanged wedding vows. Of course, divorce isn’t where you expected you’d end up, but it is possible to work through it in a healthy way that minimizes negativity. A professional therapist can facilitate this challenging period of transition.

Connect With Us

Whatever stage you’re at or challenge you’re experiencing, we’d be happy to help. Get in touch if you’d like to discuss setting up an initial appointment with an Columbia SC marriage therapist.

Pricing & insurance

Our therapists accept most major insurances. We accept 585+ insurance plans, and offer self-pay options, too.
Learn more about pricing for therapy and counseling services at Thriveworks.

Our Columbia therapists and counselors accept 21 insurance plans

  • Aetna

  • Blue Cross and Blue Shield of South Carolina | BCBS

  • Blue Cross and Blue Shield of South Carolina Medicare Advantage

  • Blue Cross Blue Shield | Anthem (Blue Card)

  • Carelon

  • Carolina Behavioral Health Alliance (CBHA)

  • Cigna | Evernorth

  • Cigna | Evernorth EAP

  • Cigna | Evernorth Medicare Advantage

  • Compsych

  • First Health Network

  • Humana Exchange

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Self-pay costs at Columbia
Talk therapy

Talk therapy

Includes individual, couples, child/ teen, & family therapy

First session

$1

Ongoing sessions

$1

Talk therapy

Psychiatry

Includes reducing symptoms with medication & management

First session

$1

Ongoing sessions

$1

Hear from our clients

4.9 Thriveworks Columbia reviews are collected through Thriveworks.com.
★★★★
Everyone is very nice and are really easy to talk to!
Columbia, SC Sep 2020
Review left on Thriveworks.com
★★★★★
Debbie has helped me effectively manage the stress in my current work environment. She has also provided me with practical real-life applications to help me work toward my immediate and long-term goals. I am fortunate to have Debbie as a therapist!
Read more Debbie has helped me effectively manage the stress in my current work environment. She has also provided me with practical real-life applications to help me work toward my immediate and long-term goals. I am fortunate to have Debbie as a therapist!
Columbia, SC Sep 2020
Review left on Thriveworks.com
★★★★★
Debbie is such an amazing person to talk to and she helped me through so much in the past year. She has helped me to understand myself and work through my problems. Absolutely amazing :)
Read more Debbie is such an amazing person to talk to and she helped me through so much in the past year. She has helped me to understand myself and work through my problems. Absolutely amazing :)
Columbia, SC Sep 2020
Review left on Thriveworks.com
★★★★★
Mrs. Anna Gantt-Gordon has an exceptional personality and attitude in working with clients. She goes the extra mile to advocate and encourages others. Great to work with.
Read more Mrs. Anna Gantt-Gordon has an exceptional personality and attitude in working with clients. She goes the extra mile to advocate and encourages others. Great to work with.
Columbia, SC Aug 2020
Review left on Thriveworks.com
★★★★★
I highly recommend Thriveworks! The service from the faculty is surperb from the front office to the life coaches & counselors!! I have been going to Thriveworks for 3 years now and, I absolutely love it! They don't treat you like a number like the other places do! If you or someone you know needs couciling then call Thriveworks Mon-Sat! Yes, I said Saturday! They will help you in anyway they can to make you see the light at the end of the tunnel! Thank you Thriveworks for all of the services y'all have provided me with and still do! Without of all of you I don't know where I would be today!
Read more I highly recommend Thriveworks! The service from the faculty is surperb from the front office to the life coaches & counselors!! I have been going to Thriveworks for 3 years now and, I absolutely love it! They don't treat you like a number like the other places do! If you or someone you know needs couciling then call Thriveworks Mon-Sat! Yes, I said Saturday! They will help you in anyway they can to make you see the light at the end of the tunnel! Thank you Thriveworks for all of the services y'all have provided me with and still do! Without of all of you I don't know where I would be today!
Columbia, SC Mar 2019
Review left on Thriveworks.com
★★★★★
From the moment I first walked through the doors, I have been treated with respect, and care. I feel so at ease with all the people I have met there. I cannot recommend this team of mental health care providers enough!
Read more From the moment I first walked through the doors, I have been treated with respect, and care. I feel so at ease with all the people I have met there. I cannot recommend this team of mental health care providers enough!
Columbia, SC Nov 2018
Review left on Thriveworks.com
★★★★★
I was having a hard time with my partner and was ready to give up, but we took a chance after some research and found the help we really needed. Sometime you need someone to sit, listen, and guide you. Thank You!
Read more I was having a hard time with my partner and was ready to give up, but we took a chance after some research and found the help we really needed. Sometime you need someone to sit, listen, and guide you. Thank You!
Columbia, SC Mar 2017
Review left on Thriveworks.com
★★★★★
It was difficult asking for help, but the staff and therapist ensured that I was comfortable and made it the best decision. I plan to continue going again.
Read more It was difficult asking for help, but the staff and therapist ensured that I was comfortable and made it the best decision. I plan to continue going again.
Columbia, SC Mar 2017
Review left on Thriveworks.com

Where to find us

Getting here

Thriveworks Counseling & Psychiatry Columbia is right next to Boyd Plaza, and in a shared office building with TD Bank. We are at the corner of Main and Hampton Street, across the street from Wells Fargo.

Phone number

(803) 882-3401

Languages spoken by SC providers

  • English
Tuesday 8:00am - 9:00pm
Wednesday 8:00am - 9:00pm
Thursday 8:00am - 9:00pm
Friday 8:00am - 9:00pm
Saturday 8:00am - 9:00pm
Sunday 8:00am - 9:00pm
Monday 8:00am - 9:00pm

Shown in ET

Tuesday 7:00am - 9:30pm
Wednesday 7:00am - 9:30pm
Thursday 7:00am - 9:30pm
Friday 7:00am - 9:30pm
Saturday 7:00am - 6:00pm
Sunday 8:00am - 5:00pm
Monday 7:00am - 9:30pm

Shown in ET

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