When should you seek couples therapy?

Couples therapy is advisable when communication breaks down, arguments repeat over the same issues, trust has been broken, intimacy has decreased, or the relationship is affected by major life changes. The earlier you seek help, the better the outcomes tend to be.

What does couples therapy cost?

The price varies by therapist. Kela reimburses couples psychotherapy only as rehabilitation psychotherapy if Kela's conditions are met (€63.91 for a 1-hour and €95.87 for a 1.5-hour session, kela.fi 1 Oct 2026). Some health insurance policies cover part of the cost. Parish family counselling centres offer free relationship support.

How does couples therapy work in practice?

In couples therapy, both partners attend sessions together. The therapist helps identify problem areas, improve communication and find new ways of being together. The length is agreed as needed.

Couples therapy: when and how to seek it

Updated 20 April 2026 · Editorial principles and sources

Couples therapy helps with relationship challenges such as communication problems, lack of trust or pressure from life changes. Seeking help early is worthwhile.

When to seek couples therapy?

Communication isn't working or conflicts keep repeating
Trust has been broken (infidelity, dishonesty)
Intimacy and connection have decreased
Major life change (child birth, moving, unemployment)
Thoughts of separation or uncertainty about the relationship

How does couples therapy work?

In couples therapy, both partners attend sessions together. The therapist is neutral and helps both be heard. A typical treatment process includes:

Assessment session: understanding the situation and goals
Improving communication
Identifying and addressing problem areas
Practicing new patterns

Couples therapy approaches

Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT)

Focuses on strengthening emotional connection and attachment. Helps identify negative interaction cycles and build a safer connection with your partner. The method has been researched.

Gottman Method

Based on John and Julie Gottman's relationship research. Focuses on strengthening friendship, managing conflict and creating shared meaning.

Solution-focused couples therapy

Short-term and future-oriented. Focuses on what works and builds on it. Suits couples who want concrete results quickly.

What to expect from couples therapy?

The therapist is impartial - they don't take sides
Both partners get to speak and be heard
Sessions can be intense - that's normal and a sign you're working on important issues
The length of treatment is agreed as needed
Couples therapy can also help with separating respectfully, if that's the outcome

Couples therapy costs in Finland

Service	Price	Note
Private couples therapy	Varies	Kela reimburses only as rehabilitation psychotherapy if conditions are met
Wellbeing services county family counselling	Free	For families with children; queues can be long
Church family counseling	Free	Open to all, no church membership required
Health insurance	Varies	Some policies cover part