Does family therapy cost more than individual therapy?
Maybe you’ve felt it, the tension at dinner, the silences that go on too long. When things feel strained in your family, it’s natural to wonder if therapy might help. But then so many questions quickly follow: Can we afford it? When are we going to find the time for counselling? Does family therapy cost more than individual therapy?
Family therapy offers a space where everyone can feel heard, and where unhealthy patterns get a second look. But like all mental health support, it comes with costs. For families already financially struggling, therapy expenses can feel like one more thing to navigate.
When it comes to deciding what mental health services are for you, it’s important to understand the factors influencing therapy costs. Oak and Sands is here to help to give you the information you need to find your next family therapist, and to understand the sliding scale fees of therapy.
Factors Affecting the Cost of Therapy
Individual therapy focuses on one person’s mental health concerns with the goal of improving individual personal wellness. Family therapy sessions involve multiple family members and by navigating complex family dynamics, offering support for both mental health issues and relational patterns, and focusing on healing as a family unit. A combined approach can provide mental health services and support long-term benefits for the entire household.
Family therapy isn’t one-size-fits-all. Several factors significantly impact the cost of therapy, including session duration, number of participants, and clinician’s approach. Understanding these can help families make informed decisions to budget effectively and make therapy more accessible.
Session Length
Family sessions are typically longer than individual therapy sessions. An individual session may last around 50 minutes, while family therapy might extend to 75 minutes or more. Longer sessions may involve higher fees per hour but offer more space for each voice to be heard.
Complexity
Navigating multiple perspectives in one room takes skill. Mental health professionals must manage interpersonal dynamics, often drawing from trauma focused therapy or other specialized services. This can require more frequent sessions.
Counseling Services Rates
Many therapists use flat rates across therapy types, but others vary fees depending on whether it's marriage counseling, group therapy sessions, or family therapy. Rates can also reflect therapist qualifications, session type, and whether sessions are held as in person therapy or online therapy.
Family Therapy Cost in Canada
In Canada, the cost of therapy for families typically ranges from $130 to $200 per session. Therapy type, therapist expertise, and insurance coverage all play a role. Some insurance providers help cover therapy sessions through health insurance plans or workplace benefits.
To lower out of pocket expenses, community resources like community mental health centers, clinics, support groups, or non profit organizations can lessen the financial burden and provide support.
Ready to Begin Your Mental Health Journey?
Whether you’re looking for affordable therapy options, family therapy, trauma-informed assistance, or you just want to talk about how we approach therapy for different mental health conditions, read our FAQs to learn more about us.
Our licensed therapists are here to listen and help. Contact us for support as you work towards a better future.
