Frequently asked questions

Do you offer in-person and virtual couples therapy?

Yes! We offer both in-person sessions in Billings, Montana and secure virtual sessions for couples anywhere in Montana (and will eventually offer in person sessions in other cities). Many couples choose a mix of both for flexibility and consistency.

Do you work with unmarried couples?

Of course! We work with all couples - dating, married, long-term partners, and everything in between.

Do you work with nontraditional relationships?

Absolutely! We welcome all relationship structures, identities, and dynamics. Your relationship doesn't have to fit a mold to deserve support.

Do you work with individuals who aren't currently in a relationship?

Yes! Any time is a good time to process what you're looking for in the future, how your prior relationships have shaped you, and any fears or reservations you may have about entering into a relationship.

Can I come alone if my partner won't participate?

Yes - and this is more powerful than most people realize. While couples therapy is ideal with both partners, meaningful change can begin with one person. Many partners become more open once they start noticing shifts.

Getting Started

About the Process

What is your approach to couples therapy?

We use evidence-based approaches like: Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), Relational Life Therapy (RLT), Attachment-based therapy, somatic and nervous system-informed work. This means we don't just talk about problems - we help you understand the deeper patterns driving them and create lasting change.

What happens in the first session?

The first session is about understanding your story: What brought you together, what's happening now, what feels stuck or painful. From there, we begin identifying patterns and building a clear plan forward.

How long does couples therapy take?

It depends on your goals and the complexity of the issues. Some couples want short-term support (8-12 sessions), others engage in deeper work over 6-18 months. We'll collaborate on a plan that fits your needs.

Common Concerns

What if we're constantly arguing?

That's one of the most common reasons couples come in. We help you slow down the cycle, understand what's underneath the conflict, and learn how to communicate in a way that actually lands.

What if we feel more like roommates than partners?

This is incredibly common. We help couples rebuild emotional connection, physical and sexual intimacy, and shared meaning and partnership.

Can therapy help if trust has been broken?

Yes. Whether it's infidelity, secrecy, or emotional disconnection, we help couples understand what happened, rebuild safety, decide how to move forward (together or apart).

What if we're not sure we want to stay together?

That's okay. Therapy can help you gain clarity - not pressure you into a decision. We often help couples discern whether to repair or separate and make decisions with intention (not fear or reactivity).

Fees & Insurance

Do you accept insurance?

We are a private-pay practice. However, we can provide a superbill for potential out-of-network reimbursement depending on your plan.

Why private pay?

Private pay allows greater confidentiality, more flexibility in treatment, and a focus on your relationship - not a diagnosis.

How do we know if couples therapy will work for us?

The biggest predictor of success isn't how "bad" things are - it's willingness. If you are both (or even one of you is) open to reflection, willing to try something different, and committed to growth, then meaningful change is absolutely possible.

Is it too late for us?

If you're asking this question, there's still something in you that cares. That's where we start.

What makes Montana Couples Counseling different?

We specialize exclusively in relationships. This isn't general therapy - we focus deeply on couples dynamics, attachment patterns, real-time communication shifts. You won't just "talk about problems" - you'll learn how to change them and why they started in the first place.

Do you offer coaching or non-therapy services?

Yes! We offer relationship coaching and structured programs for couples (or individuals) who want growth without traditional therapy.

Can we use this even if things aren't "that bad"?

Absolutely! Many couples come in not because things are broken - but because they want something better.