What is couples therapy?
Couples therapy is talk therapy in which the relationship is the client. Sessions work on patterns that two people share, such as repeated arguments, distance after a major event, or disagreement about the future.
Two named approaches have formal training paths. The Gottman Method moves therapists through Levels 1 to 3 and then certification. Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) is certified through the International Centre for Excellence in Emotionally Focused Therapy (ICEEFT).
First Session profiles show each therapist's designation and approach. You can see whether a couples therapist is an RCC, a registered social worker or a psychologist before you book.
What to know about couples therapy in British Columbia
Online and in-person
A 2021 systematic review in the Journal of Marital and Family Therapy covered 37 papers. It found videoconferencing psychotherapy feasible and acceptable for couples and families. A 2022 randomized study of 30 couples found no difference in relationship satisfaction between video and face-to-face delivery of one program.
Out-of-province therapists insured to provide online care in British Columbia appear in a separate list below the local one.
Credentials in British Columbia
Psychotherapy is not yet a regulated profession in BC. The Ministry of Health says the College of Health and Care Professionals of BC (CHCPBC) regulates it from November 29, 2027, when "psychotherapist" becomes a protected title.
Designations in BC include RCC (BC Association of Clinical Counsellors), RSW (BC College of Social Workers), registered psychologist (CHCPBC) and CCC (Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association).
Cost and insurance
The BCACC 2026 Fee Guide recommends $155 to $175 per 50-minute couples and family session for RCCs under three years post-masters. It lists $175 to $205 for RCCs with three to five years plus relevant training. RCCs can charge more or less.
MSP does not cover counsellors or psychologists, according to the Government of British Columbia. Therapists provide a receipt after each session for an extended health claim.
Time zones in BC
BC moved to one year-round zone, Pacific Time (UTC-7), on March 8, 2026, and clocks stay put on November 1, 2026. Parts of southeastern BC, including the East Kootenay, use Mountain Daylight Time (UTC-6) year round, one hour ahead of Pacific Time.
How to choose a couples therapist in British Columbia
1Match the designation to your plan
Find the paramedical section of your benefits booklet and note which providers it names: RCC, RSW, psychologist or CCC. Then filter by designation, so each profile you watch carries a title your plan names.
2Ask how they trained in couples work
Ask whether the therapist is a Certified Gottman Therapist or Level 2 or 3 trained. For EFT, ask whether they completed the ICEEFT externship and core skills or hold certification. A therapist can list either approach as an interest, so ask for the training level.
3Watch the intro video together
Both partners need to feel comfortable with the same person. Each First Session therapist is interviewed on camera, and the videos are unscripted and lightly edited. Watch one together and compare notes afterwards.
4Book the free consultation with both partners
The 15-minute consultation is free. Use it to ask how the therapist handles a session where partners disagree about the goal, and what the first few sessions cover.
Looking for something more specific?
Filter by specialty in British Columbia
Nearby cities
Couples therapists in other cities
Helpful reading
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