Marriage Counseling MN

Marriage counseling in Minnesota for couples experiencing communication issues, conflict, emotional disconnection, trust concerns, and relationship stress through in-person and online therapy.

Quick Facts

Who We Help: Married couples, long-term partners, engaged couples, and families seeking relationship support

Conditions Treated: Communication problems, conflict, trust concerns, emotional disconnection, life transitions, parenting stress, and relationship anxiety

Therapeutic Approaches: Marriage counseling, emotionally focused therapy, CBT, family systems therapy, and evidence-based couples counseling

Session Types: Couples therapy, marriage counseling sessions, family-supported sessions, and telehealth appointments

Session Lengths: Varies based on treatment goals and relationship needs

Care Options: In-person marriage counseling and online therapy across Minnesota

Locations: Brooklyn Center, Eagan, Golden Valley, North St. Paul, and Shakopee

Insurance: Major insurance plans accepted including Aetna, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Cigna, Medica, Medicare, Medicaid, and United Healthcare

What Is Marriage Counseling?

Marriage counseling is a form of therapy designed to help couples improve communication, strengthen emotional connection, and navigate relationship challenges in a healthier way. Sessions provide a supportive and structured space where both partners can openly discuss concerns, emotions, and patterns affecting the relationship.

At BHSI, couples therapy is personalized to each relationship’s unique dynamics, goals, and challenges.


How Can Marriage Counseling Help?

Marriage counseling can help couples improve communication, rebuild trust, resolve recurring conflict, strengthen emotional intimacy, and better navigate stress or major life transitions together. Therapy may also support couples facing parenting challenges, emotional distance, or relationship strain connected to anxiety, depression, or trauma.

Counseling focuses on building healthier patterns of communication, understanding, and connection over time.

Marriage Counseling Near Me
How much does marriage counseling cost in Minnesota?

The cost of marriage counseling MN can vary based on location, therapist experience, and session format (in-person vs. telehealth). On average, couples can expect:

  • $120–$200 per session for private-pay options.

  • Lower rates with insurance coverage (co-pays often range from $20–$50 per session depending on the plan).

  • Sliding scale fees available at select practices for those without coverage.

At BHSI, we are committed to making marriage counseling accessible and transparent. Our team can help you verify insurance, estimate costs, and explore affordable options that ensure you and your partner can focus on your relationship—not financial stress.

What are the best marriage counselors in Minnesota?

When looking for the best marriage counseling MN, the “best” depends on your needs as a couple. The strongest marriage counselors share these qualities:

    • Licensed expertise: All BHSI therapists are fully licensed by the Minnesota Board of Marriage and Family Therapy.

    • Specialization: Many counselors specialize in specific areas such as premarital counseling, parenting support, or trauma recovery.

    • Local availability: We serve couples throughout the Twin Cities and surrounding areas, with easy-to-access offices and telehealth options.

BHSI Marriage Counseling by City
  • Marriage Counseling in St. Paul, MN: Convenient downtown office with family-focused specialists.

  • Marriage Counseling in Minneapolis, MN: Therapists skilled in communication, conflict resolution, and LGBTQ+ affirming care.

  • Marriage Counseling in Bloomington, MN: Flexible appointment times and virtual therapy options.

  • Marriage Counseling in Burnsville, MN: Family-centered care with evening availability.

By offering city-based services, BHSI ensures couples can find trusted marriage counseling close to home.

Is marriage counseling covered by insurance in MN?

Many couples ask if marriage counseling MN is covered by insurance—and the answer is often yes. Coverage depends on your specific insurance plan, but here’s what to expect:

  • Most major insurance plans accepted (Blue Cross Blue Shield, HealthPartners, UnitedHealthcare, Aetna, and more).

  • Co-pays and deductibles vary depending on the plan.

  • Diagnosis requirements: Some insurers require a mental health diagnosis for coverage; our team helps navigate this process ethically and transparently.

  • Employee Assistance Programs (EAP): Many workplaces offer free or reduced-cost sessions.

BHSI staff are experienced in verifying coverage and ensuring you understand your benefits before beginning therapy.

How do I choose a marriage counselor in my area?

Choosing the right marriage counseling MN provider can feel overwhelming, but a few key steps make the process easier:

  1. Consider location and accessibility: Proximity matters—whether in-person at our Minneapolis or St. Paul offices, or virtually anywhere in Minnesota.

  2. Check specialties: Look for counselors experienced with your specific concerns (communication, parenting, financial stress).

  3. Read reviews and bios: BHSI offers detailed therapist profiles to help you make an informed choice.

  4. Schedule a consultation: Many couples find that the “fit” between counselor and couple is the most important factor.

At BHSI, our team is dedicated to helping you find the right match so you can begin your journey with confidence.

Can I get virtual sessions from local therapy practices?

Yes! Many therapy practices near me now offer virtual therapy sessions, making it easier than ever to access mental health care from home. Whether you prefer in-person care or telehealth, BHSI provides both options.

Virtual sessions are especially useful if:

  • You live in a rural area with limited access.

  • You have mobility or transportation challenges.

  • You prefer the privacy of home.

Telehealth sessions are secure, HIPAA-compliant, and effective for a wide range of concerns. Studies published in the Journal of Clinical Psychology confirm that online therapy can be just as effective as in-person sessions for issues like depression and anxiety.

Brooklyn Center
Eagan
Golden Valley
North St Paul
Shakopee
Telehealth

Clinic Locations

Brooklyn Center
Clinic Director: Jen Pohl, PsyD, LP
651-769-6250         fax: 651-769-6299

Eagan
Clinic Director: Gary Muchow, PhD, LMFT
651-769-6200         fax: 651-769-6249

Golden Valley
Clinic Director: Rachel Giersdorf, PsyD, LP
651-769-6300         fax: 651-769-6349

North St Paul
Clinic Director:  Molly McClure, MSW, LICSW
651-769-6400         fax: 651-769-6449

Shakopee
Clinic Director: Lisa Zietlow, MA, LMFT
651-769-6500         fax: 651-769-6549

Administrative Contacts

Administration hours: Mon-Fri, 8:30-5:00

BHSI Administration
2497 7th Ave. Suite 108
North St. Paul, MN 55109

Registration |  Schedule first appointment
651-769-6565
651-769-6599 Fax
Traci Taylor 651-769-6432

Accounts payable, HR, Payroll
Yin May Aung 651-769-6438
651-769-6599 Fax

Supervisor of Coordinators,
Mary Palmer, 651-769-6424

Billing Department
651-769-6434
651-769-6599 Fax
Lynette Johnston  651-769-6434
Mark Lethert 651-769-6437

How Marriage Counseling Works

1. Initial Consultation

Your therapist learns more about your relationship history, concerns, communication patterns, and goals for therapy.

2. Relationship Assessment

Sessions help identify emotional patterns, recurring conflicts, stressors, and areas where growth and support are needed.

3. Communication and Conflict Support

Therapy focuses on improving communication, emotional expression, listening skills, and healthier conflict resolution strategies.

4. Rebuilding Connection

Couples work toward strengthening trust, emotional intimacy, understanding, and partnership.

5. Ongoing Growth and Support

Treatment evolves over time to support long-term relationship health and emotional connection.

FAQ

What issues can marriage counseling help with?

Marriage counseling can help with communication problems, conflict, trust concerns, emotional disconnection, parenting stress, intimacy issues, and major life transitions.

Is marriage counseling only for married couples?

No. Couples therapy can support married couples, long-term partners, engaged couples, and individuals navigating relationship concerns.

Is marriage counseling covered by insurance in Minnesota?

Coverage varies depending on your insurance plan and treatment needs. BHSI can help verify benefits and discuss available options.

Do you offer virtual marriage counseling in Minnesota?

Yes. BHSI offers both in-person and telehealth marriage counseling services throughout Minnesota.

How long does couples therapy last?

The length of therapy depends on each couple’s goals, concerns, and progress throughout treatment.

Do you accept insurance?

Yes. BHSI accepts many major insurance plans, including Aetna, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Cigna, Medica, Medicare, Medicaid, and United Healthcare.

Sources & Evidence-Based Care

BHSI uses evidence-based couples and relationship therapy approaches supported by leading mental health organizations and clinical research.

  • Couples therapy can improve relationship satisfaction, communication, and emotional connection.
    American Psychological Association (APA): https://www.apa.org
  • Family and relationship-focused therapy may improve emotional wellness and reduce stress within relationships.
    National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH): https://www.nimh.nih.gov
  • Healthy relationships and emotional support are associated with improved mental and emotional well-being.
    Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC): https://www.cdc.gov/mentalhealth