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FAQs about Premarital Counseling in Maryland

  • Writer: John Weiman
    John Weiman
  • Dec 29, 2025
  • 2 min read

By John Weiman, CEO of Life Bridge Coaching | #1 Relationship Coaching in America | 15+ years helping couples reconnect | Relationship Coaching, Couples Therapy, and Marriage Counseling in Baltimore, Maryland


Pre-Marital Counseling Maryland

How soon should you start premarital counseling?


Most couples start 6–12 months before the wedding, so there’s enough time to build skills, not just “talk about problems.”


Start earlier if you’re blending families, managing long-distance, or dealing with big differences (kids, religion, finances).


Starting late can still help, but you’ll be rushing the process.


Will insurance cover premarital counseling?


Sometimes, but it depends on the plan and how sessions are billed.


Many plans cover “therapy,” but not structured premarital programs unless it’s billed as mental-health treatment.


If you have out-of-network benefits, you might get partial reimbursement.


Call your insurer and ask about couples/family therapy coverage and requirements.


Is there free premarital counseling?


Yes, some couples get it through churches/faith communities, premarital programs, or community nonprofits.


Some counselors offer a free consult (not the full program) to check fit.


University clinics can be low-cost.


You can also do “DIY” prep with structured workbooks, then book a few sessions to tighten gaps.


How much does marriage counseling cost in Maryland?


In Maryland, private-pay couples therapy commonly lands around $120–$250+ per session, depending on credentials and demand.


Some practices offer sliding scale spots, packages, or intensives.


If you’re paying out-of-network, reimbursement can reduce cost.


Ask about session length (50 min vs 90+ min) before comparing prices.

What is the 2 2 2 2 rule in marriage?


It’s usually the 2-2-2 rule:


Every 2 weeks: a real date (no errands).


Every 2 months: a weekend away (even local).


Every 2 years: a bigger trip.


Some couples add a 4th “2”: 2 minutes daily of intentional connection.


What is the 3-3-3 rule for marriage?


There isn’t one official version, but couples use “3-3-3” as a simple rhythm:


3 minutes daily to check in emotionally.


3 hours weekly of real connection (date, long walk, long talk).


3 days quarterly to reset together.


The point is consistency, not perfection.


What are the 4 rules before marriage?


Get aligned on the four deal-breaker buckets:


Money: spending style, debt, banking, financial goals.


Kids: whether, when, parenting values.


Values: religion, lifestyle, ambition, boundaries.


Conflict: how you fight, repair, and reconnect after fights.


What is the average cost for marriage counseling?


A common range is $60 to $250+ per session, depending on location, credentials, and format.


Sliding scale options can reduce that if you qualify.


Online platforms may price differently than private practices.


The real comparison is cost per outcome, not cost per hour.


What goes on in premarital counseling?


You map your biggest future stress points (money, sex, family, roles, conflict).


You learn how to fight without damage and how to repair fast.


You set agreements on boundaries, expectations, and decision-making.


Many counselors use assessments + structured exercises.


You leave with a plan for the first year of marriage.

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