Ours stands out as a reliable option for online relationship counseling, enabling couples to engage in meaningful conversations and strengthen their connection. However, for couples in crisis, those requiring medication management, or those seeking insurance coverage, Ours may not be the ideal choice due to its self-pay model and limited services.
Understanding the Intricacies of Relationships:
Relationships are intricate, influenced by unique perspectives, backgrounds, childhood experiences, and shared values. Notably, 69% of challenges faced by couples stem from fundamental differences, while the remaining 31% are resolvable. Online therapy platforms like Ours aim to help couples identify and address these issues effectively. Considering the profound impact relationships have on well-being, investing in relationship support is vital. Online therapy offers an accessible and cost-effective solution.
Exploring Ours' Approach:
Established in 2020, Ours was founded by individuals who sought to revolutionize couples therapy based on their own experiences with frustrating searches for relationship services. Their mission is to "water the therapy desert" by making couples therapy more accessible to those seeking proactive strategies to strengthen their relationships before encountering significant problems.
The Ours "full experience" program uniquely combines live therapy sessions with online modules, creating an affordable and convenient approach to couples therapy. Over four weeks, couples participate in two live sessions and four self-guided sessions through Loveware, Ours' proprietary software hosting all 10 (and growing) online modules.
Personal Experience with Ours:
After firsthand experience with the Ours program, I was impressed by their approach to therapy. My assigned "guide" (therapist) fostered a comfortable atmosphere, allowing my partner and me to embark on this unconventional journey confidently.
Services Provided by Ours:
Ours offers personalized online therapy, blending talk therapy sessions with self-guided lessons for couples to complete collectively. In contrast to traditional premarital or couples counseling, Ours caters specifically to couples who proactively seek to invest in their relationship.
Participation in the Ours experience is open to various relationship types, regardless of engagement or marital status. Their website promotes inclusivity, welcoming "relationships of all kinds: new connections, serious relationships, recently engaged, the married crowd, and everything in between." This inclusivity extends to sexual orientation, religious beliefs, and cultural backgrounds.
The self-guided sessions in Loveware draw upon the Gottman Method, a recognized resource in couples therapy. Elizabeth Earnshaw, a co-founder and Head of Relationship Health at Ours, contributes her expertise in the Gottman Method to the program. Additionally, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) techniques are integrated throughout the self-guided sessions.
Cost and Insurance:
Ours offers transparent pricing, with clear options displayed on their homepage. Prices range from $50 to $400 for various experiences, with flexible payment options available. This pricing is within reason, especially considering the potential cost of hundreds of dollars per session for traditional therapy. User surveys also indicate that 52% find the services offered by Ours to be affordable.
Currently, Ours offers three plans: single sessions, self serve, and full experience. Single sessions are priced at $50, self serve includes 4 sessions for $200, and full experience provides 6 sessions for $400. It is important to note that insurance is not accepted.
Discounts and Promotions:
While Ours does not offer a free trial, they provide a promo code hidden within their FAQ section, under the question "Does anyone actually read these FAQs?" Additionally, they occasionally offer limited-time promotions or discounts. It's worth checking their website or social media pages for the latest offers.
Navigating the Ours Website:
The Ours homepage greets visitors with the message "A new way to invest in your relationship," accompanied by vibrant colors and straightforward language. The website is well-organized, with clear sign-up options through prominent "get started" buttons.
The homepage is comprehensive and transparent, outlining the company's target audience, the benefits of their approach, and testimonials from couples who have participated in the Ours program.
Scrolling down the page reveals information about the therapy process, therapist profiles, and the opportunity to read blog posts and research conducted by Arch Insights.
Does Ours Have an App?
Currently, Ours does not offer a mobile app.