Counseling is definitely not free. It probably averages slightly over $100 per one-hour session. People have told me about places that give discounts or free counseling, and I looked for a relative. I never found it. I did eventually get that relative to a psychiatrist that accepted Medicaid, but it was limited to 10 sessions a year. For myself, my insurance springs for it after the first $350 in a calendar year, but they have to approve ongoing sessions (which they always do).
Still, it's probably worth it in your case. I would suggest you strain your wallet to spring for once every 5 or 6 weeks. I often suggest counseling when it seems appropriate, but I understand that most people will not go because of money. If you really want this marriage to work, find a way to get counseling. It won't work if you just hope it will.