Discernment Counseling
True Change offers the Discernment Counseling Approach to couples that have a marriage that is on the brink of divorce. Discernment counseling is a specialized form of therapy designed to help couples who are uncertain about the future of their relationship gain clarity and make informed decisions about their next steps. It is particularly helpful for couples who are considering divorce but are unsure whether to continue working on their relationship or to pursue separation.
Who is Discernment Counseling For?
- People considering divorce but not sure it’s the right path for them.
- People who want to take one more look at their relationship before making a permanent decision.
- People who want to give their marriage another chance even though their spouse is moving toward divorce.
What Discernment Counseling Typically Entails
- Clarifying goals: The therapist helps the couple clarify their individual goals and motivations for seeking counseling. This may involve exploring each partner’s desires, concerns, and hopes for the future of the relationship.
- Exploring options: The therapist facilitates open and honest communication between partners, encouraging them to explore the possibility of reconciliation, separation, or divorce. Couples are encouraged to consider the potential consequences of each option and how it aligns with their personal values and goals.
- Understanding patterns: The therapist helps the couple understand the patterns of behavior and communication that have contributed to their current situation. By gaining insight into these patterns, couples can better understand the dynamics of their relationship and make more informed decisions about their future.
- Providing support: The therapist provides emotional support and validation to both partners throughout the counseling process. They create a safe and non-judgmental space where couples can express their feelings, concerns, and fears without fear of criticism or blame.
- Decision-making: At the end of the counseling process, couples are encouraged to make a decision about the future of their relationship. This decision may involve committing to working on the relationship, pursuing separation or divorce, or taking a temporary break to reassess their options.
It’s important to note that discernment counseling is not aimed at resolving marital issues or saving the relationship. Instead, its focus is on helping couples gain clarity and confidence in their decision-making process, regardless of the outcome. By providing a structured and supportive environment for couples to explore their options, discernment counseling empowers couples to make choices that are in alignment with their individual needs and values.
What Can Be Gained From Discernment Counseling
- Gain clarity and confidence about what steps to take next with your marriage
- Understand what has happened to your marriage
- Look at three sides of your problems: yours, your spouse’s, and an objective professional’s perspective
- Evaluate the possibility of solving your problems and staying married
- Decide whether to move towards divorce or make a last all-out effort to restore you marriage to health
