Couples contemplating divorce find themselves at a critical crossroads. They grapple with the decision to continue or part ways, weighing the impact on their lives and possibly their children’s. This juncture demands introspection, communication, and, often, professional guidance to determine the best path forward for their relationship. This article discusses Discernment Counseling, a type of service that assists couples considering breakup or divorce.
Table of Contents
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What Is Discernment Counseling?
Discernment Counseling Helps You Decide Between 3 Paths
How Long Does Discernment Counseling Last?
What Happens In A Path 3?
When Do I Know A Path 2 Is Best For Me?
How Do I Begin Discernment Counseling?
What Is Discernment Counseling?
Discernment counseling is a form of brief couples therapy designed to help couples who are considering divorce or separation make a thoughtful and informed decision about the future of their relationship. It was developed by Dr. William Doherty and his colleagues.
The main goal of discernment counseling is to provide a structured and supportive environment for couples to explore their options and decide whether to continue working on their relationship, move toward separation, or pursue divorce. This type of counseling is typically short-term and can last for just a few sessions.
Key features of discernment counseling include:
Assessment of the relationship: The counselor helps the couple assess the current state of their relationship and the factors contributing to their uncertainty about the future.
Individual focus: Unlike traditional couples therapy, where the focus is on improving the relationship, discernment counseling emphasizes individual exploration. Each partner is encouraged to understand their own feelings, needs, and goals.
Clarification of options: The counselor helps the couple clarify their options, including the possibility of reconciliation and the steps required to make it work, the option of separating for a trial period, or the possibility of pursuing divorce.
Decision-making process: The primary aim is to help the couple reach a decision regarding the future of their relationship, even if that decision is to separate or divorce. It’s about making a well-informed choice, rather than pressuring the couple to stay together.
A non-biased, non-judgmental approach: The counselor remains neutral and doesn’t advocate for one particular outcome. They provide a safe and non-judgmental space for couples to explore their feelings and options.
Discernment counseling can be particularly useful for couples facing ambivalence or significant uncertainty about their