Discernment Counseling is a unique protocol designed for mixed agenda couples. A mixed agenda couple is a couple where one partner is leaning out of the relationship, or considering divorce, and is ambivalent about couples therapy. While the other partner desires to preserve the relationship and participate in couples therapy. 

Discernment Counseling entails a combination of couple and individual time for 1 to 5 sessions. The goal of Discernment Counseling is for couples to gain clarity and confidence in their decision about the future of their relationship, through a deeper understanding of what has happened in the relationship and each person’s contributions to it.

Discernment counseling differs from couples therapy in that the goal of counseling is not to work on the relationship. The goal is to determine if there is the possibility that both partners can discern the desire and motivation to work on the relationship. 

Discernment counseling is best suited for any couple circumstance where there is ambivalence and uncertainty about the future of the relationship and uncertainty about making a decision. These couples are often disconnected, unhappy, unfulfilled, and feel "stuck" due to an inability to make a decision to move forward.

Discernment Counseling can  also benefit a couple on the brink of divorce with one partner that is ambivalent in their decision about staying or leaving the marriage while the other partner wants to remain married.

If you and your partner feel Discernment Counseling will be beneficial to you the process will start with a screening call with each partner separately. During the call we will identify your needs, assess for appropriateness and discuss schedules.

If you want to learn more about the Discernment Counseling process contact us!