Discernment (Relational ) Counseling what is it?
Discernment Counseling is a process for couples where one or both partners are considering a separation or divorce, or are ambivalent about the future of their relationship. It is different from normal couples therapy in that this process will assist couples to decide whether or not it will be possible to stay together and live well.
Our goals in Discernment Counseling include:
The process employed by us in Discernment Counseling includes:
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Meetings which are generally with both partners, although at least one individual meeting will take place with each partner.
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A review of the relationship story from both partners’ perspectives (meeting, courtship, decisions, and significant events).
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Reviewing the strengths, challenges, and both partners’ contributions to the relationship.
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Recognizing the efforts that have/have not been made to address concerns.
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The couple determines what the next step will be: 1) proceed with couple therapy, 2) end the relationship, 3) take other agreed upon steps (e.g., individual therapy, chemical dependency evaluation, anger management counseling), or 4) do none of these