The Greatest Journey lies in the Distance Between Two People.
Peter J. Tulaney LMFT #155626
Discernment Counseling
Discernment counseling offers couples a structured and short-term process to gain clarity about the future of their relationship. Whether this means working towards reconciliation or moving forward separately - our therapists can help you understand the possibilities and plan for a successful future.Discernment counseling differs from most traditional forms of couples therapy in that, discernment counseling is not a treatment designed to fix your relationship... instead, we strive to provide a supportive space to help you understand what you truly want with compassion every step of the way.
02.
Is Discernment Counseling right for you?
Discernment counseling is designed for couples who are ambiguous about the status or the future of their relationship. Often, one partner may be leaning out already, while the other seeks to reconcile. It is common that these feelings may be concealed in an effort to maintain a status quo in a marriage, especially if there are children involved. The fact is there are countless reasons why a couple may not see eye to eye on the status of their relationship.Couples that can benefit from discernment counseling do not need to have a common goal - in fact, that is the primary function of what we offer. Discernment counseling offers a structured and non-judgmental space to explore options and make decisions with compassion and honesty.
03.
Our Structure
Discernment counseling is a short-term structured therapy typically spanning 4-6 weeks. While all cases are unique, most couples benefit from a mix of conjoint therapy and individual therapy sessions. The initial objective is not to repair relational problems, but rather to develop a compatible plan for both partners.Typically, this plan would either be;1. Maintain status quo
2. Commit to six months of couple's therapy - with divorce off the table
3. Pursue separation with compassion, honesty and equitability
04.
With you, every Step of the Way.
Our therapists are aware of the complex nature of major decisions, and both the immediate and lasting effect that divorce will have on a family.Couples that have completed discernment counseling report:1. Reduction in ambivalence
2. Greater self-esteem moving forward
3. A stronger foundation for co-parenting
4. Greater ability to de-escalate conflict
5. Reduced conflict in divorce proceedings
If you think you may benefit from Discernment Counseling, or have any questions involving the process, please contact us.