top of page

Discernment Counseling
(guidance in deciding the future of your relationship) 

What is discernment counseling? 

 

Untitled design-7.png

Not sure if your goal is to repair your relationship or navigate separation? Discernment counseling is a specialized program that will help you figure it out.

 

It's very common for one or both partners entering couples therapy to be unsure if they want to stay in the relationship. We offer a brief therapy approach focused on guiding decision-making on whether to continue a relationship.

 

This process involves agreeing on short-term goals and expectations, gaining an understanding of the negative patterns that arose in your relationship and how you can prevent these patterns from developing again (in this relationship or future relationships with others), and determining whether engaging in traditional couples therapy to try to mend your relationship makes sense.

 

There is no pressure to come to any specific conclusion about what the future of your relationship holds, and you will have compassionate support from your therapist as you engage in productive conversations about this important decision.

What are the goals of discernment counseling?

  • ​Clarity about what direction to take your relationship

  • Confidence as you move toward that direction​​​

​

What can you expect when choosing to do discernment counseling at the Center for CBT?

 ​

🧭 Focused, Time-Limited Support
Most couples complete the process in 1 to 5 sessions. It's goal-oriented and built to help you move forward instead of staying stuck.

 

🧠 Make an Informed Decision
Rather than rushing into separation or dragging out painful indecision, discernment counseling gives space for thoughtful reflection and informed choices.

 

🤝 Respect for Both Perspectives

Whether you're leaning in or leaning out, both voices matter. This process honors each partner’s point of view—without judgment or blame.

 

🌱 Sets the Stage for What Comes Next
If you choose to work on your relationship, you'll enter couples therapy with clarity and commitment. If you choose to part, you'll be better equipped to do so with mutual understanding—especially important when children are involved.

bottom of page