Discernment Counseling
For Couples at a Crossroads
Not all couples come to therapy knowing they want to stay together. Sometimes, one partner is thinking seriously about leaving while the other is holding on, hoping to work things out. If you’re in that in-between space—where everything feels uncertain and the future of your relationship is unclear—Discernment Counseling can help.
What Is Discernment Counseling?
Discernment Counseling is a short-term, supportive process for couples who feel unsure about staying together. It’s especially helpful when one partner is leaning toward separation and the other is holding on with hope.
Over the course of up to five sessions, we’ll explore the history of your relationship, the patterns that keep showing up, and each partner’s perspective. We’ll talk together as a couple, but there’s also space for one-on-one reflection with the therapist. This allows both of you to be honest and heard, even if you’re not in the same place emotionally.
This isn’t easy work, but it is meaningful. Whether you stay together or not, you deserve the clarity and compassion to make a decision that honors both of you.
If you’re at a crossroads in your relationship, you don’t have to walk it alone. Let’s take the next step together—one honest conversation at a time.
This Is for You If:
You feel stuck—torn between leaving and staying
One of you is leaning out, and the other is still leaning in
You’ve been going in circles and can’t seem to move forward
You want to make a decision that honors both your hearts
This process is not a fit if:
Both of you are fully committed to doing the work of repair (you’re ready for couples therapy instead)
There’s active abuse or untreated addiction in the relationship
A gentle, time-limited process (up to 5 sessions)
Space to explore honestly—without blame, pressure, or judgment
A better understanding of how you got here, and what might come next
Support in choosing one of three paths:
Stay in the relationship as it is
Separate or divorce with clarity and care
Commit to six months of focused couples therapy to truly work on things
No matter what you choose, you’ll leave with deeper insight—about your relationship, your partner, and yourself.
What You’ll Get
Pricing
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Five 90-minute Sessions
$250 per session
Payment due at each session
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2 Half-Day Discernment Intensive
Includes two 2.5-3 hour days
$600 per day
$200 deposit, $200 due at each session
FAQs
Q: What if we decide to separate?
Then you do so with more understanding and less regret. Discernment Counseling helps couples part with compassion, not chaos.
Q: Can we do this virtually?
Absolutely. Sessions can be held online or in person—whatever feels most accessible and supportive for you.
Q: How much does Discernment Counseling cost, and is it covered by insurance?
Rates vary depending on the format you choose (weekly or a two-day intensive), and Discernment Counseling is usually not covered by insurance since it’s not considered traditional therapy. However, you can also use HSA/FSA funds in most cases. Feel free to reach out for current rates and options.
Q: Is this just another kind of couples therapy?
Not really. Couples therapy is for when both people want to actively work on the relationship. Discernment Counseling is for when one or both of you aren’t sure if you even want that.
Q: What if my partner isn’t interested in this?
If they’re willing to come to just one session, that’s enough to get started. You don’t have to be on the same page yet—just willing to be in the room.
Q: How many sessions will we need?
The process is short by design—usually 1 to 5 sessions or it can be done over the course of two days. It’s meant to give you clarity, not drag things out.