Discernment Counseling for Couples in TX, NV, FL, & VT..
Are you struggling to come to a consensus about the future of your marriage? Discernment Counseling is uniquely designed for couples where one spouse wishes to end the marriage while the other desires to save it.
What is the difference between Couples and Discernment Counseling?
The difference between Couple Counseling and Discernment Counseling is the agenda of the couples. In couple counseling, both partners want to save the marriage/relationship, whereas, in discernment counseling, the agenda is mixed. One partner may want to keep the marriage/relationship, while the other is uncertain and leaning toward ending the relationship. It is not uncommon that one partner may want something different than the other partner.
Who is Discernment Counseling for?
Couples who are struggling with “how to move forward.” Discernment counseling benefits couples who aren’t on the same page and cannot move forward without professional intervention. Discernment counseling empowers couples to make a collaborative decision about their future and does not view divorce as a failure or staying together as a success.
When is Discernment Counseling Not Appropriate?
A partner has already decided to leave.
Domestic Violence and child abuse in the home
Imminent crisis related to suicidal thoughts and substance misuse.
Couples experiencing the above will be offered individual counseling or referred to a counselor with the appropriate expertise.
How Does Discernment Counseling Work?
Discernment Counseling is a brief therapeutic approach meant to help the couple decide whether they want to work toward saving the marriage/relationship or ending it. Once both partners have completed their assessment, the therapist will lead the couples through five 60 to 90 minutes sessions; during this process, couples will learn:
Understand the reality of the relationship from the other party's perspective. Acknowledging and addressing “the pink elephant” in the room.
Analyzing the causes of issues, problems, and disagreements between the two partners. Weighing the pros and cons of breaking up or staying together.
Learn how to communicate better with your partner. Learn how to Communicate your needs more clearly and express them more emphatically with your partner.
What should I expect?
Intake evaluation is an Individual assessment where each member of the couple sees the counselor separately. Typically intake evaluation takes about one therapeutic hour (60 minutes). Couples with more complex issues to address may need more time or multiple sessions before starting. Please let your therapist know if you need more time or a session. Five discernment therapy sessions (60 to 90 minutes) with your partner. By the end of the fifth session, the couple will make the decision on whether they will Commit to six months of intensive couples counseling to see if the relationship can be saved.
Individual therapy, workshops, classes, or reading and homework may also be prescribed. At this time, don't make any decisions about staying or leaving; just keep things as they are. Sometimes one partner needs more time to process their feelings, in order to make a decision; and may need more individual therapy before proceeding. Proceed with separation or divorce (couples often continue coming to therapy for guidance in this process, especially if there are children involved); Once the couples have come to a decision the focus of the session will be focusing on the next steps to move forward. As well as, any appropriate referrals.
Does my insurance cover Discernment Counseling?
Couples counseling and discernment counseling are rarely covered by insurance. Insurance will only cover treatment that meets medical necessity for a verified psychiatric diagnosis. In some cases, insurers may cover couples counseling if the demand for counseling is directly related to an individual's psychiatric diagnosis. Despite this, discernment counseling rarely falls under this category.
How much does Discernment Counseling Cost Out of Pocket?
Discernment Counseling is for Couples who are struggling with “how to move forward,” with one partner wanting to save the marriage/relationship while the other partner is uncertain and/or leaning toward ending the relationship. Discernment counseling is about empowering couples to make a collaborative decision about their future and does not view divorce as a failure or staying together as a success. Click here to learn more about Discernment Counseling
60 mins | $180 | 90 mins | $250
Sometimes, a partner is not ready to face discernment counseling or flat-out refuses counseling. If that is the cause, I often see a client individually. Our session will focus on the concerns and issues you are experiencing in your marriage. How the problems in the relationship have impacted you, and whether or not it is something that can be repaired? If you have any more questions or concerns about Discernment Counseling or If you would like to set up a free 15 minutes consultation, please get in touch with Licensed Professional Counselor Jennifer L. Hillier.
THERAPY DESIGNED TO HELP YOU HEAL AND STEP INTO YOUR AUTHENTIC SELF.
You deserve to live a life driven by your passion and purpose, not your emotions. Allow me to help you make the changes you have been longing for. It's time to move on from your past, reclaim your future and step into your authentic self. Imagine a life where you no longer feel controlled by your thoughts, where you freely express yourself with conviction, honor your body, and celebrate all its imperfections. Take your next step confidently in the direction of your dreams, and live the life you have always imagined. Take comfort in knowing that you are no longer in this alone. You are in safe experienced hands now.