Discernment Counseling

You just aren’t happy anymore.

The effort being put in to making things Workable isn’t working.

And if we’re being honest, that effort is only being put in by one person.

Discernment counseling is a short-term therapy solution (conducted over the course of five or fewer intensive two-hour sessions) and is a guided process through which couples can thoughtfully decide together on the best next-step in their relationship.

There are mixed feelings about ending it. One of you sees divorce as the only solution, but the other one is still holding out hope that it will get better.

Often, you find yourself wondering if the relationship is even worth trying to fix.

If these thoughts reflect the current dynamic in your relationship, it could be time to pursue discernment counseling.

Unlike traditional marriage counseling, the goal of discernment counseling is not to start to solve the problems in the relationship, but rather to give couples more confidence in their decision making.

An important point to mention is that discernment counseling is not for couples where one of the parties is already certain that they want a divorce.  The assumption in this setting is that both parties are still considering restoring the health of the marriage but are unsure whether this is the best option.

A couple sits next to each other. They are looking forward to starting online marriage counseling in Dallas, TX with Rethink Therapy.
A couple sits with their backs facing away from each other. They are regretting not starting discernment counseling in Dallas, TX with Rethink Therapy sooner.

Common Reasons Couples Pursue Discernment Counseling

Every relationship is different. As a couple, sometimes things happen that we aren’t ready for. This can take a toll on the relationship. Additionally, it can make us reconsider futures that previously seemed set in stone. While every couple pursues discernment counseling for a variety of reasons, here a few common reasons:

Discernment Counseling Can Help

This can all be very difficult to navigate. For some of us, feeling unsure about the future of our relationship can be unsettling.  Additionally, it can feel incredibly scary and isolating. Luckily, starting discernment counseling can help you and your partner make the best decision for your relationship.

Our counselors have worked with many couples who are going through the same thing you are right now, and we have helped these couples make the best decision for their relationship. You aren’t alone in making this tough decision.

A couple stands together to take a picture together. They are feeling happy after starting LGBTQ affirming therapy in Dallas, TX with Rethink Therapy.

Our Approach to Discernment Counseling

In discernment counseling, our goal is for you and your partner to be on the same page regarding your relationship. Our time together will be a collaborative process that requires everyone’s input. In these sessions, everyone’s opinion’s and feelings can be explored. Because really, it’s part of the reason that you’re in the situation you’re currently in. The goal is not to “persuade” one person that their feelings are wrong. Instead, we aim to consider all options and feelings. We do this to ensure that you both feel confident in the decision about the next steps.

Your counselor will challenge you to consider things you may not have considered before. We’ll encourage you to think about other perspectives to see the situation in a different light. Additionally, we’re going to prompt you to explore options that you may have felt were not previously on the table. Through this collaborative process, we will provide you both with support and assistance to aid you in considering the future of your relationship.

Meet Our Therapists

Begin Discernment Counseling in Texas

Things in your relationship have been really tough. The dynamic is not what you want it to be. You’ve both decided that this is bigger than you, and you need help. Discernment counseling can help you navigate the future of your relationship.  Our discernment counselors have helped many couples just like you. We’ve worked together to come up with the best decision for their relationship. When you’re ready to begin your journey in discernment counseling, follow these steps.