What is Discernment Counseling?
Couples Counseling in Severna Park, Maryland
Discernment Counseling is a short-term, structured process designed to help couples gain clarity and confidence about the decision of the future of their relationship. This differs from traditional couples therapy in that the goal of Discernment Counseling is to gain clarity and confidence in a decision about the relationship with a deeper understanding of each partner’s role in the state of the relationship.
Discernment Counseling
The conversation focused on the 3 paths:
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Status quo
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Separation or divorce
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A 6-month commitment to traditional couples therapy
In this approach, we pause the pressure to “fix” the relationship and instead focus on understanding what’s happened, how each partner sees their role, and what each person needs to move forward with integrity.
The protocol typically includes:
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1–5 sessions, each lasting 1.5-2 hours.
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Individual time with each partner to explore their perspective and level of commitment.
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Joint conversations to reflect on what’s been learned and consider next steps.
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A clear outcome: deciding between status quo, a separation/divorce path, or a full commitment to couples therapy for relationship repair.
Discernment Counseling is not about making quick decisions…it’s about creating space for honesty, insight, and choice. It helps couples move forward with clarity, respect, and compassion, whatever path they choose.
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