Path Three Transition How To

DC 2025 Path Three Transition How To

The transition to path three (couples therapy) in discernment counseling is a crucial session designed to set the couple up for success in therapy. This session focuses on confirming the couple’s decision, developing personal agendas for change, and establishing principles for reconciliation.

DC Handout - Path Three Transition How To

Key Points:

Session Opening:

Confirm that both partners are still committed to path three and prepared for the transition to couples therapy.
Ensure that the couple understands the purpose of the session and what will be accomplished.

Personal Agendas for Change:

In previous sessions, prepare the couple for creating written personal agendas for change.
Provide each partner with paper or a device to write down 3-4 areas of self-improvement that will benefit their relationship and future interactions, regardless of the marriage's outcome.
Encourage partners to focus on aspects of self that are relational and interpersonal, avoiding overly broad or overly specific goals.

Coaching and Phrasing:

Work with each partner to phrase their goals positively and specifically, ensuring they are meaningful and actionable.
Help partners understand how these changes will show up in other relationships, emphasizing personal growth beyond the current marriage.

Sharing and Feedback:

Have each partner share their personal agenda for change with their spouse, explaining the rationale behind each goal.
Encourage feedback and appreciation from the spouse, fostering a positive and supportive environment.

Principles for Reconciliation:

Introduce and discuss the principles for pursuing reconciliation, such as making an all-out effort, avoiding confiding in third parties who may not support the relationship, being flexible with time, and addressing issues early if the therapy is not working.
Have each partner read and sign the principles, committing to the process and the changes they want to make.

Referral or Continuation:

If you are not the couples therapist, ensure a warm handoff to the referred therapist, providing them with the necessary information and setting up the first session.
If you are the couples therapist, clearly transition the session into the first session of couples therapy, using your preferred therapeutic model.

Closing the Session:

End the session with appreciations for the work done, the investments made, and the growth achieved during discernment counseling.
Set the stage for a positive and constructive start to couples therapy, emphasizing the intentionality and commitment of the process.

Conclusion:

The transition to path three session in discernment counseling is designed to set couples up for success in couples therapy. By confirming their decision, developing personal agendas for change, and establishing principles for reconciliation, therapists can help couples make a smooth and intentional transition to therapy. This session is a hallmark of discernment counseling, focusing on positive growth, commitment, and preparation for the therapeutic journey ahead.

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