Path Two Plan and Implementation

DC 2025 Path Two Plan and Implementation

When path two (divorce) is on the table as a conclusion of discernment counseling, it is crucial to have a plan and be prepared for dramatic sessions. This session involves supporting both partners as they navigate the decision, ensuring clarity, and providing guidance for the next steps.

Key Points:

Session Preparation:

By the fourth or fifth session, the leaning-out partner has decided on divorce, and the leaning-in partner has been prepared for this possibility.
The therapist begins the session by reviewing the goals and assessing each partner's clarity and confidence in their decision.

Announcing the Decision:

The leaning-out partner may announce their decision in the session or choose to do so at home.
The therapist respects the partner's choice and ensures that the communication is transparent and respectful, avoiding false hope.

Values and Next Steps:

The therapist helps the leaning-out partner identify the values they want to bring to the divorce process, such as collaboration and consideration for the children.
They discuss potential sources of help, such as mediators or collaborative lawyers, and plan for short-term arrangements for the children.

Supporting the Leaning-in Partner:

The therapist prioritizes time with the leaning-in partner to help them absorb the news and process their emotions.
They provide mental health first aid if necessary and help the leaning-in partner respond constructively, even if they still hope for reconciliation.

Constructive Response:

The therapist emphasizes the importance of the leaning-in partner's constructive behavior during the divorce process, as negative behavior can solidify the leaning-out partner's decision.
They encourage the leaning-in partner to focus on what they can control and how they can respond positively.

Children and Co-Parenting:

The therapist emphasizes the importance of the co-parenting relationship and helps both partners think about how they will communicate the decision to their children and manage short-term arrangements.

Follow-Up and Support:

The therapist offers additional sessions if needed, such as discussions about talking to the children or individual support.
They emphasize the importance of a clean shift from discernment counseling to the divorce process, avoiding the role of divorce coach or mediator to maintain the potential for future counseling if needed.

Post-Session Support:

The therapist may follow up with a phone call or offer individual support if one partner is struggling.
They reaffirm the values articulated by both partners and encourage constructive communication as they move forward.

Conclusion:

Managing path two in discernment counseling involves supporting both partners as they navigate the decision to divorce. By helping the leaning-out partner identify their values and next steps, and supporting the leaning-in partner in processing their emotions and responding constructively, therapists can guide couples through this challenging process. The therapist emphasizes the importance of constructive behavior, co-parenting, and a clean shift from discernment counseling to the divorce process.

Previous Lesson

Back to Course

Next Lesson