Are you and your partner on the brink of divorce? Need clarification on the next steps in your relationship? If so, Discernment Counseling might be the solution you're looking for. I'm Bill Dougherty, co-founder of the Dougherty Relationship Institute and the mind behind Discernment Counseling—a unique approach designed specifically for couples facing uncertainty about their future together.
There are several reasons for seeing both people at the same meeting time, even though most of the work is individual. Couples on the brink are emotionally volatile, and it’s essential the therapist and the other spouse are up to date on this very latest moment. Even more important, the powerful, well-crafted summaries each spouse gives to each other on their personal insights are not something you can get if you see them on different days. Hearing what the other spouse is discerning can be as powerful as one’s own discerning.
Discernment Counseling for Couples
A short-term, goal-oriented therapy aimed at helping couples determine whether they want to pursue couples therapy, divorce, or neither. One key aspect that sets Discernment Counseling apart is its emphasis on individual sessions for each partner. However, both individuals must attend each session together, and here are the reasons why:
Understanding the Emotional Temperature
When both partners attend sessions together, the counselor can gauge the emotional dynamics between them. From subtle interactions to non-verbal cues, being in the same room provides valuable insights into the current state of the relationship.
Staying Up to Date
Relationships are dynamic, and feelings can change rapidly. By attending sessions together, both partners stay informed about each other's evolving perspectives and emotional shifts.
Sharing Insights
While much of Discernment Counseling involves individual reflection, partners should equally share their learnings with each other. These insights, no matter how brief, play a significant role in shaping the dialogue and decision-making process within the relationship.
Despite most sessions focusing on individual counseling, the collaborative moments where both partners come together are invaluable. Some may question the necessity of attending sessions together, but the benefits outweigh any inconvenience.
In conclusion, for Discernment Counseling to be effective, both partners must actively participate and engage in the process. From understanding each other's emotional cues to staying updated on evolving perspectives, attending sessions together fosters transparency, communication, and ultimately informed decision-making.
