Interested in Scheduling a Discernment Counseling Session?
If you are interested in setting up a Discernment Counseling session, please follow the instructions below.
At this point in your relationship, your spouse or partner is most likely aware that you are considering separation, divorce, or dissolving the relationship. Alternatively, you may have recently learned that they are considering leaving. If this is not the case, it is essential that you first have an honest and open discussion with them before proceeding with Discernment Counseling. Both of you need to be aware of where the other stands in the relationship before moving forward.
Step 1: Discuss Discernment Counseling with Your Partner
Have a conversation with your spouse or partner about Discernment Counseling and why you are interested in setting up a session. It is important that they understand that this is not traditional marriage or couples counseling, which is focused on improving the relationship. Instead, Discernment Counseling is a structured process designed to help couples gain clarity about their future together, whether that means working on the relationship or making a decision to separate.
To help them understand the process, I encourage you to share this page with them so they can read about what to expect. This will help ensure that both of you are on the same page before taking the next step.
Step 2: Schedule Pre-Screen Phone Calls
If both of you agree to move forward with Discernment Counseling, the next step is to complete the counseling inquiry form on my website. After submitting the form, I will schedule a brief pre-screen phone call with you.
Your spouse or partner must also reach out to my office to set up their own pre-screen phone call. Please note that I do not initiate contact with spouses or partners - each individual must take this step independently.
Step 3: Participate in Pre-Screen Phone Calls
These initial phone calls typically last about 15 to 20 minutes per person. During this time, I will:
Learn about each of your interests in Discernment Counseling.
Answer any questions you may have about the process.
Discuss the goals and structure of Discernment Counseling.
Assess whether your situation is appropriate for this type of counseling.
If, after the pre-screen calls, it appears that Discernment Counseling would be beneficial for your relationship, we will proceed with scheduling your first session.
Step 4: Scheduling Your Discernment Counseling Session
Once both of you have completed the pre-screening process and have been approved for Discernment Counseling, we will schedule your first session. I understand that couples seeking this type of counseling are often in a relationship crisis, and I do my best to find time in my schedule to accommodate you as soon as possible. It is helpful if you can remain flexible with scheduling to ensure timely availability.
The first session of Discernment Counseling is two hours long, providing ample time to explore your relationship concerns and potential paths forward. Any subsequent sessions are typically an hour and a half long. Sessions are generally scheduled every other week, although some couples may require more frequent or less frequent meetings depending on their needs and circumstances.
Step 5: Review Costs and Payment Information
If you have questions regarding the cost of Discernment Counseling, please visit my Fees and Payment page for detailed information. This will provide clarity on session rates, payment policies, and any available options.
If you have additional questions about the Discernment Counseling process or need assistance with scheduling, feel free to contact my office. I look forward to guiding you through this important decision-making process.