Some couples are unsure if they are ready to invest the time and energy that would be required in couples therapy, or one or both partners are considering divorce or separating. Staying in or ending a relationship can be gut wrenching and confusing decision, with individual needs, expectations, and emotional pain unique to each partner. Out of desperation, couples often turn to couples therapy in hopes of finding relief, but often find they are not prepared to invest in the hard work of repairing a relationship. As an alternative, Discernment Therapy focuses on the unique and specific needs of partners who are unsure about the future of the relationship.
Based on research and theory by William Doherty, PhD and Steven Harris, PhD, LMFT, Discernment Therapy is a structured, short-term (no more than 5 sessions) therapy for ambivalent couples trying to make a decision about the future of the relationship. It does not focus on repairing the relationship; but instead focuses on helping each partner build insight and discern between three options as their next step: 1. staying in the relationship as it is, 2. divorcing / separating, or 3. committing to at least six months of couple’s therapy. Your therapist, trained in the approach, will focus on the unique needs of each partner with the goal to help each find personal clarity about the next step in the relationship.
Serving couples located in Ohio, we are committed to helping alleviate the emotional turmoil related to uncertainty of staying in or ending a relationship. Discernment Therapy is available to you – whether from your home or office, from one or multiple devices, in the evening, afternoon or weekend, we will work with you to find time to connect. Contact us to schedule your appointment.