Discernment Counseling for Couples in Crisis in Mahtomedi, MN

What Is Discernment Counseling?

Discernment counseling is a brief, structured, and non-judgmental process designed for couples who are uncertain about the future of their relationship.

Unlike traditional couples therapy, the goal isn’t to fix the relationship, but to help both partners gain clarity and confidence about the best path forward:

• Staying in the relationship “as is” (status quo),

• Moving toward separation, or

• Committing to a six-month course of weekly couples therapy with the goal of working on the relationship and attempting reconciliation. During this six-month period, the focus is on repairing the relationship with separation and divorce “off the table.”

Most couples complete the discernment counseling process in 1 to 5 sessions.

Who It’s For: Couples with Mixed Agendas

Discernment counseling is ideal when one partner is "leaning out" of the relationship and the other is "leaning in." It provides a safe space where:

• Both perspectives are honored

• No one is pressured to make a quick decision

• The counselor remains neutral and supportive to both individuals

What to Expect in Discernment Counseling

Initial Session:

• Duration: 2 hours

• Includes time together and individual conversations with each partner

Follow-Up Sessions:

• Up to 4 additional sessions

• Duration: 80 minutes each

• Focused on deeper reflection and next steps

Session Structure Includes:

• Joint conversation to set intentions

• One-on-one time with each partner

• Final joint reflection and direction planning

If, after discernment counseling, you both decide to continue working on the relationship, we can either transition into couples therapy together or I can offer referrals to other trusted couples therapists.

Key Benefits of Discernment Counseling

Discernment counseling promotes clarity, helping you both to understand your relationship more clearly before making life-changing decisions. Specifically, couples leave discernment counseling with improved:

• Communication – Gain tools for more respectful conversations

• Self-Awareness – Reflect on your own patterns, needs, and values

• Co-Parenting Support – Prepare for effective collaboration if separation is the path forward

• Confidence in choosing the next steps

Is Couples Therapy a Better Fit?

If both partners are open to actively working on the relationship together, traditional couples therapy may be a better fit.

Fees and Scheduling

Initial 2-hour session: $395

Follow-up 80-minute sessions: $310 each