Discernment Counseling
2 hour initial discernment counseling session | $325
1.5 hour follow-up discernment counseling session | $245
Sometimes a relationship reaches a place where it feels uncertain, confusing, or overwhelming, and it’s hard to know whether to continue together or begin to separate. I offer discernment counseling for couples in this space, creating a structured, supportive setting where each of you can share your perspective, reflect on your role in the relationship, and gain clarity about what you want moving forward. These sessions are longer to allow for honest conversation, deeper reflection, and thoughtful exploration of your options. I guide the process with care and neutrality, helping you better understand what has happened in your relationship and what each of you needs, so you can move forward with greater clarity, intention, and direction.
Why Discernment Counseling Might Be Right for You
Uncertain About the Future
You’re not sure whether to stay together or separate and need clarity before making a decision.​​
Wanting a Safe, Neutral Space
You need a structured environment to explore your feelings without judgement or pressure.
Feel Stuck or Confused
You care about each other but feel stuck in patters or unsure how to move forward.
Need to Hear Each Other Clearly
Both partners want to be fully understood and want to understand the other before deciding the future of the relationship.
High Emotional Pain
The relationship feels painful, overwhelming, or conflicted, making it hard to think clearly about next steps.
Different Levels of Commitment
One partner is leaning toward ending the relationship while the other hopes to repair it, and you need support navigating these mixed feelings and goals together.
How Discernment Counseling Works
Couples can expect a structured, supportive process designed to help them gain clarity about the future of their relationship. The process begins with a brief phone consultation to see if discernment counseling is the right fit. If you move forward, Abby will send a few forms to understand each partner’s perspective and the challenges in the relationship before the first session.
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Discernment counseling is done one session at a time. The first session is a two-hour meeting where both partners meet together and then spend part of the time in individual conversations. This helps each person reflect, share honestly, and understand their partner’s perspective. At the end of each session, couples decide whether to schedule another session. Couples can have up to five sessions in total.
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Follow-up sessions are one and a half hours and follow the same structure, including check-ins together and individual time for each partner to explore options and consider next steps.
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At the end of discernment counseling, couples usually move toward one of three paths. Some launch couples therapy with a focused plan for improving their relationship. Others decide that separation or divorce is the best next step. Some choose to stay on hold, taking more time to reflect without starting therapy or moving toward divorce. The process is steady, nonjudgmental, and guided with warmth and care, giving both partners a safe space to be heard and gain clarity in this pivotal moment.