Discernment Counseling
A supportive, structured process for couples unsure about staying together or separating
What is “Discernment Counseling”?
Discernment Counseling is a short-term, specialized service for couples at a crossroads. When one partner is unsure about continuing the relationship and the other hopes to save it, this approach provides a structured, supportive space to slow down and gain clarity, without pressure to repair the relationship right away.
Unlike traditional couples therapy, Discernment Counseling focuses on understanding how the relationship reached this point and helping both partners make a thoughtful, well-informed decision about what comes next.
At its core, Discernment Counseling helps couples answer an essential question:
”Should we stay together, commit to working on the relationship, or move toward separation?”
Ideal for couples who:
Not appropriate when:
Are considering separation or divorce
Are unsure whether to stay together
May have tried couples therapy without progress
Are in a “mixed-agenda” dynamic
(one leaning out, one leaning in)Want clarity before making a major decision
There are emotional or physical safety concerns
One partner is being pressured into the process
Three Possible Outcomes
Status Quo
No major decisions are made at this time. This path allows space for continued reflection, emotional regulation, and greater understanding before determining next steps.
Move Toward Separation or Divorce
A thoughtful, grounded decision that the relationship cannot continue. Discernment Counseling supports clarity, respect, and integrity as partners prepare to move forward separately.
Commit to 6 Months of Therapy
A clear agreement to engage in six months of focused couples therapy, with both partners fully committed, no discussion of separation during that time, and a defined re-evaluation date.
Our Discernment Team
Why Couples Choose Discernment Counseling at CCPV
Couples often come to Discernment Counseling feeling overwhelmed, reactive, or stuck in crisis mode. This approach offers time, structure, and professional support to slow things down and create space for thoughtful decision-making.
At the Couples Center of the Pioneer Valley, our clinicians are trained in the Doherty model and bring extensive experience working with couples in high-stress, high-uncertainty moments. We provide a steady, structured process that helps each partner better understand their own contributions, the patterns within the relationship, and what is realistically possible moving forward.
Our work is grounded in warmth, transparency, and respect for both partners’ perspectives. Rather than pushing toward a particular outcome, we focus on supporting clarity, integrity, and compassion, even when the path forward involves separation.
Logistical Considerations
Discernment Counseling sessions are available both in person and through secure telehealth. The process is intentionally time-limited, typically taking place over one to six sessions, depending on what best supports the couple.
When clinically appropriate, Discernment Counseling is also offered as a two-day, in-person private intensive for couples who would benefit from a more concentrated and immersive format.
Because of the specialized nature of this work, Discernment Counseling is not billable to insurance.
To explore whether the two-day intensive may be a good fit, please contact Katherine Waddell, LMFT by scheduling an Acuity discovery call.
Cost For Discernment
Initial Discernment Session
$450
2 hours
- Focuses on clarifying each partner’s stance
- Introduces the structure and goals of the discernment process
Follow-Up Sessions
$350 per session
90 minutes each
- Up to five sessions, depending on the couple’s needs
- Builds toward clarity and an informed decision
Each session includes:
- A brief joint check-in
- Individual work with each partner
- A closing conversation to reflect and identify next steps
Please Note: Discernment is a specialized decision-making protocol and is not covered by insurance.
Booking Your Discernment Sessions
If you’re interested in finding out more about our Discernment Team and Discernment Intensives, we invite you to contact our office.
Healing is possible. Let’s find the path that’s right for you.