If you’re reading this, chances are you’re facing one of the most challenging decisions of your life—whether to stay in your marriage or pursue a divorce.
Emotions are running high, and the uncertainty of it all can feel overwhelming. Questions like “Can we work through this?” and “Is it time to move on?” may be swirling in your mind. It’s completely natural to be unsure, and that’s where discernment counselling comes into play.
Discernment counselling, also known as couples divorce decision counselling is specialised marriage counselling in divorce. It is a unique and empathetic approach designed to help couples navigate the divorce decision. It offers a safe and supportive space to explore your feelings, identify your options, and make an informed choice about the future of your relationship.
Let’s delve into three key points that highlight the value of discernment counselling and how it can provide clarity and healing during tumultuous times.
- Understanding the Complex Landscape of Emotions.
When you’re at a crossroads in your marriage, it’s common to experience a whirlwind of emotions—anger, sadness, confusion, and even hope.
Discernment counselling acknowledges and validates these emotions without judgment. By working with a certified discernment counsellor, you’ll have the opportunity to express your feelings openly and honestly. This emotional release can be incredibly cathartic, allowing you to gain better insight into your own needs and desires.
The story of Sarah and James demonstrates the importance of understanding complex emotions in the decision-making process,
Meet Sarah and James, a couple who had been married for over a decade. They were once deeply in love, but over the years, their relationship had transformed into something unrecognisable. Frustration and resentment had become the new norm. Arguments were frequent, and the emotional distance between them had grown into a chasm.
Sarah and James found themselves at a crossroads. The decision to continue their marriage or embark on separate paths weighed heavily on their hearts. They were overwhelmed by the flood of emotions—grief for the love they once shared, anger at the hurt they had caused each other, and confusion about what to do next.
Sarah decided to seek help, and after some research, she discovered discernment counselling. She saw it as a last-ditch effort to find clarity amid the chaos. She approached James with the idea, and surprisingly, he agreed.
In their first session with a certified discernment counsellor, they were met with empathy and understanding. The therapist encouraged them to express their feelings openly, without judgment. Sarah and James found themselves finally able to voice their frustrations, fears, and hopes.
As the sessions progressed, Sarah and James began to comprehend the depth of their emotions and the complexities of their situation. Through the guidance of their discernment counsellor, they learned to validate each other’s feelings and experiences, even as they contemplated the possibility of a future apart.
Slowly but surely, the emotional release offered by discernment counselling allowed Sarah and James to gain insight into their individual needs and desires. While the decision remained challenging, they found themselves better equipped to face it with newfound clarity and a sense of peace.
The emotional journey of couples trying to make the stay-or-go decision on divorce is painful and confusing. Couples like Sarah and James benefit and understand the value of understanding emotions in the context of discernment counselling.
- Clarifying Your Objectives and Options
One of the primary goals of discernment counselling is to help you gain clarity about your relationship and your future.
Your therapist will guide you through a process of self-reflection, helping you identify your goals, priorities, and any patterns of behaviour that may be contributing to the challenges you’re facing.
With a clearer understanding of your objectives, you can then explore the various options available, whether it’s seeking couples therapy to rebuild your marriage or making the difficult decision to separate amicably.
- Empowering You to Make Informed Choices.
Ultimately, the decision regarding your marriage is yours to make. Discernment counselling empowers you and your partner with the tools, insights, and self-awareness needed to make an informed choice. It provides a structured and supportive environment where both parties can voice their concerns, hopes, and fears. Together with your therapist, you’ll work towards a resolution that aligns with your values and goals, even if that resolution involves the challenging path of divorce.
What is a Certified Discernment Counsellor?
Choosing a certified discernment counsellor over someone who isn’t certified can make a world of difference in your experience and the outcomes you achieve. Certification is more than just a title; it’s a symbol of expertise, dedication, and commitment to helping couples in crisis.
Certified discernment counsellors have undergone rigorous training, received specialized education, and gained practical experience in guiding couples through the complex process of discernment counselling.
When you choose a certified professional, you’re ensuring that you work with someone who has invested time and effort into honing their skills, keeping up with the latest research, and adhering to ethical standards. This means you can trust in the quality of support and guidance you’ll receive during this critical juncture in your relationship. When seeking clarity and resolution, it’s essential to place your trust in a certified discernment counsellor who has the expertise and dedication to guide you effectively on your journey to renewed connection and understanding.
Delve deeper into how discernment counselling works and allow me to introduce you to the transformative experience it offers. If you find yourself grappling with the future of your relationship, know that there’s help available, and discernment counselling could be the guiding light you need during this difficult journey.
Your Journey to Clarity and Renewed Connection Awaits- book a free 15-minute chat to see how I can help.