Discernment Counseling in Greater Richmond
On the brink of separation or divorce?
Get clarity on whether positive change is possible.
Available in-person & online.
Are you stuck in "should I stay or should I go?"
If you're asking yourself this question about your marriage, you're not alone — and you're likely feeling overwhelmed, torn, and unsure of what to do next.
Maybe you've been stuck here for months, struggling with disconnection or resentment. Or maybe a recent crisis shook everything up. You might be leaning toward leaving while your partner wants to work things out — or vice versa.
What makes Discernment Counseling different.
Unlike couples therapy (which focuses on fixing problems), discernment counseling is designed specifically for couples where at least one person isn't sure they want to stay in the relationship.
It's a short-term process that helps you gain clarity about your next steps — whether that's working toward reconciliation, pursuing separation, or taking more time to decide.
This isn't about convincing you to stay or go. It's about slowing down and making a thoughtful decision instead of acting out of fear, anger, or exhaustion.
Discernment Counseling offers a different kind of support.
Unlike traditional couples therapy, which focuses on solving relationship problems, discernment counseling is designed specifically for couples on the brink — where at least one person is uncertain about staying in the relationship. It's a short-term, structured process that helps you gain clarity and confidence about your next steps — whether that’s to work toward reconciliation, pursue separation, or continue holding space for more reflection.
Is Discernment Counseling right for your situation?
Discernment Counseling works in these situations:
One partner is considering divorce and the other wants to work on the marriage
Neither partner has completely made up their mind yet
You're both willing to slow down and explore your options before making a final decision
How the Process Works
The Structure:
1-5 sessions total
Initial session: 2 hours
Follow-up sessions: 1.5 hours each
Sessions are mainly individual conversations with brief check-ins together
What We Focus On:
Understanding how your relationship got to this point
Seeing each partner's contributions to the current situation
Clarifying what each person actually wants moving forward
Exploring whether there's realistic potential for meaningful change
Supporting each partner, even when you're in completely different emotional places
The Three Paths Forward
By the end of discernment counseling, you'll choose one of these paths:
Path 1: Continue with no immediate change in the marriage
Path 2: Commit to couples therapy for 6 months (with divorce off the table during this time)
Path 3: Proceed with separation or divorce
If you're feeling stuck at a crossroads in your marriage, I want to help you find your footing again and make the next right decision for yourself and your relationship.
Investment
Due to the nature of discernment counseling, it is not covered by insurance.
Initial consultation (2 hours): $320
Follow-up sessions (1.5 hours): $240
