121 - 897 Pembina Road | Sherwood Park AB T8H 0M6 | (587) 714-2412
Discernment Counselling
Every relationship faces moments of uncertainty—whether it’s questions about commitment, differences in goals, or challenges that make the future unclear. Discernment counselling is a brief form of relationship therapy that offers a supportive, neutral space for couples to explore these uncertainties together, gain clarity, and evaluate the future of their relationship.
Discernment therapy is NOT appropriate if one (or both) members of a relationship KNOW they DO NOT want to continue the relationship or if a partner refuses to participate or is unwilling to reflect on the relationship.
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A Note on Attendance
Discernment counselling requires both partners attend each session together, as the process is designed to help the couple gain clarity collectively (not to actively work on the relationship). Individual sessions may be recommended by the therapist if needed, such as to support personal reflection or emotional processing.
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If your partner is currently unsure or unwilling to attend, we encourage starting with individual counselling. This allows you to explore your concerns, clarify your goals, and receive support while navigating the uncertainty of an unengaged or hesitant partner.​
Relationship Dynamics
In discernment counselling, couples focus on gaining clarity about the future of their relationship rather than immediately trying to solve every problem. Sessions often begin with exploring each partner’s doubts, concerns, and feelings about the relationship, helping to understand whether both partners want to work on the relationship or consider separation.
Building Self Awareness
Discernment counselling encourages each partner to develop greater self-awareness by reflecting on their thoughts, feelings, values, and patterns of behavior within the relationship. This process helps individuals understand their contributions to challenges, clarify personal needs and priorities, and identify areas for growth, supporting more thoughtful and informed decisions about the future of the relationship.
Individual Contributions
Personal goals and values are also explored. Each partner reflects on their individual priorities and aspirations, and the counsellor helps the couple assess how aligned or divergent these are within the relationship. Understanding these factors can clarify whether the partnership supports each person’s long-term vision.
Betrayal Trauma
Explore the impact of past breaches of trust while evaluating the future of their relationship. Sessions provide a safe space to process emotions, understand the effects of the betrayal, and consider what would be needed for trust to be rebuilt. This reflection helps partners make clearer, more informed decisions about whether to work on the relationship, take time apart, or separate.
Decision Making
Explore possible paths forward, including working on the relationship, considering separation, or taking time apart. Sessions focus on understanding the potential consequences of each option and what would be required for that path to succeed, helping partners make informed and thoughtful decisions about their future together