Discernment Therapy
Discernment therapy is practiced in Kitchener-Waterloo, Milton, Oakville, London and the surrounding areas. Anchoridge Counselling takes pride in the therapy practice offered to help clients with individual needs.
Helping Couples Navigate Uncertainty in Their Relationship
It’s not uncommon for couples to reach a crossroads where one partner is considering ending the relationship while the other is still committed to working things out. This type of uncertainty can be overwhelming and emotionally draining — for both individuals.
Discernment Therapy is a short-term, structured approach designed specifically for couples where one or both partners are uncertain about the future of the relationship. It’s not couples therapy in the traditional sense — it’s therapy for clarity and direction.
Who is Discernment Therapy for?
Couples where one partner is "leaning out" and unsure if they want to stay in the relationship
Couples where the other partner is "leaning in" and hopes to preserve or rebuild the relationship
Those considering separation or divorce but unsure if it’s the right step
It is not suited for couples who are fully committed to working on the relationship together — traditional couples therapy would be more appropriate in those cases.
What to Expect in Discernment Therapy?
Explore each partner’s perspectives on the relationship
Understand what has led to the current crisis or state of ambivalence
Identify areas of change, including what has been tried and what hasn’t
Clarify whether there is a path forward together or whether separation is the healthiest option
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Goals of Discernment Therapy:
The goal is not to solve relationship problems immediately but to gain greater clarity and confidence about one of three paths:
Stay in the relationship as it is
Separate or divorce
Commit to couples therapy for six months with clear goals for change
A Compassionate Approach to Relationship Crossroads
- Discernment Therapy is grounded in empathy, honesty, and clarity. At Anchoridge, we recognize how painful and confusing this kind of decision can be. Our therapists are here to help you reflect, communicate, and decide with thoughtfulness and care — no matter which direction you choose.
If you and your partner are feeling stuck, uncertain, or disconnected and want support navigating what’s next, Discernment Therapy can help.
Many of our clinicians incorporate this therapy approach in their practice. A few are listed below, but to explore more options and find your best match, we recommend booking a free 15-minute intake consultation.
