Divorce and Discernment Counseling in the Twin Cities, MN, Region
When couples are on the brink of separation, the path forward can feel uncertain, confusing, and emotionally charged. One or both partners may be unsure whether to commit to working on the marriage or to move toward ending it. At Twin Cities Mental Health & Couples Center, we offer divorce and discernment counseling in the Twin Cities, Minnesota, area, as a short-term service designed to help couples make a thoughtful decision about the future of their relationship. The goal is not to immediately fix marital issues but to help you find clarity to follow the path most aligned with your values, needs, and future.
How Discernment Counseling Differs From Other Therapy
Unlike traditional couples therapy, which assumes both partners are ready to work on the relationship, discernment counseling meets couples where they are. One partner may be leaning out of the relationship while the other is leaning in. Our therapists help couples gain a better understanding of how to move forward.
Our counselors remain neutral and supportive of both partners, even when perspectives differ. Sessions include both joint and individual time so that each person can feel safe sharing their experiences and concerns.
A Guided, Respectful Process Toward Clarity
Throughout this process, our therapists help couples decide whether to attempt to restore the relationship, move toward a respectful separation, or take a pause and revisit the decision later. Regardless of the outcome, the focus is on helping each partner see their role in the dynamic, both the challenges and the growth opportunities. We honor the reasons couples consider divorce while also holding space for the possibility of reconciliation.
If a couple decides to separate, our team can provide referrals to professionals who specialize in constructive divorce processes. For couples with children, discernment counseling also supports intentional uncoupling and co-parenting decisions. However, if couples choose to reconcile, we help them create a clear, actionable plan to build a stronger, more connected relationship.
Structure of Discernment Counseling Sessions
Discernment counseling typically involves up to five sessions. The first session lasts about two hours, with subsequent sessions ranging from 90 minutes to two hours. This short-term format allows for deep, focused exploration while maintaining flexibility.
It’s important to note that discernment counseling may not be appropriate in certain circumstances. This includes situations where:
- One partner has already decided to pursue divorce and is using counseling to convince the other to agree
- There is domestic violence or court orders of protection
- One partner is pressured to attend against their will
Our team can help guide individuals to more appropriate resources in these cases.
Contact Us for a Consultation
You don’t have to navigate relationship uncertainty alone. At Twin Cities Mental Health & Couples Center, we can support you without judgment, pressure, or bias. If you’d like to work with our experienced therapists for divorce and discernment counseling in the Twin Cities, MN, area, please reach out to schedule a consultation.