Discernment Counseling
Guided Support When the Future Feels Uncertain
Are You Facing Relationship Uncertainty? Discover Supportive Guidance in Orange County
At Orange County Couples Counseling (OCCC), we understand that reaching a crossroads in your relationship can be overwhelming. Located in the heart of Orange County, our discernment counseling for couples on the brink offers a compassionate space to explore your options. This specialized service is designed to help couples gain clarity about the future of their relationship with the support of our experienced team. Our approach is rooted in trauma-informed care, focusing on holistic outcomes that honor each individual’s needs and perspectives.
Discernment Counseling for Couples on the Brink in Orange County is a unique offering at OCCC, dedicated to helping you navigate one of the most challenging decisions in a relationship. Our whole-person approach ensures that emotional, mental, and relational aspects are all considered, allowing for comprehensive support and growth. Led by Kathleen Wenger, M.A., LMFT, LPCC, our team is committed to providing empathetic and professional guidance during this critical time. Trust OCCC to help you find the clarity and direction you need.
What Is Discernment Counseling—and Why It’s Not Like Regular Couples Therapy
Discernment counseling is a specialized form of therapy designed to help couples on the brink of separation or divorce explore their feelings and make informed decisions about the future of their relationship. At OCCC, discernment counseling involves a process where couples are guided by experienced therapists to understand the underlying issues in their relationship and consider their options moving forward. The goal is not to solve problems but to gain clarity and confidence in deciding whether to pursue reconciliation or separation. This service is particularly beneficial for couples where one partner is ambivalent about staying together, providing a safe space to express concerns and explore possibilities.
When the Stakes Are High, Clarity Is Everything
Discernment counseling is crucial for couples facing significant uncertainty in their relationship. It provides a structured environment where both partners can express their fears, hopes, and concerns without judgment. According to the International Centre for Excellence in Emotionally Focused Therapy, structured guidance can significantly impact relationship outcomes by fostering understanding and clarity (ICEEFT). At OCCC, we believe that having a neutral space to explore these complex emotions is essential for making informed and compassionate decisions. Our services aim to support each partner in understanding their role in the relationship and considering the most constructive path forward.
Meet Our Orange County Discernment Counseling for Couples on the Brink Therapists
Our team at OCCC specializes in discernment counseling, offering warm, client-focused support tailored to your unique situation. With expertise in relationship dynamics, our therapists help guide you through this challenging time with empathy and understanding.
Kathleen Wenger, M.A.
Natasha Gaffaney, M.A.
Irene Alvarez de Schwartz, M.A.
Christy Hill, M.A.
Austin Whitman, M.A.
One Relationship, Two People—Two Ways to Find Clarity
At OCCC, we recognize that every couple's situation is unique, and so are their needs. Our discernment counseling services are customized to provide effective support, ensuring that you receive the guidance necessary to navigate your relationship crossroads with clarity and confidence.
Individual Sessions with Couples
These sessions focus on providing each partner with a safe space to explore their feelings and concerns. By working individually with a therapist, partners can gain personal insights and understanding before coming together to discuss their relationship.
Joint Discernment Sessions
Joint sessions bring both partners together with a therapist to explore their relationship dynamics and options. These sessions aim to facilitate open communication and mutual understanding, helping couples decide on the best path forward.
Discernment Counseling Can Help You Understand What’s Next—With Honesty and Care
Navigating a relationship crisis requires courage and clarity, and discernment counseling at OCCC is here to support you through this journey. Our services provide a structured environment where you can explore your options with confidence and empathy. By focusing on open communication and understanding, our experienced therapists guide you toward making informed decisions that honor both partners' needs and perspectives. Trust OCCC to help you find the clarity and direction you need to move forward.
Explore your feelings and concerns in a supportive environment, gaining personal insights that can guide your relationship decisions.
Engage in meaningful dialogue with your partner, fostering understanding and clarity about your relationship dynamics.
Explore the possibilities for your relationship, considering both reconciliation and separation with guidance and empathy.
Navigate your relationship crossroads with confidence, finding the clarity and direction you need to make informed choices.
What to Expect During Discernment Counseling for Couples on the Brink
Session Structure
Our sessions are designed to provide a structured environment where both partners can explore their feelings and options. Each session is tailored to meet the unique needs of the couple, ensuring personalized and impactful support.
You’ll never be pressured to choose one path over another. Instead, the goal is clarity and confidence in your decision—whether that means committing to repair the relationship, choosing to separate, or taking more time to decide.
Privacy and Confidentiality
At OCCC, we prioritize your privacy and confidentiality. All sessions are conducted in compliance with HIPAA regulations, ensuring that your personal information and discussions remain secure.
Therapeutic Approach
Our approach is flexible, offering both in-person and telehealth options. We incorporate evidence-based practices that align with OCCC’s values, providing effective support for couples in crisis.
Frequently Asked Questions about Discernment Counseling for Couples on the Brink
Understanding the support available can help you make informed decisions about discernment counseling. Here are some common questions about our services.
How can discernment counseling help my relationship?
Discernment counseling provides a structured environment where you can explore your feelings and options. Our therapists guide you through this process, offering personalized insights and practical techniques to foster understanding and clarity.
What if my partner is hesitant to attend counseling?
It's common for one partner to feel hesitant about counseling. We recommend open communication about the benefits of therapy and how it can support your relationship. Our therapists are also available to discuss any concerns and provide reassurance about the process and outcomes.
Can we receive discernment counseling online?
Yes, OCCC offers telehealth options for discernment counseling. This allows you to access professional support from the comfort of your home, ensuring flexibility and accessibility while maintaining the same level of care and confidentiality as in-person sessions.