Discernment Counseling: For Couples on the Brink of Divorce | Steve Harris | #139

Dr. Steve Harris joins us to explain discernment counseling, a specialized approach helping couples gain clarity about whether to work on their marriage or move toward divorce.• Developed at the University of Minnesota after research showed 30% of divorcing couples had at least one person who didn't want the divorce• Differs from traditional couples therapy by focusing on decision-making clarity rather than relationship improvement• Designed specifically for "mixed-agenda couples" where one partner wants to work on the marriage while the other is considering divorce• Creates a structured space where ambivalence about the relationship is welcomed and explored• Presents three paths: continuing the status quo, moving toward divorce, or committing to six months of intensive work on the relationship• Typically runs 1-5 sessions with both joint and individual components• Helps both partners recognize their own contributions to marital problems, not just their partner's failings• Results show approximately 51% choose to work on their marriage, with 70-75% of those successfully repairing their relationship• Even couples who ultimately divorce benefit from better understanding and communicationVisit MinnesotaCouplesOnTheBrink.org or discernmentcounseling.com to learn more and find trained counselors in your area.Happy Hacks: 101 Science-Backed Ways to Boost Happiness, Reduce Stress, and Build a More Meaningful Life.Available now starting at 99¢ on Amazon and Dave's Book StoreWritten by Dr. Dave Schramm, this practical and uplifting new book offers simple, research-based strategies to help you build greater happiness, strengthen resilience, reduceThe opinions, findings, conclusions, and recommendations expressed in this podcast do not necessarily reflect the views of the Utah Marriage Commission.Visit our site for FREE relationship resources and regular giveaways: Strongermarriage.org  Podcast.stongermarriage.orgYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@StrongerMarriageLifeTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@strongermarriagelifeInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/strongermarriagelife/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/strongermarriage/Facebook Marriage Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/770019130329579Dr. Dave Schramm: http://drdaveschramm.comhttp://drdavespeaks.com Dr. Liz Hale: http://www.drlizhale.com/