When One Partner Wants to Leave and the Other Doesn’t: How to Slow Down and Decide Together
When one partner is leaning out of the relationship and the other is leaning in, it can feel heartbreaking, confusing, and urgent all at once. Before making a life-changing decision, it’s important to slow down and get clear—together.
If you’re in a relationship where one partner wants to leave and the other wants to continue, you’re not alone. Many couples reach these painful crossroads, unsure how to move forward. When you need clarity, structure, and support as a couple in crisis, Discernment Counseling can help.
Discernment Counseling—sometimes referred to as marriage clarity counseling or separation decision counseling—offers a safe space for both partners to pause, reflect, and make a thoughtful choice about the future of the relationship. It is designed specifically for couples who are uncertain about whether to pursue couples therapy or move toward separation, giving each partner room to explore their feelings without pressure or blame.
What Is Discernment Counseling?
Discernment Counseling is not ongoing couples therapy. Instead, it is a short-term, structured process for couples who feel unsure about the future of their relationship. Sessions are typically brief—usually between one and five meetings—and after each one, you decide together whether continuing feels helpful.
If both partners are already committed to repairing and growing together, traditional couples therapy may be the next best step. But when one or both partners are uncertain, Discernment Counseling provides a grounded, intentional way to move forward.
The Three Possible Outcomes of Discernment Counseling
Discernment Counseling helps couples gain clarity and confidence about their next step. The process typically leads to one of three paths:
Stay Married
Divorce or Separate
Commit to Couples Therapy
The goal isn’t to resolve every relationship issue immediately. Instead, it’s to help you both understand what you want, what you’re capable of working on, and what next step feels aligned with your values and needs.
Why Slowing Down Matters During Relationship Uncertainty
Making decisions about whether to stay together or separate can feel overwhelming. You don’t want to rush into something you may regret later, and you also don’t want to stay stuck in painful uncertainty. Slowing down offers more space for clarity, compassion, and intention—especially when emotions run high and the future feels unclear.
Discernment Counseling in Denver: Support for Couples in Crisis
If you’re looking for Discernment Counseling in Denver, our experienced therapists at Colorado Therapy Collective are here to help you move forward with understanding, respect, and confidence—no matter what decision you ultimately make together.
We can support you in gaining insight, clarity, and compassion through the Discernment Counseling process. If you’re unsure and want to learn more, we invite you to book a consultation today.