Common questions

Is discernment counseling the same as marriage counseling?

No. Discernment counseling is short term help for deciding whether to divorce or work more on the marriage. Marriage counseling, which is generally opened ended in length, aims to help people solve their problems and restore their marriage to health.

How do you determine success in discernment counselling?

Although it would be wonderful if all troubled marriages could become healthy and satisfying for both parties, we understand that this is not always possible. Therefore, our basic criterion for success is that the spouses come to a deeper understand of themselves and what’s happened to their marriage, and have reached a decision that allows them to move ahead with their lives in a healthy way for themselves and their families. In some cases, this deeper understanding opens doors to possible reconciliation, and in other cases one or both parties decide that divorce is their best option. We try to show couples what a reconciliation path might look like for them, but we honor the choices that people make for themselves.

Is Fiore Discernment Counseling only for couples with minor children?

This service is open to couples with no children or whose children are grown up.

Will the counseling work with couples who are not legally married?

Any couple who consider themselves in a committed relationship will be offered services if they ask for help. This could include cohabiting couples and same sex couples, particularly if they are raising children and concerned about the impact of a break up on their children..

What are the actual steps to signing up for Discernment Counseling?

• Step 1- One hour consultation with Dr Fiore attended by both partners to determine suitability of this program to your situation vs traditional marriage therapy or referral to another resource
• Step 2- First two hour session with Dr Fiore to decide which of three paths are best for you. At end of session you decide if you want to have a second 2-hour session. You can have up to five discernment sessions with Dr. Fiore
• Step 3- Pursue whichever path you choose with the help of Dr. Fiore

What is the cost of the counseling services? Is it covered by medical insurance?

Yes, it is often covered by medical insurance. Without insurance, the first session consultation is $180 If you decide to do discernment counseling, the fee for each two-hour session is $250.

Are there referral options for couples who want a faith-based approach to marriage counseling?

Upon the request of the couple for faith-based counseling, we work to help them find qualified counselors who share their faith orientation.