The well-known advice, "You're responsible for your happiness; your partner can't make you happy," resonates with many of us on the path of personal growth.

From an emotional health perspective, sex in such a relationship nourishes self-esteem, reinforces the bond, and provides a sanctuary from external stressors.

Discernment counseling carves out a uniquely safe and structured space to explore these options without the implicit or explicit pressure to reconcile.