1) counseling is absolutely an option. Just because you guys don’t have a certificate doesn’t mean you’re not eligible
2) you need to talk with your partner about boundaries. I read the book “the single girls guide to marrying a guy, his kids and his ex-wife”. https://www.amazon.com/dp/0451214196/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_9dxVDb13R6NA4
You being an instant mom isn’t necessarily part of the package when you date or marry a guy with kids. The kids are HIS baggage, not yours. My fiancé would NEVER get upset with me for going out and getting drinks. In fact, he encourages it! He is a capable father and doesn’t need me to run his family.
If your man can’t be a father, it’s HIS job to figure out how to do it, not to rope a girlfriend in to do it for him.
3) it’s never too late to leave a relationship. If the only reason you’re staying with someone is because it’s easier than leaving, that’s a BIG red flag. You are still young and you deserve a life that you’re excited about living
I’m on mobile so more later if you want to hear it but I’ll start with this recommendation: https://www.amazon.com/Single-Girls-Guide-Marrying-Ex-Wife/dp/0451214196
It isn’t the greatest book but it provides valuable perspective and will make you feel like you aren’t alone.
https://www.amazon.com/Single-Girls-Guide-Marrying-Ex-Wife/dp/0451214196
This one made me LAUGH
Happy cake day! I really enjoyed The Single Girl's Guide to Marrying a Man, His Kids, and His Ex-Wife: Becoming A Stepmother With Humor And Grace https://www.amazon.com/dp/0451214196/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_i_N617AK9WMJW4FYR0PVVD And
The Stepmoms' Club: How to Be a Stepmom without Losing Your Money, Your Mind, and Your Marriage (A Parenting Self-Help Book to Create Happy Blended Families) https://www.amazon.com/dp/1492635413/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_i_NRMVSDF114BAMFY543QD
Both were enjoyable to read and have a lot of perspectives. They were very comforting for me!