Emotional Counseling for Patients Experiencing Infertility By Sonja Kristiansen, MD on February 16, 2018

Challenges with fertility can permeate every facet of life. While your fertility specialist is working with you to improve your chances of conception, it is important to also address the psychological and emotional issues that are a part of the process. At the Houston Fertility Center in Houston, TX, we believe in treating the mind, body, and spirit collectively. That is why we offer a variety of holistic treatments at our facility. Emotional counseling is just one of the ways we help our clients navigate through every step of the journey

a female doctor and female patient sitting at a desk talking

The Mind and Body Program

Harvard Medical School developed a continuing education program entitled “Mind-Body Medicine”. The university offers this course several times a year for healthcare professionals nationwide. This program emphasizes the importance of self-care management in addition to clinical therapies and has exhibited unparalleled success for many of our patients. A research study performed in Boston concluded that Mind and Body participants experienced increased pregnancy rates of up to 60 percent. For our clients suffering from fertility issues, we find that the Mind and Body program offers a comprehensive approach to whole body wellness.

Individual Infertility Counseling

If you are struggling with infertility, and you are beginning to feel depressed or anxious, speak with Dr. Kristiansen. It is normal for clients to experience these emotions, and no one should have to traverse them alone. If you notice that your stress or anxiety is preventing you from performing routine daily tasks, emotional counseling can help. The therapists and counselors we can refer you to are well-versed in infertility issues and understand what you are going through.

Group Counseling for Infertility

Some clients feel more at home in a group setting, because they know the other people in attendance can sympathize with them. In these cases, a support group or group counseling session may be the best option. During these sessions, clients can share their stories with one another, often gleaning new ideas and finding solutions to problems. 

Couples Counseling for Infertility

If you and your partner are having difficulties conceiving, that can come with its own set of challenges. Infertility can have a direct and significant impact on your relationship with your partner. This is especially true if you are considering an egg or sperm donor as part of your treatment. Couples counseling can help you navigate these emotions and strengthen your communication skills. You may even wish to consider sex therapy to address any issues with intimacy.

Focus on Self-care

Dealing with infertility is a sensitive issue. Emotions can be exacerbated by routine events, such as attending a child’s birthday party or visiting family. During these times of stress, set boundaries for yourself, and do not feel guilty about needing them. You may wish to consider meditation, yoga, or other relaxation techniques to help yourself re-center and focus on the positive aspects of life.

Eat Right and Exercise

As part of your emotional counseling, you will be encouraged to maintain a healthy diet and lifestyle. Sleeping for eight hours every night, eating well-balanced meals, and exercising regularly will help you greet each day from a positive perspective.

Learn More about Emotional Counseling and Holistic Therapy

If you are struggling emotionally with infertility, consider counseling. Having someone to talk to can make all the difference in the world. To learn more about this service, you can call us at one of our two office locations, or contact us online anytime.

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Dr. Sonja Kristiansen

Houston Fertility Center

Dr. Sonja Kristiansen is the founder and Medical Director of Houston Fertility Center. She is a board-certified Reproductive Endocrinologist Infertility (REI) specialist who is proud to help hopeful parents fulfill their dreams of having children. Our center is affiliated with the:

  • American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists
  • American Society for Reproductive Medicine
  • Texas Medical Association

We provide convenient care for patients from greater Houston and visitors from out of town. For more information about our services, contact our office online or call (713) 225-5375 today.

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