When a couple wants to have children but cannot conceive, they may experience a wide variety of emotions ranging from anger and confusion to sadness and jealousy and fear. These emotions can undoubtedly impact the relationship; partners may feel resentful towards one another, and they may struggle with healthy communication during this trying time.
Counseling and couples therapy for infertile couples offers a safe and supportive space to navigate these difficult experiences. Couples therapy for infertility focuses on processing painful emotions, identifying healthy ways to cope with ambiguity, loss, or other related stress, and working together to move forward.
The Unique Emotional Challenges Associated with Infertility
Infertility affects every couple differently. Some couples are aware of their struggles before they begin attempting to conceive. Others are unaware. Sometimes, it’s an issue of female infertility– other times, it’s a male issue. Some experience a series of traumatic losses. Others go on to deliver healthy babies.
Regardless of where you are in your infertility journey, it’s normal to feel many intense emotions during this time. It’s also normal to struggle with knowing what to do with these emotions. Unfortunately, many couples find themselves arguing during this time. They may compare themselves to other couples. They may have regrets about decisions made in the past, and they may have fears about future issues that could arise in the future.
Infertility can feel isolating and lonely. Loved ones may not always understand your experience. In fact, even friends and family with the best intentions may inadvertently hurt your feelings. Counseling and couples therapy for infertile couples often includes learning strategies for managing the distress or disrespect that may arise from other people’s reactions.
Counseling and Couples Therapy for Infertile Couples
Counseling and couples therapy for infertile couples addresses the unique emotional challenges you and your partner may be facing.
No topic is off-limits. Indeed, infertility couples therapy often means exploring sensitive and taboo subjects related to:
- Sex
- Resentment
- Jealousy
- Changed dreams
- Profound loss
Infertility psychological therapy is not about curing infertility. For some couples, conceiving a child may not be the viable end goal. Instead, counseling and couples therapy for infertile couples entails finding a sense of acceptance for your current circumstances. It may also include developing a roadmap for healthy communication and coping throughout this difficult time.
Counseling and couples therapy for infertile couples is crucial because you and your partner need to learn how to express and explore your feelings related to infertility.
Undoubtedly, issues associated with infertility can be connected to other relational issues like:
- Finances
- Physical health
- Trust
- Intimacy
- General sense of companionship
Infertility group therapy can be helpful in addressing some of these concerns, but individual or counseling and couples therapy for infertile couples offers you the invaluable opportunity to focus exclusively on your struggles.
Getting the Help You Need
Infertility doesn’t have to destroy your relationship. If you and your partner struggle to feel connected during this time, counseling and couples therapy for infertile couples can help you get back on track. You both need to support and lean on each other, and constant stress and conflict will take a tremendous toll on your emotional well-being.
At Lumos Counseling PC, we offer dynamic support for your unique struggles. Rather than group therapy for infertility, individual therapy provides tailored support related to your specific emotions and experiences. We are here for you during this challenging time.
Counseling and couples therapy for infertile couples can help you feel more supported and connected. Contact us today to get started.