Infertility & IVF Counseling
Specialized, compassionate support for individuals and couples navigating infertility, IVF, and the hard decisions that come with them. Available by telehealth across multiple states.
Schedule a ConsultationInfertility Proven to Cause Psychological Stress
Infertility can bring about a range of psychological challenges, emotional strains, and financial burdens for both partners. It triggers a range of typical reactions, including shock, sadness, depression, anger, and frustration, often leading to a loss of self-esteem and confidence, as well as a feeling of being out of control.
Infertility is immensely stressful, on par with being diagnosed with cancer or other life-threatening conditions. Because fertility struggles are often kept private, individuals and couples may feel isolated or misunderstood, even by those closest to them.
It can also significantly impact self-esteem and identity, with studies showing high levels of shame, self-doubt, and self-blame.
The Unknown and Intense Loneliness
Infertility's uncertainties can lead to a sense of deep isolation. Seeing others conceive easily may trigger feelings of resentment or grief. Even after successful IVF, new emotional stressors often arise during pregnancy or postpartum. This emotional rollercoaster underscores the need for ongoing mental health support.
Side Effects from Medication on Mental Health
Fertility medications can trigger anxiety, depression, and other mood disturbances—especially when layered on top of the emotional strain of treatment itself. Many people are unprepared for the hormonal shifts and their emotional toll.
Financial Strain Increases Emotional Stress
The high cost of fertility treatment—often not covered by insurance—can amplify feelings of helplessness and desperation. This stress can impact both emotional well-being and partner relationships.
When Is It Time to Consider Donor Conception or Surrogacy?
Many clients come to therapy unsure what to do next. You may be weighing whether to pursue another round of IVF, consider using donor eggs or sperm, or begin exploring surrogacy. This is often one of the most emotionally complex points in the journey—not just a medical decision, but an identity and grief process.
I work with individuals and couples who are stuck in this "in-between" place. Together, we explore what each option means for you emotionally, ethically, and relationally—so you can make a decision that feels right, not rushed.
Learn more about surrogacy, donation, and intended parent consultations.What Infertility Therapy Provides
- Emotional Support: A safe space for individuals and couples to express their emotions
- Education: Understanding causes of infertility, treatment options, and pathways to family-building
- Coping Strategies: Tools to manage stress, anxiety, grief, and depression
- Communication Skills: Navigating difficult conversations and emotional disconnect with your partner
- Decision-Making Support: Guidance for weighing medical options, including donor conception, surrogacy, adoption, or living child-free
- Addressing Relationship Challenges: Support with blame, resentment, or sexual disconnection
- Normalization and Validation: Reducing shame, isolation, and internalized stigma
- Preparation for Parenthood: Emotional readiness support during pregnancy after infertility
- Post-Treatment Processing: Help after unsuccessful treatment or ambiguous outcomes
Common Symptoms Associated with Infertility
- Persistent sadness or depression
- Loss of interest in normal activities
- Difficulty focusing on anything other than fertility
- Heightened anxiety or panic
- Irritability or emotional numbness
- Sleep or appetite disturbances
- Feelings of guilt, shame, or failure
- Social withdrawal or isolation
- Bitterness toward others who conceive easily
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Let's Talk About
Your Well-Being
Rachel Goldberg, LMFT – specializing in infertility and IVF stress, third-party reproduction, and postpartum mental health. Also experienced in treating eating disorders. Based in Studio City. Licensed in AZ, CA, CO, FL, HI, IL, MI, MN, NJ, NY, NV, OR, & TX. Virtual and in-person sessions available.
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