Pregnancy Loss & Infertility Counseling

Wanting a child is one of the most powerful desires in a woman’s heart. We understand.

You are consumed by thoughts of getting pregnant. Will this be the month? Did it take? Do you feel any pregnancy symptoms? Counting the hours down until you can take a pregnancy test. Trying not to be stressed out — actually stresses you out. It’s overwhelming. And, of course, wherever you go–you run into pregnant women, strollers and beautiful babies–which all make your heart ache.

When you’re trying to get pregnant, have had a miscarriage, silent miscarriage, terminal prenatal diagnosis, or are struggling with infertility–it is only natural to focus on your attention on your physical health. But, don’t overlook the importance of your emotional health.

Are you struggling with infertility?

Are the hormones of infertility treatments and constant angst are taking a toll on you? Counting the DPO’s can slow down time to an excruciating crawl. If you have endometriosis, Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), are undergoing IVF, taking Clomid or Letrozole, we can hold your hand and help you remain positive, hopeful and your best self while undergoing these treatments.

Infertility brings several psychological impacts, according to the Harvard Medical School’s article, “The psychological impact of infertility and its treatment.”

For example, the synthetic estrogen clomiphene citrate (Clomid, Serophene), frequently prescribed because it improves ovulation and increases sperm production, may cause anxiety, sleep interruptions, mood swings, and irritability in women. Other infertility medications may cause depression, mania, irritability, and thinking problems.Harvard Health Publishing, Harvard Medical School, 2009

Does mental health impact your ability to get pregnant?

Research suggests that your mental health can impact your ability to get pregnant. A number of studies have examined stress and mood state as predictors of outcome in assisted reproduction. The majority of these studies support the theory that distress is associated with lower pregnancy rates among women pursuing infertility treatment (Boivin 1995, Thiering 1993, Demytenaere 1998, Smeenk 2001, Sanders 1999).

This research just shows us that it’s important to take care of your emotional health while trying to get pregnant. Most women worry and stress about pregnancy–that is okay! But, learning tools to manage your stress levels is important during this time.

Did you have a miscarriage, silent miscarriage, or terminal prenatal diagnosis?

Your dreams were starting to come true. You had a positive pregnancy test. You started to dream about the future. Your prayers were answered. Only to be dashed by the grief that comes with the loss of a baby. The loss of your dreams for that child. The loss of the dream of being that child’s mother. You are exhausted. Maybe you’re obsessively reviewing every food you ate, or activity you did, secretly wondering if somehow this was your fault? You know these things happen to many women, but it feels like you’re the only one.

We know because we’ve been there.

You may benefit from therapy if you are experiencing any of these common signs of depression:

– Anxiety, racing thoughts
– Depression
– Insomnia
– Loss of appetite
– Intense irritability
– Hopelessness
– Relationship challenges
– Depression, fear, or repeatedly going over thoughts
– Crying or irritability
– Lack of concentration or unwanted thoughts
– Anger, anxiety, guilt, hopelessness, loss of interest or pleasure in activities, mood swings, or panic attack

You’re managing the best you can. You’re taking care of your body. But, with counseling, your life can be so much better.

The benefits you’ll see from doing therapy at Inspire:
– You will feel heard and understood
– You will learn the benefit of taking care of yourself
– You will learn ways to communicate your needs
– You will create a clear plan for improving your mood
– You will begin to feel in control of your life
– You will start to feel freedom and peace
– You will be able to be present with the people you love
– You will feel confident in your decisions
– You will feel confident in yourself
– You will be empowered to say no or speak up for yourself
– Your relationships will be more satisfying
– You will know you matter, just for being you

What does the counseling process look like?
The counseling process is designed to help you understand your anxiety and empower you to live your best life, free of the things that hold you back. Together, with your therapist, you will learn how to address things that hold you back, learn coping skills to do at home, and ways to reduce the physical symptoms of depression.

The first session will be approximately 60 minutes. There will be paperwork to complete and questions the therapist will ask to get to know you, your history, and your present situation. The second session is our unique formula for goal-setting. In this session, you will connect the desires of your goals with your heart and deeper desires in this life. The remainder of the sessions will then be working on skills to tackle your anxiety and any obstacles in the way of you living your best life. In order to see lasting results, a commitment to at least 8 weekly sessions is best. We are flexible and can work with different situations. However, to make an impact, it is important to recognize that change of any kind, requires attention and time. After your 8 sessions, you can work with your therapist to determine the next steps (reducing therapy to biweekly/monthly or terminating).

How much does therapy cost?

Counseling is a fee-for-service program. Inspire accepts insurance and offers in-network and out-of-network benefits. We are in-network with BCBS PPO, Humana, Aetna, and United Behavior Healthcare. We recommend at least an 8-week commitment to begin seeing lasting results.

All billing policies and information can be found by clicking this link to our Rates & Insurances page.

About Inspire Counseling Center

We’ve been waiting for you! You are the reason we wake up every morning, passionate about our jobs. You want to live a great life–and we want that too. We want you to feel the freedom, joy, and connection counseling can bring.

Not sure how this works? Not sure which therapist to pick? No worries. We will personally walk you through the process.

Take the next step. Start living your best life. Don’t wait any longer!

To schedule an appointment, call (847) 919-9096 ext. 1 or email [email protected].

How do I choose my Therapist?2024-01-24T17:27:07-06:00

You are welcome to search therapists by speciality type, location, service or insurance accepted by clicking here. 

We’re here to hold your hand! Choosing a therapist is a very personal experience. Scrolling through bios is helpful, but there’s a lot you can’t tell just by reading on the internet. Our Therapist Matchmakers are here to find the right fit with the right professional for your unique situation and personality style.

To talk to a LIVE human (and part of our Inspire intake team!) just call us at (847) 919-9096 ext. 1 or email [email protected]

We can’t wait to help you find the right match and get you started!! It’s our favorite part.

What will the first session be like?2023-10-25T02:13:43-05:00

The first session lasts approximately 60 minutes. You’ll have paperwork to complete virtually before your session. The therapist will spend time introducing themselves and getting to know you, your story and your dreams. At the end, you’ll have the option to schedule your next session based upon your availability and goals. There is no pressure to book another session. We’re here for you to come and go as you need.
FOR MINORS UNDER 18: If the session is for a child 12 years or younger, the first session is just with the therapist and parent (s) or guardian. If the client is 12-18, we ask that a parent (or guardian) attend the first session for the first 10-15 minutes. The parent will be able to meet the therapist and help make the child feel comfortable.
PLEASE NOTE: Please share any concerns about your child with the therapist or Intake Team prior to the session— not in front of your child in the session. This is to protect your child and foster a positive start to therapy!

What will all the other sessions be like?2023-10-25T02:14:39-05:00

The second session is our unique formula for goal setting. In this session, your therapist will help you connect and understand what your heart really wants in this life. The remainder of the sessions will then be working on skills to tackle any obstacles in the way of you living your best life. In order to see lasting results, a commitment to at least 8 weekly sessions is recommended. However, we are flexible and can work with you to accommodate your schedule and goals.

FOR MINORS UNDER 18: Parents will not be required to attend the sessions but must be available for the last 10 minutes of the session in case the therapist would like to touch base with you or for any scheduling changes.

How much does therapy cost?2023-10-25T02:16:18-05:00

Counseling is a fee-for-service program. Inspire accepts insurance and offers in-network and out-of-network benefits. We are in-network with BCBS PPO, Humana, Aetna, and UnitedBehaviorHealthcare. All billing policies and information can be found by clicking this link to our Rates & Insurances page.

 

 

 

 

Take the Next Step

Request an Appointment

ONE WEEK.... utill the Spring Gala!!! There's still time to grab a ticket, bid on silent auction items or make a big difference with a small donation. 

As this is our first year, any donation makes a BIG impact. Check out some of our amazing donors .... giving to a small, unknown fist-time fundraiser, shows a genuine desire to do good, even without a ton of publicity or attention. BUT I see you!!! Our little crew is beyond grateful and your names are etched in our hearts. 

My goal is that every person at the Gala feels loved, appreciated, connected. Most of all, I hope you feel a sense of peace knowing you used some of your precious time on this earth, and gifts to help others in pain.

At the end of the day, when you lay your head on the pillow, there's no better feeling than knowing you did something good, something right, something helpful for someone else. 

Plus, let's face it -- life can be hard. Let's take an opportunity to LAUGH, SMILE, DANCE & HAVE FUN!! 
 
No pressure. No expectations. Just an opportunity. Join a group of people who love this community and want to help make the world better. 

Can't make it? We totally get it. If you want to be connected, you can bid on silent auction items, make a donation or just send positive prayers or vibes our way! 

I hope to see you soon!!! 

Humbly & Gratefully, 
Lauren
Only 2 Weeks until our first SPRING GALA!!! 

Grab a ticket, donate or just send us good vibes!! I've been working with the DJ and all I can say is it is going to be a FUN night. I have a little surprise with a fun activity that will be sure to entertain! 💃✨💫

NOT only that -- you will be supporting your local community's mental health and meeting other people who value giving, donating and mental health. 

Silent Auction is now LIVE!! Check out some amazing trips (St. Martin, Hamptons & Golf trip!), Cubs Tickets, exclusive barrel aged-bourbon from House 406, Anthropology basket, Ravinia tickets and tons of Chicago experiences for live theater & architecture tours, etc. 

Dress code is "Cocktail Attire" -- no tux's or ties are needed :) 

Gala Event Flow 
- 7:30  Check-in, professional pics, signature cocktails, open bar & Heavy Hors d'oevres 
- 8:00pm - Welcome & short video about our *inspiring* story 
- 8:20pm - DJ, dancing, food & open bar, adopt-a-therapist and silent auction bidding, 
- 9:00pm - DJ & surprise entertainment 
- 10pm - Silent Auction closes, event concludes 

Hope to see you there!! We totally know this is a busy time of year so if you can't make it -- no worries. Please send us any good vibes, donations or well-wishes!!!

Tickets & Silent Auction items: https://givebutter.com/c/FQQhyc
Parents of transgender and gender diverse children-- if you are looking for a safe place to comet together with other parents to laugh, cry, learn and connect-- consider our NEW parent support group on Tuesdays 6-7:30pm. 

This group will be a safe space to explore and support each other, laugh and navigate the unique rewards and challenges of parenting together. 

The group is led by mental health professional and seasoned clinical intern from Northwestern University, Caroline Katz. Caroline is not only a North Shore mom, but a former corporate world professional, stay-at-home parent, community volunteer, and yoga teacher. 

Caroline specializes on parents of gender non-conforming children and adolescents. She is passionate about creating a non-judgmental, anti-racist, and LGBTQIA+ affirming environment for everyone. 

For more info on the group, call (847) 919-9096 ext 1 or hello@inspirecounselingcenter.com
Thank you @sheridanroadmag for sharing our upcoming SPRING GALA!!! 

There's still time to grab a ticket, join the fun or donate. The gala is Friday, April 26  at 7:30pm at Sunset Ridge Country Club. All proceeds benefit our non-profit mental health scholarships. 

Supporting mental health is a beautiful gift. Not only to the receiver, but it creates a ripple effect of positivity, love and kindness in your own community and world. 

Think what this world would be like, if everyone had the support and love they needed. 💕💫

We can't solve it all. We can't do everything. But we can do something. And everyone does something, we can make a huge difference.

Thank you to SO many of you who halve already supported or are attending. We love you all and are beyond grateful. 🥰❤️❤️

Link in bio for tickets & donations!!!
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