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 hello@inspirecounselingcenter.com.

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 hello@inspirecounselingcenter.com

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

🦃Navigating Eating Struggles During the Holidays

The holidays are often pictured as a time of joy, celebration, and… lots of food. For some, that’s fun — but for those with eating or body image concerns, it can also be stressful. Anxiety, guilt, or shame around meals can show up easily, especially with family gatherings, social expectations, and changes in routine.

Here are some gentle reminders to care for yourself this season:

✨ Give yourself permission to eat. Restricting often backfires — your body needs consistent fuel to feel safe and supported.

✨ Focus on connection, not control. Enjoy conversations, share memories, and be present with the people you care about.

✨ Set boundaries. It’s okay to redirect conversations about diets, weight, or calories with a simple, “I’m focusing on enjoying the day — can we change the subject?”

✨ Have a grounding plan. Deep breaths, journaling, or a short walk can help manage anxiety before it builds.

✨ Practice self-compassion. If a meal feels difficult, it doesn’t mean you’ve failed. Treat yourself with the same kindness you’d offer a friend.

✨ Reach out for support. You don’t have to navigate this alone — therapy can help you build a healthier relationship with food, your body, and yourself.

Remember: you deserve peace with food, your body, and within yourself this holiday season. 💛

📞 Call us at 847-919-9096
💌 Email hello@inspirecounselingcenter.com

📍 Offices in Evanston, Lake Forest, Kenilworth & Northbrook
👩‍💻 In-person & virtual sessions available
🦃 Family Holiday Bingo: A Fun Therapist-Approved Way to Stay Grounded 🦃 

We are officially ONE WEEK away from Thanksgiving!! 

Let’s be honest — family gatherings can be… a lot. 😅 Between the opinions, the jokes that aren’t really funny, and the “When are you getting married?” questions, it’s easy to feel triggered or overwhelmed.

Here's a game us therapists use to help people avoid getting triggered and — instead get grounded and have a little fun! 

🦃Family Holiday Bingo!🦃

Here’s how to play:
1️⃣ Before the holiday, make a bingo card with all the predictable family moments you might experience. (Think: “Uncle brings up politics,” “Mom asks about your dating life,” “Someone critiques the food,” “Sibling humblebrags.”)
2️⃣ During the day, notice when these things happen — and check them off your card.
3️⃣ Later, compare cards or text your “Bingo Buddy” when you’ve got a win! 🧡

It’s a lighthearted way to stay calm, grounded, and amused instead of reactive. The goal isn’t to judge — it’s to observe and laugh a little through the chaos. 

By anticipating your triggers and make a little light of them, it will help you to stay grounded, positive and hopefully enjoy your holiday just a little bit more. 

Because let’s face it — no family is perfect. But with curiosity (and a little humor), you can make this holiday a lot more enjoyable.

🤗Need help setting boundaries or managing holiday stress?
Our therapists at Inspire Counseling Center can help you prepare and feel more confident heading into the season.

📞 847-919-9096 | 💌 hello@inspirecounselingcenter.com

🌐https://inspirecounselingcenter.com/making-the-most-of-thanksgiving/ 

#holidaystress #familydynamics #holidaybingo #holidaymentalhealth #selfcaretips #holidayhumor #boundaries #therapyhelps #inspirecounselingcenter #mindfulholidays #mentalwellness #holidaygames
🦃 Thanksgiving Conversation Starters 🦃 

Let’s be real — family gatherings can get interesting. Between the food, opinions, and old stories, it’s easy for tension or awkward moments to sneak in.

If you want to help guide your family toward more meaningful and uplifting conversations, try sprinkling in some of these (therapist-approved!) questions. 

➡️Even better– put these questions in a bowl and pass it around the table! Everyone gets a chance to talk, share and add laughter and happiness to your dinner.

🦃What’s one of your favorite holiday memories?
🦃What’s something that made you laugh this year?
🦃What’s one thing you’re grateful for this year that surprised you?
🦃What’s a small moment from this year that made you really happy?
🦃If you could relive one day from this year, what would it be?
🦃What’s something you learned about yourself in the past year?
🦃What’s a family tradition you love — or one you’d love to start?
🦃Who’s someone who made a difference in your life this year?
🦃What’s one thing you’re looking forward to in the new year?

Sometimes, one good question can turn a surface-level conversation into a truly heartwarming one. 💛

Wishing you connection, laughter, and gratitude this Thanksgiving season.

—
🧠 Need extra support managing holiday stress or family dynamics?
Our therapists at Inspire Counseling Center are here to help you prepare, stay grounded, and feel more at peace.
📞 847-919-9096 | 💌 hello@inspirecounselingcenter.com

🌐 https://inspirecounselingcenter.com/making-the-most-of-thanksgiving/

#thanksgiving #holidaymentalhealth #gratitudepractice #mindfulholidays #familyconversation #thanksgivingtips #selfcare #inspirecounselingcenter #holidaywellness #positivevibes
✨ Thanksgiving Reality Check ✨

We're in the countdown to Thanksgiving....and we're here for you! 

The holidays are supposed to be full of joy and connection — but for many, they also bring stress, tension, comparison, and old family triggers.

If you find yourself feeling anxious before a family gathering (or dreaming of a “perfect” Thanksgiving that never quite happens), you’re not alone. 💛

This year, try approaching your holiday with curiosity and compassion — not perfection.
✔️ Expect imperfection.
✔️ Notice your triggers instead of reacting.
✔️ Shift the focus to connection.
✔️ Try fun tools like “Family Holiday Bingo” to stay grounded.
✔️ Use positive conversation starters to spark laughter and gratitude.

No family is perfect — but with the right mindset, you can create moments of peace, humor, and connection that truly matter. 🧡

Read our newest blog post for practical tips (and Thanksgiving conversation ideas!) to help you stay calm and centered this season.

👉 Visit ihttps://inspirecounselingcenter.com/making-the-most-of-thanksgiving/ or click the link in our bio.
📞 Need extra support this holiday season? Call 847-919-9096 or email hello@inspirecounselingcenter.com
 — we’re here for you.

#thanksgivingstress #holidaymentalhealth #familydynamics #selfcaretips #mentalhealthawareness #inspirecounselingcenter #mindfulholidays #holidayanxiety #boundaries #therapyhelps #thanksgivingtips
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