Wellness Centre

Counselling & Psychology

The need for psychology and counselling for patients undergoing fertility treatment is rooted in the complex emotional, psychological, and relational challenges that often accompany the experience of infertility and its treatment.

Research suggests that psychological support can positively influence fertility treatment outcomes by reducing stress and anxiety. Lower stress levels may contribute to better hormonal balance and overall well-being, potentially enhancing the chances of successful treatment.

Here are some ways in which Psychology and/or Counselling may assist your fertility journey

Emotional Support: Fertility treatment can be a rollercoaster of emotions, including stress, anxiety, depression, frustration, and even grief. Psychologists and counselors provide a safe and empathetic space for patients to express their feelings, fears, and concerns. They help patients navigate the emotional ups and downs of the treatment process and develop coping strategies.

Decision-Making: Fertility treatment often involves complex decisions about various treatment options, potential risks, and potential outcomes. Psychologists can help patients make informed decisions by providing them with the necessary information, helping them weigh pros and cons, and considering the emotional and psychological aspects of each option.

Managing Expectations: Unrealistic expectations about the outcomes of fertility treatment can lead to disappointment and increased stress. Psychologists work with patients to set realistic expectations and help them understand that the process might involve setbacks and uncertainties.

Relationship Support: Fertility challenges can strain relationships, including those with partners, family members, and friends. Psychologists and counselors offer guidance on communication, emotional support, and maintaining healthy relationships during the treatment journey.

Coping Strategies: Fertility treatment can be physically and emotionally demanding. Psychologists teach patients effective coping strategies to manage stress, anxiety, and other emotional challenges. These strategies might include relaxation techniques, mindfulness, and cognitive-behavioral therapy.

Addressing Trauma: For some individuals, fertility challenges or previous unsuccessful treatments can lead to trauma. Psychologists trained in trauma therapy can help patients process and heal from these traumatic experiences.

Support for Singles and Same-Sex Couples: Patients from diverse backgrounds, such as single individuals and same-sex couples, may have unique emotional needs and concerns related to fertility treatment. Psychologists provide culturally sensitive and inclusive support tailored to their specific situations.

Support for Grief and Loss: Fertility treatment may involve experiences of pregnancy loss, miscarriage, or stillbirth. Psychologists provide a compassionate and understanding space for patients to grieve and heal.

Post-Treatment Support: The emotional impact of fertility treatment doesn’t necessarily end with a successful pregnancy. Psychologists can offer post-treatment support to help patients adjust to pregnancy, parenthood, or the decision to stop treatment.

At Oasis we recognise psychology and counselling address the holistic well-being of individuals and couples, acknowledging the profound impact that infertility can have on mental and emotional health.

Our partnered provider is Juliana Gavranich who is a Clinical Psychologist and founder of Nurturing Mother Perinatal Psychology Services .

Juliana is a Clinical Psychologist and Fertility Counsellor, working as an independent practitioner in part-time private practice for the past 5 years. After becoming a parent, she became interested in issues relating to infertility, pregnancy and the postnatal period, and decided to focus on perinatal psychology as a dedicated area of her practice. Juliana works collaboratively with couples going through infertility, and fertility treatments, as well as expecting mothers and parents during the postnatal period to enhance their emotional wellbeing during a time of challenges and big adjustments. Issues she can assist with include depression, anxiety, stress, grief and loss, trauma, infertility, prenatal diagnoses, birth trauma, relationship difficulties, and parenting support. Juliana is a full member of the Australian and New Zealand Infertility Counsellors Association (ANZICA) and Member of the Australian Psychological Society (APS).