Psychological Counseling and Support Services
At the Center for Reproductive Medicine and Infertility (CRMI),
we recognize that the treatment of infertility can affect people
in many different ways. Both individually and together, couples
often face emotional or personal challenges in their efforts
to resolve their infertility and build a family. Because infertility
can affect all aspects of life, the team at CRMI has developed
a range of services to provide couples with the personalized
support hey may need before, during or even after infertility
treatment.
CRMI's special services for patients include individual and
couples counseling, support programs, opportunities to share
insights and information with other couples, and comprehensive
educational material. This emotional support provides help and
guidance in many important areas, including:
- Managing stress
- Coping with depression or anxiety
- Handling relationship issues
- Dealing with family and friends
- Addressing treatment issues in the workplace
- Coping with pregnancy loss.
Each of these CRMI services is confidential. They are designed
and clinically administered by psychologists and psychology
fellows who are specialists in psychology fellows who are specialists
in psychological issues related to infertility and parenting.
The dedicated CRMI professional who lead these programs are
experts who are frequently asked to share their insights with
worldwide audiences through published materials, presentations
or media interviews.
Women's Drop-In Group
In this informal, confidential discussion group, women have
an opportunity to share information and discuss concerns about
treatment and parenting. This weekly program is led by CRMI
psychologists and is a forum for questions and insights about
the many facets of infertility. This morning program meets weekly.
There is no charge and all women treated at CRMI are invited
to attend.
Stress Management Group
This group was developed to provide stress management training
and support to patients undergoing assisted reproduction. Group
members will learn relaxation techniques, cognitive restructuring,
assertiveness skills, and other helpful ways to manage emotional
distress. This evening group is offered at different times throughout
the year and is led by Elizabeth Grill, Psy.D. Advance enrollment
is required.
General Infertility Support Group
This group provides men and women with a place where they can
discuss their concerns related to their medical and emotional
experiences. Group members will have the opportunity to meet
and talk with others undergoing similar experiences, share their
feelings, and gain support during this difficult time. This
group is offered at different times throughout the year
and is led by Laura Josephs. Advance enrollment is
required.
Couple/Individuals Considering Family - Building Through Ovum Donation
This 4-session evening group is intended to provide information and
support for couples or individuals who are considering parenthood
through ovum donation. It is open to anyone who wishes to learn more
about this option from decision-making, donor screening and selection,
to disclosure. In this confidential group setting, one will also find
the opportuntity to discuss feelings and fears about ovum donation. This
group is led by Dr. Linda Applegarth. Advanced enrollment is required.
Pregnancy Loss Group
This group is intended to help couples and individuals cope more effectively
with the grief and loss associated with miscarriage. The goal is to enable
people to progress through the healing and rebuilding process in supportive,
caring environment, and to assist with decision-making on the road to
parenthood. The group is led by Dr. Linda Applegarth. Advanced enrollment
is requested.
For more information about any of the groups, please contact
Dr. Laura Josephs or Dr. Elizabeth Grill at 212-746-1124 or Dr. Linda D. Applegarth at 212-746-1796.
1305 York Avenue
