Support During Fertility Treatments: “The Hardest Thing Is Reaching Out."

Join us for an intimate conversation with Dr. Keri Smotrich, Licensed Clinical Psychologist and Certified Perinatal Mental Health Counselor, about the emotional challenges of fertility struggles, pregnancy loss, and the journey to parenthood. We dive into the identity crisis that often comes with infertility, what to expect from those first medical appointments, and how to be kind to yourself through the process. Dr. Smotrich shares practical advice on setting boundaries with friends and family, managing the emotional roller coaster of hope and disappointment, and finding safe people to talk to. Throughout it all, Dr. Smotrich reminds us that seeking help is actually a sign of strength.*Please note: we briefly discuss pregnancy loss and miscarriage.Resources Mentioned:* Postpartum Support International (PSI) - Offers support groups, virtual meetings, and peer mentor programs for fertility challenges, pregnancy loss, and perinatal mental health* Penn Fertility Care in Philadelphia and surrounding areasConnect with Dr. Smotrich:Licensed in New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and 45+ states via SciPact for telehealth services. Visit her website for more information. https://keri-smotrichpsyd.clientsecure.me/Remember: Seeking support is a sign of strength, not weakness. You don’t have to white knuckle through this journey alone.Thanks for reading A Mind of Her Own! Subscribe for free to receive new posts and support my work.Find Dr. Reid on Instagram: @jenreidmd, LinkedIn, and YouTubeYou can also order Dr. Reid’s book, Guilt Free! (If you are in the UK, you can order here and here.)Also check out Dr. Reid’s regular contributions to Psychology Today: Think Like a ShrinkSeeking a mental health provider? Try Psychology TodayNational Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-8255Dial 988 for mental health crisis supportSAMHSA’s National Helpline - 1-800-662-HELP (4357)-a free, confidential, 24/7, 365-day-a-year treatment referral and information service (in English and Spanish) for individuals and families facing mental and/or substance use disorders.Disclaimer:The views expressed on this podcast reflect those of the host and guests, and are not associated with any organization or academic site. Also, AI may have been used to create the transcript and notes, based only on the specific discussion of the host and guest and reviewed for accuracy.The information and other content provided on this podcast or in any linked materials, are not intended and should not be construed as medical advice, nor is the information a substitute for professional medical expertise or treatment. All content, including text, graphics, images and information, contained on or available through this website is for general information purposes only.If you or any other person has a medical concern, you should consult with your health care provider or seek other professional medical treatment. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something that have read on this website, blog or in any linked materials. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor or emergency services (911) immediately. You can also access the National Suicide Help Line at 1-800-273-8255 or call 988 for mental health emergencies. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit amindofherown.substack.com