Once the fairy tale of "love, marriage, and children" is shattered with the discovery of infertility, couples experience a profound sense of grief that goes to the heart of what it means to be male and female.
Infertility and Identity offers a revolutionary clinical model for treating individuals and couples who are experiencing infertility. In this much- needed resource, Lara Deveraux and Ann Hammerman challenge the traditionally held belief that the only successful outcome for clients experiencing infertility is parenthood. They reveal how infertility profoundly affects a sense of identity and colors the most intimate relationships with family and friends. And, while the long-range psychological consequences of infertility have been largely ignored by mental health professionals, this vital resource fills the gap by showing clinicians how to support clients in overcoming their inevitable sense of loss and helping them to regain their power.
Step by step, Deveraux and Hammerman outline effective clinical techniques that can help clients enrich their lives by learning how to integrate the experience of infertility into their identities. Infertility and Identity contains a wealth of information and proven strategies including
· Flexible methods that clearly demonstrate how to help clients integrate infertility into identity
· A revealing discussion on the profound effect infertility has on sexuality
· An understanding of the emotional implications of the alternatives to biological parenting
· Techniques for helping clients understand the effect infertility has on relationships with family and friends
· A discussion that shows how a child-free life can be a viable choice.
· Helpful exercises that are beneficial both inside and outside therapeutic sessions
In addition, this hands-on book is filled with illustrative case samples, beneficial homework assignments, a listing of helpful books and videos, and inspiring vignettes that will provide you and your clients with valuable support and education.
