Parenthood-focused therapy

Couples Therapy, with a specific focus on planning for parenthood, is an area where I may be able to help you.

It is my pleasure to emotionally and clinically support Couples going through the stages of pregnancy from decision to delivery including fertility issues.

IVF

Many of my clients have gone through IVF during our sessions together so I am experienced in counseling and supporting Couples through this roller coaster ride.

It's powerful, that unique longing for a child. For some it’s always just below the surface, for other’s it's a sudden realization. However it arrives, it's primal and strong.

It's a good motivation to get other aspects of your relationship aligned.

The decision to get pregnant is one of the most hopeful, and yet sometimes stressful, decision points in the Couples journey. Lots of issues can surface and slide along side of your joyful expectations.

Timing

Is there a best time to start a family? Probably on paper, yes. But then most of our us wouldn't be here if our parents had waiting till the right time.

In this category we look at finances, age, housing, employment, other children, extended family support and where you are at with your overall goals.

We deal with whether or not both potential parents agree that this is the best time to start a family.

Expectations

Expectations are a big issue for Couples who want to get pregnant. I can say that many unforeseen problems arise from unnamed and unexplored expectations. Everyone has expectations and we may be only half aware of some of them. Whatever they are it’s wise to know them in advance. As an experienced Couples Therapist I will help you articulate them and get everything out into the open.

Parenting together

At no time in your relationship is cooperative problem solving more important than once children arrive. If you aren't great at this before children you will benefit mightily by learning those skills in counseling. I am happy to help you. If you think that learning better ways to communicate with each other would benefit you I can definitely help you with that.

Selfhood

It's a clash, this collision of who you are and who you have to be as parent. It's a healthy stretch and one that you have to master hard and fast. Kids don't wait.

It's like...who am I now that I am a parent? Who are we as a family? How do I meet the needs of my family while keeping a sense of my individuality? These are areas that you may or may not want to explore, I leave that to you.

Difficulties in Conceiving

Facing pregnancy challenges is stressful. Maybe you can afford fertility treatments. The medical, emotional, medication, and financial stresses that come with fertility treatments will tax your coping reserves.  Let me help you approach this challenge in a more relaxed and united way.  

I have experience with the IVF, IUI, OI, Donor Eggs or Sperm, IVF travel, Egg freezing, Surrogacy.

Email is the quickest way to reach me

desmondpsychology@gmail.com

I look forward to hearing from you.

Warm regards,

Laressa Desmond PhD

CPC CA LMFT