How do you find a counsellor when you're waiting to be referred to a clinic?

[gracefulannie]

This is a bit of a moan, so sorry in advance. We've been ttc for 2 years. Recently we decided to change clinics prior to starting IVF as that is our only way forward. Problem is that I can't bring myself to send the referral to the new clinic. In the year we were at our previous clinic I found it more stressful than I could ever have imagined - and I know that it's the same for everybody. I'm finding it really hard at the minute to stay positive and certainly not helped by the baby boom going on in the family.

I know that there's nothing else to do but try to push through, but I'm just really fed up. I've told a few people in RL what's going on but not sure that they really get it. I just feel so bloody miserable. I would consider counselling but not sure how to go about finding one before we get to the clinic and don't want to wait. Any suggestions?

Are you referring to specialist counselling or general? I know Relate usually have a waiting list. Last I looked it was a few weeks. They are probably the only agency I would trust where counselling is concerned. There are a lot of unprofessional agencies out there. you could try looking for a counselling/mentor type company/individual on the internet where you can see people's services and testimonials in some detail. Just a thought.

If you look on the BICA website www.bica.net - this is the website for accredited infertility counsellors in the UK - hopefully there is someone in your area.

Hi Annie, sorry that you are having such a hard time. I would suggest speaking to your new clinic - they will be aware that IVF is a very stressful and traumatic process and may know of local counsellors/have a support group (our clinic has a weekly support group for anyone undergoing any sort of fertility treatment)
Are you having a hard time sending the referral on because you sort of want it all to go away? Or is there another reason?

Hi Annie

So sorry your feeling low. I would suggest as other say contacting your next clinic - I would envisage its in their interest to allow you to access their counselling prior to embarking on your treatment - this way it should be free to you.

Otherwise all of the clinic offer paid counselling sessions - so Inwould approach one you feel comfortable with, perhaps even ask to speak to them/meet first.

I hope you find the support you need right now. Plenty of support through these forums too :-)