As expectations about childbearing change, many individuals are asking themselves if parenthood is for them or not. Many wonder if they consider parenthood because of social and family pressures or because they have a personal desire to become a parent. Fertility Support maintains an online group therapy programme to explore this important question.

Ambivalence Towards Parenthood is Significant

Are you unsure if being a parent is the right decision for you? If you are, you are not alone: a significant percentage of adults are indecisive about becoming a parent. In fact, a recent YouGov survey asked a group of adults whether they 1) want to have children 2) do not want to have children or 3) do not want children now but might want them in the future. The latter option, which recognizes the potential for doubt, was chosen by almost 1 in 3 adults aged 18 to 24; 1 in 4 adults aged 25 to 34; and 1 in 5 adults aged 35 to 44.

Analysing the Pros and Cons of Parenthood Is not Enough

Most people who are uncertain about becoming a parent expect that with time, an “instinctual knowing” or intuition will push them in one direction or the other. If this intuition does not offer a clear answer, some start analysing the pros and cons of becoming a parent. Such an approach is not sufficient because it does not capture deeply entrenched biases and emotions.

Uncertainty About Parenthood Can Create Feelings of Anxiety and Isolation

In time, not having a clear answer to the parenthood question can generate feelings of anxiety and isolation. As the clock ticks, individuals and especially women, start feeling the pressure to make a decision. Social and cultural expectations as well as family, friends and/or partners can put additional pressure to make a decision about having children or not. This can leave individuals feeling confused, isolated and misunderstood.

Fertility Support Provides a Space to Consider The Unconscious Ideas Driving Your Parenthood Choices

Fertility Support offers group therapy sessions for individuals considering the important question of whether to become a parent or not. We will carry out a considered, thoughtful and compassionate exploration of the parenthood question. We will discuss questions such: Why am I indecisive about having a baby? Is it normal not to want children? What if I want them later? Do I want children because society tells me everyone wants them?

This exploration will allow participants to unearth unconscious beliefs and suppressed emotions that might be influencing them. Participants will leave with a clearer understanding of what is driving their desires and decisions. Further, they will leave with reflections on how to discuss their decisions with their loved ones. Ultimately, they will leave the sessions knowing that they have given the parenthood question the consideration it deserves.

FAQs

Will there be a facilitator? The pregnancy loss support group is led by Alejandra Lozada Andrade who has ample experience working with individuals struggling with the decision of whether to become a parent or not. 

How many people will be part of the group? We do not host more than 15 people this therapy group.

Where will we meet? This group has the added benefit of being online, providing greater access and convenience. 

How should I prepare for the group therapy? Before joining the group, you can schedule a one-to-one session with Alejandra to determine if group therapy is the right format for you and to prepare for the sessions.  This is optional. Please contact us at info@fertilitysupportlondon.com to schedule this conversation.

How much is each session? As this is a therapy group, not individual therapy, the price is more accessible. The price is £30 per session and clients can purchase a package of 6 sessions for £160.

What if I do not want to share how I feel with the group? If you do not feel ready to share in a group or feel this may not be the right format for you, you may benefit from one-to-one support through individual therapy.

This is being called a therapy group, is that the same as a support group? No, please read our article Therapy Groups vs. Support Groups.

This group meets weekly on Saturdays at 10:30am. To join this group contact us at info@fertilitysupportlondon.com.