Support for Pregnancy After Loss

The decision to try again after the loss of a pregnancy at any stage, is wrought with worry and concern for the physical and emotional health of the woman, should the couple experience disappointment again. Couples preparing for another pregnancy need to understand that there will be unavoidable anxiety and that it may take many weeks before any kind of optimism is experienced by the woman or her partner. Many women have shared that pregnancy following loss is ‘never the same and that their fears never really subsided until their healthy baby was placed in their arms.
Women often struggle to feel attachment in a new pregnancy and report others are critical of their lack of excitement. It is not uncommon for women to avoid purchasing things for the new baby and describe guilt feelings when they make small steps to prepare for their delivery. Counselling during these pregnancies addresses the ongoing grief that doesn’t magically resolve when a subsequent pregnancy is confirmed. Women are reassured that it is so very hard to bond and grieve simultaneously. Strategies for promoting emotional attachment are offered as well as continued opportunities to mourn the loss of the baby many fear will be forgotten.  
 

Counselling Fees

My counselling fees are not covered by OHIP although many have coverage through extended health benefits plans provided by their employers. As a therapist with designation as a Registered Social Worker (RSW), many clients are reimbursed for fees. Benefits packages through companies such as Sun Life, Blue Cross, Great West Life Insurance and Greenshield Canada can provide coverage for counselling services. Please check your employee benefits package to determine your individual coverage. 

 

Any counselling expenses not covered by third party insurance benefits can be claimed as medical expense tax deductions when you file your annual income tax return. As a Registered Social Worker, I am considered an authorized ‘medical practitioner’, allowing you to claim counselling fees as a medical expense. 

 

Clients are not charged for telephone consultations prior to initial counselling sessions. The fee for a 60-75 minute counselling session is $125.00. Payments are made by cash, cheque or credit card at the end of each session. Formal receipts are provided.