Updated by the Progyny Editorial Team — December 2025.
For many people, family building includes fertility treatment. That process can feel overwhelming, disruptive, and stressful. You may be making high-stakes decisions, coping with grief and uncertainty, and managing impacts on your finances, relationships, work, and physical health. It is normal to need extra support during this time.
If you are otherwise healthy, navigating the healthcare system and insurance — especially behavioral health — may be new. It can be a lot to manage, and it is OK to ask for help. Some clinics also require visits with a behavioral health specialist if your plan includes a donor or a gestational carrier.
Below are practical ways to get started, plus questions to help you find the right fit.
Three ways to start your search
Check your resources
Review your insurance network and look for therapists who list fertility or infertility as a specialty. Directories such as Psychology Today let you filter by specialty, location, and insurance participation.
Talk with your clinic and support network
Many clinics maintain referral lists for individual or couples counseling and for support groups. These lists are often curated to include fertility-experienced providers.
LGBTQ+ community centers may also offer programs and resources tailored to family building. For example, The Center in New York City provides services designed to meet the needs of LGBTQ+ individuals and couples.
Explore the fertility community
There is a strong fertility community with many support options. For example, the American Society for Reproductive Medicine has a mental health professional group and a directory of therapists who specialize in fertility. Social media can also be a way to find providers and peer support through clinic and therapist pages or moderated groups.
Three questions to ask when choosing a therapist
Do they specialize in fertility or infertility?
Look for expertise that matches your needs. You should not have to teach your therapist the basics of fertility treatment, such as the difference between IVF and IUI, or the considerations around known versus anonymous donors.
Do you feel comfortable with them?
The relationship matters. While many therapists can work effectively with people from different backgrounds, you may feel most comfortable with someone who shares your culture, religion, primary language, or lived experience. It is OK to speak with a few therapists before deciding. This is your time and your journey, and you should feel respected and understood.
Are they properly licensed?
Confirm that the therapist is a licensed mental health professional, such as a PhD, PsyD, LCSW or LMSW, or LMFT, and that they have relevant experience. Accredited centers, such as the Ackerman Institute for the Family in New York, can also be a starting point.
Many people hesitate to seek therapy because of stigma around mental health care. Fertility challenges can be one of the most stressful experiences you face, and stigma can add to feelings of isolation. Talking with a therapist can help you navigate this complex journey with clarity and support. Asking for help is a meaningful step in caring for yourself.
Progyny is here to support you. Contact your Progyny Care Advocate for help you with your search.