In Vivo Therapy

27 August 2010

After getting the news of my last treatment failing, and knowing I need to have the emotional strength to get through this upcoming IVF cycle, I decided it was time to access a therapist skilled in fertility related issues. Earlier this week, I set up an appointment with the counselor associated with my clinic. I chose this person on the recommendation of other fertility clinic patients who have found the sessions very helpful. For me it is worth driving to another city, and paying out of pocket for someone who truly understands and has experience with infertility.

Last night I called my employee assistance plan that I have through work to check to see if this counselor was on their list, and perhaps some assistance with paying for her services. Long shot, I know, but I needed to check it out as every penny counts. My phone call went something like this:

Hello, I am wanting to access some counseling and was wondering if you could tell me if this counselor is on your list of providers?
Alright, we just need to run through a few questions before we can match you with an appropriate provider.
Name, company plan number, blah, blah, blah.
Alright someone will call you back within a couple of days to match you with a counselor in your area.
Wait, I don’t want a counselor in my area, my clinic has recommended this specific person and I’d just like to know if she is on your list. Yes or No?
Alright, you seem stressed, I’ll see if one of our telephone counselors can call you back tonight.

Telephone counselor person calls back an hour later.
Hello, I understand you are needing some counseling?
Yes, I was referred to this specific counselor, and was just wanting to know if she was on your list?
OK, I’ll need a bit more information from you before I can tell you.
What is the reason you are seeking counseling?
I’ve been struggling with infertility for a couple of years and just found out that I need to do IVF.
IV what?
IVF = in vitro fertilization
Oh, so you are pregnant?
No (in a exasperated tone), I am not, that is why I will be doing IVF.
Is this infertility a permanent condition?
I really hope not (nearly breaking into tears).
Alright, the provider that you requested is not listed with us, let me see I can get you in with a counselor in your area for early next week, or if you prefer, I am a counselor and we can talk on the phone now about your concerns.
No thanks, I would prefer to see this specific person because she specializes in this particular area, and understands it.
But you will have to pay out of pocket for her services and with our counseling it will be no charge to you.
That’s fine. The IVF is already costing us $10, 000 so $150 for a counseling session is peanuts in comparison.
Oh my, I’m sorry we couldn’t be of more help. Good luck with the “In Vivo”
Thank you, good bye.

Ha! After that phone conversation I now need therapy more than ever. Hubs and I meet with the therapist this afternoon. The timing couldn't be better.