Psychological Services: Group Counseling

Several times per year, the Duke Fertility Center offers a mind-body cognitive-behavioral support group, led by our clinical psychologist, Dr. Julia Woodward.

The goal of the group is two-fold:

1. To provide you with a forum to share your experiences, gain support, and decrease your sense of isolation.

2. To provide you with training in specific coping strategies helpful in managing negative emotions and stressful situations. Skills discussed include relaxation training, self-nurturing, cognitive restructuring, guided imagery, mindfulness, communicating with friends/family, communicating with your partner, coping with the holidays, and reviewing life goals.

This time-limited group meets in the evenings for 10 weeks and is open to women struggling with fertility problems and their husbands. Depending on patient interest, a daytime group may be offered as well.

The Duke Fertility Center accepts insurance for psychological support services. The group is not restricted to patients receiving fertility treatment at Duke. Patients who might be interested in participating in a group are encouraged to contact Dr. Woodward at 919-572-8853.