Reproductive trauma, which includes experiencing miscarriages, infertility, recurrent losses, traumatic childbirth, and postpartum mental health challenges, is a deeply complex and often, overlooked area in the field of mental health (Brigance et al., 2023; Jaffe, 2022). Although infertility and other reproductive concerns are on the rise globally, specialized training and interventions are sparse (World Health Organization, 2023). Additionally, clinicians specializing in treating reproductive trauma are often drawn to the population due to their personal experiences with reproductive loss/trauma (Bindeman, 2019). This workshop is designed to equip psychologists and licensed mental health professionals with knowledge, tools, and strategies to provide compassionate, evidence-based, trauma-informed care. Psychological, emotional, and relational impact of reproductive trauma will be discussed through a trauma-informed lens as well as assessments and evidenced-based treatment. Important considerations to reduce the risk of empathy fatigue for clinicians are discussed. This workshop will also describe how to incorporate religious/spiritual practices during the grieving process to foster healing, hope, and empowerment for willing Christian clients.
603 | Hope and Healing Beyond the Diagnosis: Compassionate, Evidence-based, Trauma-informed Care for Infertility and Reproductive Trauma
PRESENTERS
Caitlin Overfelt, M.S, Ed.S., Vanessa Kent, Ph.D.
CE CREDITS
1.25
Approved For CE
APA, ASWB, NBCC, IBCC Florida Board of Clinical Social Work, Marriage and Family Therapy and Mental Health Counseling,
Approved For CME/CEU
LEVEL
Intermediate
Summary
Learning Objectives
1 Examine the common psychological, emotional, and relational symptoms reported by individuals and couples experiencing reproductive trauma, gaining insight into the impact on their well-being.
2 Apply trauma-informed clinical interventions when treating reproductive trauma, demonstrating effective therapeutic techniques to support individuals and couples through their healing journey.
3 Identify and explore religious and spiritual practices that can be integrated into client care, specifically addressing grief and loss resulting from reproductive trauma to foster healing, hope, and empowerment with willing Christian clients.