An Object Relations View on the Role of Loss in Infertility Treatment and Adoption

An Object Relations View on the Role of Loss in Infertility Treatment and Adoption
Lisa Schuman, LCSW
Saturday, February 28th, 2009
10:00am – 4:00pm (Registration 9:30am)


Many infertility patients report similar symptoms, interpersonal dynamics and coping styles. Research has documented the stress and traumatic effects of infertility treatment on women. Stress management techniques and “mind body” treatments are popular ways of treating patients. While these methods of treatment are effective, it is not the only helpful option. In fact, the experience of the loss of fertility and the medical treatments that follow can present an opportunity to work through significant historical issues often reactivated while pursuing infertility treatment. The field of adoption is often clear about the role of loss for all parties involved and the importance of mourning, however, in practice, these issues can be easily overlooked, or quickly reconciled. Here, the issues of grief and loss can continue and often change shape from the initial feelings experienced in infertility treatment. Again, there are often opportunities to work through these feelings in meaningful ways and possibly attend to reactivated losses. This workshop will cover the basic loss issues that arise in infertility and adoption. Assessment of the patient’s particular circumstance, transferrance and coutertransferrance issues will be a focal point of the workshop.
LISA SCHUMAN, LCSW is a psychotherapist in private practice, staff therapist for Reproductive Medicine Associates of New York and founding Director of Adoption Cooperative consultants. Ms. Schuman studied psychoanalytic psychotherapy at the Greenwich Institute, received her MSW at Yeshiva University and was certified in substance abuse and alcohol counseling. She is an active member of the American Society of Reproductive Medicine, the Adoptive Parents Committee and the American Fertility Associate. She lectures and writes articles on a variety of subjects.

REGISTRATION INFORMATION:
Pre-registration fees are $50 for students and $75 for non-students. Day of Workshop or Conference Fees are $60 for students and $85 for non-students. To register or to get more information about this workshop or any of our Training Programs, call 212.268.8638 or Email Anna@orinyc.org or visit our website www.orinyc.org. Send your check to: Object Relations Institute, 511 Avenue of the Americas, #52, New York, NY 10011.