Mind/Body Infertility Program
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of the program?
The Mind/Body Program for Infertility is a comprehensive, complementary program designed to decrease physical and psychological symptoms, reduce isolation and educate participants on the potential impact of positive changes to lifestyle behaviors for improved reproductive health. In learning a variety of relaxation techniques, including yoga, stress management skills, ways in which exercise and nutrition can impact your fertility and strategies to enhance coping by reversing negative thought patterns, participants restore their sense of control and well-being. Recent research has demonstrated that past participants in similar program experienced significant improvements in psychological health as well as increased pregnancy rates following completion of the program.
What are the benefits of participating in the program?
The Mind/Body Infertility Program is highly effective in significantly reducing depression, distress and anxiety. It is specifically designed to help you cope with the psychological and emotional difficulties associated with the stress and anxiety of infertility. A typical infertility patient that utilizes the Mind/Body Program for Infertility finds herself calmer, more in control and better able to cope with the future after experiencing the mind/body approach, regardless of when and how she becomes a mother.
How do I sign up for the group?
Everyone must go through an intake procedure called an initial consult prior to joining the group. The intake is a one-on-one meeting with the group leader during which the leader gets to know you and your history. At the time of the initial consult, you pay a $150 deposit that goes towards the cost of the group. This deposit guarantees you a spot in the group.
What is the purpose of the initial consult?
The initial consult serves a very important purpose and is required for all participants. It provides a chance to meet and to get to know the program group leader and it gives her a chance to know how you're doing and what issues you'd like to work on during the program. A final consult is optional but important as it serves to summarize your experience and progress, and to set new goals for your health. This is also a good time to get answers to final questions.
How much does the program cost and what is the insurance coverage?
The total cost of the 10 week program is $750. The hourly rate, is $25 per hour. The cost of the program includes an initial intake/consultation appointment, all group sessions, a manual that includes material covered in the program, and a relaxation CD. Each participant is allowed on opt-out session. See details below.
Insurance may reimburse you for part of the cost of the programs, and will depend on your individual policy. Many clients receive partial insurance reimbursement. The program is billed under mental health, not infertility. At the end of the program, a statement will be provided that you can then submit to your insurance company for reimbursement. You are responsible for all payments to the Complementary Care Group.
Can I participate in the Mind/Body Program while I'm going through medical treatments?
Yes. We anticipate that at least half of the women in our program will initiate either an insemination cycle or an IVF cycle while participating in the group.
What if I am not pursing any medical treatment at this time?
That's fine. Many clients choose to take a break from treatment while
participating in the program. Also, many clients prefer to learn the Mind/Body
approach to use in conjunction with upcoming treatments.
Do I need to sign up for the entire 10-week program or can I just come to some of the sessions? What happens if I need to miss a session?
Due to the format of the group, and to receive the full benefit of the program, it is important to commit to the entire 10 weeks. However, each participant is allowed one opt-out session. This means you can miss one session, and receive a refund for the missed session. If you know prior to registration that you will be unable to attend one of the sessions, that session will be deducted from the total cost of the program. If you have to miss a session unexpectedly, a refund will be given for the missed session. The first session, the Sunday session, and the final session are mandatory for participation. At the first session, a buddy is assigned to you. This person is there not only to support you emotionally during the program should you need it, but also to take notes for you should you need to miss a session. The group leaders are also there to answer any questions. In addition, you receive materials at the beginning of the program which provide enough background information that you can catch up easily by perusing them.
What is your cancellation policy?
Full refunds less a $50 cancellation fee will be made if notice of cancellation is received 24 hours before your intake appointment (individual consultation). Cancellations received after the initial consultation appointment, and at least 48 hours before the program begins are subject to the $150 intake fee (normally billed to insurance) plus an additional $50. Cancellations received less than 48 hours before the program begins are subject to an additional cost of $250.
Where are the sessions held?
The upcoming ten week program will be at the Matt Ross Community Center in downtown Overland Park. The address is 8101 Marty.
I have secondary infertility. Can I participate in the ten-week program and will I feel isolated in the group?
We do accept people who have one child into the ten-week program. Those with more than one are asked to meet with one of the program directors for one-on-one instruction. Most groups are made of up to sixteen participants. We combine primary and secondary infertility patients because not enough secondary patients have yet come forward to have a separate secondary group, although if there are enough, we will make every effort to pair secondary infertility patients together. It is our hope to run such a program in the future.
Must partners/husbands participate? How many sessions does my partner/husband attend?
Partners are invited to attend three of the ten sessions, but this participation is optional. However, there is great benefit in involvement. Not only do they benefit from techniques taught, such as relaxation methods and the couples' paired listening exercise, but we also provide one support group session designed specifically for the partners. In addition, they gain key insight to what you are really going through.
What if I get pregnant during the group?
If you get pregnant, we recommend that you remain in the group because
most women become stressed about losing the pregnancy and can still
benefit from the Mind Body techniques.
A Fertility Plan is helpful in navigating the decision-making process of treatment and family-building options. Having a Fertility Plan serves as a compass giving direction when you may feel lost or unsure about what direction to take in building your family."
