Episode 16: Mental Health Support and Infertility

Cycles and Seasons

In this episode, Jennifer talks with Kendra Quincy Knauf. Kendra is a licensed mental health counselor with a specialization in perinatal mental health, particularly supporting people dealing with fertility challenges, pregnancy after loss, and postpartum identity. She has worked in multiple settings, particularly in the community mental health space with a diverse group of clients over the past ten years. Currently she has a telehealth private practice.

Kendra spent years undergoing fertility treatments and is a NICU mom. Kendra lives in the metro-Boston area with her family, and volunteers with her town government, undergraduate alumni organization, and is a dog foster parent. Kendra is an avid reader, a fiber artist, dog mom, and enjoys spending time outdoors. She is often spotted at the local library. Kendra received her bachelor's degree in history from Dartmouth College and holds a Master of Education from University of Pennsylvania, and a Master of Counseling from University of Massachusetts Boston.

Kendra is also a beloved former client of Jennifer’s.

Key points discussed:

• 1 in 6 struggle with infertility, and rates of anxiety and depression are higher in those men and women
• Everybody’s fertility journey is unique, and feeling isolated is a common thread in those journeys
• Kendra’s fertility journey
• Support is available and how to find reliable and trusted sources of information
• The benefits of group support
• The importance of self-advocating for your care, assembling a team and becoming a partner in your care
• Practical ways to support your mental health day-to-day
• How to find a therapist or mental health provider who is a good fit for you

Resources Mentioned:

• AllPaths Family Building
• Resolve: The National Infertility Association
• Spirit Babies book
• Postpartum Support International
• Psychology Today therapist search

Connect with Kendra:

• Kendraknauf.com
• [email protected]
• Instagram: @kendra.knauf.lmhc

Connect with Jennifer:

• Schedule a free fertility Support Session