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Your ultimate source for LGBTQ+ fertility and family-building information, including guides to surrogacy, IVF, IUI, affording treatment, LGBTQ+ parenting and much more.

Melissa Kelleher, LCSW

Melissa Kelleher is a licensed clinical social worker at our partner clinic, Illume Fertility. She works closely with LGBTQ+ intended parents on surrogacy journeys, egg donors, and those pursuing donor conception to help them navigate the complexity of these experiences with expert guidance.

Mental Health

Why is Counseling Required for LGBTQ Parents-to-Be? An Expert Explains

By: Melissa Kelleher, LCSW
February 21st, 2023

Many LGBTQ+ parents-to-be are surprised when they are referred to a mental health professional for a consultation during their family-building journey. Here's why fertility clinics recommend or require special counseling for families pursuing donor conception and surrogacy, and how you can take advantage of the opportunity to learn and process your own emotions.