Carson-Newman prof co-edits new book addressing struggle of infertility, fertility loss

A soon to be released book co-edited by Carson-Newman University’s Dr. Megan Herscher explores issues of grief and chronic sorrow related to infertility and reproductive loss. “Working with Infertility and Grief A Practical Guide for Helping Professionals,” is described as being one of only a handful of books related to the topic, and the first of its kind geared toward equipping helping professionals who assist those grieving unrecognized losses.

Herscher serves as associate professor of counseling at Carson-Newman. She is also field placement coordinator and Clinical Mental Health Program coordinator for the University. Herscher says she was drawn to the project out of personal experience.

“My motivation was related to my struggle with infertility and subsequent embryo adoption resulting in the birth of my two youngest twins,” she said. “While this book is written as a clinical guide for mental health and medical professionals, I believe a strong crossover market for those struggling with infertility.”

Herscher co-authored the book with Drs. Whitney Jarnagin and Denis’ Thomas. The guide directly targets mental health professionals working with clients, supervisees, or students who have experienced infertility, miscarriage, or death of an infant. Readers will learn more about the crisis of infertility and reproductive loss, gain insight into the experience of those suffering, and acquire practical tools and strategies for helping and healing.

The book is available for pre-order and will ship after Aug. 4. Those interested can find the book on Amazon.