Fertility Counselling FAQs

Can fertility counselling help with relationship stress during treatment?

Yes. Fertility treatment can be emotionally intense and may place strain on individuals and relationships.

Fertility counselling offers a safe, confidential space to:

  • Process emotions such as grief, anxiety, guilt or anger

  • Improve communication between partners

  • Build coping strategies for treatment-related stress

  • Support decision-making around treatment options, donor conception or embryos

Many couples and individuals find that counselling strengthens their resilience during treatment and beyond.

Is fertility counselling mandatory in Victoria?

Yes. Under the Assisted Reproductive Treatment Act 2008 (VIC), counselling is mandatory before certain types of assisted reproductive treatment (ART), including the use of donor sperm, eggs or embryos.

The goal is not to “test” you, but to ensure you:

  • Understand the medical, legal and ethical implications of treatment

  • Can explore the emotional impact and long-term considerations

  • Have time and space to ask questions in a supportive setting

Does Medicare cover fertility counselling?

Mandatory fertility counselling itself is not always fully covered by Medicare. However:

  • Some patients may be eligible for rebates if they have a Mental Health Treatment Plan from their GP

  • Other forms of psychological support linked to mental health conditions may attract Medicare benefits

Dr Mackenzie-Proctor’s team will explain likely costs, any available rebates and how counselling fits into your overall treatment plan.

What topics are covered in fertility counselling sessions?

Counselling is tailored to you, but commonly includes:

  • Emotional responses to infertility and treatment

  • Coping with uncertainty, waiting and repeated cycles

  • Relationship dynamics and communication

  • Impact of infertility on identity, work and social life

  • Legal and ethical aspects of donor conception, embryo storage or surrogacy

  • Preparing for parenthood, or considering alternatives such as donor conception, surrogacy, or living child-free

Who provides fertility counselling in Victoria?

Fertility counselling should be provided by professionals accredited and experienced in reproductive medicine, for example counsellors belonging to the Australian and New Zealand Infertility Counsellors Association (ANZICA).

These counsellors have specific training in:

  • Assisted reproductive technologies (ART)

  • Donor conception and surrogacy

  • Grief, loss and adjustment related to fertility

Dr Mackenzie-Proctor refers exclusively to appropriately accredited counsellors.

Where can I find more resources on fertility counselling?

Helpful starting points include:

  • ANZICA (Australian and New Zealand Infertility Counsellors Association) – information about fertility counselling and listings of accredited counsellors

  • Educational resources provided directly by Dr Mackenzie-Proctor’s practice

  • Patient information from major fertility and reproductive health organisations in Australia

You can also ask the clinic for a curated list of trusted websites, podcasts and reading material.

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