In this episode, Jennifer talks with Merle Bombardieri. Merle has been a private practice clinical social worker and psychotherapist for over 35 years and was the Clinical Director of Resolve: The National Infertility Association for 2 years. 

 Merle is the author of the bestselling book The Baby Decision originally published in 1981.

The revised 2016 second edition of The Baby Decision is based on 35 more years of her work guiding decision-makers in educational workshops; long-distance consulting for people around the world; and psychotherapy. 

 In 2023, Merle was joined in her practice by her daughter Vanessa who is a certified coach. Together, they focus their practice on coaching so they can assist as many people as possible in parenthood decision-making.
 
Merle is currently working on her second book, Baby or Childfree.  

Key topics discussed:

• Merle’s “baby decision”
• Finding support when facing fertility struggles
• Exploring options with less fear and more clarity
• Merle’s advice for people who are trying to decide whether continue or stop fertility treatment
• The importance of grieving, and a grieving exercise
• Decision making from a place of empowerment not defeat
• Reframing fears about not having children
• Fertility decisions for partners, who may not be in agreement about what’s next
• How to feel better, stronger, and reclaim power and control over your life again

Resources Mentioned:

• The Baby Decision, Merle Bombardieri
• Living the Life Unexpected: How to find hope, meaning and a fulfilling future without children, Jody Day
• The Next Happy: Let go of the life you planned and find a new way forward, Tracy Cleantis
• So Now What? Create a life you love without the children you always dreamed of, Lana Manikowski
• AllPaths Family Building
• The Childless Collective 
• RESOLVE: The National Infertility Association 

Connect with Merle: 

• Website: thebabydecision.com
• Instagram: @thebabydecision 
• Facebook: @thebabydecision 

Connect with Jennifer:

• Schedule a free Fertility Support Session
• Follow her on Instagram for more tips and insights: @jennredmondinhc
• Subscribe to her newsletter

Don't forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with women in your life who can benefit from this information.

Disclaimer: The Cycles and Seasons podcast is for general educational and informational purposes only and should not be taken as medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please consult your healthcare professional regarding any symptoms or medical problems you are experiencing.