https://orcid.org/0000-0001-9695-5204
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ABSTRACT
Female partners continue to experience homophobia when creating families. In this study, we utilized Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA) and Relational-Cultural Theory (RCT) to explore the experiences of female partners receiving third-party fertility treatments and to investigate the counseling profession’s potential role in the family formation process. Two themes emerged: love and disconnection. Therapists are encouraged to employ RCT when working with female partners engaging in family formation. Application of RCT emphasizes enhancing love by addressing relational images and integrity and healing disconnection by addressing autonomy and belonging. Recommendations for future research are discussed.
Additional information
Funding
This work was supported by the North Central Association for Counselor Education and Supervision [2017 Research Award].