Planning Parenthood as a Single Mother by Choice
A Group Orientation for Solo Parents Using Donor Sperm
A supportive, affirming space for women and non-binary individuals choosing to build their families on their own through sperm donation.
Becoming a Single Mother by Choice (SMC) is a deeply intentional decision, one that comes with unique joys, considerations, and challenges. For many SMCs, using donor sperm is not just an option, it’s the way they want to build their families because it aligns with their values.
But the traditional mental health consultation model, often a one-on-one appointment, can feel impersonal, overly clinical, or even isolating.
That’s why I created this psychoeducational group consultation: to provide a warm, affirming, and community-centered way to complete this important step in your fertility journey, while connecting with others who truly understand your path.
But the traditional mental health consultation model, often a one-on-one appointment, can feel impersonal, overly clinical, or even isolating.
That’s why I created this psychoeducational group consultation: to provide a warm, affirming, and community-centered way to complete this important step in your fertility journey, while connecting with others who truly understand your path.
Why this group?
01.
This one-time, 90-minute online group brings together up to 10 prospective or current SMCs who are at a similar stage in the family-building process. Together, we’ll explore the emotional, practical, and developmental considerations of using donor sperm, within a space designed to be respectful, inclusive, and informative.
You’ll leave the session feeling clearer, more supported, and more confident as you move forward.
You’ll leave the session feeling clearer, more supported, and more confident as you move forward.
What to Expect
02.
Topics We Cover
03.
- Navigating the emotional aspects of parenting solo
- Choosing a donor: known vs. unknown, ID release, and more
- Understanding donor motivations and healthy boundaries
- Talking with your child about donor conception at every stage
- Legal and logistical considerations for single-parent families
- Building your support system and community as a solo parent
- Postpartum planning and mental health considerations
- Navigating donor siblings and possible future contact
- Access to curated SMC-specific resources and parenting resources
This group is designed for:
You don’t need to have chosen your donor to attend, many participants find it helpful to join before making that decision. In fact, what we discuss in this session may shape the donor you choose (and which sperm bank you use), so it can be beneficial to attend before making final selections.
- Prospective or current Single Mothers by Choice using sperm donation
- Those using only one form of third-party reproduction (e.g., sperm donation without surrogacy or egg donation)
- Individuals working with a fertility clinic that requires a mental health consultation
- Anyone seeking an affirming, ASRM-compliant group experience instead of a private appointment
- Anyone who is located in one of the 44 states Dr. Diederich can see clients in (excludes Alaska, Iowa, Louisiana, Massachusetts, Montana, New Mexico, Oregon)
You don’t need to have chosen your donor to attend, many participants find it helpful to join before making that decision. In fact, what we discuss in this session may shape the donor you choose (and which sperm bank you use), so it can be beneficial to attend before making final selections.
Is This Right for Me?
04.
- Session Length: 90 minutes
- Format: Online group via secure Zoom (up to 10 participants)
- Clinician: Dr. Leann Diederich, Licensed Psychologist
- Cost: $150 per person
- Documentation Provided: Yes, I send confirmation of completion directly to your clinic
Group Logistics
05.
I’m Dr. Leann Diederich, a Licensed Psychologist specializing in third-party reproduction, group psychotherapy, and affirming care for Single Mothers by Choice. I’ve supported many clients through the emotional, logistical, and relational aspects of building their families, and I’m honored to walk alongside you in this journey. Read more about me here.
About Your Facilitator
