How to Find Abortion Counseling

Getting counseling before or after an abortion is an important step in the healing process. Choosing an abortion is one way to deal with an unplanned pregnancy, but recovering from an abortion takes time and support. Knowing what is involved beforehand and understanding your feelings afterwards is a part of the abortion process.

Instructions

• 1

  Seek the advice of friends or family members who have used abortion counseling services. Although this is a difficult thing to talk about for most women, getting advice from someone who's been through it will help.

• 2

  You might get abortion counseling from both a pro-choice and pro-life perspective by visiting Planned Parenthood and Crisis Pregnancy Support Centers before making your final decision.

• 3

  Talk to your minister, priest or rabbi about your decisions to have an abortion. Your religious beliefs and world view might influence your decision.

• 4

  Look for a therapist who deals in post-abortion counseling. These people are trained experts and will help you through the emotional trauma you may experience after having an abortion.

• 5

  Join a support group of women who have had abortions. Your therapist or women's help center will have information about groups in your area.

• 6

  Find a friend you can talk to about your decision. Your closest friends want what is best for you and are able to listen to you in a nonjudgmental way. Keeping close friends around you during this time is important.

• 7

  Be willing to help others who have had a similar experience. Often the best therapy is the help we can give to someone else who is dealing with this tough decision.