Let’s Talk About It: How Therapy Can Help After Abortion

Let's Talk About Abortion

With nearly 1 in 4 people likely to have an abortion before age 45, everyone knows and loves someone who’s had an abortion. (Contraception: An International Reproductive Health Journal, 2024). Despite abortion being a common reality, the ever-growing obstacles to access abortion care are extensive, ranging from the restrictions that limit an individual's access to the procedure/medication itself (Restrictions on Abortion by State) to the limited post-abortion support available. Having noticed—and experienced—this gap in support, I began offering specialized mental health therapy for anyone who has experienced an abortion.

The Reality of Post-Abortion Mental Health

It's important to know that having an abortion does not increase the risk of psychological disorders (American Psychological Association). Instead, it is often the lack of positive social support—such as understanding, acceptance, non judgment, and empowerment—and the presence of negative support—like criticism, misunderstanding, stigma, and silence—that impacts overall well-being. Common feelings following an abortion include a wide range of emotions, both pleasant and unpleasant, like relief, happiness, sadness, empowerment, anger, guilt, and/or anxiety. Every feeling is valid. 

How Therapy Can Help

I totally understand why you’d want to know if your therapist is pro-choice—I felt the same way. As a therapist myself, I’m pro-choice and, even more importantly, I’m pro-you. It’s essential to find an abortion-affirming provider, especially when opening up about your experience can be really challenging. In our work together, you’re in control. You get to decide what to share, who to share it with, when, how, and why. You’re safe with me, and I’m here to support you every step of the way.

Silence, avoidance, or pushing down your feelings can crank up the shame—so having a safe space to explore these thoughts and feelings is essential. It’s completely normal to struggle with mixed feelings in our post-Roe World. I create an affirming environment where your feelings are recognized as valid and worthy of exploration. Remember, it’s okay to prioritize your well-being and seek support as you navigate this journey; you deserve care and understanding from yourself and those around you.

Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART) can be particularly helpful for anyone dealing with the complicated emotions that can follow an abortion. Everyone reacts differently, but the constant stream of anti-abortion messages from family, friends, strangers, and even politicians can be hard to ignore. Given that reproductive oppression has been a long-standing issue in the U.S., many of us carry deep-rooted biases that we may not even realize are impacting us. ART is designed to bring these biases to light, helping you explore and build a more authentic relationship with your abortion experience. If talking about your abortion feels too heavy, that’s completely okay. With ART, we can work through your feelings without needing to dive into every detail.

Reproductive Justice and the Right to...

have a child, not have a child, and to parent your child(ren) in safe and healthy environments. My approach is deeply rooted in a reproductive justice-informed framework. This concept, championed by advocates like SisterSong, recognizes that reproductive health and freedom encompass access to abortion and so much more. It’s about ensuring everyone has the resources, respect, and power to make informed decisions about their reproductive lives—free from interference such as societal stigma, judgment from family or friends, or restrictive laws that limit options. I believe that the choices surrounding pregnancy—be it to parent, adopt, or have an abortion—is yours, and I'm with you.

Your Privacy Matters

In a post-Roe world, privacy is more important than ever. Our sessions are HIPAA-protected and documented with a reproductive justice-informed approach, keeping your experience confidential and secure. 

If you’re seeking a supportive space to talk about your abortion experience and want to feel truly seen and heard, let’s connect. I offer in-person sessions in Asheville, NC and virtual sessions across North Carolina for anyone seeking abortion support. Together, we can explore your emotions and navigate any pressures you might be facing—all in a nonjudgmental, empowering environment. Don’t hesitate to reach out at kelsey@thebreakuptherapist.com.