From Personal Struggle to Professional Passion

Dr. Clay Brigance, affectionately known as “Dr. Clay” or simply “Doc” by his counseling clients, has a profound personal journey that has deeply influenced his professional focus. Alongside his wife, Dr. Clay navigated the challenging waters of infertility, a journey marked by heartache and hope. They discovered, to their surprise, that their relationship emerged stronger from the experience. This revelation sparked a pivotal question for Dr. Clay: “Why do some couples come together after infertility, while others fall apart?”

It All Started With Why?

Driven by this question, Dr. Clay embarked on a mission to understand the dynamics that either strengthen or strain relationships amidst the trials of infertility and reproductive loss. His quest for answers led him to develop the Four Pillars of Connection During Reproductive Grief, a framework that has proven transformational for countless couples.

Research, Practice, and Impact

Dr. Clay’s dedication to this field is reflected in his extensive research. Over several years, he studied the experiences of over 1,000 couples, meticulously analyzing the factors that contribute to resilience and unity during such a vulnerable time. His findings have not only enriched academic literature, being published in some of the top journals, but also provided practical guidance to couples worldwide.

Through his research, Dr. Clay identified four critical pillars that support couples navigating reproductive grief. These pillars offer a roadmap to maintaining a strong, connected relationship even in the face of profound challenges. By integrating these pillars into their lives, many couples have found renewed strength and deeper connection. Inspired to serve couples navigating infertility and reproductive loss and to bring these four pillars to these couples, Dr. Clay founded Shiloh Counseling in Ballwin, Missouri, a private practice devoted to helping couples thrive through their reproductive grief. Find out more about Shiloh Counseling here.

Dr. Clay Brigance’s journey from personal struggle to professional passion illustrates the profound impact that lived experience can have on one’s work. His dedication to helping couples thrive during infertility and reproductive loss continues to inspire and transform lives.

What People Are Saying

  • Lauren S. (Symposium Participant)

    "Dr. Clay Brigance's session on couples and infertility at the APA conference was nothing short of transformative. His insights were both deeply compassionate and incredibly informative, providing valuable tools for understanding and supporting couples navigating such a complex journey. Truly inspiring!"

  • ELIZABETH B. (Institute of Reproductive Grief Care Symposium Attendee)

    "The symposium on reproductive grief care was an eye-opening experience. The discussions led by experts in the field, including Dr. Clay Brigance, were profoundly moving and provided essential strategies for supporting individuals and couples through the unique challenges of reproductive loss. An invaluable resource for any professional in the field."

  • Michael H. (Training Attendee)

    "Attending Dr. Clay Brigance's training on infertility was a game-changer for my research. His approach, blending empathy with evidence-based strategies, deepened my understanding of the emotional and psychological impacts of infertility. I left the session feeling better equipped to support those affected and more inspired to continue my work in this field."

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