A Note From the Founder
My name is Stacy Korfist. I am a psychotherapist in Southern California. In the past 19 years I have worked with many amazing people and families. Being a psychotherapist allows me to vicariously live many life experiences and see the world through many different glasses.
Most women with PCOS have done their research. They are advocates for themselves and want answers to intelligent questions. I know the questions . . . I have asked them myself. Upon learning about my own PCOS diagnosis, I found my own life mirroring my practice. Will I ever get pregnant? How do I sort through all the infertility information and technology? How do I make sense of a complex endocrine system? What treatments are more successful than others? How do I find a knowledgeable provider?
As I surfed the web for help, I found an abundance of excellent information. What I learned is that there is a need for a centralized place to turn to for professional referrals and resources; a place to find informed providers who understand women with PCOS. Providers that will take the time to listen and can say it out loud. They are out there. I want to make it easier to find them.
As I attended conferences and began my training I met many intelligent and resourceful professionals, each with willingness to share and eagerness to learn. As a psychotherapist it was intimidating at first to attend medical and scientific conferences and sit in the company of such renown authorities, but quickly realized the abundance of energy the subspecialty of PCOS has as it embarks on the ambitious goal of providing excellence in care.
The scientific and medical societies are embracing the need to collaborate in multidisciplinary teams. More can be accomplished. And, although mixed company invites controversy, it also allows for increased opportunity and intelligent debates, allowing for scientific breakthroughs and advancements.
When I attended nutrition conferences, the dietitians were eager to hear about my counseling practices from ‘a trauma perspective’. It’s not what’s wrong with the person, but what happened to the person. In applying this to PCOS, I learn how the diagnosis happened and find there is often some “trauma recovery” work needed. Making peace with the diagnosis and events leading to it can really be a catalyst for change. See my article Anatomy of a PCOS Diagnosis.
Then I realized my vision; to help bridge a gap between polycystic ovary syndrome, eating disorders and lifestyle management — to increase awareness and resources so women can make informed decisions about their health — to help women with PCOS see themselves as more than the sum of their parts — to provide a forum for professionals to develop and advance their skill set. Women with PCOS are often receiving multiple treatments for multiple symptoms, from multiple professionals. It’s the elephant story all over again. Who really knows the entire person? Ultimately, that responsibility is probably ours.
Stacy Korfist, Founder
PCOSnetwork.com
