2SLGBTQ+ SIG
The 2SLGBTQ+ Special Interest Group (SIG) is dedicated to promoting excellence in assisted reproduction and advancing reproductive science in Canada. Our vision aligns with CFAS’s commitment to inclusivity, specifically addressing the unique reproductive needs of 2SLGBTQ+ individuals and families. We enhance understanding and support through leadership, research, and the development of best practices in reproductive healthcare. In response to the 2019 report by the Federal Standing Committee on Health, which called for specialized training for 2SLGBTQ+ populations, our SIG emphasizes educational resources, training programs, and comprehensive guidelines promoting inclusivity. Our objectives include improving knowledge about 2SLGBTQ+ reproductive research, fostering interdisciplinary collaboration among CFAS members, and establishing intersectional frameworks to address challenges faced by multiply marginalized individuals. We facilitate critical dialogue through activities like annual webinars, online discussion boards, and networking events. By prioritizing targeted subcommittees focusing on the needs of Racialized, Indigenous, and low-income communities, we strive to empower diverse 2SLGBTQ+ populations and ensure equitable reproductive care for all.
Laine Halpem Zisman, MA, PhD
Chair
Laine Halpern Zisman (PhD), is a postdoctoral fellow in the School of Public Health and Social Policy with research focusing on reproductive health equity and access for 2SLGBTQ+ people, as well as the benefits of doula and community supports in the family building journey. Her book 'Conceivable: A Guide to 2SLGBTQ+ Family Making" Fernwood, 2024) focuses on the Canadian context of fertility and family building options for queer and transgender people in Canada.
Rachel Epstein, BA, PhD, MA, Certificate in Dispute Resolution
Vice Chair
Rachel Epstein (PhD) is a longtime LGBTQ+ parenting activist, educator and researcher and was the founding coordinator of the LGBTQ Parenting Network at the Sherbourne Health Centre in Toronto (lgbtqpn.ca), from 2001 to 2015. Following that she held a Banting postdoctoral fellowship at Brock University for two years, where she conducted research on LGBTQ family conflict. She has published on a wide range of LGBTQ+ parenting issues, including LGBTQ+ experience in fertility clinics, queer spawn in schools, butch pregnancy, adoption, and the tensions between queer sexuality, radicalism and parenting. She currently works as a fertility counsellor for several Toronto-based clinics. She is also a practising professional mediator.
Erica Berman, BA, PhD, MA, RP
Secretary/Treasurer
Erica Berman is a Toronto-based psychotherapist with over a decade of experience helping individuals and couples navigate challenges related to infertility, pregnancy loss, postpartum mental health, trauma, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, emotional eating, and low self-esteem. With a PhD in Exercise Science and a Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology, Erica is a Registered Psychotherapist with the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario. She is also certified in Infertility Counselling, EMDR for trauma/PTSD, and holds a variety of health and fitness certifications, including Certified Personal Trainer and Group Fitness Instructor.
Erica’s approach to therapy is collaborative and action-oriented, empowering clients to find practical solutions to their difficulties while building long-term coping skills. She integrates strategies from Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), EMDR, and other modalities to tailor her work to the unique needs of each client. Erica is passionate about helping clients achieve their goals, not only through guidance but by fostering independence and resilience. In addition to her clinical work, Erica is an active member of several professional organizations, including the Ontario Association of Consultants, Counsellors, Psychometrists and Psychotherapists (OACCPP), the Canadian Fertility and Andrology Society (CFAS), and the Infertility Awareness Association of Canada (IAAC).
Alexandra Blight, BScN, MN-PHCNP
Executive Member
Alexandra Blight is a highly experienced Nurse Practitioner with over 15 years of clinical expertise, specializing in trauma-informed care and reproductive justice. She completed her Bachelor of Science in Nursing at McMaster University, graduating with honors and later pursued advanced certifications in critical care, cardiology, neurology, and neuroscience. Alexandra's career has included diverse roles, such as working in a Level 1 Trauma ICU, teaching BScN students, and managing a remote nursing outpost serving Indigenous communities in northern Canada. Her international experience includes working on health projects in Brazil, El Salvador, and India, where she trained at the Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine and collaborated with the Dalai Lama’s physician. Alexandra's commitment to global health and health inequities has shaped her work in community health development and advocacy for marginalized populations.
In 2017, Alexandra completed her Primary Health Care Nurse Practitioner program with a double Master’s in Nursing and Global Health from the University of Toronto. She has since worked in various roles focused on supporting Indigenous communities and marginalized populations, including providing sexual and reproductive health services at Planned Parenthood Toronto. Alexandra's work in reproductive justice, including providing gender-affirming care, contraceptive counseling, and prenatal care, led her to pursue a career in fertility care. Her patient-centered approach emphasizes empowering individuals to make informed decisions about their sexual and reproductive health. Alexandra finds great joy in helping patients navigate their fertility journeys and achieve their family planning goals.
Nicola Farnell, RN(EC), CDE
Executive Member
Nicola Farnell is a Nurse Practitioner at Mount Sinai Fertility, specializing in Oncofertility and Fertility Preservation, where she supports individuals through their fertility journeys, particularly in the context of challenging diagnoses like cancer. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (Honours) from the University of Toronto, along with a Master of Nursing and Acute Care Nurse Practitioner Certification. In addition to her clinical practice, she contributes to the field as an Adjunct Lecturer at the University of Toronto's Bloomberg Faculty of Nursing. Nicola recently earned her CIINDE-Certified Holistic Nurse Coach (CCHNC) certification, which enhances her ability to provide comprehensive, patient-centered care that includes counseling and education on fertility options.
Nicola’s approach to care is rooted in active listening, patient validation, and providing hope and clarity, especially in the face of adversity. She finds particular fulfillment in helping patients navigate difficult diagnoses, such as cancer, by offering support and instilling a sense of possibility. Nicola views her role in fertility care as a privilege, describing it as an honor to be part of such an important milestone in her patients’ lives. Outside of her professional work, she enjoys outdoor activities like golf and tennis and seeks new adventures to maintain a balanced lifestyle.