Fertility and surrogacy care in Canada are transforming, with new and innovative approaches driving significant evolution in the field. Leading this change is Ariel Taylor, CEO of Carried with Love Inc., the country’s first fully virtual counseling practice specializing in fertility and surrogacy. At just 32 years old, this Social Worker and Psychotherapist is revolutionizing the fertility care space by providing comprehensive support and bringing much-needed transparency and education to the Canadian surrogacy industry.
Since 2021, Ariel has built a thriving company, and a significant social media following, and has educated millions, breaking down stigmas, normalizing diverse paths to parenthood, and shedding light on this historically secretive industry. Her unique blend of professional expertise and personal experience is setting new standards in fertility and surrogacy care across Canada.
Ariel holds a BA in Childhood and Social Institutions and a Bachelor of Social Work from Western University, focusing her studies on children and families, infertility, surrogacy and donor outcomes, grief and loss, and fertility trauma. Her perspective as a five-time surrogate and six-time known egg donor adds to her unparalleled insight into third-party reproduction, making her an informed advocate and trusted expert.
Founding Carried with Love
Ariel’s insight into surrogacy and fertility trauma began with her own experience as a surrogate in 2016. After a devastating and unexpected loss, Ariel was shocked to realize the lack of resources and support available to her and the Intended Parents. Driven by her grief and determined to bring meaning to the small life that was lost, Ariel went back to school to pursue her degree in Social Work and fill the gap for specialized fertility counseling. At the same time, Ariel began documenting her surrogate pregnancies on her social media account @carried.with.love. By the time she graduated in 2021, she could open her private practice with a full waitlist.
Pioneering Virtual Fertility Therapy
The shift to a virtual private practice was prompted by the pandemic, which required Ariel to complete her degree and launch her career from home. It became apparent to her that this mode of accessibility was not only practical but also crucial for reaching a wider audience in need. Through Carried with Love, Ariel now ensures that individuals grappling with infertility, pregnancy or postpartum issues, miscarriages, or other fertility challenges receive the compassionate and therapeutic care they deserve, regardless of their location.
A New Approach to Surrogacy
Despite the global increase in infertility rates and growing awareness about assisted and third-party reproduction, misconceptions persist regarding both surrogate mothers and intended parents. Ariel has played a pivotal role in normalizing diverse paths to parenthood through her candid posts and media appearances across various platforms such as news outlets, radio shows, podcasts, and conferences. However, there remains a crucial need for greater transparency and education in the surrogacy process. She is committed to empowering this journey by advocating for responsible and ethical practices. Through Carried with Love, comprehensive courses and workshops are now available for intended parents seeking to navigate surrogacy conscientiously, along with resources to help surrogates make informed decisions about their bodies.
Personal Life and Advocacy
Carried with Love is not just a professional milestone for Ariel; it embodies her mission to prioritize compassion, care, and education in the realms of surrogacy and fertility. It stands as a lifeline for those navigating the often daunting paths of infertility, offering a beacon of hope that surrogacy is a viable option. Ariel’s commitment to transparency and empowerment is reshaping the industry, providing transformational support to all who seek her expertise.
Based in London, Ontario, Ariel shares her home with her spouse, their dog, and three daughters, effortlessly balancing her professional career with a vibrant family life. Though she has retired as a surrogate, Ariel remains a staunch advocate for the infertility community, offering the support and guidance they deserve. Her personal journey as a biological mother, stepmother, surrogate, and egg donor illustrates the myriad ways families can be created, affirming that every path to parenthood is valid. As she continues to lead, Ariel’s message remains clear: “Family isn’t defined by DNA; it’s defined by love.”
Published By: Aize Perez
