Perinatal and Maternal Mental Health
The transition to parenthood, often called matrescence, is one of the most profound biological and psychological shifts a person can experience. While society often focuses on the "glow" of pregnancy and the joy of a new baby, the reality can include overwhelming anxiety, intrusive thoughts, or the resurfacing of old traumas.
Whether you are trying to conceive, navigating pregnancy, or in the thick of the postpartum year, you don’t have to carry the weight of these "untold" feelings alone.
How I Support Mothers and Birthing People
My approach is designed to provide immediate relief and long-term resilience during this vulnerable time.
EMDR for Birth Trauma: If your birth experience didn't go as planned, your brain may still be in "survival mode." We use EMDR to process the event so you can find peace and presence in your parenting journey.
The "Matrescence" Shift: We explore the identity shift that happens when you become a mother, helping you navigate the grief of your "old life" while embracing the new.
Intrusive Thought Management: Using evidence-based tools to help you understand that thoughts are not facts, reducing the shame and fear often associated with postpartum anxiety.
Nature-Based Grounding: For new parents, the walls of the home can feel like they’re closing in. I offer "walk and talk" sessions where we utilize the regulating power of nature and fresh air to lower cortisol and improve mood.
Understanding Perinatal Mood & Anxiety Disorders (PMADs)
It is common to feel the "Baby Blues" (mild mood swings or tearfulness) for the first two weeks after birth. However, if your symptoms are intense, persistent, or interfering with your ability to care for yourself, you may be experiencing a PMAD. This can look like:
Postpartum Anxiety: Constant "what-if" thinking, racing heart, or an inability to sleep even when the baby is sleeping.
Postpartum Depression: Feelings of hopelessness, severe irritability, or feeling disconnected from your baby.
Intrusive Thoughts: Scary, repetitive images or thoughts about something bad happening to the baby (these are often a symptom of OCD or high anxiety).
Birth Trauma: Feeling "stuck" on a difficult birth experience, even if you and the baby are physically healthy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I bring my baby to the session? Absolutely. I offer a baby-friendly environment. Whether you are nursing, bottle-feeding, or your baby is napping in a carrier, you are welcome here. We can also utilize telehealth if leaving the house feels too overwhelming.
How is this different from a mom’s group? While peer support is vital, therapy provides a clinical space to address the neurobiology of your stress. We use specific tools like EMDR and CBT to rewire the brain’s alarm system, which is something a social group isn't designed to do.