Mom and Mind

In today’s Behind the Sessions episode, we focus on the pain and grief that people experience in the infertility and loss journey while trying to become a parent or add another child to their family. While it’s impossible to cover every aspect of this topic in one episode, I want to take a closer look and assure anyone in this situation that they are not alone. Join me for more! Show Highlights: Grief can take many forms, including anger, resentment, and jealousy. The emotional toll (from hormones, the waiting process, etc.) of infertility treatments The layers of complications that come with various reproductive technologies Feeling “partner pressure” is a very real thing, even if it’s self-imposed.  The importance of setting and keeping boundaries with other people The person struggling with infertility needs compassion, support, and a listening ear. A good therapist and support network can help! Resources: Visit www.postpartum.net for resources and support!  Visit www.postpartum.net/professionals/certificate-trainings/ for information on the grief course.   Visit my website, www.wellmindperinatal.com, for more information, resources, and courses you can take today! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Many people don’t realize that a neurodivergent diagnosis in childhood can be a risk factor for perinatal mental health issues later in life. Join us for today’s conversation with Tiffany! Tiffany Engen is a full-time mom of two young children, a survivor of multiple PMADs, a strong advocate for maternal mental health, a full-spectrum doula, a birth photographer, and a certified perinatal educator (PMH-C). Born and raised in California and currently residing in Arizona, Tiffany volunteers as a support coordinator and peer mentor with Postpartum Support International. She shares the difficulties around her childhood diagnosis, the incredibly negative impact of losing a parent during her first pregnancy, and her battle to overcome debilitating intrusive thoughts during her second pregnancy. Looking back on her journey, Tiffany recognizes how she was operating with insufficient support and community that could have made a difference for her.   Show Highlights: Tiffany’s story of childhood neurodivergence, intense medications, and ensuing panic attacks Her struggle to get off medications during her pregnancy and postpartum without the proper tools and coping skills Freedom comes when you fully embrace who you are and acknowledge the differences. Tiffany’s son’s neurodivergence, the loss of her father, and the difficult relationship with her mother Adjusting to intense feelings—without medications to lean on Tiffany’s second pregnancy—and the light switch moment that brought the first intrusive thought Grasping at straws, seeing a shaman, trying to cope with OCD, and having only her brother and a best friend for support The difficulties because of insomnia and paranoia Finding normalization through the support of a Facebook friend Internal suffering while covering it up externally The dilemma in trying to find a doctor who would do more than simply prescribe medications Tiffany’s path to become the helper and support that she needed  Resources: Connect with Tiffany Engen: Website and Instagram Visit www.postpartum.net for resources and support!  Visit www.postpartum.net/professionals/certificate-trainings/ for information on the grief course.   Visit my website, www.wellmindperinatal.com, for more information, resources, and courses you can take today! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

“When moms take better care of themselves, they can take better care of others.” This is the message behind Modern Mommy Doc, the creation of Dr. Whitney Casares. She joins us to discuss her wide-ranging work to support new moms in the transition to parenthood and beyond. Join us to learn more! Dr. Whitney Casares is a private practice pediatrician, AAP spokesperson, Medical Review Board Advisor for Prevention Magazine, and the mother of two young girls in Portland, Oregon. She hosts The Modern Mommy Doc Podcast and is the author of several parenting books, including Doing It All: Stop Over-Functioning and Become the Mom and Person You're Meant To Be. Her mission is to help working moms break the cycle of burnout in parenting and shift the focus to their own health and well-being to create a sense of balance that fosters greater joy in every area of their lives. In this episode, Dr. Whitney helps us understand the concept of physical and mental clutter and how to find clarity in life’s priorities with “centered vision.”  Show Highlights: Modern Mommy Doc: the heart of the platform and how it began Understanding how parent wellness and child wellness make a feedback loop A parent’s stress response and the onslaught of conflicting messages from society and social media An overview of Dr. Whitney’s book, Doing It All Dealing with physical AND mental clutter Breaking the cycle of mom guilt and the internalized pressure we put on ourselves The value of practicing “slowing down” techniques (because we are so bad at it!) Ways to bring awareness and gratefulness to each day Organize your life and focus your time and energy by creating a “centered vision” for your life. A closer look at what Modern Mommy Doc has to offer parents Dr. Whitney’s advice for parents: “In the end, the only thing–the only person–you have is you. I love that parents are invested in helping their kids be the best they can be, making their homes hospitable, and getting everything done, but there is a decision that comes very early in parenthood: Are you going to care more about other people than you’re going to care about yourself?” Resources: Connect with Modern Mommy Doc: Website, Instagram, Doing It All book, and LinkedIn Visit www.postpartum.net for resources and support!  Visit www.postpartum.net/professionals/certificate-trainings/ for information on the grief course.   Visit my website, www.wellmindperinatal.com, for more information, resources, and courses you can take today! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Just as a broken bone or surgery takes time for the healing process, the recovery process in healing from a perinatal mental health condition takes time. The process isn’t linear at all but is filled with ups and downs, and it comes with short-term and long-term aspects of healing. Join me for a closer look in today’s episode. Show Highlights: Complicating factors that show up in the healing process have ramifications in life, relationships, and capacity to function. The healing journey does not come with a pre-set timeline. Even helpful medications take 4-6 weeks to reach their full efficacy. An increase in stress, a decrease in sleep, and other disruptions can bring back symptoms. Therapy requires a big-picture view to get through the very normal combination of good days and bad days. It’s okay to ask for help, even if you appear to be “recovered.” Support is key, whether it’s from a partner, family, friends, support group, etc. “Your healing process may mean you slow down and take breaks. Understand your capacity and give yourself grace and space.” Healing doesn’t come through ONE magic thing but is unique to each person and their needs.  Resources: Visit www.postpartum.net for resources and support!  Visit www.postpartum.net/professionals/certificate-trainings/ for information on the grief course.   Visit my website, www.wellmindperinatal.com, for more information, resources, and courses you can take today! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today’s episode covers an important topic that needs to be addressed as it affects many moms and families. My guest shares her experience of being diagnosed with autism and ADHD later in life, after having her children. She shares how her diagnosis impacted her, what non-stereotypical autism looks like, why self-evaluation is beneficial, and why getting a diagnosis can be a privilege. We will also learn about the role of women’s hormones in autism and ADHD. Join us! Dr. Kiley Hanish is a neurodivergent occupational therapist specializing in mental health during the perinatal period, which includes pregnancy, postpartum, and perinatal loss. She is the founder of Return to Zero: HOPE, a nonprofit organization that provides inclusive and compassionate education and support for bereaved families after pregnancy and infant loss. In addition, they also provide training and support to health providers to foster more competence when working with these families. Because of her personal experience and diagnosis, Dr. Kiley mentors her occupational therapy research group in exploring the sensory experiences of autistic mothers in their everyday lives.   Show Highlights: The beginning (2022), when Kiley’s son was diagnosed with ADHD and she began to realize the scope and meaning of her sensibilities A deep dive into autism in women, and how this research provided a new lens for Kiley to view her life Kiley’s experience with postpartum PTSD after a stillbirth, sensory overload, and chronic fatigue What the facts show: 80% of girls with autism are undiagnosed by age 18 (because of internal symptoms that don’t present themselves in stereotypical behaviors) Co-occurring conditions with neurodivergence that are often passed off as something else The impact of hormone fluctuations on autism and ADHD The need to educate yourself because of the existing gap in women’s healthcare Common challenges for mothers with autism: sleep difficulties, finding time alone to self-regulate, mood/anxiety disorders, and frequent feelings of overwhelm and overstimulation The results of RTZ: HOPE’s survey Resources: Connect with Dr. Kiley Hanish and Return to Zero: HOPE: Website (RTZ), Website (Dr. Kiley), Instagram Resources mentioned in this episode: Unmasking Autism by Devon Price, All Brains Belong, Neurodivergent Insights, Autism and Grief Podcast, Uniquely Human Podcast, and Two Sides of the Spectrum Podcast Visit www.postpartum.net for resources and support!  Visit www.postpartum.net/professionals/certificate-trainings/ for information on the grief course.   Visit my website, www.wellmindperinatal.com, for more information, resources, and courses you can take today! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The grief process can be messy and unpredictable, and it can vary widely from person to person and through the different phases of life. Grief comes up in multiple, unexpected ways in the motherhood journey when you have already lost your mother. Join us to hear a personal story of motherhood and mother loss from today’s guest. Dr. Olivia Wedel is a licensed professional counselor in Texas. After almost 17 years working in the mental health field, Dr. Olivia started her private practice in the Dallas-Fort Worth metro area, and she enjoys working with students as a permanent adjunct faculty member in the Clinical Mental Health Counseling Program at TCU. In addition to postpartum and maternal mental health counseling, she offers non-clinical perinatal support services and postpartum planning for families, psychoeducation and support for parents with children ages 1-3, and community and provider education on perinatal mental health. She is a trained facilitator for the Circle of Security Parenting Intervention Program and is a certified provider for Mother Loss Grief Training.  Show Highlights: Dr. Olivia’s personal experience of motherhood later in life after losing her mom while in her 20s Blindsided at her son’s birth by joy, love, and grief for the loss of her mother Feeling the paradox of motherhood joy and disorienting grief at the same time Common feelings that come up in mothering without a mother “Disenfranchised grief”--what it is and how it manifests itself Feelings that can lead to postpartum anxiety and depression Validating values through Acceptance and Commitment Therapy Managing the motherhood journey without a loving, supportive mother Dr. Olivia’s approach with clients whose mother is still alive–but there is not a healthy, supportive relationship The importance of education and supportive resources for parents The goal is to reduce the stigma and encourage parents and providers to reach out for support. Resources: Connect with Dr. Olivia Wedel: Website, Instagram, and LinkedIn Visit www.postpartum.net for resources and support!  Visit www.postpartum.net/professionals/certificate-trainings/ for information on the grief course.   Visit my website, www.wellmindperinatal.com, for more information, resources, and courses you can take today! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

There is more to the story than postpartum depression. There are many complexities to the ways we talk to ourselves. I see perinatal folks give in frequently to thoughts of self-judgment and even self-hatred, which is not at all a healthy scenario for the transition to parenthood. It’s a time when there are many new things to learn and adjustments to make as we become parents. In today’s session, we answer the important question: “Why are we so hard on ourselves?” Show Highlights: Thoughts of shame, guilt, and not being “good enough” Don’t we deserve the objectivity, compassion, and understanding that we would give to a friend? The answer is YES! Our internalized belief systems come from the pressures we experienced early in life in our families. Having a child to care for brings up a lot of feelings about the past and how we were cared for (or not cared for). Therapy support can help develop necessary coping strategies like self-compassion, softness, understanding, validation, and forgiveness. You CAN move forward without the pressure of perfection! Resources: Visit www.postpartum.net for resources and support!  Visit www.postpartum.net/professionals/certificate-trainings/ for information on the grief course.   Visit my website, www.wellmindperinatal.com, for more information, resources, and courses you can take today! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today’s episode is about a topic that may be unfamiliar to many. My guest shares her journey through her first pregnancy, birth, and postpartum, along with why she chose a very different scenario called free birth to welcome her second child into the world. Join us to learn more! Alexa Ericson shares why she chose a free birth for her second child, what that is, and how that choice worked out for her. She explains how she found comfort through writing and decided to put her experiences into a book–with the hopes of helping other women. Her book of poetry, Motherhood, Disenchanted, covers “adventures into the nitty-gritty, sleep-deprived, chaotic, and sometimes dark thoughts that come fluttering through the early years of mothering.” After back-to-back pregnancies and years of isolated mothering due to her location and lockdowns, she felt a major gap in the discussion around the raw and tough, intimate moments of motherhood. Alexa used her writing as a form of catharsis and a way to work through difficulties. In this conversation, she discusses her marriage, body changes, breastfeeding, anxiety, exhaustion, loss of self, and more. Alexa lives in Fort Collins, Colorado, with her farmer husband and two kids.  Show Highlights: Alexa’s story: how she, as someone with doula training, made her birth plan for her first child (born in 2019) with midwives, a doula, and a home birth The reality of birth in the middle of a big storm, power outage, and a situation that felt out of control Alexa’s overall account of her midwife experience A downhill slide after her baby was born—and she was left with very few options and very little information Alexa’s very difficult intro to motherhood with anxiety and overwhelm Writing: the best lifeline for Alexa Motherhood messaging in our society and on social media–and why real-life experiences don’t usually measure up Alexa’s second pregnancy, when her first son was only 5 months old Free birth–a birth with no medical professionals present Alexa’s second birth story: a healing and peaceful experience with no rules, regulations, regimented prenatal care, or manipulation by medical providers Hear Alexa share two poems from her book! Alexa’s advice to other women: “If you aren’t feeling strong, try writing about it and get those thoughts out. It can help to put them on paper.” Resources: Connect with Alexa Ericson: Website, Instagram, and Motherhood, Disenchanted book Visit www.postpartum.net for resources and support!  Visit www.postpartum.net/professionals/certificate-trainings/ for information on the grief course.   Visit my website, www.wellmindperinatal.com, for more information, resources, and courses you can take today! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Postpartum psychosis is often misunderstood and mischaracterized. It is important to humanize this condition, remove the stigma around it, and let people know that treatment is available and healing is possible. In today’s show, we get a rare glimpse into the life of a family through the eyes of both a husband and wife about their journey through postpartum psychosis. Join us to learn more! Derek Winkler is a software engineering manager, father of two (Kerri-almost 4, and Robbie-6 months), and husband to Rowena. Derek shares his perspective of what he experienced as a husband and father and what kind of support he needed.  Dr. Rowena Winkler is a career and empowerment coach who helps high achievers unlock their academic genius and gain clarity in their jobs, businesses, and lives through the power of communication. Using her Ph.D. in Communications, along with mystical modalities such as astrology, human design, and Tarot, Dr. Rowena’s coaching method enables clients to tap into self-love and bold confidence to get unstuck and make a change. Rowena shares what postpartum psychosis was like for her from the start, through her hospitalization, and integrating back home.  Show Highlights: How postpartum psychosis occurred after Rowena’s second pregnancy with their son in 2023 after a completely normal postpartum experience in 2020 (when their daughter was born) How Derek noticed Rowena’s anxiety issues when their son was born, along with sleep deprivation and hypervigilance How Rowena’s condition escalated, Derek noticed several red flags that were concerning and called 911 when their son was 2-3 weeks old How Rowena felt herself slipping from reality–like she didn’t “have full ownership” of her body How things progressed until Derek contacted 911 through a text, police officers and a mental health professional (from Grassroots Crisis Intervention Center) arrived, and Rowena went to the ER What Rowena remembers about her paranoia in arriving and being admitted to the hospital (one day in the ER and 10 days in a psychiatric unit) Why she needed a second hospitalization after her initial discharge and return home How the healing process takes time after a severe mental health crisis How an outpatient hospital program helped Rowena learn helpful coping strategies Why our medical care system isn’t set up for sufficient family support after a psychiatric hospitalization How PSI, therapy, and medications helped Derek in his caregiving role in being a supportive and understanding partner How Rowena is coping today with new tools to use in starting a new job and being a wife and mother Rowena’s takeaways: “Those of us who have been through this and have made it to the other side are here to help, support, and share that you are not alone. You can get through this.” Derek’s takeaways: “It is the silver lining around a very dark cloud that we are able to share our story and help people learn about this condition. It is very difficult, but there is light at the end of the tunnel. Postpartum psychosis is very treatable. If you are going through this, please reach out for help.” Resources: Visit www.postpartum.net for resources and support!  Visit www.postpartum.net/professionals/certificate-trainings/ for information on the grief course.   Visit my website, www.wellmindperinatal.com, for more information, resources, and courses you can take today! Connect with Dr. Rowena Winkler: Website, Instagram, LinkedIn, Facebook, and YouTube Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We can all agree that the transition to parenthood is huge and multi-faceted. For many parents, that transition feels like not just a big change but a monumental loss. It’s a loss of what once was and the life you had grown accustomed to in your pre-baby world. There are a lot of changes around the freedom and flexibility you once enjoyed, and essentially every area of life is affected. Things are different in your world regarding your attention and energy, as well. Join me in today’s Behind the Sessions look at why this transition feels like a loss–and what you can do about it. Show Highlights: Why it is perfectly acceptable to experience a mixed bag of feelings about parenthood—and each of those feelings should be acknowledged and validated How acknowledging the huge changes within the context of life is an important step (Yes, things change, but exciting things are happening, also!) How to handle outside pressure and negative parenthood experiences from others Why people see a therapist for support and validation when they experience these kinds of identity shifts Dr. Kat’s takeaways: “Whatever mixture of feelings and experiences play into your transition into parenting, it’s okay. It might not always feel good, and it might be confusing, but it’s totally part of the process as you are shifting and changing. Life is changing, and it’s normal to have feelings about that.”  Resources: Visit www.postpartum.net for resources and support!  Visit www.postpartum.net/professionals/certificate-trainings/ for information on the grief course.   Visit my website, www.wellmindperinatal.com, for more information, resources, and courses you can take today! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

I’m joined today by Emma Hopkins, a mom and business owner in the UK. At age 39, Emma became a first-time mother and experienced postpartum depression to the point that her entire life, identity, and livelihood changed. She walks us through the tough decision to give up the business that was her heart and soul to prioritize her basic survival. She finally found healing, reconnected with herself, embraced her new role as a mother, and built a new business based on her experience and education. Today she coaches other women who feel a lost sense of identity by helping them rediscover themselves, and she works as a champion advocate with the Maternal Mental Health Alliance in the UK.  Show Highlights: Emma’s story of business ownership in the health and wellness space in Spain and the UK until motherhood at age 39 changed everything Emma’s rude introduction to motherhood, which included severe sleeplessness, complete burnout, and full-blown postpartum depression How she was forced to sell her beloved business–and lose her sense of identity in the process What Emma wishes she had done differently How the UK’s “health visitors” system left Emma feeling judged, tested, and failing How Emma grieved for the person she was and the success and identity she lost How she finally realized and admitted that she had postpartum depression How the COVID-19 lockdown actually helped Emma connect and communicate with people again and gave her what she was missing How Emma’s supportive husband and her daily walks helped her immensely Why Emma began working with the Maternal Mental Health Alliance in the UK and has become a passionate champion to build awareness around maternal mental health Resources: Connect with Emma Hopkins: Website, LinkedIn, Instagram, and Maternal Mental Health Alliance (for UK listeners) Visit www.postpartum.net for resources and support!  Visit www.postpartum.net/professionals/certificate-trainings/ for information on the grief course.   Visit my website, www.wellmindperinatal.com, for more information, resources, and courses you can take today! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today’s conversation is about interpersonal therapy (IPT). You’ll learn what IPT is, how it differs from other therapies, and why it is a validated therapy that is well-suited for the perinatal population. Many more clinicians should seek training in this therapy modality which is full of useful tools and skills. Join us to learn more! Elyse Springer is a longtime colleague and friend with much knowledge about supporting people in their perinatal mental health. She is a current board member for Postpartum Support International’s California chapter and serves as the Policy and Advocacy Chair. She is an emeritus Governing Council member for Maternal Mental Health NOW; she served an eight-year term and continues to provide ongoing training for the organization. She served as a board member of the national maternal mental health policy and advocacy group 2020 Mom Project from 2014-2019, and subsequently sat on the organization’s clinical advisory panel through 2021. In addition, Elyse is a training faculty and emeritus board member for the national perinatal loss organization Return to Zero: HOPE and training faculty for the paternal perinatal non-profit Love, Dad. Elyse is certified in perinatal mental health, and she is an EMDRIA-approved therapist and consultant, certified in Interpersonal Therapy (IPT) by the IPT Institute, and an IPT supervisor-in-training. She lives and works in Los Angeles, California.  Show Highlights: What is interpersonal therapy (IPT)? Why the goal of IPT is to ensure social support—and how this is accomplished How IPT can help with specific relationship needs in the perinatal period Three main areas of focus in IPT: grief/loss, role transition, and interpersonal disputes Examples of how Elyse might work with a couple around role transitions in the perinatal period What we should realize about decolonizing mental health and focusing on collaborative approaches of social support within a person’s culture How problem-solving and role-playing are done within the IPT model How IPT focuses on experiences, goals, and positive communication How IPT sessions are structured as a 12-session model with periodic check-ins to follow up Where to go for IPT training: IPT Institute Resources: Connect with Elyse Springer: Website and Instagram Visit www.postpartum.net for resources and support!  Visit www.postpartum.net/professionals/certificate-trainings/ for information on the grief course.   Visit my website, www.wellmindperinatal.com, for more information, resources, and courses you can take today! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

There are a lot of dynamics at play in becoming a parent, and that is an understatement, to say the least! Often overlooked are the needed conversations around new boundaries, tasks, and the “invisible labor” that a new baby brings. These discussions are vital in protecting the relationship between partners and making the postpartum period more enjoyable for both parents. Today’s episode focuses on the mental and emotional labor that a mom most often takes on in the partnership–and I’m referring primarily to heterosexual couples in this all-too-common scenario.  Show Highlights: How resentment can start to build and negatively impact the couple’s relationship How a therapist will approach the issue with one individual–as opposed to couples’ therapy, which is ideal Different scenarios common in a partnership after a new baby arrives that lead to stress, depression, anxiety, loneliness, and more Why therapy for both partners can be extremely helpful, either individually or as a couple Why communication around boundaries, tasks, and “invisible labor” is important Why the divorce rate during the perinatal period is higher (67% of couples experience marital dissatisfaction during this time!) What you can do to be proactive and protect your relationship as you prepare for a new baby Resources: Visit www.postpartum.net for resources and support!  Visit www.postpartum.net/professionals/certificate-trainings/ for information on the grief course.   Visit my website, www.wellmindperinatal.com, for more information, resources, and courses you can take today! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today’s show brings back a guest from years ago, and I’m excited to reconnect with her and hear updates about her life and work. She’s a lovely human and a beautiful soul who is doing meaningful work that helps many people. Join us!  Nkem Ndefo is the founder of Lumos Transforms and the creator of The Resilience Toolkit, a model that promotes embodied self-awareness and self-regulation in an ecologically sensitive framework and social justice context. Originally licensed as a nurse midwife, Nkem has extensive postgraduate training in complementary health modalities and emotional therapies. She has worked in a lot of settings from large-volume hospitals to mobile community clinics, and she brings years of expertise as a clinician, educator, researcher, and community strategist. She works in programs that address trauma inequity as she seeks to build resilience and shape liberatory change for individuals and organizations throughout the US and internationally. Her particular interest is in working alongside people most impacted by violence and marginalization, and she does important work in the birth community. We are discussing how systems are related to trauma and mental health, along with how systems impact birthing people and the healthcare providers in the birthing community.  Show Highlights: An overview of Nkem’s broad scope of work around healing and liberation Why we need systems that facilitate healing on the individual AND community levels What it means to be trauma-informed in the realm of reproductive health and mental health Why our healthcare system MUST recognize the need for trauma-informed approaches for birth workers How we can change the systems with little steps—one at a time What Nkem sees as the leading factors in why people are resistant to change How tools and intention can grow our capacity to recognize overwhelm and activate boundaries around things that cause stress How many different kinds of traumas contribute to mental health diagnoses Why most of our trauma healing efforts in the current medical model fall short How inadequate parental leave within the current system kicks off a cascade of mental health effects Why doulas are NOT the solution or the fix to the broken system Why we need to be courageous with our hopes and dreams of changing the broken system An overview of Lumos Transforms and The Resilience Toolkit Resources: Connect with Nkem Ndefo and Lumos Transforms: Website, Instagram, X, and The Resilience Toolkit Visit www.postpartum.net for resources and support!  Visit www.postpartum.net/professionals/certificate-trainings/ for information on the grief course.   Visit my website, www.wellmindperinatal.com, for more information, resources, and courses you can take today! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

My guest today is doing important work with perinatal mental health through psychodynamic and somatic therapy. There is a great need for this therapeutic modality to be available to people who need it and for more training to be accessible to care providers. Join us to learn more! Dr. Helena Vissing is a licensed psychologist certified in perinatal mental health as a Somatic Experiencing Practitioner. She is experienced as an adjunct faculty member and on the training committee of Maternal Mental Health NOW where she provides consultations and helps train providers. Helena has written a book on her biopsychosocial model for the treatment of trauma in the perinatal period published with Routledge and titled, Somatic Maternal Healing: Psychodynamic and Somatic Trauma Treatment for Perinatal Mental Health.  Show Highlights: Why the perinatal period is a time of the clashing of biology and culture because of the vast changes to the body and nervous system How Dr. Helena’s integrative treatment model combines somatic approaches with psychoanalytic tools How Dr. Helena explains the basics of somatic therapy (aka somatic psychology or body psychotherapy) How Dr. Helena explains the basics of psychodynamic therapy How Dr. Helena’s book addresses trauma in the perinatal period with a broader concept beyond just PTSD How the perinatal period is an opportunity for a parent to rework their relationships, along with their role and identity Important principles around nervous system regulation in the perinatal period Why sensory awareness is the starting point—and only happens when a person slows down How Dr. Helena explains “maternal body fullness” How trauma healing occurs when the tendency is avoidance Dr. Helena’s message of hope: “It is possible to heal. Healing is not easy and may take a while, but it is possible.” Resources: Connect with Dr. Helena Vissing: Website, Book,  and Instagram Visit www.postpartum.net for resources and support!  Visit www.postpartum.net/professionals/certificate-trainings/ for information on the grief course.   Visit my website, www.wellmindperinatal.com, for more information, resources, and courses you can take today! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Becoming a parent can bring intense anxiety and high levels of worry about doing the right thing for your child. Some people have feelings of failure in meeting some high level of expectation that they have of themselves. I always wonder in therapy what has contributed to a person’s suffering in this way, and, as a therapist, I want to dig deeper into why this style of hyper-independence and hyperfunctioning at all costs is activated when some people become parents. Let’s dig deeper in today’s Behind-the-Sessions episode. Show Highlights: How hyper-independence can show up because of childhood events in which someone experiences emotional neglect How being independent, not burdening anyone by asking for help, and relying only on oneself can be magnified in the postpartum Why the pressure to be perfect can lead to high anxiety and even depression in the presence of impossibly high standards Why asking for help and admitting that you aren’t perfect can alleviate the stress, overwhelm, and constant energy drain that a hyper-independent parent might feel How a perinatal mental health professional can help someone manage these dynamics Dr. Kat’s advice for hyperfunctioning parents: “Have compassionate support for yourself, try to be flexible in understanding that it’s okay to ask for help, and prioritize your sleep, rest, and self-care.” Resources: Visit www.postpartum.net for resources and support!  Visit www.postpartum.net/professionals/certificate-trainings/ for information on the grief course.   Visit my website, www.wellmindperinatal.com, for more information, resources, and courses you can take today! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We have all been in the place of overstimulation, even if we didn’t recognize what was happening at the time. The transition into parenthood is ripe with opportunities for overstimulation and sensory overload. Today’s episode helps us better understand how and why we are overstimulated, along with useful tips for managing overload and expert insight into how we can be more supportive of ourselves and others. Join us to learn more! Holly Peretz is a Pediatric Occupational Therapist with over 14 years of experience working with children and parents. Her role as a therapist and parent educator ranges from hospitals, preschools, hydrotherapy, and online as she supports toddler parents and clinicians in creating a childhood that “bakes in” the science of what makes toddlers thrive in this critical period of development. Holly also hosts the annual Toddler Play Conference and the Thriving in the First Year Summit.  Show Highlights: How to understand what Holly does as a pediatric occupational therapist Why sensory overload is a real thing for parents The science behind what sensory processing is and how we experience sensory overload Why sensory processing issues are not limited to people with autism Why becoming a new parent is a prime time for sensory overload Tools for supporting a parent who is overstimulated and overloaded How Holly’s sensory profile quiz can help you understand sensory processing needs  Resources: Visit www.postpartum.net for resources and support!  Visit www.postpartum.net/professionals/certificate-trainings/ for information on the grief course.   Visit my website, www.wellmindperinatal.com, for more information, resources, and courses you can take today! Connect with Holly Peretz Website Instagram YouTube Holly's Sensory Self-Care Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Hearing the stories of others helps us to know that we are not alone. So many families face premature births, NICU stays, and traumatic birth experiences. As always, our message is that there is support and hope. Join us for Savannah’s story. Savannah Jane O’Malley is a wife and working mother of three former preemies. She works full-time, pursues her artistic passions part-time, and she “moms” all the time. When her twin boys were born 3.5 months early, everything she thought her life was supposed to be was shattered. The one-pound warriors spent their first three months fighting for a chance at life despite many devastating diagnoses, countless ups and downs, and finally achieving incredible triumphs. Going through these experiences helped Savannah discover her true role as a mother, and it set her on a brand-new trajectory.  Through social media, public speaking, writing, and painting, she is a voice of hope for families going through similar trials, and she is an advocate for those with disabilities, especially for those who have cerebral palsy, like her son. She is a cheerleader for families during their NICU experiences, a mental health advocate for mothers, and a self-proclaimed spreader of reckless hope. In this episode, Savannah shares her birth stories, what her post-NICU mental health was like, her son’s cerebral palsy diagnosis, and how her Cards of Hope campaign helps mothers after traumatic births.  Show Highlights: How Savannah’s daughter’s birth at 36 weeks was much different than what she experienced when her twin sons were born two years later at 24 weeks How Savannah’s healing journey began when she started blogging during her 101-day NICU stint How her sons both suffered brain bleeds, major heart and brain surgeries, and a cerebral palsy diagnosis for Lachlan How the twins’ birth was traumatizing in many ways but especially because no one told her what was happening or what to expect What it was like to see her one-pound babies for the first time in the NICU–and feel herself physically and emotionally shut down How her recovery was complicated by bladder repair surgery and wearing a catheter for two weeks How she finally began to connect with her babies almost a week after their birth and understood their fight for life How Savannah and her husband navigated time in the NICU and time with their two-year-old daughter What it was like to go through the twins’ very serious diagnoses and surgeries How Savannah learned to hyperfunction when the twins came home until all the traumas came crashing down on her Why she is passionate about helping people understand birth trauma How therapy has helped Savannah begin to heal Why she began “Cards of Hope” to help mothers of birth trauma How she is healing while grieving the loss of what she thought her life would be Resources: Connect with Savannah and sign up for Cards of Hope: Website Visit www.postpartum.net for resources and support!  Visit www.postpartum.net/professionals/certificate-trainings/ for information on the grief course.   Visit my website, www.wellmindperinatal.com, for more information, resources, and courses you can take today! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

If no one has told you lately, it’s okay to fall apart. If you aren’t functioning at 100% and don’t feel like you can do what you are supposed to do today, it’s okay. We are human beings, not machines, and we aren’t meant to push through every single thing in life to produce and do and be and succeed and surpass. Life is not a competition, but a lot of people act like it is. We feel the pressure to keep going and pretend like we are okay to the point of pushing past the need for rest—and our mental health is slowly wearing away. Join me in today’s Behind-the-Sessions episode! Show Highlights: Why January can have you feeling depressed, anxious, and feeling like a failure Why it’s okay to stop pushing yourself to do more and be more How surrendering to your strong feelings is okay—and temporary How pushing ourselves ends up being counterproductive How we get depleted and need to reclaim the ability to slow down Why the drive to be a “self-care warrior” can deplete us Why you need to consider “stepping off the hamster wheel” and taking time to rest, recuperate, and reevaluate How to assess your needs and ask yourself what you need for each day Resources: Visit www.postpartum.net for resources and support!  Visit www.postpartum.net/professionals/certificate-trainings/ for information on the grief course.   Visit my website, www.wellmindperinatal.com, for more information, resources, and courses you can take today! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

There are many questions and much misinformation about treatment options and medications for maternal mental health conditions (MMHCs). The key to having more awareness and understanding is to get correct information from qualified experts. Only when parents are educated and informed can they make the best decisions about their care! Today’s guest has valuable information to share to help us all become more knowledgeable. Join us to learn more! Dr. Liz Cox is a reproductive psychiatrist in private practice based in Raleigh, North Carolina. She has been in practice for over ten years, previously serving as the Medical Director for UNC Women’s Mood Disorders at Wake Med North in Raleigh and as Residency Education Director in Women’s Mood Disorders at UNC-Chapel Hill’s Department of Psychiatry, where she is currently an adjunct faculty member. Dr. Cox has authored numerous scholarly publications, including textbooks, about the treatment of MMHCs, and she is passionate about decreasing the stigma of MMHCs, increasing awareness, and advocating for appropriate treatments.  Show Highlights: How Dr. Cox came into the specialty of reproductive psychiatry Why many medical students aren’t getting much training and exposure to the treatment of women’s mood disorders What Dr. Cox is seeing in her work and research regarding the prevalence of perinatal depression (50-70% of women are undiagnosed!) Why Dr. Cox is passionate about treating the full person and the whole family How a treatment plan should prioritize self-care, sleep, movement, good nutrition, therapy, and appropriate medications Why there is such misunderstanding about medications for MMHCs The risks of untreated symptoms for mothers and babies How medications can help alleviate anxiety, shame, and stigma Why a reproductive psychiatry specialist can be helpful Dr. Cox shares her personal birth experience and why she chose to ask for medication What to expect in a consultation with a reproductive psychiatrist  What Dr. Cox wants listeners to know: “MMHCs are treatable conditions. No one should suffer needlessly or be shamed and stigmatized for asking for help.” Resources: Connect with Dr. Liz Cox: Website and Instagram  Visit www.postpartum.net for resources and support!  Visit www.postpartum.net/professionals/certificate-trainings/ for information on the grief course.   Visit my website, www.wellmindperinatal.com, for more information, resources, and courses you can take today! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices