Ep. 209: EMDR, Perinatal Trauma, & OCD
Description
In this episode of The Birth Trauma Mama Podcast, Kayleigh is joined by Tiffany Lowther, LMHC, a certified perinatal mental health professional and EMDR therapist, for an in-depth conversation about using EMDR to treat birth trauma, postpartum anxiety, OCD-like symptoms, and other perinatal mental health challenges.
Tiffany shares both her professional expertise and lived experience, offering clear explanations of what EMDR is, how it works in the brain and body, and why it can be especially effective during pregnancy and the postpartum period. Together, Kayleigh and Tiffany unpack common misconceptions about EMDR and explain how this modality can support healing without requiring years of traditional talk therapy.
In this episode, you’ll learn:
🧠 What EMDR is and how it helps the brain reprocess birth trauma
🗣 How EMDR differs from talk therapy and CBT
🌊 Why postpartum anxiety, anger, and OCD-like symptoms are often trauma-based
🤰 When EMDR can be helpful during pregnancy, postpartum, or years later
🛟 The importance of safety, grounding, and preparation before trauma work
⏱ Why reprocessing should never be rushed, especially with complex trauma
🧩 Differences between standard EMDR and R-TEP (Recent Traumatic Episode Protocol)
🧘♀️ How EMDR supports nervous system regulation, not just memory processing
✅ What good, ethical EMDR care should look and feel like for clients
This conversation is a must-listen for birth trauma survivors, perinatal clinicians, and anyone curious about how neuroscience and trauma-informed therapy can create meaningful, lasting healing.
About the guest:
Tiffany Lowther is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, EMDR-certified therapist, and perinatal mental health specialist. She works with individuals navigating trauma, anxiety, OCD, and perinatal mood and anxiety disorders, with a strong focus on safety and nervous system regulation.
Resources & Connect:
🌐 Learn more: lowthercs.com
📧 Contact Tiffany: tiffany@lowthercs.com
For more birth trauma content and a community full of love and support, head to my Instagram at @thebirthtrauma_mama.
Learn more about the support and services I offer through The Birth Trauma Mama Therapy & Support Services.
Disclaimer - The views and opinions expressed by guests on The Birth Trauma Mama Podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect the official stance, views, or positions of The Birth Trauma Mama Podcast. The content shared is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as professional or medical advice and/or endorsement.













