Support you deserve

Do I need postpartum support?

It’s likely you were expecting to experience some postpartum challenges, it’s possible those challenges are bigger than you anticipated. It’s typical to experience a range of emotions  the first 2 weeks after birth. If those emotions are continuing beyond the 2-3 weeks, or are too overwhelming to manage on your own, please reach out for support. 

What is PMADS?

PMADs stands for Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders. PMADS affects as many as 1 out of 5-7 women. It is different from the “baby blues” which typically can last up to 2 weeks after birth. PMADs can last up to one year postpartum. 

Common Symptoms

  • Irritable, agitation, rage

  • Sadness

  • Low self-esteem

  • Guilt

  • Lack of joy

  • Excessive worry or difficulty controlling one’s worry

  • Feeling on edge

  • Intrusive, repetitive thoughts

  • Difficulty bonding with your baby

Challenges with breastfeeding

Breastfeeding looks different for everyone. Many people want to breastfeed and are experiencing challenges doing so. It’s not always the instinctual connection that was expected.  This can bring on feelings of guilt, failure, grief, anger, or sadness. The experience of not being able to breastfeed is extremely personal and can be isolating. Reaching out for support can be helpful.

Social Pressures

Social media has amplified the social pressures of being the “perfect” parent. Images of parents gazing lovingly at their peaceful babies, looking freshly showered and well rested is a damn lie. We are inundated with these images and it only fuels the feeling of not being enough. This, coupled with your family and friends asking questions about your choices, may leave you feeling defensive of your every move. If you want support setting boundaries with your loved ones and your social media use, I can help.

Prepare while pregnant

Pregnant people often prepare for so many aspects of the newborn phase, hours are spent in birth classes learning about birth options, creating birth plans, reading books on how to care for their baby.  Making a mental health plan may be equally as beneficial. Once you’re in the trenches of caring for yourself and your baby, it can be difficult to find the energy to search for a therapist and begin services. We can begin sessions now to help prepare you for what is to come. I provide 10 minute free consultation calls. Reach out and we can discuss what support may look like and you can get to know me a little. If you decide I’m a good match for you, we can schedule our sessions once your baby arrives. If you prefer, we can have a couple sessions prior to your baby’s birth, allowing us to build a relationship so we can dive right in when you’re most in need of support.

Transition into parenthood

The transition to parenthood is challenging for everyone. You don’t need an anxiety or depression diagnosis to feel run down, confused, or lost about your new identity. Having a baby is an adjustment. If you’re looking for a space to vent and process this new phase, Im here. Sometimes just letting go of the little things that are building up can provide more energy and focus for the things that deserve your attention.