403: Healing Journeys: Understanding EMDR And Trauma Recovery With Dr. Pria Alpern, Ph.D. Mom And Mind podcast

31:39

Many couples struggle to maintain intimacy and connection while trying to conceive, especially when conception takes a long time. My focus in today’s episode is on things outside the scope of an IVF journey, like timed and scheduled intercourse. This journey to parenthood can impact your mental health and the connection with your partner. Intimacy may no longer be spontaneous and fun, feeling like a scheduled task on your to-do list. Let’s explore this topic together! Show Highlights: Sex can start to feel like a chore, duty, and obligation. Mourning the loss of what you “thought” conception would be like The emotional roller coaster of trying to conceive can create emotional distance between partners. Pressure, stress, anxiety, and worry can lead to feelings of resentment between partners. Managing medical conditions can be an added burden and cause feelings of guilt. Ways to find help and support: Seek couples’ therapy. Create a space for open communication. Prioritize intimacy, closeness, and connection over trying to conceive. Maintain playfulness and find spontaneous ways to be connected. Resources: Call the National Maternal Mental Health Hotline at 1-833-TLC-MAMA or visit cdph.ca.gov Please find resources in English and Spanish at Postpartum Support International , or by phone/text at 1-800-944-4773. There are many free resources, like online support groups, peer mentors, a specialist provider directory, and perinatal mental health training for therapists, physicians, nurses, doulas, and anyone who wants to be more supportive in offering services. You can also follow PSI on social media: Instagram , Facebook , and most other platforms 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! If you are a California resident looking for a therapist in perinatal mental health, email me about openings for private pay clients! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices…

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403: Healing Journeys: Understanding EMDR and Trauma Recovery with Dr. Pria Alpern, Ph.D. 41:23

5 days ago41:23

41:23

Today’s episode focuses on EMDR for the treatment of birth trauma and reproductive trauma. You’ll learn what EMDR is and how this therapy technique can support families through trauma recovery. Dr. Pria Alpern is a licensed clinical psychologist, EMDRIA-approved therapist, and EMDRIA-approved consultant. She is the founder of the Manhattan Center of Trauma Studies and the director of the Center Psychology Group in NYC, a psychotherapy practice specializing in treating trauma in the adult and perinatal populations. Outside her clinical practice, she creates mental health content, provides education, and raises awareness about EMDR and trauma-informed psychotherapy on social media platforms. She’s been featured in numerous news outlets and is here to share her wisdom and experience with us. Show Highlights: Understanding the scope of reproductive trauma The philosophy behind EMDR, a therapy approach to unprocessed memories and negative beliefs Examples of traumas during pregnancy Trauma can manifest itself in PTSD and PMADs, both of which can be addressed by EMDR Understanding EMDR and the phases of its therapeutic use to process trauma What Dr. Alpern sees most in her clinical practice regarding birth trauma Similarities between reactions to birth trauma and sexual assault Flexibility within the EMDR protocol Finding “the window of tolerance” so someone can be present in the moment Therapy, support, community, and emotional support from family can work together to bring healing. Using the structure of a tree as a metaphor for the depth and variance of EMDR therapy Dr. Alpern’s wide range of work in training other therapists, with highlights on EMDR for racial and cultural oppression Race, identity, and positionality cannot be ignored in the therapeutic relationship. Dr. Alpern’s perspective on trauma: “For anyone who has experienced trauma, it can be very helpful to talk to someone. Please reach out for help.” Resources: Connect with Dr. Pria Alpern Website , Instagram , and TikTok Find EMDR resources at EMDRIA.org . Call the National Maternal Mental Health Hotline at 1-833-TLC-MAMA or visit cdph.ca.gov Please find resources in English and Spanish at Postpartum Support International , or by phone/text at 1-800-944-4773. There are many free resources, like online support groups, peer mentors, a specialist provider directory, and perinatal mental health training for therapists, physicians, nurses, doulas, and anyone who wants to be more supportive in offering services. You can also follow PSI on social media: Instagram , Facebook , and most other platforms 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! If you are a California resident looking for a therapist in perinatal mental health, email me about openings for private pay clients! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices…

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402: "Raising Good Humans" Parenting Mindfully While Caring for Yourself 51:57

12 days ago51:57

51:57

What does it mean to practice mindfulness, and how does it apply to parenting? This episode will answer those questions, along with how our kids can trigger us and why putting our needs first actually helps our kids. Join us to learn more! Hunter Clarke-Fields, the “Mindful Mama Mentor,” is a dynamic speaker who captivates audiences on TV and in front of thousands worldwide. From a self-proclaimed “yeller” as a parent, Hunter transformed her approach and wrote about her learnings in the bestselling book, Raising Good Humans . She created the highly-acclaimed Mindful Parenting Teacher Training program and Mindful Parenting Course and hosts the popular Mindful Mama Podcast . Hunter’s mission is to inspire and guide kids and caregivers toward mindful, compassionate living. Show Highlights: An overview of Hunter’s book, Raising Good Humans Hunter’s personal experience as a struggling parent No one chooses to be a reactive parent. Understanding your “habit energies” and practicing “the pause” The best thing you can give your kids: a happy, stable, steady parent “Am I tired or hungry?” The best parenting is to model big feelings for your child. Understanding mindfulness Being present with someone is the best gift. Hunter’s tips for parents who want to be mindful: Take intentional time for breathing, a slow walk, and learn from available resources. Learning to slow down and be aware. An overview of the Mindful Mama Podcast , going strong since 2013! Hopeful messages from Hunter Resources: Connect with Hunter Clarke-Fields: Website , Instagram , YouTube /podcast, Raising Good Humans book, Mindful Parenting Teacher Training program, and Mindful Parenting Course , Call the National Maternal Mental Health Hotline at 1-833-TLC-MAMA or visit cdph.ca.gov Please find resources in English and Spanish at Postpartum Support International , or by phone/text at 1-800-944-4773. There are many free resources, like online support groups, peer mentors, a specialist provider directory, and perinatal mental health training for therapists, physicians, nurses, doulas, and anyone who wants to be more supportive in offering services. You can also follow PSI on social media: Instagram , Facebook , and most other platforms 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! If you are a California resident looking for a therapist in perinatal mental health, e mail me about openings for private pay clients! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices…

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401: Behind The Sessions: Understanding Feeling Disconnected From Pregnancy 27:31

16 days ago27:31

27:31

It’s not uncommon to feel disconnected from your pregnancy and your unborn baby. These feelings bring shame for not living up to the idealized standard of what pregnancy and motherhood “should be.” This shame can lead to isolation, confusion, painful fears, and an emotional distance between mother and baby. If this describes you, you are not broken, and you are not alone. Let’s take a closer look in today’s session. Show Highlights: Understanding common fears that come along with feelings of disconnect during pregnancy; there are many reasons why fear is normal during this time! Fear can lead to hypervigilance in an effort at self-protection. Fear can come from feelings of vulnerability. A history of anxiety, depression, and PTSD can increase the risk for these issues during pregnancy–and they take a LOT of energy. Coping skills that can help: therapy, journaling, talking to a trusted friend or family member, and having compassion for yourself Use understanding and curiosity to explore what you’re going through–not judgment about what’s wrong with you. Feelings of disconnect during pregnancy do not mean you will be a distant parent. Today’s hopeful message from Dr. Kat: “Healing is always available, even from something in the past.” Resources: Call the National Maternal Mental Health Hotline at 1-833-TLC-MAMA or visit cdph.ca.gov Please find resources in English and Spanish at Postpartum Support International , or by phone/text at 1-800-944-4773. There are many free resources, like online support groups, peer mentors, a specialist provider directory, and perinatal mental health training for therapists, physicians, nurses, doulas, and anyone who wants to be more supportive in offering services. You can also follow PSI on social media: Instagram , Facebook , and most other platforms 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! If you are a California resident looking for a therapist in perinatal mental health, email me about openings for private pay clients! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices…

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400: Stories That Heal: Celebrating 400 Episodes on Perinatal Mental Health 33:17

19 days ago33:17

33:17

I am super excited to bring you our 400th episode! I want to reflect on these almost 9 years, honoring the guests who have shared their stories and the experts who have shared their knowledge and wisdom about pathways to healing. I never would have imagined in 2016 that reaching 400 episodes was a possibility. To each listener, I say a heartfelt thank you for listening and learning through our journey together, diving into all the aspects of perinatal mental health. I hope that this podcast will continue to be a resource of help and support for those who need it. Our field is expanding and awareness is growing about perinatal mental health—and that’s a win-win for all of us. Show Highlights: Our small but mighty team that works to bring you each episode A look back at some of our guests, download numbers, and “evergreen” episodes Changes in listening platforms and how data is collected for podcast success The top three episodes of 2022: Ep. 239 Pregnancy and Infant Loss with Dyora Entin, LCSW, PMH-C Ep. 238 Pregnancy and Infant Loss with Jennifer Burgard Ep. 241 From Pregnancy Anxiety to Making Impactful Change for New Parents with Anne Wanlund The top three episodes of 2023: Ep. 256 Managing Overstimulation for Highly Sensitive Parents with Amy Lajiness, LCSW, PMH-C Ep. 262 Impacts of High-Functioning Severe Postpartum Anxiety and Depression with Caitlin Shadek Ep. 250 Coping with Holiday Burnout with Dr. Kat The top episodes of 2024: Ep. 336 In Conversation with Alanis Morissette and PSI Ep. 309 The Good Enough Mother with Dr. Sophie Brock Ep. 316 Overstimulation and Sensory Overload in Motherhood with Holly Peretz, OTR/L Ep. 324 Postpartum Psychosis: A Couple's Experience with Dr. Rowena and Derek Winkler The beauty of an evergreen podcast The overall top three episodes that have accumulated the most “listens” since 2022: Ep. 256 Managing Overstimulation for Highly Sensitive Parents with Amy Lajiness, LCSW, PMH-C Ep. 244 Postpartum Depression and Anxiety’s Impact and Healing Journey with Rosalinda Heider, LCSW Ep. 239 Pregnancy and Infant Loss with Dyora Entin, LCSW, PMH-C Sharing our stories is a powerful tool for healing. Knowing you aren’t alone means everything. The sad reality of the depth of perinatal pain and suffering Resources: Call the National Maternal Mental Health Hotline at 1-833-TLC-MAMA or visit cdph.ca.gov Please find resources in English and Spanish at Postpartum Support International , or by phone/text at 1-800-944-4773. There are many free resources, like online support groups, peer mentors, a specialist provider directory, and perinatal mental health training for therapists, physicians, nurses, doulas, and anyone who wants to be more supportive in offering services. You can also follow PSI on social media: Instagram , Facebook , and most other platforms 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! If you are a California resident looking for a therapist in perinatal mental health, email me about openings for private pay clients! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices…

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399: From Surviving to Thriving: Building Community after Postpartum Depression and PTSD with Georgia Etheridge Stephens, MA, CCLS 45:40

26 days ago45:40

45:40

Today, I’m joined by Georgia, who bravely shares her journey of healing after severe postpartum depression and anxiety. We dive into the importance of finding the right level of treatment, and she opens up about her experience in a partial hospitalization program specializing in perinatal mental health. Georgia also reflects on how her early life experiences and trauma shaped her path into parenthood, reminding us that healing is not only possible—it’s beautiful. Now, she’s using her experience to support and uplift perinatal families, turning her story into a source of hope for others. You won’t want to miss this inspiring conversation. Let’s dive in! Georgia Etheridge Stephens has a background in international relations and is a certified child life specialist with 15 years of experience supporting families and children through complex and stressful situations. Her personal journey with perinatal mood disorders during pregnancy and postpartum inspired her to become a postpartum doula specializing in perinatal mental health. Driven by her passion for family support, Georgia founded The Pod , a family center in Los Angeles, a judgment-free space where parents can build community, access resources, and grow alongside their babies. Show Highlights: Georgia’s story of finding support during a pregnancy with complications Georgia’s professional role in supporting children and families, seeing the terrible things that can happen An onslaught of darker and heavier thoughts Finding the UCLA Maternal Mental Health Program when her daughter was 5 months old Looks can be deceiving for someone suffering from postpartum depression. The dire need for more mother-baby hospital programs in the country After treatment, you don’t emerge as the same person you were before. Rebuilding life in healthy ways Early life experiences and channels of trauma—they are all connected Understanding how parenthood rips you open and bares your soul An overview of The Pod and what it provides to the community Hopeful messages from Georgia about the value of sharing your truth with ONE person Resources: Connect with Georgia Etheridge Stephens and The Pod: Website and Instagram Call the National Maternal Mental Health Hotline at 1-833-TLC-MAMA or visit cdph.ca.gov Please find resources in English and Spanish at Postpartum Support International , or by phone/text at 1-800-944-4773. There are many free resources, like online support groups, peer mentors, a specialist provider directory, and perinatal mental health training for therapists, physicians, nurses, doulas, and anyone who wants to be more supportive in offering services. You can also follow PSI on social media: Instagram , Facebook , and most other platforms 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! If you are a California resident looking for a therapist in perinatal mental health, email me about openings for private pay clients! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices…

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398: Behind the Sessions: Centering Your Mental Health While Navigating Political Stress 39:53

4 weeks ago39:53

39:53

Today’s session is about what’s happening in the world and the impact on moms and families. Current politics in the US are absolutely affecting our stress levels. People are expressing concerns and fears in therapy sessions as huge changes are happening, and these changes are directly affecting how they show up in the world and in their families. Daily attacks are taking place on programs that influence education, healthcare, DEI, and the economy of daily living expenses. If you’ve been feeling anxious and overwhelmed as a mother navigating these trying times, you are not alone. Let’s explore why politics feel personal, along with practical ways to manage the stress while staying engaged with your loved ones. Show Highlights: The chaos hits close to home in our lives and families. Personal rights around parenthood are on the line! Other concerning issues include benefits that might be taken away. Feelings of helplessness and hopelessness absolutely affect our mental and physical health, especially for those with higher sensitivities. The importance of figuring out how to take care of yourself, while engaging and disengaging as needed Dr. Kat’s best tips for managing stress and setting boundaries: Try to stop “doom-scrolling.” Set parameters to limit your exposure. Curate your news intake. Protect your energies. Explore small but meaningful actions you can take. Be intentional about protecting your mental health. Find ways to feel connection and empowerment with like-minded people. Give yourself permission to disconnect, as needed. How to check in with yourself, regulate, and refocus Resources: Call the National Maternal Mental Health Hotline at 1-833-TLC-MAMA or visit cdph.ca.gov Please find resources in English and Spanish at Postpartum Support International , or by phone/text at 1-800-944-4773. There are many free resources, like online support groups, peer mentors, a specialist provider directory, and perinatal mental health training for therapists, physicians, nurses, doulas, and anyone who wants to be more supportive in offering services. You can also follow PSI on social media: Instagram , Facebook , and most other platforms 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! If you are a California resident looking for a therapist in perinatal mental health, email me about openings for private pay clients! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices…

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397: Blue: A History of Postpartum Depression in America with Rachel Louise Moran 43:21

5 weeks ago43:21

43:21

My guest has written a powerful book about the history of postpartum depression in America, highlighting the changes in our cultural understanding of PPD. Join us for this discussion. Rachel Louise Moran is an associate professor of history at the University of North Texas, where she teaches US women’s and gender history and the history of medicine. She’s the author of a new book, Blue: A History of Postpartum Depression in America . The book is a history of postpartum distress and mental illness in the US from 1945 to the present, with a focus on the activism of new mothers and clinicians. Show Highlights: How Rachel came to write Blue Providers often ask the wrong questions. The work of a medical historian Striking themes in Rachel’s research and findings about advocacy for women’s issues The 1980s: the moment of the “Super Mom” The 2020s: the beginning of “Mommy Blogs” Back to the 19th century and “melancholia” Taking a big-picture view Why should we know the history of postpartum mental illness? The benefit of using public platforms to educate more people Feedback and response to Rachel’s book What Rachel hopes to accomplish with her book Resources: Connect with Rachel Louise Moran: Website , LinkedIn , and Blue: A History of Postpartum Depression in America . Call the National Maternal Mental Health Hotline at 1-833-TLC-MAMA or visit cdph.ca.gov Please find resources in English and Spanish at Postpartum Support International , or by phone/text at 1-800-944-4773. There are many free resources, like online support groups, peer mentors, a specialist provider directory, and perinatal mental health training for therapists, physicians, nurses, doulas, and anyone who wants to be more supportive in offering services. You can also follow PSI on social media: Instagram , Facebook , and most other platforms 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! If you are a California resident looking for a therapist in perinatal mental health, email me about openings for private pay clients! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices…

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396: Empowered Parenthood: Insights on Preparing for Postpartum with Gayane Aramyan, LMFT 41:28

6 weeks ago41:28

41:28

Planning ahead for the postpartum has proven to be a helpful strategy to overcome the challenges and unique dynamics of this transitional time. My expert guest and I dive into this topic in today’s episode. Join us! Gayane Aramyan, LMFT, is based in Los Angeles and specializes in perinatal therapy. She helps women and couples navigate pregnancy, postpartum, and parenthood. She earned her master’s degree in clinical psychology with a marriage and family emphasis from Pepperdine University and has specialized training in anger management, emotion-focused therapy, grief processing, acceptance-commitment therapy, and internal family systems. Gayane has been featured in various well-known publications and is dedicated to supporting clients through life transitions and the challenges of parenthood. In this episode, we discuss relationship and communication challenges and the taboo and stigma of postpartum depression. Gayane shares her personal and professional perspective as an Armenian mother and therapist. Show Highlights: Gayane’s interest in perinatal mental health—how it blossomed with the birth of her son in 2020 The very real struggle for postpartum moms to just “do the basic stuff” to survive The most important thing Gayane wants people to understand about the postpartum: “It gets better. This is just a phase.” Preparing for the postpartum (Get Gayane’s FREE workbook !) Reconnecting with your partner in the postpartum Most couples do not prioritize their relationship during the postpartum. The importance of having your partner on board (Couples therapy can be helpful!) The stigma around postpartum depression (Prepping ahead of time can help decrease the risk factors.) Gayane’s perspective as an Armenian woman with a different cultural background Gayane’s hopeful message to listeners Resources: Connect with Gayane Aramyan: Website and Instagram Call the National Maternal Mental Health Hotline at 1-833-TLC-MAMA or visit cdph.ca.gov Please find resources in English and Spanish at Postpartum Support International , or by phone/text at 1-800-944-4773. There are many free resources, like online support groups, peer mentors, a specialist provider directory, and perinatal mental health training for therapists, physicians, nurses, doulas, and anyone who wants to be more supportive in offering services. You can also follow PSI on social media: Instagram , Facebook , and most other platforms 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! If you are a California resident looking for a therapist in perinatal mental health, email me about openings for private pay clients! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices…

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395: Behind The Sessions: Boundaries and Cutting Ties With Abusive Family Members 51:30

6 weeks ago51:30

51:30

Today’s session is about recognizing abusive behaviors in family members and taking appropriate action to protect your mental and physical health. I want to give a warning that some of these situations can be difficult to hear if you have a history of various kinds of abuse. Abusive family members can come in the form of a partner, sibling, extended family, and even parents of adult kids who are now becoming parents. We have previously discussed how your new life as a parent can bring up issues from the past, further complicate delicate family relationships, and bring a sharp focus to your life as a parent caring for your newborn child. For anyone dealing with these challenging family relationships, the message is that there is help, hope, and coping skills to make things easier. Join us as we explore this topic. Show Highlights: Cutting off ties with a family member is a complex decision. Abusive behavior can be from those who are mean, manipulative, and/or toxic. Setting boundaries requires changing patterns of communication and behavior, which can cause more stress and leave you feeling vulnerable. Ways in which family members can be toxic or abusive: Constant criticism and belittling Excessive control over your life Lack of respect for your boundaries Emotional withholding or “the silent treatment” Physical aggression, intimidation, or abuse Gaslighting Comparison and favoritism Consistent disregard for your well-being Becoming a new parent automatically means that there are new boundaries around raising that baby. Dr. Kat’s advice for finding support Setting boundaries and cutting off a relationship brings a sense of loss and grief. Resources: Call the National Maternal Mental Health Hotline at 1-833-TLC-MAMA or visit cdph.ca.gov Please find resources in English and Spanish at Postpartum Support International , or by phone/text at 1-800-944-4773. There are many free resources, like online support groups, peer mentors, a specialist provider directory, and perinatal mental health training for therapists, physicians, nurses, doulas, and anyone who wants to be more supportive in offering services. You can also follow PSI on social media: Instagram , Facebook , and most other platforms 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! If you are a California resident looking for a therapist in perinatal mental health, email me about openings for private pay clients! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices…

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394: A Mom Like That: A Memoir of Postpartum Psychosis with Aaisha Alvi 48:13

7 weeks ago48:13

48:13

I’m joined today by Aaisha Alvi, a writer and fierce postpartum psychosis awareness advocate. In her recent book, A Mom Like That: A Memoir of Postpartum Psychosis , she shares her experience and explains how her symptoms of psychosis were missed, ignored, and overlooked by many healthcare providers until she finally got the help she needed. Aaisha shares her story with us and discusses the differences between postpartum depression and postpartum psychosis, along with the biggest misconceptions about postpartum psychosis. Aaisha works in many ways as an advocate and educator, bringing awareness to postpartum psychosis and volunteering with various mental health organizations, including PSI. Join us to hear Aaisha’s story! Show Highlights: Aaisha’s journey into the world of perinatal mental health and postpartum psychosis Aaisha’s postpartum experience of depression and intrusive thoughts extended to fears about her family members harming her baby. A repeat of symptoms after Aaisha’s miscarriage Delusions, more intrusive thoughts, and voices telling her bizarre things—with no help until Aaisha saw her sixth doctor (Finally—a postpartum psychosis diagnosis!) “Provider ignorance” and Aaisha’s ironic attempts to hide her real symptoms while simultaneously seeking help Thoughts about anti-psychotic meds Being dismissed and ignored by healthcare providers—even as Aaisha begged for help What her doctors were missing The real statistics of postpartum psychosis—and why we shouldn’t say it’s a “rare condition” Differences between postpartum depression and postpartum psychosis Aaisha’s words of advice to families about a loved one Religious delusions–what we should understand BIPOC women and the reality of postpartum psychosis—Why the disparity in care? The biggest misconceptions about postpartum psychosis End the stigma! Postpartum psychosis is another type of mental illness that CAN and MUST be treated! What Aaisha hopes her book does for women and their healthcare providers Resources: Connect with Aaisha Alvi: Website and Instagram Call the National Maternal Mental Health Hotline at 1-833-TLC-MAMA or visit cdph.ca.gov Please find resources in English and Spanish at Postpartum Support International , or by phone/text at 1-800-944-4773. There are many free resources, like online support groups, peer mentors, a specialist provider directory, and perinatal mental health training for therapists, physicians, nurses, doulas, and anyone who wants to be more supportive in offering services. You can also follow PSI on social media: Instagram , Facebook , and most other platforms 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! If you are a California resident looking for a therapist in perinatal mental health, email me about openings for private pay clients! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices…

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393: Healing Trauma After an Emergency Hysterectomy with Lindsey Harris, LPC 43:33

8 weeks ago43:33

43:33

My guest shares her story of an uncomplicated pregnancy that resulted in an emergency hysterectomy just minutes after her daughter’s birth. Join us to hear her story of grief, trauma, feelings of isolation, and healing. Lindsey Harris is a mental health therapist in Princeton, TX, and she specializes in the treatment of eating disorders, anxiety, and depression. She brings a deeply personal perspective to mental health conversations after experiencing postpartum depression and birth trauma in 2023. Her journey has spurred her to be a passionate advocate for maternal mental health and the importance of support during life’s most vulnerable moments. Show Highlights: Lindsey’s story of her first pregnancy and facing the unknowns of maternal mental health after a history of mental health struggles Lindsey’s daughter’s birth: progression from a planned vaginal birth to C-section (healthy baby delivered!) to complete chaos, concern, and a return to the OR because of bleeding From calm moments to “Am I dying?” in only 10-15 minutes Major decisions to be made by Lindsey’s husband Finding out the results and implications of her life-saving surgery An ICU stay of 2 days followed by 5-6 more days in the hospital before taking her baby home What life was like for Lindsey after coming home with a newborn after almost losing her life Lindsey’s mental and emotional state during her recovery Feeling emotional heaviness and the stress of motherhood when the reality of postpartum set in How therapy, medication changes, and advocating for herself helped Lindsey Decisions, adjustments, and healing that are still ongoing for Lindsey How Lindsey’s experience has changed her therapy specialty Fact: We live in a world where people feel free to comment on pregnant women’s bodies. There is much work still to be done! Lindsey’s message of hope to those who are struggling Resources: Connect with Lindsey Harris: Website and Instagram Call the National Maternal Mental Health Hotline at 1-833-TLC-MAMA or visit cdph.ca.gov Please find resources in English and Spanish at Postpartum Support International , or by phone/text at 1-800-944-4773. There are many free resources, like online support groups, peer mentors, a specialist provider directory, and perinatal mental health training for therapists, physicians, nurses, doulas, and anyone who wants to be more supportive in offering services. You can also follow PSI on social media: Instagram , Facebook , and most other platforms 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! If you are a California resident looking for a therapist in perinatal mental health, email me about openings for private pay clients! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices…

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392: Behind The Sessions: How Motherhood Can Magnify Anxiety and Self-Doubt 32:54

8 weeks ago32:54

32:54

In today’s Behind the Sessions episode, Dr. Kat, a perinatal psychologist, explores how motherhood can magnify anxiety and self-doubt, especially for those with pre-existing tendencies towards anxiety or perfectionism. She discusses how these emotional challenges often resurface during pregnancy and postpartum, leading to feelings of inadequacy. Dr. Kat emphasizes the importance of recognizing and understanding these patterns, advocating for self-compassion and realistic expectations. She encourages seeking support, highlighting that reaching out is a strength, not a failure. Tune in and hear DR. Kat as she reassures mothers that they are not alone in their struggles and offers resources for managing postpartum stress. Show Highlights: The impact of motherhood on anxiety and self-doubt Resurgence of pre-existing emotional challenges during pregnancy and postpartum Societal expectations and internal pressures on new mothers Perfectionism and feelings of inadequacy in parenting Effects of sleep deprivation and hormonal changes on mental health Coping strategies and the pressure to maintain control during motherhood Influence of social media and cultural standards on maternal self-esteem Importance of self-compassion and recognizing small victories in parenting Seeking professional support for perinatal mental health challenges Significance of reframing internal dialogue and challenging unrealistic expectations Resources: Connect with Centering You : Website , Instagram , and The Shift Shop Use the code “MOMANDMIND” (all caps) for a 10% discount on your purchase of the Centering You Card Deck. Call the National Maternal Mental Health Hotline at 1-833-TLC-MAMA or visit cdph.ca.gov Please find resources in English and Spanish at Postpartum Support International , or by phone/text at 1-800-944-4773. There are many free resources, like online support groups, peer mentors, a specialist provider directory, and perinatal mental health training for therapists, physicians, nurses, doulas, and anyone who wants to be more supportive in offering services. You can also follow PSI on social media: Instagram , Facebook , and most other platforms 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! If you are a California resident looking for a therapist in perinatal mental health, email me about openings for private pay clients! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices…

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391: “Centering You” in the Postpartum with Elizabeth O’Brien, LPC, PMH-C, and Marianela Rodriguez, Ph.D., PMH-C 40:18

9 weeks ago40:18

40:18

Today, my guests are talking about their new card deck for postpartum folks. Available in English and Spanish, the card deck is called “Centering You” and is a collaboration between these longtime friends and perinatal therapists. In this episode, they will explain what the card deck is and how it can be helpful. They are offering a special discount to Mom and Mind listeners, so don’t miss your chance to buy this unique product! Marianela Rodriguez-Reynaldo is a mother, certified lactation educator, and clinical psychologist certified in perinatal mental health. For the past 15 years, she has worked exclusively in the perinatal mental health field. She serves with PSI as an international trainer and volunteer coordinator in Puerto Rico and works as a psychology consultant for the Puerto Rico Health Department’s Mother, Child, and Adolescent Section (Title V). She is also a member of the Fetal and Infant Mortality Review Board and the Maternal Mortality Review Committee. Marianela provides supportive psychotherapy for people living with HIV at the Center for Maternal Infant Studies at the University of Puerto Rico. In 2020 she co-founded the first Center for Perinatal Mental Health in Puerto Rico, where work focuses on research, awareness, and service for this population. Elizabeth O’Brien is a mother who lives in Atlanta, GA, where she works as a psychotherapist with over 25 years of clinical experience. In her private practice, she is certified as a perinatal mental health therapist and treats women through the lifespan from a body/mind perspective, infusing her background in dance movement therapy, yoga, meditation, and mindfulness. Additionally, Elizabeth provides her own training and is a national trainer with PSI in perinatal mood and anxiety disorders. She supports the community as the co-chair for the GA Perinatal Task Force and was the founding president of the PSI Georgia Chapter. She provides feminist business consulting and plans for the postpartum edition of Centering You to be the first in a series of wellness card decks. Show Highlights: Elizabeth and Marianela’s backgrounds, long-lasting friendship, and “Centering You” The main message to anyone in the postpartum: “You are not alone.” A description of the cards, their content, and their purpose The vision for how providers, partners, and families can use these cards to support a postpartum person The card deck is for everyone in the postpartum—because the experiences are universal. Is the card deck a game to play? Elizabeth and Marianela explain ways to use the cards. Even the manufacturing process is done in a thoughtful and intentional way. Resources: Connect with Centering You : Website , Instagram , and The Shift Shop Use the code “MOMANDMIND” (all caps) for a 10% discount on your purchase of the Centering You Card Deck. Call the National Maternal Mental Health Hotline at 1-833-TLC-MAMA or visit cdph.ca.gov Please find resources in English and Spanish at Postpartum Support International , or by phone/text at 1-800-944-4773. There are many free resources, like online support groups, peer mentors, a specialist provider directory, and perinatal mental health training for therapists, physicians, nurses, doulas, and anyone who wants to be more supportive in offering services. You can also follow PSI on social media: Instagram , Facebook , and most other platforms 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! If you are a California resident looking for a therapist in perinatal mental health, email me about openings for private pay clients! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices…

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390: From Fertility to Parenthood: Better Care for BIPOC Families with Dr. Suzanne Mungalez 46:58

10 weeks ago46:58