Expecting, the fourth trimester, and beyond
Motherhood:
A major life transition that starts before baby even arrives. It’s exhausting and exhilarating. It’s beautiful and messy. It’s isolating and overwhelming.
One minute you are enjoying every second of it and the next you are questioning everything – experiencing the many waves of change that come with motherhood.
Becoming a mom often brings up issues you might not expect. Identity changes, past traumas and memories of your own childhood, changes in your own values and beliefs, as well as changes in your relationships.
Everything changes when you become a mom. It’s not just the process of having a new baby. It’s the process of birthing a whole new you.
Do any of these thoughts or feelings sound familiar to you?
- “Why did nobody tell me about this?!”
- “What is happening to my body?”
- “I feel like I’m losing my shit.”
- “How will I ever juggle being a mama, partner, friend, employee/boss, etc?”
- “I don’t think I want to go back to work.”
- “I don’t feel like myself.”
- “I feel guilty, because I want to excel in my career, but I also want to be there for my little one and partner.”
- “Where are my friends/family when I need them the most?”
- “If I hear, “That’s not what I did” or “You should do this” one more time I’m going to lose it!”
- “If I reach out for help my friends/family will judge me.”
- “Why do I feel so bad for missing my life before baby?”
- “What if…”
If you have ever said or thought any of the above statements, then you are in the right place!
I’m not going to lie, motherhood is HARD! Despite how it may feel right now, you are not failing. You got this, mama! As a maternal mental health advocate and mother myself, I understand the specific challenges many moms may face during this vulnerable stage of life.
From feeling overwhelmed and clueless to nervous and even sad – the many waves of emotions are completely normal!
Whether you are preparing for baby to come, experiencing baby blues, or something more, I can help support you. Together, we will:
- Discuss and learn about perinatal mood and anxiety disorders (PMADs)
- Educate and prepare for pregnancy and family adjustments
- Explore your new identity as a mom (first time, third time, etc.)
- Learn how to identify, challenge, and reframe negative self-talk
- Debrief about your birthing experience
- Identify how to incorporate self-care into your daily routine
- Practice setting boundaries and communicating your needs
- Focus on understanding attachment/parenting styles
- Learn how to manage anxious thoughts
- Develop tools that will help you navigate everyday life as a new mom
I am here to disrupt the social norms. I am here to listen, support, and normalize the raw, messy, and beautiful pieces of motherhood.
Sometimes moms need more support than family and friends can provide, and if I’m being real, sometimes it’s the lack of support from family and friends that push us to seek support elsewhere, among many other things. No matter the reason, please know that I am here to educate and empower you with the tools necessary to work through your most difficult challenges as a new mom or a third time mom.