Postpartum
Becoming a mother is a transformative experience filled with a mix of overwhelming emotions. Maybe you expected to feel joy, love, and bliss. But instead you are shocked to be feeling isolated, sad, anxious, or confused. Maybe your pregnancy, labor or birth didn't go as expected and you're left feeling disappointed. Maybe your baby has needs you were not prepared for. Maybe you are surprised that your baby isn't the only one going home in a diaper.
You may be trying to cope with these feelings and experiences but finding that what has worked in the past doesn't quite fit your new life. On top of that you are navigating your new responsibilities as a parent (or parent to multiple children) on little sleep while physically recovering, and it's all just a little… too much.
How can therapy help?
In therapy we can't change your experiences, but we can work together to make sure that your thoughts and emotions are not causing additional distress. I use a combination of treatment approaches to help women navigate postpartum life.
Interpersonal Psychotherapy (IPT)- Using Interpersonal Therapy we will examine how your relationships and daily routine impact your mood. We may explore your new identity as a mother and what that means for you. We may discuss setting boundaries and communicating your needs with loved ones. We will process any grief you may carry for your old life and routine before baby.
Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT)- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy helps to uncover any unhelpful thought patterns you may be having that lead to overwhelming emotions such as anxiety, sadness, and panic. Then we'll go over tools that you can quickly use to break up that pattern and move on with your day.
Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)- Using Dialectical Behavior Therapy we will break down what you can and what you can't control in your life. We'll find the tools you need to accept what is outside of your control without any judgement. And we will create a plan to implement small changes in areas within your control, that can have a big impact on your emotional well-being.