The mental load of motherhood is gigantic. Pregnancy and new motherhood change you in so many ways—physically, emotionally, and mentally. Your hormones fluctuate, your identity shifts, and your relationships evolve.

In fact, there’s a term for this transformation: matrescence. Like adolescence, it’s a time of growth, upheaval, and rewiring—not just in your life, but in the very core of your sense of self.

The truth is, no amount of preparation can fully equip you for this experience. It’s not just your life, relationships, and circumstances that change—it’s your brain itself, in profound ways.

THERAPY FOR PREGNANCY & POSTPARTUM

It makes sense that you don’t feel like yourself right now.

The changes can feel intense, and it’s common to face challenges in all areas of your life:

  • You might find that talking with your partner (who’s also tired and emotional), your parents, in-laws, or friends has become a bit trickier

  • You may be questioning who you are after this momentous change and what that means for your career and frienships.

  • You may find yourself riding a whirlwind of difficult emotions: anger, anxiety, exhaustion, irritability—and even some resentment about the heavy mental and physical responsibilities.

  • New moms often find themselves on the receiving end of unsolicited advice, which can make it hard to trust your own instincts and set healthy boundaries.

  • It’s common to feel a real sense of loss for your pre-baby life.

HOW I CAN HELP

You’re not failing, even if it feels like it right now.

As much as I wish this life stage (and babies!) came with a clear instruction manual, the truth is it's filled with vulnerability and uncertainty. The good news? Perfection isn’t the goal. Research shows that “good enough” is what’s actually best for our kids, and ourselves.

This shift in focus from perfection to “good enough” is part of the work we’ll do together. My approach is rooted in this science-backed understanding and focuses on your unique needs and nervous system. By purposefully slowing down and taking a step back, we’ll explore what’s really behind those tough emotions and connect with them at their source—where there’s room for meaningful shifts.

Together, we’ll work to help you find a sense of okayness amidst the chaos, at a pace that feels right for you. Remember, your brain has undergone a transformation and your new baby is literally borrowing your nervous system, so taking care of yourself is absolutely not selfish — it’s essential.

Maybe you’re not quite a mom yet, but you’re already thinking about what’s to come. 

Unfortunately, not all pregnancies are easy and uncomplicated. If you’re facing a high-risk pregnancy or going through one after a loss, it’s completely normal to feel anxious and scared.

Mood and anxiety disorders are actually pretty common during pregnancy and can arise at any point in that first year after giving birth. I share this not to scare you, but to empower you. Knowing what to expect can help you seek the support you need and take care of yourself along the way.

imagine if you…

Could have someone in your corner to help you make sense of all the changes.

✓

Had a space to share your worries and express all your emotions, free from judgment.

✓

Could feel deeply supported in adjusting to your new role.

✓

You can't pour from an empty cup—you deserve care and consideration too.

Common questions about my approach:

  • No, but I am happy to refer you to a psychiatric professional specifically trained in the medical management of mental health disorders during pregnancy and postpartum.

  • It can be tough to differentiate between the baby blues and something more serious. Up to 85% of new moms experience depression-like symptoms, such as crying, anxiety, and restlessness, during the first two weeks after birth. If your symptoms intensify or last beyond those initial weeks, it’s important to know that it could be something more serious. 

    The truth is, you don’t need a formal diagnosis to reach out for help. Whether you feel overwhelmed, persistently sad, or anxious, seeking support can make a big difference.

  • Every mom deserves help. If finances are a barrier to getting the support you need, help is available through Nurtured Texas’s Connect to Care program. (link: https://nurturedtx.org/central-texas-connect-to-care-program)