Defining Postpartum
Postpartum is a common term used to describe the period after giving birth. It is sometimes termed the “fourth stage of labor.” Generally, there are three phases of postpartum. The initial phase is 6–12 hours after giving birth, and there are many rapid changes happening during this time. The second phase is about 2-6 weeks, and this is where the body begins the recovery process, such as genitourinary recovery, metabolism changes, and emotional status. The third phase can last up to 6 months. Changes during this stage happen more gradually as the birthing parent's body returns to a baseline level of functioning. Complications can happen during any phase of the postpartum period.
Emotional and Psychological Changes of Having a Child
My style of psychotherapy is open to all parents, whether moms, dads, foster parents, adoptive parents, or others. I am particularly passionate about this area because I understand first-hand how challenging it is to become a parent and care for another being. Many new parents experience a variety of psychological changes. Some of these are positive while others are more challenging. Raising a human is a beautiful and rewarding experience, and there is nothing quite like it in this lifetime. However, there are also challenges that can sometimes pop up unexpectedly and without notice.
Some new parents may experience anxiety, depression, identity loss, a feeling of being in crisis or survival mode, or other mental, psychological, spiritual, and physical symptoms. Raising a child can add various stressors and complications. In addition, it can bring up triggers from the parents' own childhood and upbringing. It can make a person question their identity since their focus, time, and energy is now drastically shifted; what they could easily do before, they now have to change or adapt to fit their new parenting lifestyle. Over the journey of parenting, a person's hobbies and interests may change, causing a shift in their identity, personality, and even social circle.
The changes I listed above are not exhaustive; each person's experience is unique to them and their situation. Parenting can bring up certain issues for some and not others. In addition, these issues may become more prominent during some seasons or stages/phases compared to others. For example, initially after giving birth, a mom may feel bonded and connected to her child. Over time, however, she may develop "baby blues" and feel unprepared for the rapid changes of development that happen to children in infancy and toddlerhood.
Postpartum and Parent Psychotherapy
I believe that postpartum psychotherapy and therapy for parents in general is an important part of self-care and personal growth and development. Raising a child is no easy task, and it can sometimes become emotionally overwhelming. My goal in sessions is to help clients process whatever may come up in the parenting process. For some, this may include attending to symptoms of anxiety and depression as well as panic or anxiety attacks. For others, it may mean redefining their newfound identity and learning to make space for themselves and their self-care. I also specialize in attachment theory to help parents learn to bond with their child(ren) and create that special, nourishing, safe, and secure connection.
As a trauma therapist, I also help clients process any trauma or triggers that may come up. For example, having kids can bring up unresolved childhood traumas or create newfound feelings towards their upbringing and parents, which may be good and bad. It may make some individuals question how they were raised and what they believe to be appropriate for their child(ren) at this time. My goal is to help individuals understand and resolve any such conflicts so that they can direct their efforts and energy toward effective, warm, and nurturing parenting to create an overall positive and rewarding experience. Parenting can be hard, but you do not have to figure everything out on your own. The right support can make all the difference.
If you are navigating newfound parenting or if you are a seasoned parent finding yourself feeling stuck, hopeless, anxious, or unsure of the future, you are not alone. Reach out now to schedule a free consultation and explore what resources may be available for you at (714) 576-6307.
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