Matrescence is the transformative process of becoming a mother—a physical, emotional, social, and identity shift that can be as profound as adolescence. During this time, you may experience changes in your relationships, priorities, self-image, and sense of stability, sometimes alongside intense joy, grief, or uncertainty. Therapy can provide a supportive space to process these changes, build coping skills, and strengthen your confidence and sense of self as you adjusts to your new role.

Perinatal anxiety is heightened worry, tension, or fear that occurs during pregnancy or in the first year postpartum, often focused on your baby’s health, safety, or your ability to cope. It can show up as racing thoughts, constant “what if” scenarios, a need to be in control, restlessness, irritability, or physical symptoms like a racing heart and trouble sleeping. Therapy can help by offering tools to regulate your body’s stress response, manage anxious thoughts, and build a sense of calm and confidence so you can feel more grounded and present.

Perinatal trauma refers to the psychological and emotional distress that can occur during pregnancy, childbirth, or the postpartum period, often in response to events perceived as threatening, overwhelming, or violating. It can stem from experiences such as a pregnancy loss, difficult labor, emergency or unexpected medical interventions, or feeling unsupported or unsafe during care. This trauma can have lasting effects on your mental, emotional, and physical well-being, as well as on bonding with your baby.

Symptoms of trauma may include flashbacks, nightmares, anxiety, depression, avoidance of reminders of the experience, and believing that you are not enough, to blame, or incapable. Therapy can help you process and cope with your experience, and lead to a brighter, more rewarding postpartum experience.

EMDR can help you process your traumatic experience(s) and feel more relieved.