Pregnancy and Parenting Wellness
“If we can help the adults in children’s lives manage their stress better, and in ways that make them available and able to meet the needs of the kids, then kids are going to do better.” Dr. Jean Clinton
Perinatal Mental Health
Perinatal mental health refers to the emotional and psychological well-being of parents during the perinatal period, which includes pregnancy and the first year after childbirth. It involves addressing conditions such as depression, anxiety, and stress during this critical time to support the overall health of both the parent and the developing child.
If you have an unexpected pregnancy or if you need prenatal care, parenting assistance, and/or material assistance during your pregnancy we work with Align Pregnancy Services.
Infant & Early Childhood Mental Health (IECMH)
IECMH focuses on the emotional, social, and cognitive development of infants (birth to age 6). Early experiences significantly shape an infant’s brain development and emotional well-being, making this period crucial for providing a nurturing environment.
Exploring Attachment
Attachment theory focuses on the emotional bond or attachment between infants and their primary caregivers. Understanding attachment styles and how they develop can inform parenting practices and guide interventions to enhance the quality of attachment, promoting a secure and healthy relationship between parent and child.
Navigating Transitions
Transitions in the perinatal and early childhood phases can be challenging for both parents and children. Navigating these transitions, such as moving from pregnancy to postpartum, transitioning to and/or through different stages of parenthood, and starting childcare or school requires understanding and support to ensure a smooth adjustment for everyone involved.
Parent Support
Parent support involves providing parents with resources, education, and emotional support to help them navigate the challenges of parenting. This support is critical during the perinatal and early childhood phases, providing guidance on child development, coping strategies, and fostering a healthy parent-child relationship.
These topics are interconnected and support the overall well-being and development of both parents and children. Providing support, creating a reflective space, and offering education in these areas can significantly impact long-term mental health and well-being.
Who Might Benefit From Services?
Anyone parenting young children and struggling with behavioral expectations
Adoptive parents concerned with attachment
Parent’s with their own history of trauma
Expecting and/or new parents
Those experiencing transitions while parenting (loss of loved one, moves, work stress, etc)
Those who experienced difficulty with their own attachment relationships
Anyone experiencing Postpartum Symptoms which may include:
- Feeling overwhelmed and wondering if you should have become a mother in the first place
- Feeling guilty due to high self-expectations
- Not feeling “bonded” with the baby
- Your thoughts are racing and you can’t quiet your mind
- Feeling empty and numb as if you’re just going through the motions
- Lack of focus and concentration
- Being afraid that if you reach out for help, others will judge your inabilities
- Thoughts of running away or leaving your baby behind
- Being constantly in a state of worry