In this episode, Kim Kimball graciously joins us to share about her journey to parenthood. We talk about how painful it is to diverge from your idealized reproductive story. We reflect on the need to have flexible expectations of yourself and your experience in the perinatal period. In Kim's story, she shares how prioritizing her own mental health and accepting help from a supportive care team helped her get better. We identify systems issues as well as how isolation can present in many ways, increasing risk for perinatal mood and anxiety disorders (PMADs). We are so grateful to Kim for sharing her experience. We hope it helps listeners feel less alone in the challenges of the perinatal period.

Kim's coaching business: https://www.kimkimballcoaching.com/

In this episode, Jennifer Jenkins-Boitnott, LPC with Sea Glass LLC, helps us demystify Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing therapy (EMDR). This therapy treatment modality has become more accessible and well known, especially as it relates to trauma. Join us as we discuss frequently asked questions about EMDR and Jennifer breaks down what to expect if you're considering it for yourself. Jennifer reminds us you are in the driver's seat during this process that is often viewed as 'woo woo,' but has a strong evidence base for its effectiveness in reducing symptoms. We bust myths about feeling out of control and having to relive traumatic memories. We talk about how beneficial EMDR can be in the perinatal period whether it's for birth trauma, loss, or distress and disproportionate emotions experienced in parenting. Jennifer's expertise and wealth of knowledge allows us to paint a thorough picture of EMDR not only for potential clients, but also for therapists curious about referring clients to EMDR or seeking EMDR training themselves.

Jennifer's practice: https://seaglassrva.com/

Our previous guest, Olga Montgomery, LCSW, returns for our 10th episode to tell us about grief support groups she offers at no cost through Voyager Counseling. We discuss how to register, what to expect, and how rare but important these offerings are. Grief is isolating, yet as Olga reminds us, it also demands a witness. Shame and worries of judgement tend to keep us from showing up. Olga offers permission to 'arrive messy.' Join us as we chat, connecting in our own imperfection with technology issues, kid interruptions, and acknowledgment of just how long this episode recording took to schedule.

Olga's website: https://www.voyager-counseling.com/