Episodes
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We are recording Season 3 of the Resilient Birth podcast. Meanwhile we have selected our favorite episodes for you. In this episode, Justine and Sarah are joined by Mara Tesler-Stein, a clinical psychologist and founder of the Touchstone Institute for Psychotherapy and Training. We talk about EMDR for the perinatal population, the impact on Mara's own perinatal journey as the parent of preemie twins on her professional career, and the experience of having a baby in the NICU.
Summary
Mara begins by sharing the Talmudic quote: “Someone who saves a single life is considered as if they have saved an entire world.” The conversation then delves into the topic of EMDR therapy and its benefits for the perinatal population. Mara explains that EMDR is a trauma-focused therapy that helps individuals process and integrate traumatic experiences. Mara shares her story including her perinatal journey of preterm labor, extended hospital stay and preemie twins. We explore what it is like for parents who have had to navigate life with a baby in the NICU and the emotional aftermath of that. The conversation explores the three core tasks that parents face in and after a perinatal crisis: developing parental identity for the baby, managing emotions, and managing relationships. Mara share that he loss of innocence and loss of peer group are significant challenges that parents face in the aftermath of a perinatal crisis, but also reassures that with window for attachment stretches well beyond the hour or hours after birth.
Keywords
EMDR therapy, perinatal mental health, birth trauma, NICU, early development, attachment, perinatal crisis, parental identity, healthcare providers,
Takeaways
EMDR therapy is a trauma-focused therapy that helps individuals process and integrate traumatic experiences.Trauma in the perinatal period, including the trauma of a NICU experience, can have long-term impacts on individuals and their families.Parents face three core tasks in and after a perinatal crisis: developing parental identity, managing emotions, and managing relationships.Perinatal crises are transformative and can lead to a shift in identity and perspective for parents.The loss of innocence and loss of peer group are significant challenges that parents face in the aftermath of a perinatal crisis.Healthcare providers can understand their role as both the hosts of and guests within families in their care, making space for parents to fulfill their role as parents.Sound Bites
"Someone who saves a single life is considered as if they have saved an entire world.""The healing is already there. My job as the therapist is to help that internal healing mobilize.""The brain's very efficient when it's not being blocked.""Perinatal crises are transformative ""Parents of preemies are different parents"Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Quote
03:02 Understanding EMDR Therapy
06:01 The Power of Healing and Growth
10:06 The Impact of Trauma in the Perinatal Period
14:01 Navigating Medical Settings After NICU Trauma
15:40 Mara Shares Her Personal and Professional Story
24:56 The Three Core Tasks in a Perinatal Crisis
27:54 Challenges of Loss of Innocence and Peer Group
29:42 Navigating Relationships in a Perinatal Crisis
36:01 The Role of Healthcare Providers in Supporting Parents
40:03 The Importance of Acknowledging Parents' Input and Desires
On the Resilient Birth podcast, Justine and Sarah explore the impact of trauma across the perinatal period, from trying-to-conceive to pregnancy, from childbirth to postpartum and parenting. Through an inspirational quote that drives our weekly conversations about trauma and healing, Justine and Sarah explore topics such as birth trauma, parenting as a survivor, and finding healing with vulnerability and compassion that support birthing people and birth professionals.
Each week, listeners leave with takeaways to utilize in their lives and/or clients. Justine and Sarah hold the stories they share with honor and respect with the hope to impart knowledge, increase understanding, and bear witness to this challenging topic.
Sarah is a licensed mental health counselor, educator, and mom of three. She walks with a story of trauma from before and as a result of her perinatal experience.
Justine supports survivors of trauma through perinatal coaching and childbirth education. As well as being a mother of three, she holds a Ph.D. on representations of consent and sexual violence.
Learn more about Sarah and Justine's course called Trauma Informed Fundamentals here: https://resilient-birth.mykajabi.com/traumainformedfundamentals
Mara Tesler Stein, Psy.D., PMH-C is a clinical psychologist and EMDR consultant and trainer in Chicago and Jerusalem. She is the founder and director of The Touchstone Institute for Perinatal
Training where she offers both foundational and advanced EMDR trainings which take deep
dives into the intersections and applications of EMDR and perinatal mental health.
Dr. Stein is a staunch advocate for trauma-focused care and is trained and certified in a range of
integrative trauma therapies. Dr. Stein is also certified in Emotion-Focused Family and Couple
Therapy, Brainspotting, is a Gottman Certified Therapist, and continues to deepen her training in
Clinical Hypnosis, Yoga-Informed treatment, Advanced applications of EMDR, and Ego-State
therapies.She is the co-author (with Deborah Davis, Ph.D.) of Parenting Your Premature Baby and Child:
The Emotional Journey (Fulcrum, 2004) and Intensive Parenting: Surviving the Journey
Through the NICU (Fulcrum, 2013). She has also contributed book chapters in the areas of
perinatal loss, EMDR treatment, and trauma focused psychological care for NICU families.
Her trauma work is grounded in her personal perinatal journey, which began 28 years ago taking
her through infertility, twin pregnancy, prolonged hospital bedrest, the NICU, and years of
raising NICU graduates.You can find her at www.touchstoneinstitute.org and at [email protected].
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We are recording Season 3 of the Resilient Birth podcast. Meanwhile we have selected our favorite episodes for you. In this episode, we are joined by Kate White, who talks intimately about integrating implicit memories and her experience supporting mothers and babies through trauma-informed somatic healing approaches. She starts our conversation, which explores what healing from perinatal trauma can look like when we take into account the baby's experience of birth and what is happening in the relationship between parent and infant, by quoting her mentors John and Anna Chitty.
On the Resilient Birth podcast, Justine and Sarah explore the impact of trauma in the perinatal period. Through an inspirational quote that drives the weekly content, Justine and Sarah explore various trauma areas with vulnerability and compassion that support birthing people and birth professionals.
Each week, listeners leave with takeaways to utilize in their lives and/or clients. Justine and Sarah hold the stories they share with honor and respect with the hope to impart knowledge, increase understanding, and bear witness to this challenging topic.
Sarah is a licensed mental health counselor, educator, and mom of three. She walks with a story of trauma from before and as a result of her perinatal experience.
Justine supports survivors of trauma through perinatal coaching and childbirth education. As well as being a mother of three, she holds a Ph.D. on representations of consent and sexual violence.
Kate White is an award-winning educator and an advanced bodyworker. She is trained in somatic therapies, prenatal and perinatal somatic health, lactation, brain development, infant mental health, and has specialized in parent-baby dyad care using somatic prevention and trauma healing approaches for nearly 25 years. She is a mother of two children, holds a BA and MA in Communication, is a Registered Craniosacral Therapist in the Biodynamic Craniosacral method and a Somatic Experiencing® Practitioner. Her work combines somatic trauma healing, energetic therapies, bodywork, pediatric therapies and education about the nervous system to help give families with babies and small children the best possible start. She is Founding Director of Education for the Association for Prenatal and Perinatal Psychology and Health where from 2013 – 2019 she created and ran the Prenatal and Perinatal Educator Certificate program, a large online educational program for professionals. She went on to found Prenatal and Perinatal Healing Online and the Prenatal and Perinatal Somatics Institute. She teaches classes online and in person, and offers a professional training called Integrated Prenatal and Perinatal Dynamics. She has a private practice in Charlottesville, VA called Belvedere Integrated Healing Arts (belvederearts.com) and offers her own seminars through the Center for Prenatal and Perinatal Programs, ppncenter.com
Learn more about Sarah and Justine's course called Trauma Informed Fundamentals here: https://resilient-birth.mykajabi.com/traumainformedfundamentals
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Episodes manquant?
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We are recording Season 3 of the Resilient Birth podcast. Meanwhile we have selected our favorite episodes for you. We hope you'll enjoy this rerun of Dissociation Reframed With Morning Alexander. In this episode Sarah and Justine's guest, Morning Alexander, a birth and postpartum doula and soon to be labor and delivery nurse, surprises us with a quote from Justine that she wrote on the Resilient Birth social media. She shares how Justine helped reframe dissociation for her, shifting the shame she her felt about experiencing dissociation during a traumatic birth experience.
Here are links to Justine's words about dissociation as a gift that helped her survive the unbearable and which starts our conversation today.
On Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/8kAecEYzfxjiki3p/?mibextid=WC7FNe
On Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/p/CIga0x-ACQS/?igsh=MWhjYXdlcGRtcWE5ZA==
On the Resilient Birth podcast, Justine and Sarah explore the impact of trauma in the perinatal period. Through an inspirational quote that drives the weekly content, Justine and Sarah explore various trauma areas with vulnerability and compassion that support birthing people and birth professionals.
Each week, listeners leave with takeaways to utilize in their lives and/or clients. Justine and Sarah hold the stories they share with honor and respect with the hope to impart knowledge, increase understanding, and bear witness to this challenging topic.
Sarah is a licensed mental health counselor, educator, and mom of three. She walks with a story of trauma from before and as a result of her perinatal experience.
Justine supports survivors of trauma through perinatal coaching and childbirth education. As well as being a mother of three, she holds a Ph.D. on representations of consent and sexual violence.
Morning Alexander has been supporting women in the perinatal period for over a decade and have been certified as a birth and postpartum doula for nearly 5 years. She has worked as a nurse tech in the Medical ICU for the past 4 years and is graduating this summer with my BSN and will be working as a labor and delivery nurse, with the ultimate goal of becoming a certified nurse midwife. Morning has a history of childhood trauma that was largely undealt with until after the births of her children. She had a very traumatic birth with her firstborn but it wasn’t until years later, as she was diving deeper into birth and trauma training that she came to understand her own experiences. Through her continuing education and years of therapy, she has found not only healing and wholeness but a deep passion for being trauma-informed as a provider and supporting other women in finding healing and empowerment in their births.
Learn more about our course called Trauma Informed Fundamentals here: https://resilient-birth.mykajabi.com/traumainformedfundamentals
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Keywords: miscarriage, grief, loss, holidays, grieving rituals, perinatal trauma.
How do we cope with the profound pain of miscarriage and loss during a season often associated with joy and togetherness? Why does the holiday season intensify our grief, and how can we navigate cultural expectations that demand we put on a brave face?
In this heartfelt episode, Justine Leach and Sarah Adelmann delve into the deeply personal and often unspoken experience of miscarriage, loss, and trauma, especially as they intersect with the holiday season. Justine opens the conversation with a poignant quote by Zeynep Gurtin, "A moment that changed me: My miscarriages were devastating – but an orca gave me comfort and hope", setting the tone for an in-depth discussion on the unique challenges of grieving during a time traditionally filled with celebration.
They explore why grief feels particularly acute during the holidays and the societal pressures to appear cheerful despite personal sorrow. The discussion highlights the importance of acknowledging and honoring one's loss, the role of rituals in the grieving process, and the often-overlooked grief for the loss of an imagined future.
By addressing losses that are not always recognized by society, Justine and Sarah emphasize the need for supportive spaces where individuals can authentically express their grief. This episode underscores the significance of allowing oneself to fully experience and process grief and the critical role of community and support during such times. At the end Sarah mentions the book Healing Your Grieving Heart After Miscarriage: 100 Practical Ideas for Parents and Families by Alan Wolfelt.
We are hosting a FREE training on Trauma and the Perinatal Journey on Dec 2 at 9am EST live on Zoom. The training will be recorded so he hope you will still sign up even if the time does not work for you: https://resilient-birth.mykajabi.com/pl/2148550678
Takeaways
Recognition of Miscarriage:
Miscarriage is often not acknowledged as a significant loss by society, leaving those affected feeling isolated and unsupported.Cultural Expectations:
Societal norms and expectations during the holiday season can place additional stress on those who are grieving, making it harder for them to cope.The Role of Rituals:
Rituals can serve as a powerful means to honor loss and facilitate the healing process, providing a sense of structure and solace.Varied Manifestations of Grief:
Grief is not limited to the loss of life; it also encompasses lost futures and unfulfilled dreams, which can be equally painful and deserving of recognition.Importance of Support:
Support from friends, family, and the community is crucial for those experiencing loss. However, it is often insufficient, highlighting the need for more compassionate and consistent support systems.Challenges of the Holiday Season:
Acknowledging the emotional toll of trying to "show up" and participate in holiday festivities while grieving is important for understanding the full impact of loss during this time.Self-Reflection for Better Support:
Engaging in self-reflection to understand one's own feelings about loss and grief is vital. This awareness can enhance the ability to provide meaningful support to others, including clients.On the Resilient Birth podcast, Justine and Sarah explore the impact of trauma across the perinatal period, from trying-to-conceive to pregnancy, from childbirth to postpartum and parenting. Through an inspirational quote that drives our weekly conversations about trauma and healing, Justine and Sarah explore topics such as birth trauma, parenting as a survivor, and finding healing with vulnerability and compassion that support birthing people and birth professionals.
Each week, listeners leave with takeaways to utilize in their lives and/or clients. Justine and Sarah hold the stories they share with honor and respect with the hope to impart knowledge, increase understanding, and bear witness to this challenging topic.
Sarah is a licensed mental health counselor, educator, and mom of three. She walks with a story of trauma from before and as a result of her perinatal experience.
Justine supports survivors of trauma through perinatal coaching and childbirth education. As well as being a mother of three, she holds a Ph.D. on representations of consent and sexual violence.
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We are hosting a FREE training on Trauma and the Perinatal Journey on Dec 2 at 9am EST live on Zoom. The training will be recorded so he hope you will still sign up even if the time does not work for you: https://resilient-birth.mykajabi.com/pl/2148550678
Keywords: obstetric violence, labor and delivery nurse, healthcare, moral injury, patient advocacy, maternity care, trauma-informed care, healthcare hierarchy, nursing ethics, healthcare ethics, obstetric care, mistreatment, nursing advocacy.
In this episode of the Resilient Birth podcast, Justine and Sarah welcome Melissa Anne Dubois, an experienced perinatal nurse and childbirth educator. The conversation explores the themes of leadership in nursing, the importance of advocacy for patients, and the challenges faced by nurses in a hierarchical healthcare system. Melissa shares her insights on obstetric violence, moral injury, and the emotional toll of advocating for patient-centered care in a system that causes significant challenges for nurses who want to speak up on behalf of the patients and provide trauma-informed care. The discussion highlights the importance of supporting labor and delivery nurses in their roles as advocates for birthing people. In this conversation, Melissa Anne discusses the ethical responsibilities of healthcare providers and the importance of acknowledging obstetric violence and mistreatment in maternity care. She emphasizes the importance of being a leader among nurses and advocating for patients wants and desires, evidence based care, and trauma-informed care, while also acknowledging the very real professional consequences of doing so.
Takeaways
There is significant injustice in maternity care.Advocating for patients can lead to professional consequences.Nurses often feel powerless in the hierarchical system of obstetrics.Moral injury affects nurses in maternity care as a result of obstetric violence.Guilt and shame occur when nurses experience moral injury.The term 'obstetric violence' has to be named for the problem to be understood.The narrative of 'a few bad apples' hinders systemic change.Acknowledging mistreatment is crucial for patient care.Advocacy can lead to personal and professional consequences.Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Resilient Birth Podcast
08:49 Understanding Obstetric Violence
18:19 Moral Injury in Nursing
26:15 The Ethics of Healthcare Practice
32:32 Acknowledging Mistreatment in Healthcare
37:49 Navigating the Tension in Nursing Advocacy
46:50 Connecting to Community in Nursing
On the Resilient Birth podcast, Justine and Sarah explore the impact of trauma across the perinatal period, from trying-to-conceive to pregnancy, from childbirth to postpartum and parenting. Through an inspirational quote that drives our weekly conversations about trauma and healing, Justine and Sarah explore topics such as birth trauma, parenting as a survivor, and finding healing with vulnerability and compassion that support birthing people and birth professionals.
Each week, listeners leave with takeaways to utilize in their lives and/or clients. Justine and Sarah hold the stories they share with honor and respect with the hope to impart knowledge, increase understanding, and bear witness to this challenging topic.
Sarah is a licensed mental health counselor, educator, and mom of three. She walks with a story of trauma from before and as a result of her perinatal experience.
Justine supports survivors of trauma through perinatal coaching and childbirth education. As well as being a mother of three, she holds a Ph.D. on representations of consent and sexual violence.
Melissa Anne is an experienced perinatal nurse living in Central Massachusetts with her husband and three children. She graduated summa cum laude from the University of Massachusetts Amherst School of Nursing in 2006 and has worked in a variety of perinatal settings since 2007 including: in-patient labor and delivery, high-risk obstetrics, outpatient OB-GYN, homebirth, and postpartum home health. Melissa Anne became a childbirth educator in 2011 and a lactation counselor in 2014. She currently teaches childbirth classes for babiesincommon.com while she pursues her PhD in nursing. Her research interests include obstetric violence and moral injury in perinatal nurses and she plans to work as a nurse researcher and professor after defending her dissertation.
A useful article of Moral Injury in Maternity Care Providers: Kendall-Tackett K and Beck CT (2022) Secondary Traumatic Stress and Moral Injury in Maternity Care Providers: A Narrative and Exploratory Review. Front. Glob. Womens Health 3:835811. doi: 10.3389/fgwh.2022.835811
Here are some of the resources Melissa Mentions during the episode
Mandy Irby: https://mandyirby.com/
Birth Monopoly: https://birthmonopoly.com/
Evidence Based Birth: https://evidencebasedbirth.com/
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Keywords: birth trauma, breastfeeding, maternal health, postpartum care, lactation consultant, hospital policies, trauma recovery, maternal bonding, cesarean birth story, NICU birth story.
In this episode of the Resilient Birth Podcast, Justine and Sarah welcome Erin Northrup, an international board certified lactation consultant, to discuss the profound impact of birth trauma on breastfeeding and maternal mental health. Erin shares her personal experiences with birth trauma after a cesarean under general anesthesia and separation from her baby who was taken to the NICU, emphasizing the interconnectedness of physical, emotional, and psychological aspects of childbirth. The reason for her cesarean turned out, on further investigation after the birth, to be based on a misdiagnosis, confirming the suspicion she highlights in the episode. The conversation explores the importance of recognizing and addressing the emotional needs of mothers during and after birth, as well as the long-term effects of trauma on families. Erin advocates for better support systems and policies that honor the maternal bond and emotional wellbeing of birthing individuals. This conversation delves into the profound impact of birth trauma on breastfeeding experiences, particularly focusing on the emotional and psychological challenges faced by mothers. The speakers discuss the importance of listening to mothers' voices, the interconnectedness of birth experiences and breastfeeding, and the need for advocacy in healthcare. Erin shares her research findings, highlighting the overwhelming response from participants and the emotional weight of their stories of breastfeeding after birth trauma. The discussion emphasizes the necessity of recognizing the complexities of maternal health and the importance of support systems for new parents.
Takeaways
The physical and emotional aspects of childbirth are inseparable.Many women feel dismissed when expressing emotional distress post-birth.Hospital policies can hinder maternal-infant bonding immediately after birth.The experience of separation from the baby can be traumatic.Maternal mental health is as important as physical health post-birth.Trauma can ripple through families and affect future generations.Trust in healthcare can be fractured by lack of listening.Mothers are experts in their own experiences.Birth trauma can echo in breastfeeding experiences.Hospital policies can hinder maternal care and support.Breastfeeding can serve as a reclamation of control.Research reveals the depth of shared trauma among mothers.Emotional pain from birth can resurface during breastfeeding.Sound Bites
"I need to feed my baby...""I was absolutely panicked...""Why is nobody listening?""I was very determined to breastfeed.""Everything is connected."Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Birth Trauma and Support
02:57 The Interconnectedness of Birth Experiences
05:55 Personal Story of Birth Trauma
08:54 The Impact of Hospital Policies on Birth Experiences
12:04 The Emotional Aftermath of Birth Trauma
15:08 The Long-Term Effects of Birth Trauma
17:47 Finding Strength Through Adversity
21:01 The Importance of Maternal Bonding
23:54 Reflection on Healing
25:58 The Fracture of Trust in Healthcare
28:48 The Impact of Birth Trauma on Maternal Experience
32:58 Research Insights on Birth Trauma and Breastfeeding
38:56 Navigating Personal Trauma Through Research
44:00 The Interconnectedness of Experience and Healing
On the Resilient Birth podcast, Justine and Sarah explore the impact of trauma across the perinatal period, from trying-to-conceive to pregnancy, from childbirth to postpartum and parenting. Through an inspirational quote that drives our weekly conversations about trauma and healing, Justine and Sarah explore topics such as birth trauma, parenting as a survivor, and finding healing with vulnerability and compassion that support birthing people and birth professionals.
Each week, listeners leave with takeaways to utilize in their lives and/or clients. Justine and Sarah hold the stories they share with honor and respect with the hope to impart knowledge, increase understanding, and bear witness to this challenging topic.
Sarah is a licensed mental health counselor, educator, and mom of three. She walks with a story of trauma from before and as a result of her perinatal experience.
Justine supports survivors of trauma through perinatal coaching and childbirth education. As well as being a mother of three, she holds a Ph.D. on representations of consent and sexual violence.
Erin Northrup is an International Board-Certified Lactation Consultant dedicated to educating and
supporting families who wish to breastfeed after experiencing birth trauma. She has a BA in Psychology
and a Masters in Applied Health Services Research (MAHSR) from the University of New Brunswick
where she conducted a qualitative study on the lived experience of breastfeeding after birth trauma.
Erin’s own journey with birth trauma began in 2009, when she experienced a traumatic birth with the
birth of her first child. Since then, she has been a vocal advocate for maternal infant health and a
compassionate supporter of parents through pregnancy, breastfeeding, and beyond.One of Erin's key goals is to educate perinatal professionals about the impacts of birth trauma and the
importance of respectful, ethical lactation care. She believes that by raising awareness and sharing
evidence-based information, we can enhance the quality of care for families who have faced these
challenges. A mother of five wonderful children and a long time La Leche League Leader, Erin is a firm
believer in the necessity of trauma-informed care throughout the perinatal period, from preconception
to weaning.Learn more about Sarah and Justine's course called Trauma Informed Fundamentals here: https://resilient-birth.mykajabi.com/traumainformedfundamentals
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Keywords: abortion, perinatal care, women's rights, personal choice, government intervention, healthcare access, miscarriage, reproductive rights, trauma, maternal death
Justine and Sarah recorded this episode of the Resilient Birth podcast on abortion access and abortion care the day before the election in the US. At the time of recording, we thought we'd be releasing it after the results were known, but the topic felt so vital to this current moment, that we decided to release it on the day of recording as our first emergency podcast. We hope that our conversation today opens your hearts to the experiences of women who need access to medical care, whether that is to save their lives or to make the choices that are right for themselves and their babies. Sarah begins our conversation by sharing a quote by John Legend who lost his son Jack when his wife needed an abortion to save her life, and who has spoken up against the government being the ones to decide women are "sufficiently dying" before they are given life saving care. In this episode, Sarah also explores the powerful stories from the On Point podcast episode called “The Truth About Perinatal Hospice Care”. This podcast lifts the veil on perinatal hospice care and reveals the truth about the loving decisions families are making to honor their babies and their brief lives. The conversation emphasizes the need for compassion, understanding, and the recognition of women's rights in making personal health decisions. They also highlight the emotional weight of these decisions and the dangerous implications of restricting access to abortion care which has already resulted in maternal deaths in the United States.
Takeaways
Access to abortion care is essential for women's health and safety.Government intervention can strip families of their rights.Perinatal hospice care provides compassionate support to families and often provides them with precious time with their babies.Abortion access is a matter of safety and choice.Misconceptions about abortion care need to be addressed.The current election can significantly impact reproductive rights.The voices of those affected must be uplifted.Compassion and empathy are vital in these discussions.Sound Bites
"Abortion saves people's lives.""This is causing perinatal trauma.""What is sufficiently dying?""We need to listen to each other.""I am here to walk with you."Chapters
00:00 Introduction to the Abortion Access
06:02 The Importance of Abortion Access
08:54 Perinatal Hospice Care: A Compassionate Approach
12:11 The Emotional Weight of Decision-Making
15:04 Misconceptions About Abortion Care
18:05 The Role of the Election in Abortion Rights
21:07 The Broader Implications of Abortion Access
23:57 Personal Stories and Their Impact
26:54 The Deadly Consequences of Delayed Medical Care
30:03 The Need for Comprehensive Understanding
33:11 Closing Thoughts and Call to Action
On the Resilient Birth podcast, Justine and Sarah explore the impact of trauma across the perinatal period, from trying-to-conceive to pregnancy, from childbirth to postpartum and parenting. Through an inspirational quote that drives our weekly conversations about trauma and healing, Justine and Sarah explore topics such as birth trauma, parenting as a survivor, and finding healing with vulnerability and compassion that support birthing people and birth professionals.
Each week, listeners leave with takeaways to utilize in their lives and/or clients. Justine and Sarah hold the stories they share with honor and respect with the hope to impart knowledge, increase understanding, and bear witness to this challenging topic.
Sarah is a licensed mental health counselor, educator, and mom of three. She walks with a story of trauma from before and as a result of her perinatal experience.
Justine supports survivors of trauma through perinatal coaching and childbirth education. As well as being a mother of three, she holds a Ph.D. on representations of consent and sexual violence.
Learn more about Sarah and Justine's course called Trauma Informed Fundamentals here: https://resilient-birth.mykajabi.com/traumainformedfundamentals
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Keywords: birth plans, informed consent, birth preferences, healthcare communication, obstetric care, birth experience, birth trauma, obstetrics, patient care, unconditional positive regard, healthcare relationships
In this conversation, Justine Leach, Ph.D. and Sarah Adelmann, L.M.H.C., discuss birth plans, emphasizing the need for a more holistic approach that incorporates the emotional and relational aspects of the birthing experience. Justine begins by sharing the findings of a recent article that asks whether the topics given to women on birth plan templates in Spain include what really matters to them. Justine and Sarah then critique the traditional focus on medical procedures and interventions, advocating for a shift towards understanding the feelings and emotional needs of birthing individuals. The discussion highlights the importance of informed consent, continuity of care, and the need for healthcare providers to foster a deeper connection with their patients to enhance the overall birthing experience. The conversation gets heated when Justine shares another article she read in preparation for the episode in which an obstetrician advocates for more flexibility from birth givers through creating birth preferences rather than birth plans. Justine and Sarah express their frustration with this obsterician's point of view and share their belief that his interpretation of the cause of challenging communication with patients and birth trauma is misplaced. The discussion highlights the significance of unconditional positive regard in healthcare and the necessity not only of creating better communication tools for birth givers to express their needs and concerns effectively, but also of providers understanding their role and responsibility in support birth givers in feeling seen, heard, and in control during birth.
Artieta-Pinedo, I., Paz-Pascual, C., Garcia-Alvarez, A. et al. Does the birth plan match what is relevant to women? Preferences of Spanish women when giving birth. BMC Women's Health 24, 42 (2024). https://doi.org/10.1186/s12905-023-02856-5
Mohan, R., Abdalla, M. A reflective practice on difficult communication: an obstetrician’s perspective on birth plan versus birth preferences. Discov Health Systems 3, 77 (2024). https://doi.org/10.1007/s44250-024-00129-y
Takeaways
Birth plans often overlook emotional and psychosocial aspects.Informed consent should be a standard practice in obstetric care.The structure of birth plans typically does not leave space for communicating emotional needs.There is a need for curiosity from providers about patients' preferences.It is not the responsibility of women and birthing people to be more flexible.Communication about fears and values is crucial in birth planning.The current system often fails to address the relational needs of patients.A shift in mindset is needed regarding the purpose of birth plans.Healthcare providers should prioritize understanding patients' emotional needs.Many patients have experienced trauma related to birth.Saying no to interventions does not indicate a difficult client.The perception of normal birth can vary greatly between providers and clients.Unconditional positive regard is a political stance in healthcare relationships.Clients often feel powerless in the healthcare system.Effective communication is key to improving birth experiences.Sound Bites
"We should be communicating beyond just interventions.""What do I want to communicate with my team?""The way we think about birth plans is missing a piece.""Our clients want to be seen, heard, and in control.""Having a client say no does not make them difficult.""There's nothing normal about birth."Chapters
00:00 Understanding Birth Plans: A Critical Examination
09:44 The Emotional Landscape of Birth Plans
20:14 Rethinking Birth Plans: From Procedures to Feelings
29:14 Understanding Birth Experiences and Communication
36:03 The Role of Providers in Birth Decisions
43:01 Unconditional Positive Regard in Care
47:47 Creating Better Communication Tools for Birth Givers
On the Resilient Birth podcast, Justine and Sarah explore the impact of trauma across the perinatal period, from trying-to-conceive to pregnancy, from childbirth to postpartum and parenting. Through an inspirational quote that drives our weekly conversations about trauma and healing, Justine and Sarah explore topics such as birth trauma, parenting as a survivor, and finding healing with vulnerability and compassion that support birthing people and birth professionals.
Each week, listeners leave with takeaways to utilize in their lives and/or clients. Justine and Sarah hold the stories they share with honor and respect with the hope to impart knowledge, increase understanding, and bear witness to this challenging topic.
Sarah is a licensed mental health counselor, educator, and mom of three. She walks with a story of trauma from before and as a result of her perinatal experience.
Justine supports survivors of trauma through perinatal coaching and childbirth education. As well as being a mother of three, she holds a Ph.D. on representations of consent and sexual violence.
Learn more about Sarah and Justine's course called Trauma Informed Fundamentals here: https://resilient-birth.mykajabi.com/traumainformedfundamentals
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In this conversation, Justine Leach, Ph.D. and Sarah Adelmann, L.M.H.C., explore the themes of connection, vulnerability, and trust within the context of perinatal healthcare, particularly in pregnancy and birth. Sarah begins with a quote by President Barack Obama from his book A Promised Land. They discuss the importance of deep listening from OBs and midwives, and the challenges of building trust in a hospital system that often feels disconnected. The conversation emphasizes the need for healthcare providers to recognize the weight of the questions they ask and the vulnerability being demanded of their clients and patients, advocating for a more compassionate and present approach to care.
Keywords: connection, vulnerability, healthcare, trust, birth, trauma, listening, trauma-informed care, maternity care, prenatal care.
Takeaways
Connection is vital for emotional well-being.Trust is built through deep listening and presence.Vulnerability requires an invitation from the provider.Healthcare providers must recognize the weight of their questions.Patients often feel they have no choice but to comply.The presence of the provider can create a safe space for vulnerability.Healing can begins with believing in another’s ability to heal.Providers should honor the weight of stories behind patient’s answers to their questions.It's essential to meet clients where they are emotionally.Sound Bites
"There's a physical feeling, a current of emotion.""We are all connected and our voices matter.""I didn't know I could use my voice."Chapters
00:00 The Power of Connection
05:40 Building Trust in Healthcare
11:12 Vulnerability and Invitation
16:11 The Weight of Disclosure
21:45 Recognizing Vulnerability in Questions
27:01 The Role of Presence in Care
30:31 Possibilities Through Connection
On the Resilient Birth podcast, Justine and Sarah explore the impact of trauma across the perinatal period, from trying-to-conceive to pregnancy, from childbirth to postpartum and parenting. Through an inspirational quote that drives our weekly conversations about trauma and healing, Justine and Sarah explore topics such as birth trauma, parenting as a survivor, and finding healing with vulnerability and compassion that support birthing people and birth professionals.
Each week, listeners leave with takeaways to utilize in their lives and/or clients. Justine and Sarah hold the stories they share with honor and respect with the hope to impart knowledge, increase understanding, and bear witness to this challenging topic.
Sarah is a licensed mental health counselor, educator, and mom of three. She walks with a story of trauma from before and as a result of her perinatal experience.
Justine supports survivors of trauma through perinatal coaching and childbirth education. As well as being a mother of three, she holds a Ph.D. on representations of consent and sexual violence.
Learn more about Sarah and Justine's course called Trauma Informed Fundamentals here: https://resilient-birth.mykajabi.com/traumainformedfundamentals
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In this episode of the Resilient Birth Podcast, Justine Leach and Sarah Adelmann delve into the complex interplay between trauma, birth experiences, and the importance of consent and validation in therapeutic settings. Justine shares her personal journey of navigating her traumatic birth experience as a survivor of sexual assault, highlighting the disconnect between what she wanted for her birth and the reality of her experience. Justine shares how a lack of consent during her birth mirrored her experience of rape through stripping her of her sense of autonomy and control and how this aspect of her birth trauma was not recognized by her therapist at the time. The conversation emphasizes the need for therapists and medical providers to listen deeply, validate experiences, and honor the autonomy of individuals during birth.
Keywords: birth trauma, sexual assault, rape, consent, listening, validation, therapy, counseling.
Takeaways
The importance of consent in birth experiences cannot be overstated.Listening and validation are crucial for those sharing their trauma.Prior trauma can significantly impact the experience of childbirth.Grief is a natural response to a birth experience that didn't go as planned.Therapists and providers must recognize the vulnerability of their clients.Medical interventions without consent can strip away a person's sense of control.Reclaiming power in birth can be healing.Chapters
00:00 Connecting Sexual Violence to Birth Trauma and the Failure to Listen
03:07 The Role of Consent in Birth
06:12 The Importance of Listening and Validation
12:12 A Fantasy of Reclaiming Power in Birth
15:00 The Impact of Medical Interventions Without Consent
20:59 Grief and the Birth Experience
24:00 The Power of Vulnerable Sharing
26:57 Understanding the Complexity of Birth Stories
On the Resilient Birth podcast, Justine and Sarah explore the impact of trauma across the perinatal period, from trying-to-conceive to pregnancy, from childbirth to postpartum and parenting. Through an inspirational quote that drives our weekly conversations about trauma and healing, Justine and Sarah explore topics such as birth trauma, parenting as a survivor, and finding healing with vulnerability and compassion that support birthing people and birth professionals.
Each week, listeners leave with takeaways to utilize in their lives and/or clients. Justine and Sarah hold the stories they share with honor and respect with the hope to impart knowledge, increase understanding, and bear witness to this challenging topic.
Sarah is a licensed mental health counselor, educator, and mom of three. She walks with a story of trauma from before and as a result of her perinatal experience.
Justine supports survivors of trauma through perinatal coaching and childbirth education. As well as being a mother of three, she holds a Ph.D. on representations of consent and sexual violence.
Learn more about Sarah and Justine's course called Trauma Informed Fundamentals here: https://resilient-birth.mykajabi.com/traumainformedfundamentals
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This week Sarah introduces us to Max, who has brought so much joy and comfort to her life over the last few months. Using a quote from Dog Medicine by Julie Barton, Sarah brings insight into the healing power of animals, particularly dogs, who can offer such unconditional loving support and shares her own experience with Max, who came into her life a few months ago and nourishes her as a person and mother.Throughout the episode, Justine and Sarah explore the profound impact that pets, particularly dogs, have on emotional well-being and the importance of unconditional acceptance in relationships. They discuss how animals provide a safe space for expressing emotions, the challenges of navigating uncomfortable feelings, and the role of pets in parenting. Justine and Sarah discuss the challenges humans seem to face in offering the same kind of nonjudgmental acceptance and warmth that pets such as dogs can provide. We talk about how pregnant, birthing and postpartum individuals often feel that the people from whom they are seeking support and care, such as family members, partners, doulas, midwives, Obs, lactation consultants and other perinatal professionals, are often uncomfortable with uncomfortable conversations. It is understandable that, in our discomfort, we try to fix the problem rather than listen, but this means that parents and parents-to-be do not feel understood by us. Justine and Sarah talk about what we can learn from animals like dogs for whom it is so intuitive to meet people where they are and how we can show up for our clients who are navigating challenges in the journey to motherhood and parenting as a witness who walks into darkness alongside them. We end by exploring the power of 'just being', both of us grasping for words that take us beyond being the idea of 'being myself' to a more grounded concept of what it might mean to 'be with another.' The conversation emphasizes the need for self-care, the significance of being present with others, and the art of just being without the pressure to perform. Ultimately, they highlight the magic that can happen when individuals connect authentically with themselves and others, fostering a sense of community and support.
Keywords: unconditional acceptance, nonjudgmental support, perinatal providers, Dog Medicine, being, pets, emotional safety, unconditional love, parenting, self-care, vulnerability, presence, connection, mental health, animal therapy
Takeaways
Having a pet can provide emotional grounding and safety.Unconditional acceptance is rare in human relationships.Navigating uncomfortable emotions is a challenge for many.Pets can play a crucial role in parenting and emotional support.Nature can enhance self-care practices.Being present with clients is essential for effective support.Creating safe spaces for vulnerability is vital in therapeutic settings.The art of just being can lead to deeper connections.Animals can teach us about authentic presence and connection.Finding authenticity in connection is key to emotional healing.Sound Bites
"I needed a companion who had no judgment.""That unconditional acceptance is so very freeing.""Animals just know how to journey along with us."Chapters
00:00 The Healing Power of Pets
02:52 Unconditional Acceptance and Emotional Safety
05:51 Navigating Uncomfortable Emotions
08:50 The Role of Animals in Parenting
12:09 Nature and Self-Care
15:05 The Importance of Being Present
18:12 Creating Safe Spaces for Vulnerability
20:54 The Art of Just Being
26:52 Finding Authenticity in Connection
On the Resilient Birth podcast, Justine and Sarah explore the impact of trauma across the perinatal period, from trying-to-conceive to pregnancy, from childbirth to postpartum and parenting. Through an inspirational quote that drives our weekly conversations about trauma and healing, Justine and Sarah explore topics such as birth trauma, parenting as a survivor, and finding healing with vulnerability and compassion that support birthing people and birth professionals.
Each week, listeners leave with takeaways to utilize in their lives and/or clients. Justine and Sarah hold the stories they share with honor and respect with the hope to impart knowledge, increase understanding, and bear witness to this challenging topic.
Sarah is a licensed mental health counselor, educator, and mom of three. She walks with a story of trauma from before and as a result of her perinatal experience.
Justine supports survivors of trauma through perinatal coaching and childbirth education. As well as being a mother of three, she holds a Ph.D. on representations of consent and sexual violence.
Learn more about Sarah and Justine's course called Trauma Informed Fundamentals here: https://resilient-birth.mykajabi.com/traumainformedfundamentals
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In this episode, Justine and Sarah interview Lacey Castilleja Fisher, a licensed professional counselor and registered play therapist. Lacey specializes in working with parents and parents-to-be who have experienced sexual trauma, as well as individuals dealing with a range of mental health issues. Lacey shares two quotes that resonate with her work: one by Natasha Trethewey about the importance of telling a story to heal from trauma, and another by Resmaa Menakem about the discomfort of healing. The conversation explores the power of storytelling, the use of sandtray therapy and expressive arts in therapy, and the personal experiences that led Lacey to her work. In this conversation, Lacey discusses how she creates safety in the sandtray experience. She emphasizes the importance of selecting diverse materials and figures, and speaking to the activating potential of the miniatures. Lacey also explains how she incorporates EMDR into sandtray therapy and adapts the practice for the perinatal population. She shares insights on finding and collecting miniatures, as well as the importance of open curiosity and not assuming the meaning behind a client's tray. The conversation highlights the power of storytelling and the versatility of expressive art therapy.
Keywords: therapy, trauma, storytelling, sandtray therapy, expressive arts, perinatal trauma, birth trauma, EMDR, perinatal mental health, storytelling, expressive art therapy
Takeaways
Telling a story is an important part of healing from trauma. It allows individuals to process and integrate their experiences. But telling a story does not have to be verbal.Sandtray therapy and expressive arts can be powerful tools in therapy, providing a nonverbal and creative way for clients to explore and express their emotions and experiences.The journey of parenthood can bring up feelings of uncertainty and self-doubt, especially for individuals with their own trauma history.EMDR can be incorporated into sandtray therapy.Adapting sandtray therapy for the perinatal population involves gaining expertise in perinatal mental health and being thoughtful about the miniatures that represent the different feelings and experiences during the perinatal period.Open curiosity and not assuming the meaning behind a client's tray are important aspects of facilitating the therapy.Storytelling in sand tray therapy goes beyond verbal expression and includes the selection and creation of scenes in the tray.Sound Bites
"No words are off limits. No stories are off limits.""The expressive arts and sandtray therapy allow different parts that are closed off to open up."Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction
01:24 The Power of Storytelling and Quotes
06:21Using Sandtray Therapy and Expressive Arts
10:00 Introduction to Sandtray Therapy
12:09 Working with Non-Verbal Parts and Sensations
17:01 The Process of Building and Creating in Therapy
21:47 Personal Experience and Trauma-Informed Work
27:28 Creating Safety in the Sandtray Experience
30:05 Incorporating EMDR into Sandtray Therapy
33:28 Adapting Sandtray Therapy for the Perinatal Population
36:28 Finding and Collecting Miniatures
39:36 Facilitating Open Curiosity
42:46 The Power of Storytelling in Sandtray Therapy
On the Resilient Birth podcast, Justine and Sarah explore the impact of trauma across the perinatal period, from trying-to-conceive to pregnancy, from childbirth to postpartum and parenting. Through an inspirational quote that drives our weekly conversations about trauma and healing, Justine and Sarah explore topics such as birth trauma, parenting as a survivor, and finding healing with vulnerability and compassion that support birthing people and birth professionals.
Each week, listeners leave with takeaways to utilize in their lives and/or clients. Justine and Sarah hold the stories they share with honor and respect with the hope to impart knowledge, increase understanding, and bear witness to this challenging topic.
Sarah is a licensed mental health counselor, educator, and mom of three. She walks with a story of trauma from before and as a result of her perinatal experience.
Justine supports survivors of trauma through perinatal coaching and childbirth education. As well as being a mother of three, she holds a Ph.D. on representations of consent and sexual violence.
Learn more about Sarah and Justine's course called Trauma Informed Fundamentals here: https://resilient-birth.mykajabi.com/traumainformedfundamentals
Lacey Castilleja Fisher, LPC-S, RPT-S, PMH-C, is a Licensed Professional Counselor-Supervisor, Registered Play Therapist-Supervisor and a Certified Mental Health Professional with a mental health private practice in southwest Austin. Lacey has worked in a variety of settings including in a Children’s Advocacy Center to provide counseling to children that experienced sexual abuse and their families, and she decided to take the experience she had there and apply it to private practice. She built her practice around supporting children and adults that had experienced sexual abuse/assault and found a passion working with parents and parents to be when their sexual trauma was activated in the perinatal period. This led to Lacey learning as much as she could about perinatal trauma, pregnancy and infant loss, NICU trauma and fertility struggles. Lacey finds that the parents she works with respond well to EMDR, IFS and sandtray therapy at her counseling practice. Lacey has served as the Clinical Director for the Pregnancy and Postpartum Health Alliance of Texas and now serves on their advisory board.
Lacey has shared this article with us about sand tray therapy (https://wjstp-ojs-txstate.tdl.org/wjstp/article/view/25), as well as an upcoming workshop she is hosting called "Storytelling in the Sand: Using Sandtray Therapy to Cope with Perinatal Trauma and Loss: http://www.openheartcounselingatx.com/store/p2/storytellinginthesand.html.
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In this episode, Justine and Sarah are joined by Helena Vissing, PsyD, SEP, PMH-C, a licensed psychologist practicing trauma-informed somatic psychotherapy. They discuss the quote by Rosemary Balsam that highlights the relationship between a woman and embodied events, such as birth, across her entire lifetime. They explore the significance of birth as a prism that captures the past and future, the need for relational care in the prevention and healing from birth trauma, and the limitations of a purely medical approach to birth. Helena emphasizes the importance of holding a lifespan perspective and integrating somatic and psychodynamic approaches in supporting clients.
Keywords
birth trauma, female body, relational care, healing, lifespan perspective, somatic psychotherapy, psychodynamic approach
Takeaways
Birth is a transformative event that holds meaning for the individual both before and after it occurs.Relational care is essential in the prevention and healing from birth trauma. Relational care provides support, understanding, and validation that is not available technology alone.A purely medical approach to birth overlooks the importance of the relationship between the birthing person and their body, emotions, and experiences.A lifespan perspective is crucial in understanding the impact of birth trauma and the ongoing journey of healing and transformation.Integrating somatic and psychodynamic approaches can support clients in reconnecting with their bodies and navigating the complexities of the perinatal transition.Sound Bites
"Birth is never just that one moment. It captures so much of what has gone before in your whole life.""We cannot bypass the need for relational care that humans have. It's a defining feature of being human."Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction
01:43 Quote by Rosemary Balsam
08:28 The Importance of Relational Care in Birth
17:51 Challenging the Medical Approach to Birth
28:22 The Dilemma of Western Medicine
38:06 Healing and Reconnecting with the Body
50:17 The Prism of Healing and Transformation
On the Resilient Birth podcast, Justine and Sarah explore the impact of trauma across the perinatal period, from trying-to-conceive to pregnancy, from childbirth to postpartum and parenting. Through an inspirational quote that drives our weekly conversations about trauma and healing, Justine and Sarah explore topics such as birth trauma, parenting as a survivor, and finding healing with vulnerability and compassion that support birthing people and birth professionals.
Each week, listeners leave with takeaways to utilize in their lives and/or clients. Justine and Sarah hold the stories they share with honor and respect with the hope to impart knowledge, increase understanding, and bear witness to this challenging topic.
Sarah is a licensed mental health counselor, educator, and mom of three. She walks with a story of trauma from before and as a result of her perinatal experience.
Justine supports survivors of trauma through perinatal coaching and childbirth education. As well as being a mother of three, she holds a Ph.D. on representations of consent and sexual violence.
Learn more about Sarah and Justine's course called Trauma Informed Fundamentals here: https://resilient-birth.mykajabi.com/traumainformedfundamentals
Helena Vissing, PsyD, SEP, PMH-C, is a licensed psychologist practicing trauma-informed somatic psychotherapy in North California. She is certified in Perinatal Mental Health and specializes in working with expecting and new parents. She is Associate Professor in the somatic program at the California Institute of Integral Studies. Before joining CIIS, Helena taught at several graduate institutions, including Reiss-Davis Graduate School, Antioch University, and The Chicago School of Professional Psychology. Her areas of specialization include developmental psychology, perinatal mental health, and integrating psychodynamic and somatic modalities in trauma treatment. Helena also has extensive experience providing advanced level training of providers in perinatal mental health. She has published book chapters and articles on the topic of the psychology of mothering and its somatic aspects and is the author of Somatic Maternal Healing. Psychodynamic and Somatic Trauma Treatment for Perinatal Mental Health; a biopsychosocial framework for integrating and adapting a somatic approach to make perinatal mental health not only trauma informed, but also trauma responsive. She is one of the hosts of the podcast channel New Books in Psychoanalysis and is on the editorial board of the International Body Psychotherapy Journal.
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In this conversation, Sarah and Justine discuss the impact of trauma on our sense of time and how the past can erupt into the present or shift our perception of what is about to happen in the future. Justine shares a quote from the book Trauma and Human Existence by Robert D. Storolow. She was reminded of this quote, in particular his words, “Trauma destroys time,” after a recent personal experience of reacting unexpectedly and dramatically to a trigger resulting from an experience with her baby she did not originally categorize as a trauma. Sarah and Justine emphasize the importance of seeking support and understanding in navigating the effects of trauma particularly when parenting. The conversation highlights the power of trusted relationships and creating safe spaces for healing so that we can be present with ourselves and our children.
Keywords
Trauma and temporality, unexpected triggers, fragmentation along time, healing, creating safe spaces
Takeaways
Trauma can disrupt our sense of time and bring past experiences into the present moment.Triggers can unexpectedly bring us back to traumatic events, even if we don't categorize them as traumas.Seeking support and understanding is crucial in navigating the effects of trauma.Creating safe spaces and trusted relationships can help in healing and bringing fragmented parts of ourselves back together.Sound Bites
"Trauma destroys time.""The world feels more tender and vulnerable when you're a parent.""Our body can sometimes feel like it's never in that calm state."Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Quote
08:02 The Impact of Trauma on Our Sense of Time
15:27 Triggers: Unexpectedly Reliving Traumatic Experiences
25:21 The Importance of Seeking Support in Navigating Trauma
27:15 Creating Safe Spaces for Healing and Integration
38:27 Conclusion and Takeaways
On the Resilient Birth podcast, Justine and Sarah explore the impact of trauma across the perinatal period, from trying-to-conceive to pregnancy, from childbirth to postpartum and parenting. Through an inspirational quote that drives our weekly conversations about trauma and healing, Justine and Sarah explore topics such as birth trauma, parenting as a survivor, and finding healing with vulnerability and compassion that support birthing people and birth professionals.
Each week, listeners leave with takeaways to utilize in their lives and/or clients. Justine and Sarah hold the stories they share with honor and respect with the hope to impart knowledge, increase understanding, and bear witness to this challenging topic.
Sarah is a licensed mental health counselor, educator, and mom of three. She walks with a story of trauma from before and as a result of her perinatal experience.
Justine supports survivors of trauma through perinatal coaching and childbirth education. As well as being a mother of three, she holds a Ph.D. on representations of consent and sexual violence.
Learn more about Sarah and Justine's course called Trauma Informed Fundamentals here: https://resilient-birth.mykajabi.com/traumainformedfundamentals
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In this episode, Justine and Sarah are joined by Marissa Hathaway, a certified birth and postpartum doula. They discuss the harmful impact of 'at least' statements and how they can be invalidating to individuals who have experienced trauma or infertility. Marissa shares her personal journey of going through IVF and the challenges she faced as a doula supporting families while navigating her own miscarriage and infertility journey. They also discuss the importance of recognizing and honoring each person's unique story and the need for more support and understanding in the perinatal field.
Keywords
birth, postpartum, doula, trauma, infertility, IVF, ‘at least’ statements, miscarriage reproductive health
Takeaways
The harmful impact of 'at least' statements and how they can be invalidatingThe challenges faced by individuals who have experienced trauma or infertility while supporting others in the perinatal fieldThe importance of recognizing and honoring each person's unique storyChapters
00:00 Introduction and Welcome
03:30 The Harmful Impact of 'At Least' Statements
11:17 Supporting Others While Navigating Personal Trauma
15:01 Navigating Reproductive Health Challenges as a Doula
26:45 Recognizing and Honoring Each Person's Unique Story
34:56 Conclusion and Takeaways
On the Resilient Birth podcast, Justine and Sarah explore the impact of trauma across the perinatal period, from trying-to-conceive to pregnancy, from childbirth to postpartum and parenting. Through an inspirational quote that drives our weekly conversations about trauma and healing, Justine and Sarah explore topics such as birth trauma, parenting as a survivor, and finding healing with vulnerability and compassion that support birthing people and birth professionals.
Each week, listeners leave with takeaways to utilize in their lives and/or clients. Justine and Sarah hold the stories they share with honor and respect with the hope to impart knowledge, increase understanding, and bear witness to this challenging topic.
Sarah is a licensed mental health counselor, educator, and mom of three. She walks with a story of trauma from before and as a result of her perinatal experience.
Justine supports survivors of trauma through perinatal coaching and childbirth education. As well as being a mother of three, she holds a Ph.D. on representations of consent and sexual violence.
Learn more about Sarah and Justine's course called Trauma Informed Fundamentals here: https://resilient-birth.mykajabi.com/traumainformedfundamentals
Marissa Hathaway is a full spectrum doula (certified in birth and postpartum), Childbirth Educator, and photographer. She came to doula through starting her career in global maternal health, human rights, and reproductive justice. She is dedicated to reducing maternal health inequities via intersectional collaboration and cultural humility. After studying Public Health & International Relations at Boston University, she attended the University of Haifa, in Israel, for her Masters in Public Health. Marissa has experience in rape crisis counseling, family planning/contraception counseling, and refugee health. Marissa’s approach to supporting families is centered around: embodied consent and informed decision-making; support for partners; and mental health and wellbeing
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In this episode, Justine and Sarah are joined by Mara Tesler-Stein, a clinical psychologist and founder of the Touchstone Institute for Psychotherapy and Training. We talk about EMDR for the perinatal population, the impact on Mara's own perinatal journey as the parent of preemie twins on her professional career, and the experience of having a baby in the NICU.
Summary
Mara begins by sharing the Talmudic quote: “Someone who saves a single life is considered as if they have saved an entire world.” The conversation then delves into the topic of EMDR therapy and its benefits for the perinatal population. Mara explains that EMDR is a trauma-focused therapy that helps individuals process and integrate traumatic experiences. Mara shares her story including her perinatal journey of preterm labor, extended hospital stay and preemie twins. We explore what it is like for parents who have had to navigate life with a baby in the NICU and the emotional aftermath of that. The conversation explores the three core tasks that parents face in and after a perinatal crisis: developing parental identity for the baby, managing emotions, and managing relationships. Mara share that he loss of innocence and loss of peer group are significant challenges that parents face in the aftermath of a perinatal crisis, but also reassures that with window for attachment stretches well beyond the hour or hours after birth.
Keywords
EMDR therapy, perinatal mental health, birth trauma, NICU, early development, attachment, perinatal crisis, parental identity, healthcare providers,
Takeaways
EMDR therapy is a trauma-focused therapy that helps individuals process and integrate traumatic experiences.Trauma in the perinatal period, including the trauma of a NICU experience, can have long-term impacts on individuals and their families.Parents face three core tasks in and after a perinatal crisis: developing parental identity, managing emotions, and managing relationships.Perinatal crises are transformative and can lead to a shift in identity and perspective for parents.The loss of innocence and loss of peer group are significant challenges that parents face in the aftermath of a perinatal crisis.Healthcare providers can understand their role as both the hosts of and guests within families in their care, making space for parents to fulfill their role as parents.Sound Bites
"Someone who saves a single life is considered as if they have saved an entire world.""The healing is already there. My job as the therapist is to help that internal healing mobilize.""The brain's very efficient when it's not being blocked.""Perinatal crises are transformative ""Parents of preemies are different parents"Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Quote
03:02 Understanding EMDR Therapy
06:01 The Power of Healing and Growth
10:06 The Impact of Trauma in the Perinatal Period
14:01 Navigating Medical Settings After NICU Trauma
15:40 Mara Shares Her Personal and Professional Story
24:56 The Three Core Tasks in a Perinatal Crisis
27:54 Challenges of Loss of Innocence and Peer Group
29:42 Navigating Relationships in a Perinatal Crisis
36:01 The Role of Healthcare Providers in Supporting Parents
40:03 The Importance of Acknowledging Parents' Input and Desires
On the Resilient Birth podcast, Justine and Sarah explore the impact of trauma across the perinatal period, from trying-to-conceive to pregnancy, from childbirth to postpartum and parenting. Through an inspirational quote that drives our weekly conversations about trauma and healing, Justine and Sarah explore topics such as birth trauma, parenting as a survivor, and finding healing with vulnerability and compassion that support birthing people and birth professionals.
Each week, listeners leave with takeaways to utilize in their lives and/or clients. Justine and Sarah hold the stories they share with honor and respect with the hope to impart knowledge, increase understanding, and bear witness to this challenging topic.
Sarah is a licensed mental health counselor, educator, and mom of three. She walks with a story of trauma from before and as a result of her perinatal experience.
Justine supports survivors of trauma through perinatal coaching and childbirth education. As well as being a mother of three, she holds a Ph.D. on representations of consent and sexual violence.
Learn more about Sarah and Justine's course called Trauma Informed Fundamentals here: https://resilient-birth.mykajabi.com/traumainformedfundamentals
Mara Tesler Stein, Psy.D., PMH-C is a clinical psychologist and EMDR consultant and trainer in Chicago and Jerusalem. She is the founder and director of The Touchstone Institute for Perinatal
Training where she offers both foundational and advanced EMDR trainings which take deep
dives into the intersections and applications of EMDR and perinatal mental health.
Dr. Stein is a staunch advocate for trauma-focused care and is trained and certified in a range of
integrative trauma therapies. Dr. Stein is also certified in Emotion-Focused Family and Couple
Therapy, Brainspotting, is a Gottman Certified Therapist, and continues to deepen her training in
Clinical Hypnosis, Yoga-Informed treatment, Advanced applications of EMDR, and Ego-State
therapies.She is the co-author (with Deborah Davis, Ph.D.) of Parenting Your Premature Baby and Child:
The Emotional Journey (Fulcrum, 2004) and Intensive Parenting: Surviving the Journey
Through the NICU (Fulcrum, 2013). She has also contributed book chapters in the areas of
perinatal loss, EMDR treatment, and trauma focused psychological care for NICU families.
Her trauma work is grounded in her personal perinatal journey, which began 28 years ago taking
her through infertility, twin pregnancy, prolonged hospital bedrest, the NICU, and years of
raising NICU graduates.You can find her at www.touchstoneinstitute.org and at [email protected].
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We welcome Jana Glass, a Licensed Professional Counselor certified in Brainspotting, Addictions, and Perinatal Mental health, to the podcast this week. In this conversation we explore what it means for therapy to be truly client led and how can therapists support parents who have experienced perinatal trauma to find and trust in their brain's own capacity to heal.
Summary
Jana begins our conversation by sharing a quote that embodies her approach to therapy, which focuses on empowering clients to heal and be present in the moment. She discusses the importance of centering the client as the expert in their own experience and using brainspotting to process trauma. Jana also addresses the challenges of working within systems and offers advice for clinicians on navigating boundaries and providing client-centered care. In this conversation, Jana emphasizes the importance of not making assumptions and allowing clients to lead their own healing journey. She shares a powerful example of a client who chose her as a therapist because she didn't assume the meaning of her pregnancy. Jana highlights the significance of creating a safe space for clients to express their thoughts and feelings without judgment. She discusses the power of asking questions and letting clients find their own answers, as well as the importance of therapists doing their own therapeutic work. Jana believes that healing is achievable for anyone and that therapists should support clients in finding their own path to healing.
Keywords: Jana Glass, brainspotting, perinatal mental health, trauma therapy, client-centered care, assumptions, client-led healing, safe space, asking questions, therapeutic work, healing journey
Takeaways
Clients are the experts on themselves and have everything they need inside of them to heal and be present in the moment.Trauma therapy involves helping clients access and process unprocessed material in their subcortical brain, allowing them to integrate past experiences and feel more grounded in the present.Clinicians can navigate the challenges of working within systems by maintaining a duality, following ethical guidelines while also prioritizing client-centered care.Brainspotting is a powerful brain and body-based approach that uses fixed eye positions to access and process trauma.The role of the therapist is to provide a safe and compassionate space for clients to explore their experiences and guide them in their healing journey. Don't make assumptions about what events mean to clients, especially in a professional setting.Allow clients to lead their own healing journey and support them in finding their own answers.Create a safe space for clients to express their thoughts and feelings without judgment.Therapists should do their own therapeutic work to be present, grounded, and attuned with their clients.Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Background of Jana Glass
02:35 Empowering Clients to Heal and Be Present
06:16 Recognizing Unmet Needs and Providing Support
11:25 Accessing and Processing Trauma with Brain Spotting
19:54 Navigating Boundaries and Providing Client-Centered Care
25:46 Working Within Systems and Prioritizing Client Needs
28:09 The Power of Not Making Assumptions
34:14 Creating a Safe Space for Authentic Expression
45:02 Therapists Doing Their Own Therapeutic Work
46:53 Healing is Achievable for Anyone
On the Resilient Birth podcast, Justine and Sarah explore the impact of trauma across the perinatal period, from trying-to-conceive to pregnancy, from childbirth to postpartum and parenting. Through an inspirational quote that drives our weekly conversations about trauma and healing, Justine and Sarah explore topics such as birth trauma, parenting as a survivor, and finding healing with vulnerability and compassion that support birthing people and birth professionals.
Each week, listeners leave with takeaways to utilize in their lives and/or clients. Justine and Sarah hold the stories they share with honor and respect with the hope to impart knowledge, increase understanding, and bear witness to this challenging topic.
Sarah is a licensed mental health counselor, educator, and mom of three. She walks with a story of trauma from before and as a result of her perinatal experience.
Justine supports survivors of trauma through perinatal coaching and childbirth education. As well as being a mother of three, she holds a Ph.D. on representations of consent and sexual violence.
Learn more about Sarah and Justine's course called Trauma Informed Fundamentals here: https://resilient-birth.mykajabi.com/traumainformedfundamentals
Jana Glass is a Licensed Professional Counselor certified in Brainspotting, Addictions, Perinatal Mental health, and Telemental health. She works with a wide spectrum of clients and her special interests include healing trauma, supporting people with substance use challenges, and prioritizing perinatal mental health and trauma. Jana is in private practice in Atlanta, Georgia and individuals and Families find relief and feel better. She provides individual and group consultation as a certified brainspotting consultant and trainer. Jana educates professionals in a variety of topics including neurobiological approaches to trauma, Brainspotting Phase one and Phase two, Supporting Birthgivers with substance use during the perinatal period, and Connecting the rainbow: Healing perinatal trauma. Jana is passionate about helping to foster hope when faced with situations that appear hopeless.
Connect with Jana at www.supportivesolutionsga.com or facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SupportiveSolutionsGA, or Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rainbowconnector3?igsh=cmgzcWR0eG10bDIx&utm_source=qr, and professionals interested in Perinatal Mental Health and Trauma can join the Brainspotting and Perinatal Mental Health Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/share/1SLgKtfGfeyoDXwZ/?mibextid=K35XfP
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This week, Liz Gray, LCSW, RPT, shares her birth story in which she explores the complex feelings she has about the OB at her birth, who provided physically good medical care but whose language and attitude was extremely harmful. Her story includes navigating a lack of trauma-informed care during infertility treatment, a birth center to hospital birth transfer, an unplanned a cesarean birth, and a misdiagnosis of "failure to thrive" for her baby by her first pediatrician. A thread that weaves throughout her story is the impact of our words and how not being trauma-informed can add layers of trauma to what are already challenging prenatal, childbirth, and postpartum experiences, especially for survivors of trauma.
To start our conversation, Liz shares the words of Kayleigh Summers, LCSW, PMH-C, from her Instagram (@thebirthtrauma_mama), who is also host of The Birth Trauma Mama Podcast.
On the Resilient Birth podcast, Justine and Sarah explore the impact of trauma in the perinatal period. Through an inspirational quote that drives the weekly content, Justine and Sarah explore various trauma areas with vulnerability and compassion that support birthing people and birth professionals.
Each week, listeners leave with takeaways to utilize in their lives and/or clients. Justine and Sarah hold the stories they share with honor and respect with the hope to impart knowledge, increase understanding, and bear witness to this challenging topic.
Sarah is a licensed mental health counselor, educator, and mom of three. She walks with a story of trauma from before and as a result of her perinatal experience.
Justine supports survivors of trauma through perinatal coaching and childbirth education. As well as being a mother of three, she holds a Ph.D. on representations of consent and sexual violence.
Learn more about Sarah and Justine's course called Trauma Informed Fundamentals here: https://resilient-birth.mykajabi.com/traumainformedfundamentals
Liz Gray, LCSW, RPT is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Registered Play Therapist, and certified EMDR therapist in Illinois. She is a Highly Sensitive Person, wife, human & goldendoodle momma, organizer, forever learner, quiet leader, social introvert, think-outside-the-box creator, trauma survivor, and infertility warrier. Liz is the proud co-founder of the Trauma-Informed Maternal Health Directory, an online directory that connects women in all phases of trying to conceive, infertility, pregnancy, birth & early parenthood to trauma-informed health and mental health providers.
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In this episode, Sarah brings in a quote from Simone Biles in her documentary "Rising." Join us as we find deep connections between Simone's words and the weight of expectations around the identity of motherhood and the narratives that bear down upon women's bodies. We find inspiration in Simone's story and how she said refused to perform for others when that would not be safe for herself.
On the Resilient Birth podcast, Justine and Sarah explore the impact of trauma in the perinatal period. Through an inspirational quote that drives the weekly content, Justine and Sarah explore various trauma areas with vulnerability and compassion that support birthing people and birth professionals.
Each week, listeners leave with takeaways to utilize in their lives and/or clients. Justine and Sarah hold the stories they share with honor and respect with the hope to impart knowledge, increase understanding, and bear witness to this challenging topic.
Sarah is a licensed mental health counselor, educator, and mom of three. She walks with a story of trauma from before and as a result of her perinatal experience.
Justine supports survivors of trauma through perinatal coaching and childbirth education. As well as being a mother of three, she holds a Ph.D. on representations of consent and sexual violence.
Learn more about Sarah and Justine's course called Trauma Informed Fundamentals here: https://resilient-birth.mykajabi.com/traumainformedfundamentals
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In this episode, we are joined by Kate White, who talks intimately about integrating implicit memories and her experience supporting mothers and babies through trauma-informed somatic healing approaches. She starts our conversation, which explores what healing from perinatal trauma can look like when we take into account the baby's experience of birth and what is happening in the relationship between parent and infant, by quoting her mentors John and Anna Chitty.
On the Resilient Birth podcast, Justine and Sarah explore the impact of trauma in the perinatal period. Through an inspirational quote that drives the weekly content, Justine and Sarah explore various trauma areas with vulnerability and compassion that support birthing people and birth professionals.
Each week, listeners leave with takeaways to utilize in their lives and/or clients. Justine and Sarah hold the stories they share with honor and respect with the hope to impart knowledge, increase understanding, and bear witness to this challenging topic.
Sarah is a licensed mental health counselor, educator, and mom of three. She walks with a story of trauma from before and as a result of her perinatal experience.
Justine supports survivors of trauma through perinatal coaching and childbirth education. As well as being a mother of three, she holds a Ph.D. on representations of consent and sexual violence.
Kate White is an award-winning educator and an advanced bodyworker. She is trained in somatic therapies, prenatal and perinatal somatic health, lactation, brain development, infant mental health, and has specialized in parent-baby dyad care using somatic prevention and trauma healing approaches for nearly 25 years. She is a mother of two children, holds a BA and MA in Communication, is a Registered Craniosacral Therapist in the Biodynamic Craniosacral method and a Somatic Experiencing® Practitioner. Her work combines somatic trauma healing, energetic therapies, bodywork, pediatric therapies and education about the nervous system to help give families with babies and small children the best possible start. She is Founding Director of Education for the Association for Prenatal and Perinatal Psychology and Health where from 2013 – 2019 she created and ran the Prenatal and Perinatal Educator Certificate program, a large online educational program for professionals. She went on to found Prenatal and Perinatal Healing Online and the Prenatal and Perinatal Somatics Institute. She teaches classes online and in person, and offers a professional training called Integrated Prenatal and Perinatal Dynamics. She has a private practice in Charlottesville, VA called Belvedere Integrated Healing Arts (belvederearts.com) and offers her own seminars through the Center for Prenatal and Perinatal Programs, ppncenter.com
Learn more about Sarah and Justine's course called Trauma Informed Fundamentals here: https://resilient-birth.mykajabi.com/traumainformedfundamentals
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