Episódios

  • Paige Bellenbaum, LCSW
    Founding Director and Chief External Relations Officer

    Paige Bellenbaum, LCSW is the Founding Director and Chief External Relations Officer at The Motherhood Center of New York. Paige attended UCLA as an undergraduate and received her MSW from the Columbia School of Social Work. For 20 years, Paige worked in the non-profit sector, holding senior leadership positions at Hamilton Family Center in San Francisco and The Partnership for the Homeless, Habitat for Humanity, and Settlement Housing Fund in New York. She has worked in the field of public policy, advocacy, and community organizing working with various disadvantaged populations including homeless families and incarcerated young adults, and has held several appointed and elected political positions including the District Leader of Brooklyn’s 52nd Assembly District.

    After her first child was born, Paige suffered from severe postpartum depression and anxiety that nearly ended her life. However, once she began to heal, she became committed to fighting for education, screening, and treatment for postpartum depression so that no more women would have to suffer silently. As a result, she drafted legislation in New York State championed by Senator Liz Krueger, mandating hospitals to provide education on PMADs and strongly encouraging screening of all new and expecting mothers, signed into law in 2014. Since then, Paige has been an outspoken maternal mental health advocate and clinician and uses her story as a tool for change.

    She currently works closely with the NYPD on maternal mental health initiatives, DOHMH’s Maternal Hospital Quality Improvement Network, and the Nurse Family Partnership and sits on the NYC Maternal Mortality and Morbidity Review Committee and the NYS Maternal Mental Health Working Group. She has appeared on the Today Show, Good Morning America, NPR, PBS Newshour, Fortune, The New York Times, and The Wall Street Journal.”

    The Motherhood Center of New York is a comprehensive treatment center for new and expecting mothers/birthing parents experiencing prenatal and postpartum depression, postpartum anxiety, and postpartum psychosis. Our services include our one-of-a-kind Perinatal Day Program, therapy, medication management, and support groups. The Motherhood Center also provides training and educational events for healthcare providers and parents.

    To learn more about The Motherhood Center, visit our website for parents or for providers. If you want to learn more about The Motherhood Center’s treatment services, complete a new patient inquiry form here or speak with one of our Care Coordinators at 212-334-0035. Follow The Motherhood Center on Instagram @themotherhoodcenter to stay up-to-date on all things maternal mental health.”

    The Motherhood Center - Postpartum Depression Treatment

    Contact Us | Postpartum Support International (PSI)

    National Maternal Mental Health Hotline
    1-833-TLC-MAMA (1-833-852-6262)

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  • This week, Sarah goes back to a fan favorite episode for Maternal Mental Health Month, Depression During Pregnancy. You know about postpartum depression, but do you know about depression that occurs during pregnancy? Listen in as Sarah and Whitney talk about the risk factors, what depression during pregnancy looks like, and how to advocate for yourself.

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  • Imagine being trapped on a never-ending roller coaster of nausea and vomiting while trying to cherish the miracle of pregnancy. That's the reality for those battling Hyperemesis Gravidarum (HG), a condition that our guest, Andrea Stefens, tackled not once, but twice. Andrea, a dedicated therapist and hyperemesis coach, joins us to unravel her personal fight against this incapacitating condition. Through hospital stays, invasive treatments, and the challenge of maintaining family life amidst her health battles. Join us as Andrea takes us through the psychological aftermath of her grueling experience with HG.

    About Andrea Stefens:

    Andrea Stefens is a proud hyperemesis coach. She’s two-time HG survivor who uses her experience with HG and what she’s learned in over 12 years of being a practicing creative arts therapist to coach women through HG and processing the experience afterwards. Her masters thesis at NYU (2012) was focused on the efficacy of using creative arts therapy interventions with women who had suffered from traumatic pregnancy experiences. Her passion is sharing coping skills, support, information, and lessons in self-advocacy with these women and their families during what can be one of the most difficult experiences in their lives.

    Connect with Andrea

    https://www.hyperemesiscoach.com
    [email protected]
    Hyperemesis Coach (@hyperemesis_coach) • Instagram photos and videos




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  • This episode peels back the curtain on the social media highlight reel, urging a return to authenticity in how we celebrate our mothers and ourselves. We discuss how crucial it is to communicate our needs and desires with our partners and how to avoid the potential emotional pitfalls of Mother's Day. By offering strategies and emphasizing the value of support systems, we hope to provide understanding and solidarity for anyone who might find Mother's Day to be a challenging time.

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  • In this episode, Kristina Dunley bravely shares her harrowing encounter with postpartum psychosis. Her story is a sobering reminder that every mother's postpartum journey deserves to be met with the highest level of care and compassion. We hope this episode helps foster a culture of openness and understanding, ensuring mothers everywhere receive the support they so deeply need.

    More About Kristina!

    Kristina Dulaney RN, PMH-CPostpartum Psychosis SurvivorFounder/Executive Director, Cherished MomsFounder PPP Awareness Day2024 award recipient of Maternal Mental Health Hero for the Policy Center of Maternal Mental health

    Follow Kristina on her Socials!

    PPP Awareness DayPPP Awareness Day (@pppawarenessday) • Instagram photos and videosFacebookCherished Mom – Helping New MomsCherished Mom (@cherishedmom) • Instagram photos and videos

    Kristina’s transformative journey through postpartum psychosis redirected her life’s mission and career trajectory. Her unwavering dedication to advocating for perinatal mental health became the cornerstone of her purpose. This pivotal experience ignited her passion to empower and support other expecting and new mothers, driving her to establish Cherished Mom, a non-profit organization committed to promoting awareness, education, and support for perinatal mood and anxiety disorders. She appeared on Dr. Phil in early 2023 to share her experience.

    As the founder and Executive Director of Cherished Mom, Kristina spearheaded the creation of PPP Awareness Day, a pivotal initiative aimed at raising awareness of postpartum psychosis as a mental health emergency. This annual event serves as a beacon of hope, shedding light on the symptoms, treatment, and the critical importance of early intervention for individuals affected by PPP. She is a Maternal Mental Health Hero 2024 recipient from the Policy Center for Maternal Mental Health.

    Drawing from her lived experience with PPP and her background as a registered nurse, Kristina leverages her expertise to empower healthcare professionals and families in identifying individuals at risk, recognizing the symptoms of PPP and other maternal mental health disorders, and ultimately improving family outcomes. Her unwavering commitment to advocacy has garnered recognition and accolades, further amplifying the impact of her work in the realm of perinatal mental wellness.

    Kristina’s journey from personal adversity to impactful advocacy is a testament to the transformative power of resilience and compassion. Her unwavering dedication to supporting perinatal mental wellness has reshaped her life and become a beacon of hope for countless individuals and families navigating similar challenges. Through her compelling story and unwavering commitment, Kristina continues to inspire and drive meaningful change in the landscape of maternal mental health advocacy.

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  • Mothers are expected to have it all together, but reality isn't always so simple. In this episode, we explore strategies for resilience and self-care that are as practical as they are empowering. Courtney Montgomery joins us to share personal tactics from her 'toolbox', like meditation and cold showers, and stresses the importance of teaching children to express their emotions honestly.

    At the heart of this episode is the simple reminder that it's not just okay to seek help, but it's a sign of strength and love. So tune in for a transformative session that speaks directly to the heart of parents everywhere, offering solace and strength in equal measure.

    More About Courtney!
    Courtney has struggled with lifelong anxiety & depression and has now dedicated her life to making people feel less alone in their struggles. Besides being a published author, Courtney has worked to build a strong sense of trust within her IG community in order for it to be a safe space for others. Outside of work and social media, Courtney likes spending time with her husband and two kids and lives in northern Virginia.


    Link to Courtney's Book: Lily's Special Toolbox

    Link to follow Courtney on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lilysanxietytoolbox/

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  • In an episode close to our hearts, we revisit the silent struggle of infertility with Alex, an advocate whose voice resonates with unwavering strength in the infertility and motherhood community. We delve into the nuances of motherhood that surface after infertility and loss, from navigating triggers and evolving relationships with our partners, to the importance of setting boundaries for self-care. Join us for an intimate episode that offers not just a beacon of hope, but a reminder that you are not alone on this path.

    About Alex Kornswiet:

    Alex is a mom of 3 boys, after years of infertility, recurrent pregnancy loss, surrogacy, and more. She speaks openly about her path to motherhood and life as a mom @ourbeautifulsurprise. Alex’s company, The Empowered Space, has a free community and customizable programs for women experiencing infertility and loss, so they can find more acceptance, joy, and connection.

    To Join Alex's free community click below:
    https://theempowered.space/communities/

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  • Dr. Dawn Boender, an OB/GYN turned reproductive behavioral health fellow, joins Sarah and Whitney to unravel the mystery of premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) and how it can turn the tides of emotion for women worldwide. From lifestyle tweaks to the potential of nutritional supplements and the transformative power of therapy, Dr. Dawn paints a vivid picture of the challenges women face when their mental well-being is intertwined with the menstrual cycle. Her compassionate advice offers solace to listeners and empowers them with knowledge and tactics to face PMDD head-on.

    About Dr. Dawn Boender:

    Dr. Dawn Boender is a fellow in the Women's Reproductive Behavioral Health Division at The Medical University of South Carolina (MUSC). Dr. Boender is a board certified OB/GYN. She attended medical school at Sanford School of Medicine in South Dakota, and completed OB/GYN residency through the University of Kansas (KU) Wichita. Her professional interests include treatment of mood and anxiety disorders that are affected by hormonal changes, including the perinatal, menstrual, and perimenopausal time periods. Outside of work she can be found spending time with her husband and four children.

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  • Sarah and Whitney are joined by Hannah Stiltner for a deep exploration into the varying faces of codependency, from the anxiously attached to the fiercely independent.

    These insights guide us through understanding the impact of codependent behaviors on self-worth and relationships, emphasizing the importance of personal accountability and setting boundaries, the significance of not rewarding negative behavior, and the value of investing in healthy, reciprocal relationships.

    Join us as we affirm the importance of personal growth and a reminder that the foundation of love and boundaries is key to nurturing the next generation.

    Hannah Stiltner is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Psychotherapist. She is a proud mom and owner of Soul Story Therapy. Hannah is a true advocate and supporter of maternal mental health.

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  • The witching hour isn't just for babies; it's a very real phenomenon for parents too. Sharing stories of this collective struggle, Sarah and Whitney discuss actionable methods like stepping outside for breath of air, taking a moment for yourself, and even discussing this struggle out loud with the family. Tune in for a powerful blend of empathy and understanding that aims to illuminate the path to mental wellness for every mom out there.

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  • In this episode, Sarah and Whitney share tales of becoming a mom, and being a source of motivation and support for other moms. Whether you're battling mental health challenges or just trying to figure out the car seat, remember that amidst the chaos of raising little humans, you're enveloped by a community ready to lift you up!

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  • In this episode, Sarah and Whitney dissect the nature of anxiety that can linger beyond the baby blues, potentially morphing into a generalized anxiety disorder that can affect everyday life. They dive into the importance of therapy, help explain the nature of intrusive thoughts, and, most importantly, help mothers realize that they're part of an ever-growing community of moms who stand united in the face of anxiety.

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  • In this heartfelt episode, Sarah and Whitney unpack the complexities of postpartum depression and baby blues. They dive deep into dissecting the causes and impact while emphasizing the important distinction between the two. Listen in as they share their own experiences with postpartum anxiety and take a look at the rise in postpartum mental illness in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic.

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  • We're all familiar with the airline safety instruction to put on our own oxygen mask before assisting others, but the truth is, for mothers, this goes against our every instinct. In this episode, Whitney and Sarah share a candid conversation about guilt and societal expectations, and the importance of self-care. If you're a mother who struggles with putting everyone before yourself, you won't want to miss this episode.

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  • Lacey returns to the podcast to share her journey since giving birth. Join us as she Lacey shares her pregnancy story and her commitment to self-improvement postpartum, from embracing the simplicity of nice pajamas to the transformative power of regular therapy sessions.

    You can follow Lacey @wearetheglittergospel on Instagram.

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  • Sarah is excited to have Occupational Therapist Courtney English join this week's podcast to discuss sensory dysregulation. Courtney shares her journey from hand therapist to pediatric occupational therapist and her struggles with postpartum anxiety. Courtney's story isn't just about her professional journey; it's a deep dive into the heart of parenting—understanding your child's needs and learning to be their emotional anchor amidst the waves of developmental challenges.

    Courtney shares strategies to engage the parasympathetic nervous system and discusses the importance of self-awareness in recognizing moments of dysregulation.

    Keep an eye out this week for other tips from Courtney through Previa Alliance!

    You can follow Courtney @courtneyenglish.ot on Instagram and @courtneyenglish.ot on TikTok.

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  • Do you ever wonder how your childhood experiences impact your relationships today? After Sarah discovered her own attachment style through a quiz recommendation from Whitney, a conversation was sparked that they just had to share with you. Together, they unravel the subtle yet powerful ways our early interactions with caregivers shape the complex tapestry of our current relationships. Journey with them as they explore the nuances of different attachment styles, and how the echoes of inconsistent parenting can ripple through our lives in everything from romantic entanglements to colleague camaraderie.

    Take the test to find out your Attachment Style(s) here: https://www.attachmentproject.com/

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  • Have you ever found yourself gripped by thoughts that seemed to come out of nowhere? Unsettling thoughts, completely at odds with who you are as a person and as a mother. You're not alone, and that's the heart of Sarah's conversation with Dr. Claire Smith, a renowned reproductive psychiatry expert. Listen in as Dr. Claire Smith sheds light on the shadowy corners of motherhood where intrusive thoughts dwell. This episode is a safe haven, dispelling myths and reaffirming that these thoughts are just that—thoughts, not indicators of your worth or love as a parent.

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  • 🎙️ Curious about the groundbreaking new postpartum depression medication? Tune in to this enlightening quick podcast where Sarah converses with reproductive psychiatrist Dr. Claire Smith. Discover our hopes for this medication and the vital message she has for you.

    Remember, no issue is too small to address during pregnancy or postpartum. Listen now and empower yourself. 💪

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  • In this episode, Lisa McCarty joins Sarah and Whitney to recount the emotional whirlwind of her own infertility. Through her story, Lisa shares a raw and powerful perspective on why listening to your body and practicing self-advocacy is essential in our healthcare system. If you're a mom who has ever felt alone on your journey or has struggled to find their voice amid the trials of infertility, this is an episode you've got to listen to.

    * Correction: According to the World Health Organization in 2021, there were just over 1,000 maternal deaths per year. And as of March 2023, over 70,000 women die each year from postpartum hemorrhage.

    Click here to learn about Lisa's Story.

    About Lisa McCarty:

    Lisa McCarty is a Writer and Women's Health Advocate for key issues such as infertility, maternal health, mental health and breast health. She is passionate about empowering women over 30 to be more informed and be their own best advocates for their health.

    Her instagram account is dedicated to providing a safe and supportive community for daily inspiration and education on women's health topics and more. Her mission is to help other women who may be struggling with their mental health, infertility, postpartum and beyond. She also writes personal essays and poetry to share her own experiences as well. You can follow her @lbmccarty717 on Instagram.

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