Navigating Early Motherhood: A Postpartum Survival Guide

by Jess VanderWier, MA, RP | Apr 23, 2018 | Parent

1. Be kind to yourself2. Eat one healthy meal a day3. Connect with another adult4. Limit your “Google” time5. Choose sleep6. Ask for help7. Know the signs of mental health issues  You have been waiting 9 long months to have your sweet baby. During pregnancy, you...

10 Supportive Questions To Ask A New Mom To Offer Meaningful Help

by Jess VanderWier, MA, RP | Mar 24, 2018 | Parent

10 Questions to Ask a New Mom3 Questions to Avoid Asking a New MomIs someone you know struggling to enjoy the first years of parenthood?  10 Questions to Ask a New Mom Did you sleep last night? Can I watch the baby while you nap? What is your favourite meal that I can...

Postpartum Depression and Anxiety: A Therapist’s Advice For New Moms

by Jess VanderWier, MA, RP | Jan 19, 2018 | Parent

1. What are common warning signs of either PPD/PPA?2. What is one thing (or more) that you want mom’s with PPD or PPA to know?3. What would you suggest to pregnant mothers to help them prepare for the challenges that come with being a new mom?4. What are a few...

Manage Holiday Anxiety: Learn The 3-4-5 Breathing Method

by Jess VanderWier, MA, RP | Dec 1, 2017 | Parent

Use the 3-4-5 Method to Stay CalmYour Body and Mind Are ConnectedThis Will Calm You in 12 SecondsFinal Thoughts It’s the most wonderful time of the year!! We know that although this is an amazing season filled with love, it can also be an incredibly difficult...

3 Tips To Model Healthy Communication For Your Child

by Jess VanderWier, MA, RP | Nov 8, 2017 | Parent

In order to build healthy, meaningful relationships with those around us, we need to understand how to communicate effectively with others. Throughout most elementary and high school curriculums, students are taught many necessary and important subjects like math,...

7 Steps For Opening Up About Your Mental Health with Loved Ones

by Jess VanderWier, MA, RP | Oct 23, 2017 | Parent

Decide who you want to tellPrepare your listener for the conversationDefine what your struggle means to youTell your loved one how they can support youSet boundariesProvide resourcesPractice, practice, practiceFinal Thoughts Telling your loved one about your mental...