In this conversation, we speak with Alex Steric, a licensed clinical social worker specializing in perinatal mental health. We discuss Alex's journey into private practice, her focus on postpartum mental health, and the therapeutic technique of brain spotting. Alex shares insights on birth trauma, the importance of recognizing dual experiences in motherhood, and the challenges therapists face with countertransference. We also explore the nuances of referring clients to specialists, assessing postpartum mental health, and the importance of supporting fellow therapists in their practice. Alex emphasizes the need to overcome gatekeeping in private practice and offers practical advice on marketing, networking, and setting fees for therapy services.

https://alexstericlcsw.com/

@thriveafterbabywithalex

@alexstericlcsw

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Postpartum Therapy

04:35 Understanding Brain Spotting

07:45 The Process of Brain Spotting

10:41 Exploring Birth Trauma

13:40 The Impact of Birth Trauma on Mothers

16:36 Misconceptions in Postpartum Care

19:31 Countertransference in Therapy

22:38 Self-Care for Therapists

25:34 When to Refer to a Specialist

26:53 Navigating Perinatal Mental Health Specialties

30:38 Assessment Tools for Postpartum Challenges

34:08 Referrals and Finding the Right Fit

35:10 The Impact of Untreated Birth Trauma

37:42 Supporting Therapists: Supervision and Coaching

40:43 Debunking Myths in Private Practice

42:04 Building a Client Base: Marketing and Networking

45:40 Setting Fees for Therapy Services

48:58 Future Aspirations: Hiring Associates