A traumatic birth can happen to anyone, and it’s much more common than we might think. Today’s show focuses on birth trauma, what it looks like, and how the healing journey can positively reshape someone’s parenting experience. There is help! Join us to learn more!

Dr. Maya Weir is a clinical psychologist who specializes in birth trauma and the emotional transitions of early parenthood. Inspired by her own experience of becoming a parent, she understands how profound, overwhelming, and transformative this stage of life can be. Dr. Weir supports parents in making sense of their journey, healing from birth trauma, and cultivating grounded, connected ways to move forward. She offers short-term therapy for individuals and couples who are processing birth trauma, along with longer-term support for parents navigating the challenges of early parenthood. Based in Napa, CA, Dr. Weir provides virtual therapy throughout CA.

Show Highlights:

Birth trauma: an explanation and examples

Many people go through birth trauma and don’t realize it until later.

Invalidation compounds the original trauma.

Common symptoms of birth trauma: triggering memories, anxiety, and relationship issues

Strategies used to address birth trauma focus on somatic techniques.

Expected results of therapy for birth trauma

Understanding the intersection of different types of trauma

Therapy for birth trauma addresses feelings of guilt, blame, and failure.

Huge issues remain in the birthing system regarding how mothers are treated and spoken to in the sacred moments of childbirth.

A partner can feel shame for “not showing up” to prevent birth trauma. (Partners can greatly benefit from therapy, too!)

Recognizing generational shifts in parenting today

Key takeaways from Dr. Weir: “Healing is possible, your birth story deserves space, and you deserve to feel better and have access to parenting resources.”

Resources: 

Connect with Dr. Maya Weir

Website and Instagram

Call the National Maternal Mental Health Hotline at 1-833-TLC-MAMA or visitcdph.ca.gov.

Please find resources in English and Spanish at Postpartum Support International, or by phone/text at 1-800-944-4773. 

There are many free resources, such as online support groups, peer mentors, a specialist provider directory, and perinatal mental health training for therapists, physicians, nurses, doulas, and anyone who wants to be more supportive in their work.

You can also follow PSI on social media: Instagram, Facebook, and most other platforms.

Visit www.postpartum.net/professionals/certificate-trainings/for information on the grief course. 

Visit my website, www.wellmindperinatal.com, for more information, resources, and courses you can take today! 

If you are a California resident seeking a therapist in perinatal mental health, please email me about openings for private pay clients.

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