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