NICU & Medical Complications
How can a Postpartum Therapist specializing in trauma help?
Becoming a parent is a journey filled with hopes and dreams, but sometimes unexpected challenges arise. If your baby faced medical complications or a stay in the NICU, it's normal to feel overwhelmed, anxious, or traumatized.
Research indicates that many parents who have had this experience show signs of postpartum depression, and NICU post-traumatic stress disorder (NICU PTSD), and other symptoms of distress. These feelings may persist after your baby comes home, and they can have a significant impact on your functioning. A NICU PTSD trained postpartum therapist can help ensure these feelings do not worsen making it even more difficult to care for your baby.
I specialize in providing support for parents who have a child facing a medical complication or who have experienced a NICU stay. I understand the emotional toll these experiences can take, and I can provide you with the opportunity to process your feelings and concerns.
I offer evidence-based therapies, such as CBT and EMDR to help you develop coping strategies, manage anxiety, and work through any unresolved trauma. I can help guide you towards healing and recovery from NICU Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, so you can find joy in your parenting journey.
PTSD from NICU stays in common. Reach out today for an appointment. Together, we can navigate the complexities of your postpartum experience and help you find strength, resilience, and hope for the future.
As a Postpartum Therapist in California, I offer many services utilizing evidence-based treatments. Some services at Shameless Mama Wellness include treatment for postpartum depression and postpartum anxiety, birth trauma therapy, therapy for miscarriage and loss, pregnancy therapy and treatment for NICU PTSD.
Online therapy available to new moms in California.
I provide a safe haven to discuss the thoughts you keep hidden.
Attachment with your baby while they are in the NICU is crucial for their overall development and well-being. Attachment helps you and your baby create a strong emotional bond, which is essential for their future relationships and social interactions. Every baby and family is unique, and the attachment process may vary. While it may be more challenging to form an attachment, it is possible with the right strategies. Be patient, understanding, and flexible in your approach, and trust your instincts as a parent.
Reasons why attachment is important
Emotional support: The NICU environment can be overwhelming and stressful for both you and your baby. Attachment provides emotional support for your baby, helping them feel secure and loved which will help reduce stress and promote healthy development.
Brain development: Research shows that secure attachment can have a significant impact on your baby's brain development. It helps in the formation of neural connections and promotes healthy cognitive and emotional development.
Physical wellbeing: Attachment has been linked to improved physiological outcomes in NICU babies. It can help regulate the baby's heart rate, breathing patterns, and overall physiological stability, leading to better health outcomes.
Parental confidence: Building a strong attachment with your baby will help you feel more confident in your caregiving abilities. It allows you to understand and respond to your baby's cues and needs, which can be particularly challenging in the NICU setting
Strategies for building attachment
Kangaroo care: Skin-to-skin contact, also known as kangaroo care, is highly beneficial for attachment. It involves holding the baby against the parent's bare chest, promoting physical closeness and bonding.
Touch and talk: Regularly touch and talk to your baby while they are in the NICU. When contact is possible, gently stroke their skin, hold their hands and head, and talk to them in a soothing voice. This helps the baby recognize your touch and voice, promoting attachment.
Eye contact: Make eye contact with your baby if possible. This helps your baby to recognize and bond with you.
Participate in care routines: Whenever permitted by the NICU staff, actively participate in your baby's care routines. Participating in feeding, diaper changes, and bathing will provide opportunities for attachment.
Seek support: Seeking support from professionals can provide guidance and emotional support during this time.
“You never know how strong you are until being strong is your only choice.”
— Bob Marley