- How Rebecca and Jessica came into this work with motherhood and the perinatal population
- What the mother-centric therapy approach includes and why IFS therapy hits the major pain points for new mothers
- A basic overview of the Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapy model, which recognizes and approaches the different parts of a person in a non-judgmental, respectful, curious, and compassionate manner
- How someone becomes the “identified patient” is and why this person might need therapy
- Why the new mother should be viewed as more of a hero who is revered rather than merely a sick or broken patient to be diagnosed
- How perinatal mood and anxiety disorders (PMADs) should be redefined to acknowledge patriarchy and shame
- How IFS therapy and the mother-centric system focus on the shame and inner critic messages within a new mom to unburden her
- How Rebecca and Jessica look to address both the symptoms AND the shame
- A look at mother-centric therapy as a contrast to our baby-centric culture
- How Family Tree Wellness is offering training and resources for other therapists–along with an upcoming book!
Exploring Perinatal Mental Health Through a Mother-Centric Lens
In a compelling new episode of the “Mom and Mind” podcast, hosted by Dr. Kat, listeners are treated to a unique exploration of perinatal mental health with guests Rebecca Geshuri and Jessica Sorci, licensed Marriage and Family Therapists and co-founders of Family Tree Wellness in Silicon Valley. This episode delves into a fresh perspective on the transformations of motherhood, emphasizing a shift from traditional views to a mother-centric approach in mental health.
Redefining Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders
The discussion begins with an insightful look into why perinatal mood and anxiety disorders (PMADs) need a redefinition. Historically viewed through a clinical lens that often pathologizes the transition into motherhood, Rebecca and Jessica argue for a paradigm that recognizes the pressures imposed by societal norms and patriarchy. They discuss how these disorders are often compounded by shame, making it essential to address these elements to aid healing.
The Role of Internal Family Systems (IFS) in Perinatal Mental Health
A significant portion of the episode is dedicated to explaining the Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapy model. IFS is a form of psychotherapy that identifies and interacts with various sub-personalities or parts within each person. The hosts detail how IFS provides a non-judgmental, respectful, and compassionate approach, making it particularly effective for new mothers who are often harshly judged both by themselves and society.
The concept of the “identified patient” is also discussed, challenging the notion that the new mother is the problem. Instead, Rebecca and Jessica advocate seeing the new mother as a hero of her own story, deserving of admiration and support rather than diagnosis and treatment in isolation.
Mother-Centric Therapy: A Shift from Baby-Centric Models
One of the most revolutionary ideas presented in the podcast is the shift from a baby-centric to a mother-centric therapy model. The traditional focus on baby outcomes can often sideline the mother’s mental health and well-being. The mother-centric approach, however, places the mother’s experiences, challenges, and mental health at the forefront, ensuring that her needs are met with the same vigor as those of her child.
Training and Empowering Other Therapists
Rebecca and Jessica are not only practitioners but also educators. They express a passionate commitment to training other therapists in the IFS model for perinatal mental health. Their practice offers specialized training sessions that equip therapists with the skills needed to support mothers effectively. This initiative is part of a broader mission to heal intergenerational burdens and reshape how mental health is approached during the perinatal period.
Creative Expression, Spirituality, and Healing
Both therapists also bring their personal journeys into their professional lives, incorporating elements of creative expression and spirituality. This blend enriches their practice and offers a holistic approach to healing. They share personal stories of grief and growth, illustrating how these experiences inform their therapeutic approach and empathy.
Looking Ahead: Resources and a Forthcoming Book
The episode concludes with a look forward to the resources that Family Tree Wellness plans to offer, including an upcoming book. This publication aims to be a comprehensive guide to their therapeutic approach, providing readers with both theoretical and practical frameworks for understanding and applying mother-centric perinatal mental health principles.
Dr. Kat’s podcast episode with Rebecca Geshuri and Jessica Sorci is a must-listen for anyone interested in the fields of mental health, therapy, and motherhood. It provides deep insights into the transformative power of viewing perinatal challenges through a lens that respects and uplifts mothers. By redefining maternal mental health, advocating for systemic change, and offering new resources for therapists, the episode promises to inspire a shift towards more compassionate and holistic care for mothers everywhere.
Dr. Kat offers perinatal mental health psychotherapy . consultation and training for the following:
Pregnancy Loss Support
Pregnancy Anxiety
Postpartum Anxiety
Pregnancy Depression
