Holding Space (Dr. Cassidy Freitas)

What do you REALLY need to know about caring for your postpartum body?

To answer this question I invited Ruth Macy, a pelvic health physical therapist, and Courtney Naliboff, a teacher, writer, and musician, on to the podcast to talk about all things postpartum recovery and self-compassion.

Together we explore:

• The inspiration behind their book "Your Postpartum Body: The Complete Guide to Healing After Pregnancy"
• The concept of radical self-acceptance and compassion in healing after birth
• The essential needs for postpartum recovery: rest, hydration, nutrition, and support (and how to make them a priority)
• The challenges/human cost of lactation and the mental health impact of weaning
• Systemic barriers to postpartum care and practical solutions to navigate them

Learn more about Courtney and Ruth’s book here!

If you're a California parent and interested in learning more about working with Dr. Cassidy and her therapy services visit www.drcassidymft.com

If you're not a California resident and interested in starting therapy, you can learn how to find a therapist in your area by visiting https://www.drcassidymft.com/blog/how-to-find-a-therapist-like-me

In this episode I invite you to tune into my conversation with Emily Oster, professor of Economics, parenting data expert and NYT Bestselling Author. We dive deep into her latest release, "Unexpected," where she explores the often murky waters of pregnancy complications.

Together we explore:

*Understanding Pregnancy Complications: Emily shares some fascinating insights from "Unexpected," her newest book. We talk about the common threads among pregnancy complications and why it's crucial to understand why things happen during pregnancy. Hint: it's not always as straightforward as we'd like it to be.

*Dealing with Medical Gaslighting: Ever heard of medical gaslighting? It's a real thing, and it can leave you feeling dismissed and invalidated by healthcare providers. Emily and I dive into this topic and discuss the importance of feeling supported by your medical provider.

Guest Information:

• Emily Oster: You can connect with her on parentdata.org and Instagram @ProfEmilyOster.
• Preorder "Unexpected" by Emily Oster and Nathan Fox, MD here!

If you're a California parent and interested in learning more about working with Dr. Cassidy and her therapy services visit www.drcassidymft.com

If you're not a California resident and interested in starting therapy, you can learn how to find a therapist in your area by visiting https://www.drcassidymft.com/blog/how-to-find-a-therapist-like-me

AI (Artificial Intelligence) isn't going anywhere, but that didn't stop me from (at first) putting my head in the sand about it. But the truth is, it's not going anywhere and our kids are going to grow up with AI being a part of their schooling, future careers, and their life...so it was time to take my head out of the sand and learn everything I can so that I can support them too.

This episode with Audrey Wisch, founder and CEO of Curious Cardinals was not originally planned! Our original topic (episode 134) was all about supporting kids in discovering THEIR passions and connecting those passions to their relationship to school (if you haven't checked out that episode yet, you don't want to miss it!)

What I noticed though in my interactions with Audrey was how she seamlessly incorporated AI into her business model. I got curious about her use of AI, and discovered she was giving AI workshops to parents around the country. I had SO many questions, and thought you might too...and thus this episode was born!

I went into this conversation with A LOT of questions, concerns, and a general sense of overwhelm, and I left feeling empowered and even EXCITED to support my kids with ethically navigating a world in which AI exists.

To learn more about Curious Cardinals visit https://www.curiouscardinals.com/

To learn more about Dr. Cassidy's private practice visit https://www.drcassidymft.com/

In this heartfelt episode, we welcome back Dr. Jasmine, a clinical pharmacist, perinatal mental health specialist and mom to one, to discuss her journey of deciding to have only one child. Dr. Jasmine shares her personal story of battling severe postpartum depression and anxiety, the pressures and expectations from society, and how she navigated these challenges to make a decision (with support from therapy) that felt right for her and her family. We discuss the societal pressure and expectations of having more than one child as well as the stigma and stereotypes associated with only children and highlighting the joys and benefits of raising an only child. 

Resources and Links:

• Dr. Jasmine on Instagram: @pearlsofjasmine
• Dr. Jasmine’s Blog: pearlsofjasmine.com
• Dr. Jasmine’s Substack Newsletter: pearlsofjasmine.substack.com
• "Healing the Tigress" Podcast

If you're a California parent and interested in learning more about working with Dr. Cassidy and her therapy services visit www.drcassidymft.com

If you're not a California resident and interested in starting therapy, you can learn how to find a therapist in your area by visiting https://www.drcassidymft.com/blog/how-to-find-a-therapist-like-me

This one's for the cycle breakers, and in this episode we're unpacking intergenerational trauma.

Dr. Mariel Buqué, trauma-informed Psychologist and author of the book BREAK THE CYCLCE: A Guide to Healing Intergenerational Trauma breaks it down for us.

Together we explore how to recognize when generational trauma is impacting us today, identifying unhealthy patterns that get passed down in families, how trauma shows up in our bodies and our nervous systems, and steps we can take to break the cycles we're caught in that started before we were born.

You deserved someone to protect you from generational pain and break the cycle, that always remains true. Now, let's take steps to get the support you need to be the cycle breaker for yourself, your family, and the next generation.

You can learn more about Dr. Cassidy's private practice at https://www.drcassidymft.com/

I'm a recovering perfectionist, and in this episode I'm sharing my story.

Perfectionism is often rooted in Anxiety. Maybe if I do this perfect, then I'll be safe? Unfortunately, there's no shortage of messages that can keep us stuck in the cycle of striving for control through Perfection while ignoring our own needs, falling short because, well...we are HUMAN, and feeling swallowed up by the Guilt or Shame that follows. Can you relate?

I invited my friend Kaitlin Soule, LMFT (author of the upcoming book A Little Less of a Hot Mess) to hear my story and walk us through ways we can begin to stop the cycle of people-pleasing and perfectionism that so often leads to burnout and anxiety in parenting.

You can learn more from Kaitlin on her website, https://wellnotesforher.com/ and on Instagram @kaitlin.soule.

Learn more about Kaitlin's book and FREE Limiting Beliefs Checklist below!

A Little Less of a Hot Mess: The Modern Mom's Guide to Growth & Evolution

The Transform Your Limiting Beliefs Checklist

RELATED EPISODES

Defining Your Values

Mom Guilt

Bonding with Baby

Did you connect with that episode? The best way to support Holding Space podcast is to subscribe and leave a review! Podcast reviews help us reach those who need it most, and I read each and every one. To connect with Dr. Cassidy or learn more about her private practice, visit www.drcassidymft.com.

Want to know one of the most common questions I get asked from expecting parents: Can Postpartum Anxiety show up BEFORE baby is born?

Yes it totally can, and this challenging yet not discussed enough experience has its own name: PRENATAL Anxiety.

In this episode I share my conversation with Liesel Teen, Labor and Delivery Nurse and founder of Mommy Labor Nurse. Together we discuss ways you can begin to identify and address Prenatal Anxiety. She offers us many helpful and actionable tips to support you in navigating the Anxiety that may pop up during pregnancy.

To learn more about Mommy Labor Nurse and Liesel's work, visit https://mommylabornurse.com/ or visit @mommy.labornurse on Instagram. You can also hear her on The Mommy Labor Nurse Podcast and find her courses here. 

Get her FREE Birth Plan Template here!

Did you connect with that episode? The best way to support Holding Space podcast is to subscribe and leave a review! Podcast reviews help us reach those who need it most, and I read each and every one. To connect with Dr. Cassidy or learn more about her private practice, visit www.drcassidymft.com.

When you think about preparing for a new baby, what comes to mind?

The perfect registry. Check!

The finished nursery. Check!

The ideal birth plan. Check!

These are often the featured items on our checklist when we are expecting, and checking these things off our list can offer us a sense of control.

Yet, what about preparing for the more nuanced and unexpected aspects of postpartum? Like, how this huge transition can bring up some pretty big emotions...

We face a lot of conflicting and ambiguous feelings during postpartum and they can be tough to navigate. That's why I invited Nicole Makowka to help walk us through some of those unexpected, but common emotions that can come up during postpartum. Nicole is the Head of Education & Wellbeing at LOOM, a licensed marriage and family therapist, and an expert in early childhood development. In today's episode she offers us some real tangible tips that you can start taking today to help prepare you for those big feelings of postpartum.

To learn more about Loom and Nicole's work, you can visit https://loomhq.com/ or follow on Instagram at @loomhq.

Did you connect with that episode? The best way to support Holding Space podcast is to subscribe and leave a review! Podcast reviews help us reach those who need it most, and I read each and every one. To connect with Dr. Cassidy or learn more about her private practice, visit www.drcassidymft.com.

RESOURCE ALERT! This is a different kind of podcast episode. In this episode I'm highlighting a resource that I've personally found helpful in my own mindfulness/wellness journey.

We're all starting to learn how important Mindfulness is when it comes to our mental health, right? I know I talk about it often with clients, and I've talked about it's role in my own life here on the podcast. I often recommend apps like Calm and Headspace as a great starting off point, but always wished there was a resource directed to new parents.

Enter...Expectful! In this episode I share my conversation with Nathalie Walton, CEO of this mindfulness and wellness app for anyone navigating fertility, pregnancy, and postpartum.

She shares the role mindfulness had in her own pregnancy and postpartum, specifically as it relates to struggles with control, anxiety, and sleep!

To learn more about Expectful click here, and if you decide to explore this resource be sure to use code HOLDINGSPACE to try it out for $1 for the first month.

Looking to learn more about WHY and HOW mindfulness can support your mental health? Check out these past Holding Space episodes:

Mindfulness and Self-Compassion

Cultivating a New Relationship with Emotion

Did you connect with that episode? The best way to support Holding Space podcast is to subscribe and leave a review! Podcast reviews help us reach those who need it most, and I read each and every one. To connect with Dr. Cassidy or learn more about her private practice, visit www.drcassidymft.com.

For many of us our 'fur babies' hold a very special place in our heart. So much so that when we're preparing to become a parent to a human baby, sometimes we can't help but feel a little guilty, anxious, or fearful about how a newborn might change our relationship with our pets.

Maybe you're worried about how your pet will react to your baby, how your relationship with your pet will change with a baby around, or maybe you're already in the thick of postpartum and struggling with some of the big feelings coming up related to your pet. This is such a common experience for new parents, so I invited Dominika from @dogmeets_baby to come on and help us prepare for this experience.

In this episode we talk about some of the common emotions new parents feel related to their dog, like feeling triggered by your dog or feelings of anger, resentment, or guilt. Dominika offers insightful tips for new parents as they prepare for and navigate this transition with their pet. I learned so much from this episode and I hope you do, too!

You can learn more about Dominika and access her resources here and at her Instagram: @dogmeets_baby

Did you connect with that episode? The best way to support Holding Space podcast is to subscribe and leave a review! Podcast reviews help us reach those who need it most, and I read each and every one. To connect with Dr. Cassidy or learn more about her private practice, visit www.drcassidymft.com.

Sex and intimacy after having a baby can be very different. We're often approved for sex and exercise at that six week postpartum appointment…but what if we're not ready? What if it's too soon? What if your partner is ready and you aren't or vice versa? What if your libido is off because of the hormonal fluctuations after having a baby? What if you're worried about pain or not feeling comfortable in your body?

No one prepares us for these challenges. That's why today I am joined by the Shrink Chicks to talk about sex and intimacy after baby! We're addressing some of the common fears around intimacy after baby, some of the reasons why so much can change with sex after baby, and we're sharing ways that you can begin to know pleasure in your body again and navigate this sometimes awkward/uncomfortable transition with your partner.

You deserve good and pleasurable sex. I hope this conversation will help normalize what you're experiencing and also offer support to you and your partner. If you would like to learn more from the Shrink Chicks or access their resources, you can visit their Instagram @shrinkchicks and @thetherapygrp!

Did you connect with that episode? The best way to support Holding Space podcast is to subscribe and leave a review! Podcast reviews help us reach those who need it most, and I read each and every one. To connect with Dr. Cassidy or learn more about her private practice, visit www.drcassidymft.com.

Have you ever had a thought in postpartum that felt disturbing or distressing to you? It pops up randomly, and you're kind of like, WOAH, where did that come from? What is wrong with me??

Maybe it was something like dropping your baby, getting into a car accident, an unwanted thought about your baby while changing their diaper, or something else of that nature...bottom line, it's intrusive and distressing. 

If you can resonate with this experience, chances are you may have never even mentioned them to anyone. You might feel ashamed and lonely in these thoughts. While these thoughts can be incredibly distressing, you're not alone.

Dr. Alice Pickering is joining me to talk about scary and intrusive thoughts. Dr. Alice dives deep into the corners of our mind, offers some examples that might resonate with you, describes why these thoughts occur, and goes into what we can do to help lessen the impact they have on us as new parents.

You can learn more from Dr. Alice at her Instagram: @dralicepsyd

Did you connect with that episode? The best way to support Holding Space podcast is to subscribe and leave a review! Podcast reviews help us reach those who need it most, and I read each and every one. To connect with Dr. Cassidy or learn more about her private practice, visit www.drcassidymft.com.

This episode has a really special place in my heart on a personal level. Over the last two years we’ve worked with Occupational Therapists to support the sensory processing challenges my own kids experience.

Maybe you're in the same boat and your child is experiencing something similar or maybe, you're wondering what sensory processing disorder even is and if your child might be having a sensitivity to sensory processing...

Whichever the case, you're in the right place. I have invited Laura Petix of @theotbutterfly onto the podcast to demystify Occupational Therapy, to talk about the experiences associated with sensory processing disorder, and to share how we can best support our kids and ourselves in these situations.

I share a lot about my own family's experience with sensory processing challenges and Laura offers some tangible tips for how you can get support for your child if you feel this is something they might be struggling with.

You can find Laura hanging out daily on instagram @TheOTButterfly   

Did you connect with that episode? The best way to support Holding Space podcast is to subscribe and leave a review! Podcast reviews help us reach those who need it most, and I read each and every one. To connect with Dr. Cassidy or learn more about her private practice, visit www.drcassidymft.com.

When I'm working with an individual or couple who just had a baby, one of the first things I ask about is...SLEEP! Not the age old question you get from most other people: "how is the baby sleeping?" No, I want to know how YOU are sleeping.

Postpartum can be a beast and a big part of that is often the lack of sleep that accompanies having a baby. Getting restorative rest can become even more challenging when navigating feeding. That's why I invited my own lactation consultant, friend and colleague, Robin Kaplan, onto the podcast today!

Robin is sharing with us how we can get restorative rest while also honoring our feeding journey with baby. She offers tangible tips and tricks for pumping when you're trying to make sleep a priority. Robin is incredibly supportive and validates the fact that sleep impacts our mental health and how our mental health in turn impacts our children. You can learn more from Robin and access her resources at her Instagram @san_diego_breastfeeding_center!

Did you connect with that episode? The best way to support Holding Space podcast is to subscribe and leave a review! Podcast reviews help us reach those who need it most, and I read each and every one. To connect with Dr. Cassidy or learn more about her private practice, visit www.drcassidymft.com.

In this episode we are talking about postpartum mental health for couples. I am joined by my friend and colleague, Dr. Tracy Dalgleish. Dr. Tracy is a licensed clinical psychologist and couples therapist based in Canada as well the creator of the supportive Instagram account, @dr.tracyd.

Dr. Tracy shares with us some signs and symptoms to look for if you or your partner are experiencing anxiety or depression during postpartum and she explains how postpartum anxiety or depression can impact your couple relationship. I share a bit about my personal experience with postpartum anxiety and depression within my partner relationship after our first baby and Dr. Tracy offers some tangible tips and tools for how to reconnect and find each other again amidst the postpartum haze.

Did you connect with that episode? The best way to support Holding Space podcast is to subscribe and leave a review! Podcast reviews help us reach those who need it most, and I read each and every one. To connect with Dr. Cassidy or learn more about her private practice, visit www.drcassidymft.com.

Today's episode is a little bit different than most here on Holding Space Podcast...in the best way! Today I'm inviting my friends Mallory and Stranz Wolfgramm onto the podcast to talk about their experience preparing for their first child.

Mallory is actually a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and creator of the Instagram account @makemarriagework, but as I've shared from my personal experience, being a therapist doesn't actually prepare you for all the challenges that you and your partner can face when becoming parents and experiencing postpartum.

Today I'm walking Mallory and her husband Stranz through their concerns and big pain points as they prepare for their first baby. Together we explore: feelings of helplessness as a non-birthing partner, the big emotional challenges, fears and anxiety about labor and delivery, and so much more.

At the end of the episode I also pop back onto the episode solo to offer specific tips and resources for couples preparing for birth and postpartum!

Looking for more support in preparing your family for postpartum? Click here to learn more about Prepared Postpartum!

Did you connect with that episode? The best way to support Holding Space podcast is to subscribe and leave a review! Podcast reviews help us reach those who need it most, and I read each and every one. To connect with Dr. Cassidy or learn more about her private practice, visit www.drcassidymft.com.

Today's episode is for the non-birthing partners and those mama's who want to help support their non-birthing partner through the experience of having a baby and becoming a parent!

Today I'm excited to share with you my conversation with Eli Weinstein. Eli is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, creator of the Instagram account @eliweinstein_lcsw, and host of the Dude Therapist Podcast. In this episode Eli shares his experience as a first-time postpartum father. He discusses his personal struggles with expectations and bonding in the fourth trimester. Together we explore the important role of the non-birthing partner for the postpartum family and offers tips on how other non-birthing partners can create their own unique bonds with their children.

Did you connect with that episode? The best way to support Holding Space podcast is to subscribe and leave a review! Podcast reviews help us reach those who need it most, and I read each and every one. To connect with Dr. Cassidy or learn more about her private practice, visit www.drcassidymft.com.

Let's cut right to the chase, this episode is about PEE, POOP, SEX, and all things pelvic floor after baby!

I'll be honest...for my postpartum experience, I had no idea what the pelvic floor even was. That's why in today's episode I have invited on The Vagina Whisperer, Sara Reardon. Sara is a pelvic floor physical therapist and creator of the popular Instagram account @the.vagina.whisperer.

Today Sara is helping to demystify the role of the pelvic floor and it's importance in our lives, particularly with pregnancy, birth and postpartum. Sara is walking us through how to care for our pelvic floor through daily activities and exercises.

You can follow Sara on Instagram for more tips and access to her resources! 

Did you connect with that episode? The best way to support Holding Space podcast is to subscribe and leave a review! Podcast reviews help us reach those who need it most, and I read each and every one. To connect with Dr. Cassidy or learn more about her private practice, visit www.drcassidymft.com.

In today's episode I am joined by my friend and colleague, Abbey Williams, and we are talking all about divorce, co-parenting, and thriving as a blended family. Abbey is a Licensed Social Worker and the creator of the popular podcast and Instagram account @mimosaswithmoms.

Today Abbey is sharing both her own personal experiences with us as well as her professional wisdom on the big feelings that can come up with divorce, co-parenting, and blended families as well as how to ensure you and your partner are putting your child first. Abbey speaks to the challenges that can arise with being a single parent and how to make sure you're getting the support you and your family need.

Did you connect with that episode? The best way to support Holding Space podcast is to subscribe and leave a review! Podcast reviews help us reach those who need it most, and I read each and every one. To connect with Dr. Cassidy or learn more about her private practice, visit www.drcassidymft.com.

Pregnancy, birth, and postpartum care for mamas across the world are NOT created equal. We often just assume that whatever care we get in our area or country is just the norm, but no one knows better than my guest today that this couldn't be further from the truth!

Today I am joined by my longtime friend Isobel Benesch. Having experienced birth and postpartum both in the United States and New Zealand, Isobel is sharing with us today the major differences between her experiences and the interviews she has conducted with mamas and experts across the world about differences in perinatal care.

We're comparing and contrasting the experiences between countries like the United States and Sweden that have vastly different approaches when it comes to perinatal care. In our conversation we're talking everything from maternity/paternity leave, gender expectations, and how to navigate with your partner the big change of returning to work after maternity/paternity leave.

To help you and your partner navigate the going back to work stage of postpartum, we also have created a Back to Work Conversation Card Deck. This card deck features key conversation starters and tips to help smooth the process of returning to work as a family. You can click here to download the card deck: https://courses.drcassidymft.com/back-to-work-baby-conversation-cards

Did you connect with that episode? The best way to support Holding Space podcast is to subscribe and leave a review! Podcast reviews help us reach those who need it most, and I read each and every one. To connect with Dr. Cassidy or learn more about her private practice, visit www.drcassidymft.com.

In this episode I am sharing my conversation with psychotherapist, Jessica Vanderwier, the creator of the Instagram account @ourmamavillage. Today Jess is sharing with us how we can teach our children about consent. In this episode Jess shares tangible ways and age-specific tips in which we can teach our kids from an early age about how to honor the boundaries of their bodies and to respect the boundaries of others. 

While what we discuss in this episode is incredibly important, I also realize that today's topic might be triggering for some of you depending on your context, comfort-level, and your own history and experiences. If after this episode you find yourself needing a little more personalized support, we have some resources listed below where you can find a therapist in your area:

Psychology Today

Open Path Collective (if you're looking for a therapist who offers a lower fee)

Postpartum Support International

Did you connect with that episode? The best way to support Holding Space podcast is to subscribe and leave a review! Podcast reviews help us reach those who need it most, and I read each and every one. To connect with Dr. Cassidy or learn more about her private practice, visit www.drcassidymft.com.

Have you ever wondered what it might be like to reach out to a perinatal psychiatrist? In this episode I share my conversation with Dr. Sarah Oreck, a Columbia University-trained psychiatrist focusing on women's mental health.

Join us as we chat about options for support and treatment when you’re struggling during pregnancy, after baby and beyond. Together we demystify the process of getting help and dive into both common and unexpected symptoms of postpartum mood and anxiety disorders for BOTH parents.

If you'd like to learn more from Dr. Sarah, you can follow her on Instagram at @sarahoreckmd! 

Did you connect with that episode? The best way to support Holding Space podcast is to subscribe and leave a review! Podcast reviews help us reach those who need it most, and I read each and every one. To connect with Dr. Cassidy or learn more about her private practice, visit www.drcassidymft.com.

As we talk about here often on Holding Space, it's not uncommon for our "own stuff" from our past to come up in our parenting journey. Our relationship with food and our relationship with our body is no different.

In today's episode I am joined by my friend Crystal Karges. Crystal is a maternal child health specialist, food and body image coach for moms, and lactation consultant. She is passionate about helping moms ditch the diet culture, heal their relationships with food and their bodies and raise children who can trust, honor, and nourish their bodies. In this episode Crystal offers insights into how we can do our own work as parents to heal our relationships with food and our bodies through pregnancy, postpartum and beyond.

You can learn more about Crystal at her Instagram, @crystalkarges. 

Did you connect with that episode? The best way to support Holding Space podcast is to subscribe and leave a review! Podcast reviews help us reach those who need it most, and I read each and every one. To connect with Dr. Cassidy or learn more about her private practice, visit www.drcassidymft.com.

Oh, the big tantrums...can I speak for all of us when I say it's definitely one of the harder parts of parenting to navigate? 

These moments can also bring up old stuff from our own childhoods. When tantrums happen maybe we respond by just doing what our parents did with us, or maybe we're just trying to do the exact opposite of our own parent's parenting styles. Neither can feel like solid direction in how to truly support our kids (and ourselves) when big feelings spill over.

Today I am so excited to share with you this conversation with Mr. Chazz. Mr. Chazz is an Educational Specialist who, “teaches teachers to teach” in a chain of Child Development Centers. His vision is to help adults see, guide and build WITH their students and children. In this episode we demystify tantrums and talk about ways in which we can embrace the teaching that can happen within discipline while still feeling connected to our children.

You can learn more from Mr. Chazz at his Instagram: @mrchazz

In addition you can support his work and access his resources at: https://www.patreon.com/Mrchazz

Did you connect with that episode? The best way to support Holding Space podcast is to subscribe and leave a review! Podcast reviews help us reach those who need it most, and I read each and every one. To connect with Dr. Cassidy or learn more about her private practice, visit www.drcassidymft.com.

The month of May is Asian American Pacific Islander Heritage Month! I am incredibly grateful that Dr. Therese Mascardo of @exploring.therapy is joining us on the podcast again for this very important episode that explores and recognizes the pain and resilience of the AAPI community.

Dr. Therese is sharing with us some of the unique challenges that the AAPI community has faced over the past year as well as the strengths and resilience of Asian Americans. She also shares with us different resources for and ways to support the AAPI community including:

@asiansformentalhealth

@asianmentalhealthcollective

@i_weigh

Ayana Therapy - Therapy for BIPOC Individuals

stopasianhate.com

Did you connect with that episode? The best way to support Holding Space podcast is to subscribe and leave a review! Podcast reviews help us reach those who need it most, and I read each and every one. To connect with Dr. Cassidy or learn more about her private practice, visit www.drcassidymft.com.

Do you find yourself being anxious about whether or not your baby is meeting developmental milestones? Maybe you're constantly googling or checking a milestone app to see if your baby is "normal." Or maybe you find yourself comparing your baby's progress to others. When you feel like your baby is falling behind it can be followed by a wave of parent guilt. Trust me, I know...I've been there before!

In today's episode I'm joined by pediatric physical therapist Kailee Noland. You may know her as @themovementmama on Instagram! In this conversation Kailee and I are talking about the experience of measuring and tracking milestones as a parent and how that can often lead to comparison and guilt. We validate the fact that there is a range with these milestones and how no baby fits perfectly into a box. Kailee also shares some tangible tips and guidelines for motor milestones.

Did you connect with that episode? The best way to support Holding Space podcast is to subscribe and leave a review! Podcast reviews help us reach those who need it most, and I read each and every one. To connect with Dr. Cassidy or learn more about her private practice, visit www.drcassidymft.com.

Do you find yourself constantly going to Google with all your questions or maybe feeling overwhelmed by all the information that is out there? Maybe you feel confused by all the conflicting opinions, or feeling drained by endless scrolling and comparison on social media?

If so, don't worry, you are not alone! There is nothing wrong with you. If you're a millennial facing these experiences, this is what my friend and business partner, Dr. Christine Sterling, is now calling the Millennial Parent Problem.

In this episode Dr. Sterling is breaking down the four main elements of the Millennial Parent Problem and we're chatting about how we can begin to feel more confident and more calm when it comes to parenting in the modern age.

You can learn more about Dr. Sterling at her Instagram @drsterlingobgyn and you can check out our Prepared Postpartum course at https://thesterlinglife.mykajabi.com/preparedpostpartum

Did you connect with that episode? The best way to support Holding Space podcast is to subscribe and leave a review! Podcast reviews help us reach those who need it most, and I read each and every one. To connect with Dr. Cassidy or learn more about her private practice, visit www.drcassidymft.com.

Have you ever wondered how to support your little one's speech from the start? In this episode I'm sharing my conversation with Brooke and Bridget, a.k.a. The Speech Sisters. Brooke and Bridget are speech-language pathologists, moms, and sisters! Their mission is to educate and empower parents in their child's language development.

In this episode Brooke and Bridget demystify speech therapy and share tips and tricks for naturally supporting speech milestones through every day activities from the start. I share our family's personal story of going to speech therapy and my experience with mom guilt over missing some speech development red flags early on.

Learn more about Brooke and Bridget's online speech and language courses for parents of babies and toddlers here! You can follow the Speech Sisters for daily tips on instagram here!

Did you connect with that episode? The best way to support Holding Space podcast is to subscribe and leave a review! Podcast reviews help us reach those who need it most, and I read each and every one. To connect with Dr. Cassidy or learn more about her private practice, visit www.drcassidymft.com.

Did you know we are wired for comparison as human beings? Yet, in the modern age where we have so much access to the curated highlight reels of other parents and access to so much information, we can sometimes find ourselves comparing our real lives to unrealistic expectations.

To breastfeed or to bottle-feed? What should go in your birth plan? How much screen time should your older kids have? We have so many decisions, advice, and opinions from others to navigate. 

In today's episode I am joined by Certified Nurse Midwife, Ailsa. I love this conversation because Ailsa validates the fact that as moms we each have a unique story and context. What works for someone else, might not work for your family. And that is okay! 

If you would like to soak up more from Ailsa you can follow her on Instagram at @_happygocurly_.

Did you connect with that episode? The best way to support Holding Space podcast is to subscribe and leave a review! Podcast reviews help us reach those who need it most, and I read each and every one. To connect with Dr. Cassidy or learn more about her private practice, visit www.drcassidymft.com.

Becoming a parent often brings a lot of experiences from our own childhood to the surface. Patterns of interacting and engaging within a family system can be passed down through generations. Sometimes this includes special and meaningful family traditions and ways of connecting, but other times this can include unhealthy dynamics and patterns.

For many of us, we don't have a choice of what we are exposed to as children, but in this week's episode I am talking with my good friend and fellow therapist Dr. Ann-Louise Lockhart about how we can make the brave decision to break old parenting patterns when we are adults with our own families.

In this episode we talk about exploring these patterns, identifying your triggers, and taking meaningful steps to break toxic dynamics that you want to stop with your generation.

Dr. Ann-Louise is a Pediatric psychologist, parent coach, author, and business owner of a thriving practice in San Antonio, TX. You can learn more from her and follow on Instagram at @dr.annlouise.lockhart where she has links to her website, courses, and services.

Did you connect with that episode? The best way to support Holding Space podcast is to subscribe and leave a review! Podcast reviews help us reach those who need it most, and I read each and every one. To connect with Dr. Cassidy or learn more about her private practice, visit www.drcassidymft.com.

The journey and longing for a baby can be incredibly hard. You might be early on in your fertility journey and finding yourself surprised by the intense emotions and disappointment when you get a negative pregnancy test. Or maybe, you're further along and beginning to explore fertility treatment options. No matter where you are in your journey, I'm glad you're here.

I am joined this week by Dr. Temeka Zore @temekazoremd to talk about fertility burnout. Dr. Zore is a Fertility specialist and Board-certified OB/GYN, who completed a fellowship in Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility at UCLA.

If you have been in the process of trying to conceive before or you're in the thick of it, you know that this journey can come with a lot of questions, uncertainty, hurdles and a slew of emotions. For many, it can take longer than expected to get pregnant and though most doctors will tell you that it's totally normal to take up to six months to a year for most couples, that often doesn't make the emotional experience easier. What I love about this conversation with Dr. Zore is that she provides insightful and evidence-based information while also acknowledging some of the emotional aspects and challenges that are often overlooked for those trying to conceive. You can learn more about Dr. Zore here.

Did you connect with that episode? The best way to support Holding Space podcast is to subscribe and leave a review! Podcast reviews help us reach those who need it most, and I read each and every one. To connect with Dr. Cassidy or learn more about her private practice, visit www.drcassidymft.com.

Whether you're one month in, 6 months in, or over a year into your fertility journey, it can be overwhelming to say the least. The mental and emotional load can be a lot to carry both on an individual level and within your partner relationship. Not to mention, it can be challenging to navigate and sift through all the information and myths around fertility.

That's why this week I asked Dr. Danielle Lane, a highly regarded endocrinology and fertility specialist, onto the podcast to talk about all things fertility. Dr. Lane de-mystifies the fertility experience by offering insights and information into when you should reach out to a fertility specialist, what tests and treatments are available to you and your partner, what options are available to same-sex couples, we talk about some of the myths around fertility, and we explore the emotional experience that is bound to be a part of this journey for you and your partner.

You can learn more about Dr. Lane at her website or follow her on social media at @drdaniellelane!

Did you connect with that episode? The best way to support Holding Space podcast is to subscribe and leave a review! Podcast reviews help us reach those who need it most, and I read each and every one. To connect with Dr. Cassidy or learn more about her private practice, visit www.drcassidymft.com.

Did you feel an instant connection with your baby after they were born? Or maybe, did it take a little longer to bond and grow in love? If your experience was more like the latter, you are not alone....and I share my story here.

In this episode I am joined by my friend Rachel Rainbolt. Rachel was one of my greatest resources of support when I was struggling with bonding with my baby. In this episode she offers compassionate and supportive tips for how to embrace the imperfect and new relationship you have with your baby.

Rachel is the Sage Family coach, writer, podcaster, and advocate for gentle parenting, natural homeschooling, and simple living, with an MA in Marriage and Family Therapy and decades of experience guiding families to peace and joy at sagefamily.com. She works from the Pacific Northwest, where she lives wild and free in connection with her 3 wildlings and the papa bear in their fixer upper on the beach.

Rachel's Baby Massage Video: https://youtu.be/5qkSW1V-0fs

Did you connect with that episode? The best way to support Holding Space podcast is to subscribe and leave a review! Podcast reviews help us reach those who need it most, and I read each and every one. To connect with Dr. Cassidy or learn more about her private practice, visit www.drcassidymft.com.

Do you ever feel a sense of overwhelm when you're scrolling on social media? Or maybe you log off the app feeling not enough or like you're a project to be improved? In today's episode I am joined by LMFT Whitney Goodman of @sitwithwhit and we are talking about wellness overload in digital spaces. Maybe you follow a number of mental health professionals on Instagram or experts in the postpartum and parenting wellness arena. While these accounts are intended to be helpful, sometimes we can begin to feel overwhelmed by the overload of advice and wellness content.

In this episode Whitney and I talk about how this can be overstimulating, how to become aware of if this is something you're experiencing, and ways you can set some tangible and healthy boundaries to empower you in your own personal wellness journey.

Did you connect with that episode? The best way to support Holding Space podcast is to subscribe and leave a review! Podcast reviews help us reach those who need it most, and I read each and every one. To connect with Dr. Cassidy or learn more about her private practice, visit www.drcassidymft.com.

A big fear and struggle for many postpartum parents is the impact that having a baby will have on their partner relationship. With postpartum there is more responsibility, less sleep, and less time to connect and repair with your partner. If your relationship feels disconnected in postpartum or you have a fear this could happen one day in the future, this is the episode for you. Today I am joined by relationship coach and therapist, Sheina Schochet from @loveafterbaby, and we are talking about all things intimacy, communication, and connection. In this episode we bring you tangible tips to help improve your communication and reconnect.

Did you connect with that episode? The best way to support Holding Space podcast is to subscribe and leave a review! Podcast reviews help us reach those who need it most, and I read each and every one. To connect with Dr. Cassidy or learn more about her private practice, visit www.drcassidymft.com. 

Why can motherhood be so overstimulating at times? The noise, the mess, the touching, it can all lead to sensory overload. Sometimes we respond to this overload with irritability, followed by guilt or shame for our behaviors. Can you relate? This is the topic for today's episode with psychologist Dr. Ashurina Reams. You can continue to follow Dr. Ream's work and find her offerings through instagram @psychedmommy.

Resource mentioned in the episode:

Simplicity Parenting by Kim John Payne and Lisa M Ross.

This episode was brought to by Storq.com.

Did you connect with that episode? The best way to support Holding Space podcast is to subscribe and leave a review! Podcast reviews help us reach those who need it most, and I read each and every one. To connect with Dr. Cassidy or learn more about her private practice, visit www.drcassidymft.com.

In this episode I share my conversation with Dr. Kelly Fradin, Pediatrician and author of Parenting in a Pandemic. Dr. Fradin demystifies your biggest worries when it comes to the coronavirus and children, and answers questions about steps parents can take to keep their families safe during the upcoming holidays. We explore the social emotional impact of living in a pandemic for both parents and their children, and offer tips for staying well both physically and mentally.

To continue to follow Dr. Fradin's work you can find her on instagram @adviceigivemyfriends, and you can buy her book Parenting in a Pandemic here!

This episode was brought to you by Storq.

Did you connect with that episode? The best way to support Holding Space podcast is to subscribe and leave a review! Podcast reviews help us reach those who need it most, and I read each and every one. To connect with Dr. Cassidy or learn more about her private practice, visit www.drcassidymft.com.

In this episode I share my conversation with Chasity Holcomb, Licensed Professional Counselor. Together we explore the identity transition of becoming a mother. While we might hope and imagine that we will just connect with that new identity after our baby is born, it is very common to not feel comfortable or confident in your role as "mom" right away! You can learn more from Chasity at her Momfully You blog here: https://chasityholcomb.com/blog/

This episode was brought to you by Storq.

Did you connect with that episode? The best way to support Holding Space podcast is to subscribe and leave a review! Podcast reviews help us reach those who need it most, and I read each and every one. To connect with Dr. Cassidy or learn more about her private practice, visit www.drcassidymft.com.

In this episode I share my conversation with Lindsey Shipley, RN, IBCLC-certified lactation coach and founder of Lactation Link. In this episode Lindsey shares her story of grief and loss that she experienced after having a baby and being diagnosed with cancer. Together we explore how Lindsey found joy even amidst the grief and pain.

You can continue to follow Lindsey's journey on Instagram @lindsey_shipley 

This episode was brought to you by Storq. 

Did you connect with that episode? The best way to support Holding Space podcast is to subscribe and leave a review! Podcast reviews help us reach those who need it most, and I read each and every one. To connect with Dr. Cassidy or learn more about her private practice, visit www.drcassidymft.com.

In this episode I share my conversation with New York Times Best Selling Author and mom to three Dr. Tina Payne Bryson, LCSW. We discuss her most recent book Bottom Line for Baby, where she shares the science behind some of the biggest decisions new parents have to make. Tina and I explore the overwhelming feelings that come with trying to make the best decisions for you and your baby, all while navigating the parent shaming and judgment that unfortunately many of us experience. 

To continue to follow Tina's work you can find her @tinapaynebryson.

You can get your hands on Bottom Line for Baby by clicking here!

This episode was sponsored by Storq.

Did you connect with that episode? The best way to support Holding Space podcast is to subscribe and leave a review! Podcast reviews help us reach those who need it most, and I read each and every one. To connect with Dr. Cassidy or learn more about her private practice, visit www.drcassidymft.com.

In this episode I share my conversation with Karrie Locher, postpartum nurse and mom to 3. We discuss a common (but not often discussed) symptom of postpartum depression and anxiety, RAGE. Karrie shares her experience with postpartum rage, we discuss the stigma around women expressing anger, and explore supportive coping skills. To learn more from Karrie you can find her on social media @karrie_locher or karingforpostpartum.com (where you'll also find her courses!)

If you or someone you love is struggling with postpartum rage, you can find support and resources at Postpartum Support International. 

This episode was brought to you in part by the support of Storq. 

Did you connect with that episode? The best way to support Holding Space podcast is to subscribe and leave a review! Podcast reviews help us reach those who need it most, and I read each and every one. To connect with Dr. Cassidy or learn more about her private practice, visit www.drcassidymft.com.

In this episode I share my conversation with registered therapist, maternal mental health specialist, and Happy as a Mother founder Erica Djossa. Together we explore the invisible mental load of motherhood in that first year with baby. You know all those tabs you have open in your brain that no one else sees? That's what we are talking about today! Tune in to learn more about the not so visible jobs that postpartum mothers carry and what you can do to lighten the load. Stay connected with Erica at www.happyasamother.co

This episode was brought to you by Storq.

Did you connect with that episode? The best way to support Holding Space podcast is to subscribe and leave a review! Podcast reviews help us reach those who need it most, and I read each and every one. To connect with Dr. Cassidy or learn more about her private practice, visit www.drcassidymft.com.

In this episode I'm sharing my conversation with Psychologist Dr. Angel Montfort. Together we explore the impact of racism on mental health, physical health, and relationships. We discuss ways we can begin to talk to our children about race, why raising "color blind" children is not the answer, and navigating difficult conversations about privilege. Dr. Montfort shares the disparities that continue to exist in the peripartum wellness world for people of color. We identify resources and Dr. Montfort shares ways that we can begin to take steps TODAY to address the racial disparities experienced in our communities. You can continue to follow Dr. Angel's work on social media @drangelmontfort and at www.cfmmh.com.

Here are some of the resources shared in the episode:

Mental health care resources: Therapy for Black Girls @therapyforblackgirls The Loveland Foundation @thelovelandfoundation Black Mamas Matter Alliance @blackmamasmatter The Great Unlearn @thegreatunlearn The Next Question @tnqshow Dr. Jazmine @themompsychologist Dr. Ann-louise Lockhart @dr.annlouise.lockhart The Conscious Kid @theconsciouskid   Opportunities for advocacy: Until Freedom @untilfreedom Color of Change @colorofchange

Did you connect with that episode? The best way to support Holding Space podcast is to subscribe and leave a review! Podcast reviews help us reach those who need it most, and I read each and every one. To connect with Dr. Cassidy or learn more about her private practice, visit www.drcassidymft.com.

In this episode of Holding Space Podcast I invited Dr. Christine Sterling, board certified OBGYN, back on the podcast! In this episode we flip the script. Dr. Sterling is pregnant and in this episode she asks me questions about how she can prepare her daughter Celeste for their new baby. I share our family's personal story and the challenges we faced in the transition to adding a new baby to our family system. I offer tangible ways you can be preparing your older children for becoming a big brother or sister.

To learn more about our Prepared Postpartum course visit: https://thesterlinglife.mykajabi.com/preparedpostpartum

Did you connect with that episode? The best way to support Holding Space podcast is to subscribe and leave a review! Podcast reviews help us reach those who need it most, and I read each and every one. To connect with Dr. Cassidy or learn more about her private practice, visit www.drcassidymft.com.

In this personal episode, I'm sharing my two cesarean birth stories...what I learned, what I changed, and what I wish I had done to prepare. In the sharing of my first belly birth, I explore the ways that Fear showed up and led to rigidity around my birth plan and ultimately a disconnection from truly listening to my body. I unpack the challenges around healing that followed, and the key ways I changed my birth preparation the second time around. In sharing my birth stories, I hope to empower you to connect with YOUR personal values as you prepare for the intense and incredible experience of birth.

The birth meditations mentioned in the episode are now a part of my course Prepared Postpartum with board certified Ob/Gyn Dr. Christine Sterling, which you can learn more about at: https://thesterlinglife.mykajabi.com/preparedpostpartum

Did you connect with that episode? The best way to support Holding Space podcast is to subscribe and leave a review! Podcast reviews help us reach those who need it most, and I read each and every one. To connect with Dr. Cassidy or learn more about her private practice, visit www.drcassidymft.com.

In today's episode I'm welcoming back Chrissy Powers, LMFT to Holding Space Podcast! In our last episode we discussed Anxiety in Motherhood, and in today's episode we're exploring body image and body love during pregnancy and postpartum. Chrissy shares her history with an eating disorder and the journey she took to honor and care for her body through her experiencing of becoming a mother.

A few resources were mentioned in the episode, including Chrissy's Body Love blog post with an included guide which you can find here. She also mentioned Christa Black Gifford's meditations and the book The Wild Woman's Way. To continue to follow Chrissy's work you can find her at @chrissyjpowers and https://chrissypowers.com/.

Did you connect with that episode? The best way to support Holding Space podcast is to subscribe and leave a review! Podcast reviews help us reach those who need it most, and I read each and every one. To connect with Dr. Cassidy or learn more about her private practice, visit www.drcassidymft.com.

In this episode I sit down with Robin Kaplan, founder of the San Diego Breastfeeding Center and author of Latch. Robin has her Masters in Education and is an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant. In this episode we explore the experience of going back to work for breastfeeding families from an emotional, relational, and logistical perspective. Robin shares some incredible resources in the episode, here are links to the resources mentioned:

Free Guide to Going Back to Work for Breastfeeding Parents

Breastfeeding for the Working Parent E-Course (with $15 discount code for Holding Space listeners)

Resource for laws that protect breastfeeding and pumping parents' rights for pumping at work

Amazing resource for thinking outside of the box for pumping locations

DIY Breastfeeding video on baby-led bottlefeeding

 Did you connect with that episode? The best way to support Holding Space podcast is to subscribe and leave a review! Podcast reviews help us reach those who need it most, and I read each and every one. To connect with Dr. Cassidy or learn more about her private practice, visit www.drcassidymft.com.

In this episode I virtually sit down with online therapist and digital nomad Dr. Therese Mascardo @exploring.therapy. We talk about what it means to offer teletherapy and ways to make therapy more accessible. We also explore the ways that therapists are showing up in the digital arena in platforms like Instagram. I ask her questions about the ethical/legal considerations and why she thinks it's important that we continue to show up in the digital world and continue to work on addressing regulations and policies. Dr. Therese offers mentorship and courses to professionals interested in doing this work, which you can read more about here!

To learn more about the Crafted Practice, my roadmap to a modern private practice, go to https://courses.drcassidymft.com/

In this episode I share my conversation with Clinical Psychologist Dr. Sophie Mort. Together we discuss our experiences with an evidence-based clinical approach called Acceptance and Commitment Therapy. We explore the ways this approach supports a new relationship to our emotions, as well as the role of values and mindfulness in creating meaningful and sustainable change. To follow Dr. Sophie's work on social media you can find her @_drsoph, and to read more about her work and find resources through her blog you can find her at www.drsoph.com. A resource mentioned in the episode is the Happy Not Perfect app, which you can find here!

Did you connect with that episode? The best way to support Holding Space podcast is to subscribe and leave a review! Podcast reviews are the best way to make sure the podcast reaches those who need it most, and I read each and every one. To connect with Dr. Cassidy or learn more about her private practice, visit www.drcassidymft.com.

In this episode I share my conversation with Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist Vienna Pharaon. This episode is all about boundaries! We define the different types of boundaries that can show up in our intimate relationships and the ways these levels of boundaries can lead to connection and protection. We explore how to both set and keep healthy boundaries and ways that boundaries are challenged from dating to parenthood. You can follow Vienna's work @mindfulmft and you can keep up with her private practice in New York and course/workshop offerings at www.newyorkcouplescounseling.com. 

Did you connect with that episode? The best way to support Holding Space podcast is to subscribe and leave a review! Podcast reviews are the best way to make sure the podcast reaches those who need it most, and I read each and every one. To connect with Dr. Cassidy or learn more about her private practice, visit www.drcassidymft.com.

In this episode of Holding Space Podcast, I virtually sit down with Lisa Olivera, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. Lisa and I talk about her approach to therapy which is: human first, therapist second. We explore the power of stories, and Lisa shares her own. At the end we talk about finding our voices as therapists in the larger wellness arena and stepping into the land of social media as licensed professionals. I'm so excited to share Lisa's warmth and wisdom with all of you! For the incredible resources she shares on social media you can follow her @lisaoliveratherapy. If you're interested in reading more about her services and work you can also find her at https://lisaoliveratherapy.com/.

Did you connect with that episode? The best way to support Holding Space podcast is to subscribe and leave a review! Podcast reviews are the best way to make sure the podcast reaches those who need it most, and I read each and every one. To connect with Dr. Cassidy or learn more about her private practice, visit www.drcassidymft.com.

In this episode I sit down with Krystal Festerly, writer and founder of Gather the Village, a magazine aimed at building community through honest storytelling. Krystal's superpower is her ability to show up as fully human, honoring her truth and vulnerability as a bridge to connection with others. Krystal describes the impact of facing our mortality through her husband's health fragility, and how she is discovering the true meaning of her life during this most painful period. To continue to follow Krystal and her family's journey, you can do so here and @krystalmfesterly. You can connect with Krystal's work and community at Gather The Village, and you can read her poetic words through the hashtag #WhenIGetToThinking. 

Did you connect with that episode? The best way to support Holding Space podcast is to subscribe and leave a review! Podcast reviews are the best way to make sure the podcast reaches those who need it most, and I read each and every one. To connect with Dr. Cassidy or learn more about her private practice, visit www.drcassidymft.com.

I'm back from podcast sabbatical :) and so happy to share this new episode with all of you! Ashley Neese is a breathwork teacher and author of the book How To Breathe. In this episode we explore how Ashley came to do this work. We also unpack the power of breath, and the ways that breath shows up as a landing space in both our harder moments and in the joys of simple moments. We explore the relationship between our breath, our emotions, and our bodies. I also share an e-mail that Ashley sent to me a year ago when she needed to create some space in her life and couldn't record an episode at that time. I believe this e-mail is a beautiful representation of how we can create space while also honoring our relationships. You can follow Ashley Neese on social media here and at www.ashleyneese.com. You can also buy her book here!

Did you connect with that episode? The best way to support Holding Space podcast is to subscribe and leave a review! Podcast reviews are the best way to make sure the podcast reaches those who need it most, and I read each and every one. To connect with Dr. Cassidy or learn more about her private practice, visit www.drcassidymft.com.

This episode is sponsored by Fusion Academy. Fusion is a revolutionary school, offering a completely personalized learning experience for middle school and high school students. You can read more about Fusion by visiting their website at www.fusionacademy.com. 

In this episode I sit down with illustrator and designer Kelli Murray. Kelli is the owner and designer of children's clothing brand Rylee and Cru and their sister brand Quincy Mae. Kelli shares with us her background and how she built her businesses. We then go beyond the brand to discuss motherhood, the myth of balance, Kelli's long history with health issues and chronic pain, and her relationship with God and spirituality. This is a vulnerable conversation between two good friends, that Kelli was gracious enough to allow me to record and share with all of you. To continue following Kelli, you can find her on social media @kelli_murray, @ryleeandcru, and @quincymae. 

Did you connect with that episode? The best way to support Holding Space podcast is to subscribe and leave a review! Podcast reviews are the best way to make sure the podcast reaches those who need it most, and I read each and every one. To connect with Dr. Cassidy or learn more about her private practice, visit www.drcassidymft.com.

In this episode of Holding Space Podcast, I sit down with Dr. Christine Sterling, OB/GYN. You may remember Dr. Sterling from an earlier episode where we discussed preparing for motherhood during pregnancy. In this episode Dr. Sterling offers education on a woman's menstrual cycle, and the impact hormonal changes can have on our energy, behaviors, libido, and mood. With our menses in mind, we unpack the history of the women's movement and the rejection of discourses connected to "the hormonal woman" that followed. In this exploration, we identify the agency that can be found in understanding our cycles and bodies, while reclaiming the truth that we are more than our hormones. We discuss the shame often experienced around our periods and sex organs, and how we can educate and talk to our daughters. To follow Dr. Sterling's work you can find her here and connect with her on social at @drsterlingobgyn.

Did you connect with that episode? The best way to support Holding Space podcast is to subscribe and leave a review! Podcast reviews are the best way to make sure the podcast reaches those who need it most, and I read each and every one. To connect with Dr. Cassidy or learn more about her private practice, visit www.drcassidymft.com.

In this episode I share my conversation with Claire Bidwell Smith, author and therapist specializing in grief. We explore the relationship between anxiety and grief and the work Claire has done that led to her most recent book Anxiety: The Missing Stage of Grief. Claire offers psychoeducation on the stages of grief, and the ways in which anxiety can show up when we have experienced loss. Claire and I both share some of our personal experiences with loss, and discuss the power of support. You can find more about Claire and her work here, including her self-guided online program A Safe Place to Grieve. You can find Claire's book Anxiety: The Missing Stage of Grief here.

Did you connect with that episode? The best way to support Holding Space podcast is to subscribe and leave a review! Podcast reviews are the best way to make sure the podcast reaches those who need it most, and I read each and every one. To connect with Dr. Cassidy or learn more about her private practice, visit www.drcassidymft.com.

In this episode I sit down with Brittani Ehrhorn. Brittani is a pediatric registered nurse and advocate and activist for Turner Syndrome. Brittani shares her experience living with Turner Syndrome, and discusses the myths and importance of education. We talk about the sticky-ness of labels and Brittani shares her experience with going to therapy. A resource mentioned in the podcast is The Turner Syndrome Society of the United States, and you can continue to follow Brittani @brittehrhorn. 

Did you connect with that episode? The best way to support Holding Space podcast is to subscribe and leave a review! Podcast reviews are the best way to make sure the podcast reaches those who need it most, and I read each and every one. To connect with Dr. Cassidy or learn more about her private practice, visit www.drcassidymft.com.

In honor of infertility and pregnancy loss awareness month, this week's episode explores the often neglected experience of partners. I share my conversation with Jeff Mindell, a Los Angeles based photographer and creative. Last Spring I shared an episode with his wife Kelly Mindell of Studio DIY where she shared her experience with fertility, pregnancy loss and adoption. In this episode Jeff offers an honest look into his own experience and path to fatherhood. Jeff and I explore the gender discourses he faced, the role of support in their journey, the decision to pursue adoption, and the joys and challenges of parenthood. You can continue to follow Jeff @jeffmindell and you can find his professional work here. 

Did you connect with that episode? The best way to support Holding Space podcast is to subscribe and leave a review! Podcast reviews are the best way to make sure the podcast reaches those who need it most, and I read each and every one. To connect with Dr. Cassidy or learn more about her private practice, visit www.drcassidymft.com.

In this episode I share my conversation with Keah Brown, writer, journalist and disability activist. Keah and I discuss her writing process, and how she has come to appreciate her earlier work as part of the growth that got her to where she is today. We talk about disrupting disability discourses and choosing self-love. In Keah's words: "I spent most of my life tearing myself down, because I thought I was supposed to, because how else are you supposed to live in a body like mine? But what I know now is that I live every single day with so much joy. How could I not give myself the same love that people have been giving me my whole life?" Keah is the creator of the hashtag, #disabledandcute, and has an essay collection coming out in 2019 called The Pretty One. You can continue to follow Keah at keahbrown.com and on social media @keah_maria. 

Did you connect with that episode? The best way to support Holding Space podcast is to subscribe and leave a review! Podcast reviews are the best way to make sure the podcast reaches those who need it most, and I read each and every one. To connect with Dr. Cassidy or learn more about her private practice, visit www.drcassidymft.com.

In this episode I share my conversation with Dr. Crystal Jones, director of The Sanctuary, a healing institution with a mission to elevate the paradigm of healing. With her person-centered approach, Dr. Jones leads conversations around the globe, training healing facilitators across multiple modalities in the art of holding space. In this episode we explore narratives of health, social discourses of health and healthcare, the art of listening to our bodies, and client/provider alignment. You can find Dr. Jones' work here, as well as on social media here!

Did you connect with that episode? The best way to support Holding Space podcast is to subscribe and leave a review! Podcast reviews are the best way to make sure the podcast reaches those who need it most, and I read each and every one. To connect with Dr. Cassidy or learn more about her private practice, visit www.drcassidymft.com.

In this episode I virtually sit down with my very good friend Taylor Sterling, Founder and Creative Director of Glitter Guide. We start off the episode with sharing how we met (and sharing some laughs) while discussing how we maintain a long-distance friendship. Taylor shares how she carved her own path as an entrepreneur, and the ways in which creative insecurities creep in as she struggles with the common challenge of defining your craft. We talk about social media and social comparison, how motherhood changed how she sets boundaries and prioritizes her time, and the ways in which Taylor is reclaiming what "growth" means for her and her business. To continue following Taylor's journey, follow her on social media @taylorsterling.

Did you connect with that episode? The best way to support Holding Space podcast is to subscribe and leave a review! Podcast reviews are the best way to make sure the podcast reaches those who need it most, and I read each and every one. To connect with Dr. Cassidy or learn more about her private practice, visit www.drcassidymft.com.

In this episode I share my conversation with Tim Desmond, mindfulness teacher, therapist, professor, and student of Zen Master and Social Activist Thich Nhat Hanh. Tim and I discuss the bridge between showing compassion to ourselves and social activism. Tim offers real ways in which we can develop self-compassion and mindfulness practices while we step into the arena of activism, and discusses the power of thoughtful self-disclosure both in therapy and in parenting. Tim has written several books on Self-Compassion including Self-Compassion in Psychotherapy and The Self-Compassion Skills Workbook, and has a new book coming out next year called How to Stay Human in a F*ed up World. To read more about Tim's work click here.

Did you connect with that episode? The best way to support Holding Space podcast is to subscribe and leave a review! Podcast reviews are the best way to make sure the podcast reaches those who need it most, and I read each and every one. To connect with Dr. Cassidy or learn more about her private practice, visit www.drcassidymft.com.

In this episode I sit down with Elle and Jared Rowley, CEO and CFO of Solly Baby Wraps. Elle and Jared are my first couple on the podcast! Elle and Jared share how they met, their decision to go into business with each other, and how they make it all work. To follow their personal journeys you can find them at @ellerowley and @jaredrowley and their businesses @sollybabywrap and at https://shop.sollybaby.com.

Did you connect with that episode? The best way to support Holding Space podcast is to subscribe and leave a review! Podcast reviews are the best way to make sure the podcast reaches those who need it most, and I read each and every one. To connect with Dr. Cassidy or learn more about her private practice, visit www.drcassidymft.com.

In this episode I sit down with Anjelica Malone. Anjelica is a writer, educator, and birth/postpartum doula with a mission to cultivate a global tribe of women. In this episode we discuss her experience growing up a third culture kid, and how this experience influenced her identity and her value of global citizenship. Anjelica shares how her military service and her work with pregnant refugee women impacted her approach to birth and postpartum care and discusses how she and her partner talk to their children about racial identity. To read more about Anjelica's work you can find her website here and you can follow her journey on social media here.

Did you connect with that episode? The best way to support Holding Space podcast is to subscribe and leave a review! Podcast reviews help us reach those who need it most, and I read each and every one. To connect with Dr. Cassidy or learn more about her private practice, visit www.drcassidymft.com.

In this episode I sit down with Andrea Faulkner Williams, co-founder of Tubby Todd a natural and organic product line and author of the book You've Got This Mama: Ideas for Taking Care of You While You're Taking Care of Your Little One. We discuss the importance of and challenges of self-care as a mother, setting realistic boundaries, and the power of asking for help. Andrea is a triple threat: she's warm, hilarious, and brilliant. To follow Andrea's work you can find her here, and for her personal journey follow her here!

Did you connect with that episode? The best way to support Holding Space podcast is to subscribe and leave a review! Podcast reviews are the best way to make sure the podcast reaches those who need it most, and I read each and every one. To connect with Dr. Cassidy or learn more about her private practice, visit www.drcassidymft.com.

In this episode I sit down with Dr. Steve Hickman, founding director of the Center for Mindfulness at the University of California, San Diego. We explore the powerful role of mindulness and self-compassion as it relates to creating change and developing a new relationship with our pain. We also discuss the impact of gender discourses on mindfulness and showing compassion towards ourselves, and how to integrate all of these ideas in parenting. This episode is full of helpful tips, metaphors, and motivation for relating to our struggles in a different way.

A couple of resources mentioned were Dr. Kristin Neff's work on self-compassion and The Mindful Path to Self-Compassion by Chris Germer. For more information on Dr. Hickman's work and classes/resources at UCSD Center for Mindfulness, click here. For Mindful Self-Compassion courses here in San Diego held at UCSD, find more information here.

Did you connect with that episode? The best way to support Holding Space podcast is to subscribe and leave a review! Podcast reviews are the best way to make sure the podcast reaches those who need it most, and I read each and every one. To connect with Dr. Cassidy or learn more about her private practice, visit www.drcassidymft.com.

In this episode I sit down with Dr. Dan Siegel, clinical professor of psychiatry at the UCLA School of Medicine and New York Times bestselling author of parenting books such as No Drama Discipline, The Whole Brain Child, and Parenting from the Inside Out.

In this episode we discuss cultivating conscious connections with those around us and how we can support our children who are growing up in a digitized world. Sitting down with Dr. Siegel was absolutely a career highlight for me, he has shaped so much of my work and I am honored to share this conversation with you.

Did you connect with that episode? The best way to support Holding Space podcast is to subscribe and leave a review! Podcast reviews are the best way to make sure the podcast reaches those who need it most, and I read each and every one. To connect with Dr. Cassidy or learn more about her private practice, visit www.drcassidymft.com.

This week we have seen families stripped from each other at our border. This is a human crisis, but this crisis did not just start this week. If we zoom out we will see a lot of anger, and a lot of hatred, and a lot of dehumanization for those who are considered "other." In this episode we explore how we got to where we are, we discuss the dangers of dehumanization, privilege and intersectionality, compassion (for ourselves and others), empathy, and the different ways in which we can show up as activists. I end the episode exploring how we can talk to our children about privilege and activism.

In this episode I mention several resourses including the work of Brené Brown and her book Braving the Wilderness: The Quest for True Belonging and the Courage to Stand Alone. I also share the work of  Dr. Kristin Neff on self-compassion. In terms of privilege I mention Peggy McIntosh's article White Privilege: Unpacking the Invisible Knapsack and Beverly Tatum's book Why are all the Black Kids Sitting Together in the Cafeteria: And Other Conversations About Race. Michael Ventura's Applied Empathy work is also discussed, and raceconscious.org is shared as a resource for talking to our kids about race and privilege.

Did you connect with that episode? The best way to support Holding Space podcast is to subscribe and leave a review! Podcast reviews are the best way to make sure the podcast reaches those who need it most, and I read each and every one. To connect with Dr. Cassidy or learn more about her private practice, visit www.drcassidymft.com.

In this episode I sit down with Clinical Psychologist and father involvement researcher Dr. Dan Singley. In honor of Father's Day and International Father's Mental Health Day, we explore dad's mental health, specifically in early fatherhood. We unpack the messages that dad's receive, the fatherhood generational gap, symptoms of perinatal mood and anxiety disorders in dads, risk factors, protective factors, and the importance in supporting emotional intelligence for men.

Some of the resources mentioned in the episode: social networking site for dad's Padre Cadre, Life of Dad, Daddit, and Postpartum Support International. At the end of the episode I also share research findings from a study I conducted looking at paternal peripartum depression. To find more about Dr. Singley's work you can find him at www.menexcel.com. 

Did you connect with that episode? The best way to support Holding Space podcast is to subscribe and leave a review! Podcast reviews are the best way to make sure the podcast reaches those who need it most, and I read each and every one. To connect with Dr. Cassidy or learn more about her private practice, visit www.drcassidymft.com.

In this episode we explore adult friendships with friendship researcher Miriam Kirmayer. Miriam and I discuss the complexities of adult friendships, why they are so important, what makes them hard, how they are different from other relationships, how to build your friendship network, and the unique experiences of parents and entrepreneurs when it comes to friends! To continue following Miriam's work you can find her here!

Did you connect with that episode? The best way to support Holding Space podcast is to subscribe and leave a review! Podcast reviews are the best way to make sure the podcast reaches those who need it most, and I read each and every one. To connect with Dr. Cassidy or learn more about her private practice, visit www.drcassidymft.com.

In this episode I'm sharing an incredible event aimed at bringing awareness to perinatal mood and anxiety disorders. Did you know that 1 in 5 moms and 1 in 10 dads will suffer with a perinatal mood or anxiety disorder? The Climb Out of the Darkness is the world's largest event raising funds and awareness for perinatal mental illness like postpartum depression and postpartum anxiety. For this episode I sat down with the local San Diego Climb team: Dr. Daniel Singley, a local San Diego psychologist specializing in early fatherhood and a Board member of Postpartum Support International; Jennifer Varela, sleep coach and current President of the Postpartum Health Alliance; and Julie Lopez, attorney-at-law, who is a proud survivor of postpartum depression and postpartum anxiety.

We talk about the event, the impact of sleep during the postpartum period, paternal mental health, and Julie shares her story that brought her to put on the Climb here in San Diego. For more information on the Climb, you can find them on Facebook, on the Postpartum Health Alliance, and at Postpartum Support International. To donate, click here. 

Did you connect with that episode? The best way to support Holding Space podcast is to subscribe and leave a review! Podcast reviews are the best way to make sure the podcast reaches those who need it most, and I read each and every one. To connect with Dr. Cassidy or learn more about her private practice, visit www.drcassidymft.com.

In this episode I sit down with Dr. Kim Van Dusen, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and Registered Play Therapist. Together we explore the power of play as a bridge to connection with our children. We share some of our own stories of how we have used play in our work and as parents and discuss how play shows up as an important ingredient to whole-hearted living and wellness for both children and adults! To find more about Dr. Kim's work as a parenting educator, you can find her here!

Did you connect with that episode? The best way to support Holding Space podcast is to subscribe and leave a review! Podcast reviews are the best way to make sure the podcast reaches those who need it most, and I read each and every one. To connect with Dr. Cassidy or learn more about her private practice, visit www.drcassidymft.com.

In this episode, I sit down with Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist Janelle Nelson. Janelle and I explore both the brutal and beautiful experiences of intimate partner relationships. We discuss the need to deconstruct the shame that is often experienced within marital and intimate partner struggles, and offer ideas of how couples can transform through connection. We discuss how it can take courage to stay in a relationship and work on it, and it can also take courage to leave when that is being called for. To find more information on Janelle's work, click here!

Did you connect with that episode? The best way to support Holding Space podcast is to subscribe and leave a review! Podcast reviews are the best way to make sure the podcast reaches those who need it most, and I read each and every one. To connect with Dr. Cassidy or learn more about her private practice, visit www.drcassidymft.com.

In this episode I sit down with fashion designer Rachel Pally. Rachel shares with us how she built her business by hearing the "no's" and showing up anyway. We discuss how becoming a mother has transformed her, the myth of balance, and how she has reclaimed "self-care" by personalizing it to work for her life now. We also explore the importance of friends that you can share your shame stories with, the double edge sword of social media, and Rachel shares her experiences with therapy. Rachel keeps it real, and the world of curated filtered perfection could FOR SURE use more of that! www.rachelpally.com

Did you connect with that episode? The best way to support Holding Space podcast is to subscribe and leave a review! Podcast reviews are the best way to make sure the podcast reaches those who need it most, and I read each and every one. To connect with Dr. Cassidy or learn more about her private practice, visit www.drcassidymft.com.

In this episode I sit down with Rebecca Ching, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and owner of Potentia (an integrative mental health center in San Diego). Rooted in the research and practice of Brené Brown, Rebecca has completed training to become a  Daring Way™ Facilitator and Consultant. In today's episode we talk about scarcity, abundance, and the power of "enough." Some resources (beyond Brené Brown) mentioned in the episode are: selfleadership.org, You are the One You've Been Waiting For, The Body Keeps the Score, and Dan Siegel's work. 

Did you connect with that episode? The best way to support Holding Space podcast is to subscribe and leave a review! Podcast reviews are the best way to make sure the podcast reaches those who need it most, and I read each and every one. To connect with Dr. Cassidy or learn more about her private practice, visit www.drcassidymft.com.

In this episode I sit down with Renata Cameron, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and founder of the modernized mommy and me support group Milestones. Renata and I discuss building a support tribe, sorting through the noise of information, introvert motherhood, and getting comfortable in the "gray." Renata shares her own personal struggle with perfectionism, and her relationship with "good enough." For more information on Renata's mommy and me support groups, click here!

Did you connect with that episode? The best way to support Holding Space podcast is to subscribe and leave a review! Podcast reviews are the best way to make sure the podcast reaches those who need it most, and I read each and every one. To connect with Dr. Cassidy or learn more about her private practice, visit www.drcassidymft.com.

Death has no respect for the differences we have created among us; we will each be touched by it. Those left behind often report feeling disconnected from the events of the world, as if the one who died took a part of them with. For a period of time people check in, give their condolences, share memories. Slowly, but often not slowly enough, people stop asking. There is an expectation that death is something to get over, something to move on from. We are to be sad, of course, but we are expected to say goodbye and let go. In this episode Dr. Cassidy explores how the discourses of "letting go" and "saying goodbye" actually challenges our grief process. Instead of letting go, what if the result of grieving was to restore what has been lost?

Did you connect with that episode? The best way to support Holding Space podcast is to subscribe and leave a review! Podcast reviews are the best way to make sure the podcast reaches those who need it most, and I read each and every one. To connect with Dr. Cassidy or learn more about her private practice, visit www.drcassidymft.com.

In this episode I sit down with journalist and activist Tamara Taggart. In Tamara's ted talk "The Two Conversations that Changed My Life" she described two pivotal moments in her life, one where she was told her son has down syndrome, and the other when she was told she had cancer.

In this episode we discuss the power of hope, where it showed up, how she cultivated it when it wasn't offered, her discovery of resiliency in vulnerability, and her empowering experience of advocacy. A third pivotal moment in Tamara's life was the recent loss of her longheld job as a news anchor. Tamara shares how she is holding space for intention as she moves through this new transition. To follow Tamara's journey, you can find her on social media here.

Did you connect with that episode? The best way to support Holding Space podcast is to subscribe and leave a review! Podcast reviews are the best way to make sure the podcast reaches those who need it most, and I read each and every one. To connect with Dr. Cassidy or learn more about her private practice, visit www.drcassidymft.com.

In this episode I sit down with Robin Kaplan, founder of the San Diego Breastfeeding Center and author of Latch. Robin has her Masters in Education and is an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant. In this episode Robin debunks some breastfeeding myths, explains why so many women find themselves struggling when it comes to breastfeeding, explores the role of partner support, discusses the relationship between breastfeeding and intimacy, shares useful tips on transitioning back to work while breastfeeding, and answers tough questions like, "in our well-meaning efforts to support lactacting moms, did we take the idea of breast is best too far?" To read more about Robin's services and work, go to www.sdbfc.com, or buy her book Latch here!

Did you connect with that episode? The best way to support Holding Space podcast is to subscribe and leave a review! Podcast reviews are the best way to make sure the podcast reaches those who need it most, and I read each and every one. To connect with Dr. Cassidy or learn more about her private practice, visit www.drcassidymft.com.

In this episode I sit down with Dr. Christine Sterling, OB/GYN. Dr. Sterling discusses her approach to pregnancy care, where she supports women in preparing for life beyond birth. Dr. Sterling shares how each specific trimester offers a unique opportunity to cultivate empowering self-care habits, build a strong tribe, and begin the beautiful connection to your baby.

Did you connect with that episode? The best way to support Holding Space podcast is to subscribe and leave a review! Podcast reviews are the best way to make sure the podcast reaches those who need it most, and I read each and every one. To connect with Dr. Cassidy or learn more about her private practice, visit www.drcassidymft.com.

In this episode, we discuss how to get unstuck from creative blocks by developing a new relationship with painful experiences of Fear, Resistance, Shame, and Perfectionism. We explore how acceptance of difficult emotions can create space for us to regain our creative flow. 

Did you connect with that episode? The best way to support Holding Space podcast is to subscribe and leave a review! Podcast reviews are the best way to make sure the podcast reaches those who need it most, and I read each and every one. To connect with Dr. Cassidy or learn more about her private practice, visit www.drcassidymft.com.

In today's episode, I sit down with Rachel Rabinor, Licensed Clinical Social Worker in honor of National Infertility Awareness Week. Rachel specializes in working with women and families impacted by infertility and pregnancy loss, and in this episode we explore the relationship between pregnancy loss, depression, anxiety, and trauma. We discuss how the diversity of experiences with pregnancy loss can sometimes lead to lost opportunities for connection. We both share our own unique experiences with pregnancy loss, and describe ways in which loved ones can offer support to someone who has experienced this type of loss. For more information on Rachel's work, you can find her at www.rachelrabinor.com.

Did you connect with that episode? The best way to support Holding Space podcast is to subscribe and leave a review! Podcast reviews are the best way to make sure the podcast reaches those who need it most, and I read each and every one. To connect with Dr. Cassidy or learn more about her private practice, visit www.drcassidymft.com.

In today's episode I sit down with Kelly Mindell of Studio DIY. Kelly shares with us her personal experience with infertility, pregnancy loss, and adoption. We explore the silence and isolation that is often experienced with infertility and pregnancy loss, and how opening up about her story has offered the gift of meaningful connections. Kelly shares with us how she and her husband Jeff decided to pursue adoption and explains the adoption process. Kelly is a beam of light who is willing to honor both the beautiful and brutal parts of story into motherhood. You can follow Kelly, Jeff, and baby Arlo's journey at www.studiodiy.com and on instagram @studiodiy.

Did you connect with that episode? The best way to support Holding Space podcast is to subscribe and leave a review! Podcast reviews are the best way to make sure the podcast reaches those who need it most, and I read each and every one. To connect with Dr. Cassidy or learn more about her private practice, visit www.drcassidymft.com.

In today's episode I sat down with writer, photographer, and therapist Chrissy Powers. Chrissy opens up about her own story of trauma and anxiety in motherhood, and shares the tangible ways that she has healed through these experiences. You can follow Chrissy's work and story at www.chrissypowers.com.

Did you connect with that episode? The best way to support Holding Space podcast is to subscribe and leave a review! Podcast reviews are the best way to make sure the podcast reaches those who need it most, and I read each and every one. To connect with Dr. Cassidy or learn more about her private practice, visit www.drcassidymft.com.

In this episode I sit down with parenting coach, educator, writer, and LGBTQIA+ activist Rachel Rainbolt. Rachel has her Masters degree in Marriage and Family Therapy and through her coaching and writing holds space for parents to say "Yes!" to connection, joy, and freedom in life with their families. Rachel offers simple but profound ways we can design a life with our childen rooted in our values. She also shares how her and her partner hold space in their family for gender creativity and gender expression...

"We held the space for our kid to be exactly who they were. My child was born with a given spirit, and that is who they are and my role as a parent can influence so much in terms of the outcome with their happiness and wellbeing and success, but they come into this world with that given spirit piece. You either honor it and then you have this amazing life of connection that’s so rewarding and joyful, or you don’t and then you miss out on that. You miss out on the gift of being in connection in this deep meaningful way, in a way of celebrating this human."

For more information on Rachel's work you can find her at www.sageparenting.com.

Did you connect with that episode? The best way to support Holding Space podcast is to subscribe and leave a review! Podcast reviews are the best way to make sure the podcast reaches those who need it most, and I read each and every one. To connect with Dr. Cassidy or learn more about her private practice, visit www.drcassidymft.com.

In this episode of the Holding Space podcast, Dr. Cassidy sits down with designer and blogger Joy Cho to explore the relationship between inspiration, creativity, joy and pain. We explore the answers to the questions, "Where does inspiration come from?" "Do we need to be in a place of joy and happiness to access our creativity?" "What is the relationship between trauma, pain, and creativity?" "When can extra support such as therapy be helpful in the creative process?" To find out more about Joy Cho and her work click here!

Did you connect with that episode? The best way to support Holding Space podcast is to subscribe and leave a review! Podcast reviews are the best way to make sure the podcast reaches those who need it most, and I read each and every one. To connect with Dr. Cassidy or learn more about her private practice, visit www.drcassidymft.com.

In this episode we explore how Brené Brown's foundational research on shame and shame resiliency connects to the unique experience of mothers. If you are a mom or planning to become a mother...my hope is that you walk away from this episode feeling less alone and with tangible tools to develop resiliency when "mom guilt" shows up. For more information on Brené Brown's work click here.

Did you connect with that episode? The best way to support Holding Space podcast is to subscribe and leave a review! Podcast reviews are the best way to make sure the podcast reaches those who need it most, and I read each and every one. To connect with Dr. Cassidy or learn more about her private practice, visit www.drcassidymft.com.

In this episode of the Holding Space podcast, Dr. Cassidy unpacks the definition of values and offers a framework from which you can begin to explore your own personal values. We discuss the relationship between values and our emotions, values and goals, and how values can offer the direction we need for creating meaningful change.

Did you connect with that episode? The best way to support Holding Space podcast is to subscribe and leave a review! Podcast reviews are the best way to make sure the podcast reaches those who need it most, and I read each and every one. To connect with Dr. Cassidy or learn more about her private practice, visit www.drcassidymft.com.

In this episode of the Holding Space podcast, you will be introduced to your host Dr. Cassidy Freitas and get an idea of what you can expect in future episodes. We will explore the mission of the podcast, upcoming episodes, and how to get in touch with and find out more about Dr. Cassidy's practice.

Did you connect with that episode? The best way to support Holding Space podcast is to subscribe and leave a review! Podcast reviews are the best way to make sure the podcast reaches those who need it most, and I read each and every one. To connect with Dr. Cassidy or learn more about her private practice, visit www.drcassidymft.com.

Do you have a picky eater in your life?! I was! So this is a topic especially close to my heart. A child's relationship with food, eating, and their body can follow them into adulthood. So how do we navigate these incredibly important conversations around "pickiness"?

The relationship with food is complicated. It is personal, relational, and unavoidable.

We're talking all about that complicated dynamic today. I invited Jenny Friedman, MS, RD onto the podcast. Join us as we discuss how you can support your child in building a healthy and comfortable relationship with food, eating, and mealtimes.

Jenny Friedman MS, RD, is a dietitian who specializes in picky eating and pediatric feeding challenges. Known for her playful and approachable child-led style, Jenny is the author of Stories of Extreme Picky Eating: Children with Severe Eating Challenges and the Solutions that Helped Them. She shares her insight on her website and blog and over social media @feedingpickyeaters.

You can find Jenny's Eating with Ease Program by clicking here! 

Did you connect with that episode? The best way to support Holding Space podcast is to subscribe and leave a review! Podcast reviews help us reach those who need it most, and I read each and every one. To connect with Dr. Cassidy or learn more about her private practice, visit www.drcassidymft.com.

Having a baby can put a strain on partner relationships and with all the shifts in identity, sleep deprivation, and new found pressures and boundaries to navigate...new parents are at risk for increased conflict. So, how can couples stay connected while experiencing the struggles that understandably bring them conflict?

This is an important question, and to support you in this new season as a couple I've invited Dr. Steve and Lisa Call from The Reconnect Institute onto the podcast and together we are unpacking conflict and finding connection again after baby and beyond.

Connect with Dr. Steve and Lisa Call:  Website: thereconnectinstitute.com Podcast - The Reconnect Marriage Podcast Instagram: @reconnectmarriage

Did you connect with that episode? The best way to support Holding Space podcast is to subscribe and leave a review! Podcast reviews help us reach those who need it most, and I read each and every one. To connect with Dr. Cassidy or learn more about her private practice, visit www.drcassidymft.com.

Remember when we thought we would stay home for a few weeks and this pandemic would be behind us?!

Well, here we are a few years later and it's still impacting our every day in so many different ways.

Caution fatigue, decision fatigue, anxiety, uncertainty, isolation, grief, sadness...if you're feeling it, you're not alone.

In today's episode I sit down with my colleague Dr. Veronica Eyo, mom to 3 and Licensed Clinical Social Worker, to discuss pandemic burnout for parents. You'll walk away with a better understanding for WHY you're feeling burnt out, and WHAT we can begin to do to care for ourselves, replenish (and repair when needed) amidst it all.

To continue to follow Dr. Eyo's work and learn more from her or about her private practice, you can follow her at @drveronicaeyo or check out her website here!

Did you connect with that episode? The best way to support Holding Space podcast is to subscribe and leave a review! Podcast reviews help us reach those who need it most, and I read each and every one. To connect with Dr. Cassidy or learn more about her private practice, visit www.drcassidymft.com.

Do you experience driving anxiety as a parent? Dread getting in the car because your kiddo seems to hate it? Feel overwhelmed by picking and installing a car seat?

If this sounds like you, you're definitely not alone!

I've invited my friend Michelle from Safe in the Seat to talk all about driving anxiety and car seat safety. You'll leave this episode with steps to build your car seat confidence and tools for navigating the anxiety triggered by driving.

Michelle is a parent and the founder of Safe in the Seat. She is recognized as a Nationally Certified Child Passenger Safety Expert. You can find her on Instagram @safeintheseat & find her courses and consults at safeintheseat.com!

Did you connect with that episode? The best way to support Holding Space podcast is to subscribe and leave a review! Podcast reviews help us reach those who need it most, and I read each and every one. To connect with Dr. Cassidy or learn more about her private practice, visit www.drcassidymft.com.

New parenthood comes with so many challenges--sleep deprivation, so many decisions, new identities, and the monumental shift in the relationship with your partner as you become parents.

With all this stress, how do we find each other again? How do we get on the same team?

Today, I'm talking with Matthias Barker all about partner relationships and parenting. We're covering everything from the research behind relational satisfaction in parenting to tangible tips for supporting your parter relationship in the trenches of early parenthood and beyond.

I hope you find this episode supportive and takeaway some actionable tips for navigating this challenging transition, together!

To learn more about Matthias, you can check out all of his offerings (including books and courses on grief, burnout, anxiety, trauma, and couples) at matthiasjbarker.com. Matthias Barker has a Master’s Degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and has been formally trained for treating complex trauma, anxiety, and marital issues. Matthias shares weekly content to support people in moving towards what's meaningful in the midst of hardship on Instagram and TikTok @matthiasjbarker and on his podcast.

Did you connect with that episode? The best way to support Holding Space podcast is to subscribe and leave a review! Podcast reviews help us reach those who need it most, and I read each and every one. To connect with Dr. Cassidy or learn more about her private practice, visit www.drcassidymft.com.

Let's talk about Anxiety, particularly when it shows up around money.

Money and finances can feel complicated, overwhelming, and anxiety-inducing! Our own individual and family stories around money can inform the way we think about money as adults, and as we navigate the discussion around money with our own children.

Today, we're talking all about Money Anxiety with Financial Therapist Lindsay Bryan-Podvin to address all things personal finance, financial anxiety, finances in relationships, and how to talk about money with your children.

Lindsay Bryan-Podvin (she/her) is a biracial financial therapist, podcast host, speaker, and author of the book "The Financial Anxiety Solution." In her therapy practice, Mind Money Balance, she uses shame-free financial therapy to help people get their minds and money in balance. She's expanded her services to help private practice therapists with their money mindset, sustainable pricing, and authentic marketing so they can include financial self-care in their work. She lives with her partner and their dog on the traditional land of the Fox, Peoria, Potawatomi, and Anishinabewaki peoples, also known as Michigan.

Links and resources below!

www.mindmoneybalance.com

Mind Money Balance Podcast

Financial Archetype Quiz

The Financial Anxiety Solution Workbook

Did you connect with that episode? The best way to support Holding Space podcast is to subscribe and leave a review! Podcast reviews help us reach those who need it most, and I read each and every one. To connect with Dr. Cassidy or learn more about her private practice, visit www.drcassidymft.com.

On the first day I dropped my daughter off at preschool, she came home and said "Mommy, there are ouchies in my mouth." -- as it turned out, she had the hand foot mouth disease & I had to call her daycare on DAY ONE to let them know!

If you have a child in daycare, this may be a familiar story. You're not alone! Navigating healthy habits and immunity with children in daycare and school is a challenge and can bring up a lot of difficult feelings like anxiety & guilt.

Today, we're talking all about keeping your daycare and school-aged kids healthy with pediatrician Dr. Krupa Playforth from ThePediatricianMom. Dr. Playforth is a mom and pediatrician who shares her expertise on social media to help parents just like you. 

We're talking all things immunity including what is "normal" for illness at this age, daily habits to support health, nutrition for immunity, stress reduction to support health, and the feelings that come up when our children get sick. I hope you find some helpful takeaways from this episode that you can implement to better support the health of your child and family!

Dr. Playforth is a board-certified pediatrician in Northern VA. She can be reached on social media (Instagram or Facebook) or at her website. 

Did you connect with that episode? The best way to support Holding Space podcast is to subscribe and leave a review! Podcast reviews help us reach those who need it most, and I read each and every one. To connect with Dr. Cassidy or learn more about her private practice, visit www.drcassidymft.com.

Compassion is something we often give to others with ease, but it's so much harder to give ourselves that same type of grace -- especially in tough parenting moments. If you are a highly sensitive parent (or suspect you may be!) these difficult moments can feel even MORE intense.

If you are struggling to navigate sensitivity in you or your child, you are not alone.

I invited my friend Runda Ebeid on the podcast today to talk all about self-compassion for sensitive parents and sensitive kids. Runda is a pediatric Occupational Therapist & brings her expertise to her Instagram @mothercarejourney.

Today, we're talking ALL about self-compassion, shame, guilt, and ways we can make space for compassion in some of those most difficult, overwhelming parenting moments. We hope you'll take away actionable exercises and steps for practicing more self-compassion in your journey as a parent.

Links mentioned in the episode:

ENCANTO Live

Runda's Instagram @mothercarejourney

Did you connect with that episode? The best way to support Holding Space podcast is to subscribe and leave a review! Podcast reviews help us reach those who need it most, and I read each and every one. To connect with Dr. Cassidy or learn more about her private practice, visit www.drcassidymft.com.

How does your past impact your parenting? Today we're talking all about the ways that motherhood and parenthood can trigger our past pain or trauma.

I invited my friend Yara Heary on this week's episode to discuss her own story with healing in parenthood. We're sharing our own experiences and hope you leave this episode with actionable steps and a better understanding of how we can heal and re-wire our past wounds.

Yara is a Perth, Australia psychologist who works exclusively with women throughout conception, pregnancy, and motherhood. Yara started Life After Birth Psychology following the birth of her first son which started her on yet another journey of self-rediscovery. Her experiences throughout early motherhood sparked her passion to support other women as they navigate their own family of origin dynamics, the social programming of the “good mother”, relationship changes with those around them, identity shifts, and role changes to find their place of balance and authenticity as mothers.

You can find Yara here:

On Instagram: @lifeafterbirthpsychology

On her website: www.lifeafterbirth.com.au

Work with Yara: The Rebirth Coaching Group

Did you connect with that episode? The best way to support Holding Space podcast is to subscribe and leave a review! Podcast reviews help us reach those who need it most, and I read each and every one. To connect with Dr. Cassidy or learn more about her private practice, visit www.drcassidymft.com.

Parenting can be...A LOT, and today we're talking all about PARENTAL BURNOUT.

We often hear about burnout in the context of work or career, but burnout and exhaustion can absolutely show up in parenting. If you find yourself dreading the end of naptime because there wasn't enough time, feeling depleted, struggling with the idea of attaining perfection in parenting... you're not alone.

I invited my friend Dr. Morgan Cutlip to talk about her experience as a professional and a mom in navigating burnout. We're discussing what parental burnout looks like, how you can identify it in yourself, day-to-day signs that burnout is creeping in, and what you can do about it.

We hope you leave this episode feeling seen, understood, and supported with helpful tips to navigate the many challenges of parenthood and how to protect yourself from burn out!

You can find Dr. Morgan Cutlip at the following links:

Instagram: @mylovethinks

Website: mylovethinks.com

Podcast: Love Thinks Podcast

Did you connect with that episode? The best way to support Holding Space podcast is to subscribe and leave a review! Podcast reviews help us reach those who need it most, and I read each and every one. To connect with Dr. Cassidy or learn more about her private practice, visit www.drcassidymft.com.

Friendship in motherhood and parenthood is life-giving -- but it's also really challenging!

Do you find yourself struggling to balance your friendships with your new role as a parent? Or feeling awkward trying to meet new friends after baby? If so, you're not alone.

This is an all-too-common challenge of parenthood which is why I invited my friend Miriam Kirmayer to talk all about friendships after baby on today's episode. We're talking about our personal experiences with friendship after baby, strategies for making and sustaining friendships, and the importance of meaningful and supportive friends in parenthood.

Dr. Miriam Kirmayer is a clinical psychologist and leading expert on friendship and social connection. Grounded in over a decade of research on the science of friendship, her work focuses on helping people to cultivate resilience and build healthier relationships and more connected lives.

You can find more from Miriam here:

Website: www.miriamkirmayer.com

Did you connect with that episode? The best way to support Holding Space podcast is to subscribe and leave a review! Podcast reviews help us reach those who need it most, and I read each and every one. To connect with Dr. Cassidy or learn more about her private practice, visit www.drcassidymft.com.