Blog
Parenting, Mental Health & Wellness
Summer is Not Always Sweet: When the Season Feels Like Too Much
Summer with kids isn’t always carefree—especially for new parents or families juggling multiple ages and schedules. In this post, we explore the overstimulation, pressure, and exhaustion that can come with the season. If you're navigating postpartum, parenting burnout, or just trying to survive the chaos of summer break, this is your reminder that it’s okay to slow down and protect your peace.
You Don’t Have to Do This Alone: The Importance of Community
Parenting, and life, was never meant to be done alone. Whether you're navigating new parenthood, anxiety, or big life transitions, having a support system makes all the difference. In this post, I explore why community matters, how to build your village, and why asking for help is one of the bravest things you can do.
What If I Snap? (And Other Thoughts You’re Afraid to Say Out Loud)
Ever had a thought so strange or disturbing it made you question your sanity? You’re not alone. Intrusive thoughts, fleeting, unwanted, and often distressing, are more common than you think. Whether it’s a sudden image of driving off a cliff or fears about accidentally harming your baby, these thoughts do not define you. In this post, I break down what intrusive thoughts really are, why they happen, and how to take away their power through mindfulness, externalization, and self-compassion. You are not your thoughts, and you’re not going crazy.
When “Just Have Fun Trying” Isn’t Helpful - IVF, Loss and What to Say (Or Not to Say)
IVF is more than just a medical process, it’s an emotional, physical, and financial rollercoaster. Between hormone injections, loss, and the loneliness of waiting, well-meaning comments like “Just relax and have fun trying” can feel like salt in the wound. In this post, I explore the real impact of fertility struggles, how to respond to unhelpful advice, and book recommendations to help you feel less alone. Whether you’re navigating infertility, pregnancy after loss, or just trying to stay afloat in the chaos, this post is for you.
Postpartum Isn’t All Joy — And That’s Okay
Postpartum emotions are complex and you don’t have to navigate them alone. This blog explores the emotional highs and lows of new parenthood, including postpartum depression, anxiety, and intrusive thoughts. Learn how these experiences affect all kinds of families, including dads, LGBTQ+ parents, and adoptive families, and discover signs it might be time to reach out for support. Real talk, realistic self-care, and local resources inside.
Wants Nothing Time: A Mindful Pause for Parents and People
What if quality time wasn’t just something we gave to others—but a gift we offered ourselves? This post explores “Wants Nothing” time, a mindful practice for slowing down, reconnecting with yourself, and finding calm amidst the chaos of parenting, anxiety, and daily life.
Box Breathing: A Simple Mindfulness Tool to Calm Your Nervous System
Box breathing is one of my favorite tools to reset when life feels overwhelming. Whether you're stuck in traffic or feeling anxious before a meeting, this simple practice can bring your nervous system back online. In this post, I share how and when I use it, and why it might help you, too.
Meet Your Therapist: Anxiety & Perinatal Mental Health Support in California
Hi! I’m Dana — an anxiety and perinatal therapist based in Petaluma. This post is a little intro to me, my approach, and what brought me here. If you’re a tired parent, a person with a racing mind, or just someone trying to keep it together, you’re in the right place.