Listen "#18 - Alex Steric: birth trauma, postpartum countertransference, and private practice myths"
Episode Synopsis
In this conversation, we speak with Alex Steric, a licensed clinical social worker specializing in perinatal mental health. We discuss Alex's journey into private practice, her focus on postpartum mental health, and the therapeutic technique of brain spotting. Alex shares insights on birth trauma, the importance of recognizing dual experiences in motherhood, and the challenges therapists face with countertransference. We also explore the nuances of referring clients to specialists, assessing postpartum mental health, and the importance of supporting fellow therapists in their practice. Alex emphasizes the need to overcome gatekeeping in private practice and offers practical advice on marketing, networking, and setting fees for therapy services.https://alexstericlcsw.com/@thriveafterbabywithalex@alexstericlcswChapters00:00 Introduction to Postpartum Therapy04:35 Understanding Brain Spotting07:45 The Process of Brain Spotting10:41 Exploring Birth Trauma13:40 The Impact of Birth Trauma on Mothers16:36 Misconceptions in Postpartum Care19:31 Countertransference in Therapy22:38 Self-Care for Therapists25:34 When to Refer to a Specialist26:53 Navigating Perinatal Mental Health Specialties30:38 Assessment Tools for Postpartum Challenges34:08 Referrals and Finding the Right Fit35:10 The Impact of Untreated Birth Trauma37:42 Supporting Therapists: Supervision and Coaching40:43 Debunking Myths in Private Practice42:04 Building a Client Base: Marketing and Networking45:40 Setting Fees for Therapy Services48:58 Future Aspirations: Hiring Associates
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