Dr. Vanessa Freeman | Supporting NICU Families Through Psychology and Personal ExperienceIn this episode of the NICU Today Podcast, we are joined by Dr. Vanessa Freeman, licensed psychologist, NICU mom, and owner of Searching for Self Counseling and Consulting, a virtual private practice serving Black women and mothers. Dr. Freeman brings both her personal experience as a NICU parent and her professional training as a psychologist to guide and support families navigating the challenges of NICU life.Dr. Freeman’s daughter, Rylee, was born at 29 weeks and 1 day after an in-utero diagnosis of IUGR (Intrauterine Growth Restriction). She spent 66 days in the NICU, an experience that profoundly shaped Dr. Freeman’s outlook as both a parent and professional.On today’s episode:Dr. Freeman shares her family’s journey and the realities of receiving an IUGR diagnosis.How she prepared for a potential early delivery and the unexpected challenges of the NICU.Lessons learned during her 66-day NICU stay and the impact they had on her family.How her personal journey informed her career path and her focus on serving Black women and mothers.The most common struggles her clients face and the advice she shares to support them.An update on how Rylee is doing today.Dr. Freeman’s story highlights the resilience of NICU families and the importance of mental health support throughout the journey. This episode provides both education and encouragement, reminding parents that they are not alone and that resources exist to help them thrive during and after their NICU experience.

Ver todos los episodios