Transitioning into Parenthood

Becoming a parent raises many questions.

Wow! The test is positive! You are officially pregnant! Maybe, this is something you’ve tried to achieve, or maybe it is a surprise. However, this baby came to be – the fact is you are about to become a parent!

Your brain starts going into overdrive, running the gambit from practical and serious thoughts to more fun yet anxiety-provoking ones.

Will it be a boy or girl? Will my partner be upset if it’s not the sex they wanted? Will I be upset? What will we do if something is wrong with the baby?

Will I quit my job to stay home, or will my partner? Or will we need to find childcare? What will we name this baby? How will we decorate the room? What kind of birth plan do I want?

The stream of questions feels endless.

Children bring about changes in the household.

You know you and your partner are great together, but how will you be as parents? You can read all the books and ask seasoned parents for their words of wisdom, but nothing truly prepares you for becoming a parent.

That first year after your child is born is often the most difficult for your relationship and as individuals. Of course, a million magical things happen in this first year, too, but there are also so many changes and challenges that arise.

Even couples with strong and loving relationships find becoming parents overwhelming and stressful.

The sleepless nights, new tasks and duties related to childcare, the dramatic increase in daily decisions to make, and the heightened financial responsibilities are just a few contributing factors that lead to conflict between partners.

Therapy can make parenting easier.

The transition into parenthood can bring up issues in a relationship not previously discussed, such as parenting styles, the family of origin issues, and expectations on the division of responsibility once the baby arrives.

Working with a therapist during pregnancy or after your baby’s birth can help ensure a couple is on the same page.

Together, we will work on improving your communication and conflict management skills, discuss expectations for new roles as parents, and develop a plan for postpartum needs and support.

Our work will give you the solid foundation needed to successfully transition into the wild adventure known as parenthood!