Michaela McCloud, Registered Associate Clinical Social Worker
She/They Registered Associate Clinical Social Worker About Like many people, I was diagnosed with OCD many years after my symptoms appeared. That’s why I’m passionate about supporting members through their personal journeys. As a therapist, I’m direct and compassionate, adding a touch of humor when appropriate. I approach ERP (Exposure and Response Prevention) with curiosity,
Pregnancy After Loss | Postpartum Support International (PSI)
By Nicole McNelis, M.Ed., NCC, LPC, PMH-C Pregnancy After Loss can be an experience filled with so many different emotions and emotional highs and lows. One moment can be filled with joy, while the next might be gripped with fear. It’s important to remember that all of these feelings are understandable. Showing compassion, kindness, and
Navigating Misconceptions About Postpartum OCD
Becky’s Story At PSI, we understand that storytelling has the power to save lives, and we are honored to provide a space for survivors to share their stories. This article is part of a subsection of the PSI blog dedicated to survivor stories. Please note that this story has not been edited, and caution is
How To Lose Menopause Weight and Stop It Coming Back – The Better Menopause
How to support sustainable weight loss during menopause – what to eat, what to limit, the best forms of exercise and tips for better sleep. October 20, 2024 Gaining weight, and putting on fat around your belly, are common symptoms of perimenopause and menopause. Thankfully, there are steps you can take to help you lose
Silencing the Stigma: Understanding Perinatal OCD and Letting Go of Shame
By Ellen Chance, Ph.D., PMH-C Picture this: a new mother holding her baby, overflowing with love and a profound sense of protection, but her mind is battling an invisible enemy. On the surface, everything looks perfect, but behind her smile lurk intrusive thoughts, spiraling out of control. It’s a constant push and pull—one moment she’s
Treatment of Obsessive Compulsive Disorder with Exposure Therapy in Perinatal Population
By Taryn Hancock, MSW, LSW One of the most transformative times in a human’s life is becoming a parent. The time of conception to the birthing experience to the lesser-known “fourth trimester” can bring an array of emotions. Whether you are a birthing parent, a partner, a loved one, or a provider, recognizing how to
Enduring Loss with Support from Sweet Grace Ministries
By Samantha Reaves, Communications Specialist, Postpartum Support International Trigger warning: pregnancy and infant loss, traumatic birth, stillbirth After experiencing the unimaginable loss of their baby girl, Cicely Grace Dortenzo, in 2003, Katy and Josh Dortenzo were left grieving. To honor Cicely, they started Sweet Grace Ministries in 2011, a nonprofit organization offering support and resources
Breastfeeding in Difficult Situations: How to Manage Stress and Anxiety
By Angy Esteves Breastfeeding is a natural and rewarding experience, providing both nutritional and emotional benefits for the mother and the baby. However, it can become a significant challenge when the mother faces stressful and anxious situations. The success of breastfeeding can not be considered in isolation without considering the context in which it develops,
Causes, Treatments and How It Feels – The Better Menopause
What does menopause leg pain feel like, what’s the link to changing hormone levels and what could help ease your symptoms? October 10, 2024 Pain in the muscles and joints of your legs is a common symptom of both perimenopause and menopause. These issues are often worse at night and you may feel a variety