Ep. 34: Birth Trauma: Navigating Invalidation & Self-blame

Kate McReynolds, licensed therapist, joins me to discuss her own experience with birth trauma, particularly related to feelings of invalidation and self-blame.  Kate explains her journey of working through the feelings that her birth trauma wasn't "bad" or "scary" enough to count as trauma. She also discusses the challenge of navigating invalidation from external sources, but also from herself. In this episode, you will hear:- Kate's story of birth trauma- Feeling ignored in birth- Lack of consent and commentary related to sexual assault- Invalidation after birth trauma- Planning for a subsequent birth (vbac) - Kate's story of a healing subsequent birth You can find Kate on Instagram @the.mom.therapist or at her website.Guest Bio: Kate is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and a mom of two. She is Perinatal Mental Health-Certified, specializing in therapy for prenatal and postpartum support, birth trauma, pregnancy loss, PMADs (Perinatal Mood & Anxiety Disorders), and general maternal wellness.For more birth trauma content and a community full of love and support, head to my Instagram at @thebirthtrauma_mama.Learn more about the support and services I offer through The Birth Trauma Mama Therapy & Support Services.Disclaimer - The views and opinions expressed by guests on The Birth Trauma Mama Podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect the official stance, views, or positions of The Birth Trauma Mama Podcast. The content shared is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as professional or medical advice and/or endorsement.