Holding Space

In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Pany Robinson, a board-certified family practitioner with 22 years of experience and one of the most refreshingly no-nonsense voices I've encountered on women's hormonal health to talk about everything you weren't told about perimenopause and menopause.I met Dr. Pany at a training on maternal rage (yes, there's a connection), and I was immediately like: I need her on this podcast.This one is for anyone who has ever felt like something was off but couldn't name it — and for your partner too, honestly.We talk about:The symptoms nobody mentions: itchy ears, frozen shoulder, cystic acne, vertigo, palpitations, recurrent UTIs, and moreWhy hot flashes are actually a later symptom...and what's already happening in your body long before thatHow to advocate for yourself in a system that isn't quite caught up yet (including what to ask for and how to say it)The long-term case for hormone therapy: dementia, cancer risk, muscle loss, and moreThe relational toll: libido, intimacy, and why 45 is both the hardest year for women on average and the peak age for divorceWhy this is a whole-body, multidisciplinary issue, not just a "get on a patch and call it a day" situationTo connect with Dr. Pany or book a free 20-minute phone consult, visit nextphaseclinic.com.To learn more about my therapy practice or book a free consult you can visit drcassidymft.com.You can learn more about Dr. Cassidy's book Mom Needs a Moment here or you can buy it wherever books are sold!Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

In this episode, I welcome back Dr. Kim Van Dusen — one of my very first podcast guests ever — to talk about her new book Parenting Through Play.Together we explore why play is such a powerful entry point for connection, regulation, and even repair with our kids. Dr. Kim helps those of us who don't always feel like getting on the floor to play (hi, it's me) by introducing the idea of "purposeful play pockets" — micro moments of novelty and playfulness woven throughout the day that don't require a ton of energy or capacity. Think: swapping a fork for a pair of tongs at dinner, or a small mindset shift at clean-up time.We also talk about:The myth that play has to mean sitting on the floor for hours of pretendReconnecting with your own inner child (especially if you didn't grow up in a playful home)Why play and power struggles both take energy...and which one you'd rather spend it onUsing play as a tool for repairHow play can help kids work through big transitions, sibling dynamics, separation anxiety, and fearThe invisible mental load that comes with parenting and with being the "fun" oneThe legacy we leave when our kids learn to use play to connect, communicate, and repairTo learn more from Dr. Kim and grab a copy of Parenting Through Play, visit theparentologist.com/book and follow along on Instagram @theparentologist.Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

On today’s episode, I’m joined by therapist, speaker, and host of The Dude Therapist Podcast, Eli Weinstein. Eli works extensively with couples and families, and his upcoming book From I Do to We Do explores what really happens to relationships once kids enter the picture.Because here’s the truth: most couples start parenting believing that love will carry them through. And while love absolutely matters, it’s not always enough to navigate the stress, exhaustion, invisible labor, and shifting roles that come with raising kids.In this episode, we talk honestly about what happens to marriages during the parenting years, including the quiet resentment that can build when expectations go unspoken, the invisible mental load many parents carry, and why couples often feel like they’re both doing “120%.”Eli shares practical ways couples can reconnect as teammates instead of adversaries, and why repair, not perfection, is what actually sustains long-term relationships.In this episode, we talk about:Why love alone doesn’t guide couples through the parenting yearsHow unmet expectations quietly turn into resentmentThe mental load many parents carry, and how couples can share it more intentionallyThe power of repair after rupture, and why genuine apologies matter more than perfect onesWhy successful marriages require choosing your partner again and again as life changesMy hope is that this conversation helps couples step out of scorekeeping and back into partnership. Parenting can easily pull partners into opposite corners. But when couples learn how to communicate, repair, and reconnect, they can remember that they’re actually on the same team.Connect with EliFollow Eli on social media: @eliweinstein_lcswGet his book: From I Do to We DoIf you loved this episodeShare it with a parent who’s in the thick of it right nowSupport the podcast with a rating or reviewSubscribe to my Substack, A Little Space, Please, for the post that goes with this episodeLearn more about Dr. Cassidy and Co's therapy practice at www.drcassidymft.comAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

On today’s episode, I’m joined by mindfulness mentor, meditation teacher, and host of the Mindful Mama Podcast, Hunter Clarke-Fields. Hunter is the author of Raising Good Humans and Raising Good Humans Every Day, and for years she’s been supporting parents in moving out of reactivity and into more present, connected relationships with their kids.As a therapist and parent, I know how easy it is to feel like we’re “messing it all up,” especially in the early years when we’re exhausted, triggered, and trying to break cycles in real time. In this conversation, Hunter reflects on parenting her oldest, now 18, and shares what only time can teach: repair matters more than perfection, and it’s never too late to shift a relationship.In this episode, we talk about:Why parenting is a long game, and why you don’t always get immediate feedback that it’s “working”How repair builds safety and connection, even after reactivityThe power of delighting in your child, and practicing real listeningWhy boundaries and self-care are essential, not selfishHunter’s message for parents in the thick of the toddler yearsMy hope is that this episode offers you a deep exhale: you don’t have to be perfect to be a safe, steady parent. What matters is your willingness to keep coming back.Connect with HunterListen to her podcast: Mindful Mama PodcastGet her books: Raising Good Humans and Raising Good Humans Every DayFind her online: mindfulmamamentor.comIf you loved this episodeShare it with a parent who’s in the thick of it right nowSupport the podcast with a rating or reviewSubscribe to my Substack, A Little Space, Please, for the post that goes with this episodeLearn more about Dr. Cassidy and Co's therapy practice at www.drcassidymft.comAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

In this episode of Holding Space, Dr. Cassidy is joined by Dr. Sumi Raghavan for a grounded, human conversation about parenting during a moment of real fear and moral injury.ICE violence in Minnesota and across the country has left many parents feeling dysregulated, overwhelmed, and unsure how to show up for their kids while their own nervous systems are on high alert. This conversation isn’t happening from a distance. We're two moms, two therapists, sitting inside the same world you are, trying to figure out how to keep showing up without collapsing.Together, we explore what’s happening in parents’ nervous systems right now, why overwhelm is a reasonable response to real threat, and how regulation is not disengagement, but the foundation for sustained action and care.We aim to offer concrete guidance for how to talk to kids across different ages, from young children to teens, while protecting their sense of safety without pretending nothing is happening.This episode is meant to be a place of containment, not more flooding.Resources & Next StepsA written companion to this episode, with key takeaways and language you can return to, is available on Substack here.Links to grounding tools, community resources, and organizations supporting immigrant families are included there as well.To connect with Dr. Sumi Raghavan and learn more about her New York-based private practice, you can find her on instagram @drsumiphd and her private practice website here!Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

On today’s episode I’m joined by holistic decluttering expert and host of the top-rated podcast The Maximized Minimalist, Katy Joy Wells.As a therapist and parent, I know how often our homes can feel like one more place we’re “falling behind.” In this conversation, we explore how clutter impacts our nervous systems, our relationships, and our sense of enoughness. Katy offers a shame-free, deeply human approach that looks at the emotions, beliefs, and habits under the piles.In this episode, we talk about:Why clutter isn’t neutral...how visual chaos pulls on our time, energy, and attentionThe difference between clutter and expected mess...and why that distinction can instantly lower your shameKaty’s idea of a “good enough home” and how it connects to good enough parentingWhy traditional decluttering methods (bins, labels, marathon purges, “spark joy”) often backfire for busy, emotionally-connected humansHow we can model softening, self-compassion, and boundaries with stuff for our kidsMy hope is that this episode offers you something Katy and I kept coming back to: hope for a lighter, calmer home that supports presence with the people you love...without having to become a different person or maintain a Pinterest-perfect house.Connect with KatyListen to Katy’s podcast: The Maximized MinimalistGet her book: Making Home Your Happy Place: A Real-Life Guide to Decluttering Without the OverwhelmFind her on Instagram: @katyjoywellsIf you loved this episodeShare it with a friend whose home feels “loud” right nowSupport the podcast and leave a rating or review!Subscribe to my Substack, A Little Space, Please, and check out the post that goes with this episode!Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Have you ever noticed how much harder parenting feels when things are tense between you and your partner? Maybe you start off trying to calm your kids in the back seat… and somehow end up arguing about the volume of the music. Or one of you sets a boundary with your child, the other undermines it, and suddenly you’re in a standoff that feels way bigger than it should.In this episode, Dr. Cassidy explores how the stress of parenting can shake the foundation of even the strongest relationships, and what you can do to reconnect when the patience runs thin and the reactions run hot.In this episode you’ll learn how to:Recognize why parenting amplifies relational stressUse “reserves check-ins” to communicate needs and prevent resentmentShift from “me vs. you” to “us vs. the cycle”Bring repair, rest, and appreciation back into your partnershipYou’ll also hear simple ways to rebuild connection that don’t require date nights, fancy plans, or extra childcare - just small, intentional moments that help you remember you’re on the same team.Would you love to have this episode written out for you? Check out this substack post!Interested in learning more about my therapy practice? Click here!Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

In this conversation, I’m joined by my dear friend and fellow therapist Dr. Tracy Dalgleish to explore the tender, complex space between partnership and extended family...where love, loyalty, and old patterns can collide.We talk about why these dynamics feel especially charged for so many of us right now, what it means to navigate guilt and control in family systems, and how we can stay connected to our partners (and ourselves) when generational patterns start to resurface.Dr. Tracy shares insights from her new book You, Your Husband, and His Mother - a compassionate guide to understanding in-law dynamics, communicating as a united front, and finding your footing as a couple when family expectations run high.We also talk about:The cultural shifts that are reshaping how couples and families relate across generationsCommon patterns like guilt-tripping, control, and codependencyWhy boundaries rooted in core needs (not blame) lead to deeper connectionHow aging, identity, and relevance show up in these transitionsAnd the hope in becoming the kind of mother-in-law or grandparent we want to be somedayThis episode is for anyone standing in that middle place...between the family you came from and the one you’re creating while trying to honor both love and autonomy along the way.Learn more about Tracy’s work and her book at drtracyd.com.Connect with Tracy on Instagram @drtracyd.Connect with me on Instagram @drcassidy and learn more about my private practice at www.drcassidymft.comAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

When our teen's worry sets off our own, it can feel like two nervous systems locked in the same storm. In this heartfelt conversation, I sit down with my friend and colleague Dr. Ann-Louise Lockhart to unpack what’s really happening beneath those moments of reactivity and how parents can shift from fear-based reacting to compassionate, grounded responding.We talk about:Why our teens’ anxiety activates our own nervous systemPractical tools to create space between trigger and response (hello, rage walks!)How repair and connection help rebuild trust after we come in hotLoving (and respecting) the teen you have, while holding boundaries, even when it’s hardDr. Ann-Louise Lockhart is a pediatric psychologist, parent coach, and author of Love the Teen You Have: A Practical Guide to Transforming Conflict into Connection (out October 28). Find her at https://drannlouiselockhart.com and on Instagram @dr.annlouise.lockhart.Links + Resources:Love the Teen You Have Learn more about my private practice for California and New York parents at www.drcassidymft.comAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

In this episode we're exploring the relationship between breastfeeding and a new mom's mental health. To help us really go deep (and practical) on this topic, I had the absolute joy of sitting down with Dawnita Wicks, a registered nurse, public health nurse, and internationally board-certified lactation consultant.I first connected with Dawnita because I had clients who were struggling not just with feeding, but also with their mental health. When they worked with her, they came back to me saying: “She really saw all of me - the feeding goals AND my mental health.” I knew I had to meet this unicorn of a provider.In our conversation, we talk about what it’s like to sit at the intersection of infant feeding and maternal mental health. We share our own postpartum stories (including my first experience of birth trauma, breastfeeding challenges, and postpartum anxiety), the shame that so often convinces us to stay silent, and the power of support that honors both our goals and our needs.We also unpack the cultural messages around feeding, why sleep is a critical piece of the puzzle, and how there are so many more options than the “all or nothing” plans we often think we have to follow.If you’ve ever felt torn between wanting to meet your feeding goals and also desperately needing rest, connection, and mental health support...you are not alone. This episode is for you.In This Episode, We Talk About:Why feeding goals and maternal mental health don’t have to competeMy own story of postpartum anxiety, shame, and perfectionism after a traumatic birthThe pressure to “do it all right” and how it keeps us from asking for helpWhy even a 4–6 hour block of sleep can change everythingHow to navigate shame and cultural messages like “breast is best”The importance of individualized, compassionate feeding plansResources and Links:Connect with Dawnita at www.womantwowoman.netFollow Dawnita on social: @dawnitawicksLearn more about my practice at www.drcassidymft.comFind notes from this episode on SubstackIf this episode resonates with you:Share it with a friend who might need this conversation, subscribe to Holding Space, and leave a review - it helps other parents find their way here!Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

In today’s solo episode, I open up about how I’m preparing for perimenopause at 40, and why I don’t want to walk into this transition as unprepared as I felt during postpartum.We’ll talk about:What perimenopause and menopause actually meanThe commonly known symptoms and the less-discussed symptoms that can feel really destabilizing tooHow perimenopause intersects with mental health, parenting, and relationshipsThe protective practices I’m layering in now (yep, increasing protein is in there).My goal is to help you feel less blindsided and more resourced, so you can move through this season informed, intentional, and supported!Resources MentionedThe New Menopause by Dr. Mary Claire Haver (plus her provider directory)Melissa Wood Health for strength and functional movementBased in CA or NY and ready to start therapy? Learn more about my group practice at www.drcassidymft.comFor written takeaways, resource links, and updates on my journey, subscribe to my Substack: A Little Space, PleaseIf today’s episode resonated, share it with a friend who might need it too!Subscribe to Holding Space wherever you listen to podcasts so you don’t miss upcoming episodes.Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

If you’re in the postpartum season, you already know...sleep deprivation is A BEAST. It affects everything: your mood, your relationships, your health, and your ability to feel present with your baby.In this episode I’m breaking down why protecting your rest matters, how to get restorative sleep (even if your baby is waking frequently), and how to navigate sleep conversations with your partner without spiraling into resentment.We’ll cover:Why your sleep mattersHow to get consolidated rest when your baby’s not sleeping through the nightSupport strategies for breastfeeding parentsHow to share the load with your partnerA framework/scripts for bringing up tough sleep conversationsPractical ideas for splitting shifts, activating support, and improving sleep hygieneWhat to do when anxiety or hypervigilance keeps you awakeIf you’re ready to start valuing your own rest without guilt, this episode will give you permission, strategies, and a plan to start tonight.Links & Resources Mentioned in This Episode:Read the written version of this episode on Substack hereFind a therapist or learn more about my practice hereIf you found this episode helpful:💌 Subscribe to my Substack for written tools and strategies from new episodes.🎧 Share this episode with a friend in the postpartum season.⭐ Leave a review to help other parents find this resource!Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Do you feel that familiar dread or restlessness in your body as the weekend winds down? You’re NOT alone! In this episode, we explore the Sunday Scaries through the lens of the nervous system, naming the hidden pressure so many women and moms carry into the week.We’ll break down why this anticipatory anxiety happens, how it can activate survival responses and what your body is trying to tell you.Then, I’ll guide you through a grounding visualization called The Sunday Sanctuary, a practice you can return to any time to feel more regulated, resourced, and ready for the week.In this episode:What the Sunday Scaries actually are and why they show upHow your nervous system reacts to the anticipation of the week aheadA new way to meet the pressure...with gentleness and self-trustA 7-minute visualization to help you reconnect with your values and feel ready to begin againMentioned in this episode:Substack companion post + full visualization scriptLearn more about becoming a client at www.drcassidymft.comVisualization music credits: Take a moment to breathe- instrumental by normal the kidAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

In this solo episode of Holding Space, I’m diving into one of the most common and quietly painful questions I hear from parents (and ask myself too):Why am I so reactive?If you’ve ever found yourself snapping before you even realized what was happening, crying over something small, or wondering, what is wrong with me? This episode is for you. You're not broken. You're carrying a lot. And reactivity is often your nervous system’s way of trying to protect you.In this episode, I explore the deeper layers beneath reactivity and offer practical ways to create just enough margin to respond instead of react.I talk about:How emotions are messengersWhat your nervous system is trying to tell you when you feel floodedWhy fawn, fight, freeze, flight, and flock responses are so common in parenthoodThe invisible labor of caregiving, and how it fuels burnout and shutdownSensory overwhelm in modern parenting and why it hits so hardHow your hormones and cycle shape your emotional capacityWant to go deeper?Come hang out with me on Substack! This post includes every reflection, tool, and prompt from the episode...plus a few extras.Resources mentioned in this episode:→ Dr. Haver’s provider directory: https://thepauselife.com/pages/recommended-physicians→ Substack: A Little Space, Please: https://drcassidy.substack.com/→ Other related episodes:136: How to Carry Less While Enjoying Motherhood More127: How to Rest (Realistically) as a Modern Day Parent103: The Default Parent94: The Depleted, Distracted, Grumpy, Guilty Parenting CycleDownload my free triggers guide here!Learn more about our therapy services for California and New York parents here: https://www.drcassidymft.com/Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

In this episode of Holding Space, I welcome parenting educator and content creator behind the account Mother Could, Myriam Sandler, for a real and refreshing conversation about play in parenthood.Together, we unpack the pressure many parents feel to “play the right way,” especially in today’s era of intensive parenting.Episode highlights:How perfectionism and productivity culture shape our expectations around playWhy boredom matters—and how it supports creativity and independent playThe role of accessibility in helping kids play independentlyWhat to do when your child wants to play with you—but you need spaceHow to identify your own “play superpower” (even if it’s not getting on the floor)Practical tips for setting up multi-age play spaces at homeWhether you love crafting sensory bins or prefer connecting through board games, 3D printing, or sports, this episode invites you to reclaim play in a way that honors your capacity and your child’s uniqueness.Resources Mentioned:Playful by Design by Myriam SandlerFollow Myriam on Instagram @mothercouldAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

In this episode of Holding Space, Dr. Cassidy sits down with Megan McNamee, a registered dietitian nutritionist and co-founder of Feeding Littles, to discuss the intersection of perfectionism, parenting, and feeding children. Megan shares insights on how parents can move away from the pressures of perfectionism, especially in the context of feeding their kids, and embrace a more intuitive and balanced approach to mealtime.We dive into common struggles parents face when it comes to feeding their kids, such as dealing with picky eating, the pressures of packing lunches, and the stress of meeting societal expectations. Megan offers practical advice on how to navigate these challenges while keeping mealtime enjoyable and stress-free.Resources Mentioned:Feeding Littles Lunchbox BookFollow Feeding Littles on InstagramAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

What do you REALLY need to know about caring for your postpartum body?To answer this question I invited Ruth Macy, a pelvic health physical therapist, and Courtney Naliboff, a teacher, writer, and musician, on to the podcast to talk about all things postpartum recovery and self-compassion.Together we explore:The inspiration behind their book "Your Postpartum Body: The Complete Guide to Healing After Pregnancy"The concept of radical self-acceptance and compassion in healing after birthThe essential needs for postpartum recovery: rest, hydration, nutrition, and support (and how to make them a priority)The challenges/human cost of lactation and the mental health impact of weaningSystemic barriers to postpartum care and practical solutions to navigate themLearn more about Courtney and Ruth’s book here!If you're a California parent and interested in learning more about working with Dr. Cassidy and her therapy services visit www.drcassidymft.comIf you're not a California resident and interested in starting therapy, you can learn how to find a therapist in your area by visiting https://www.drcassidymft.com/blog/how-to-find-a-therapist-like-meAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

You are cordially invited to tune into our spicy book chat!I invited Sex Therapist and New York Times Bestselling Author Vanessa Marin on to the podcast to talk about all things Fantasy Fiction (especially of the spicy variety).Together we dissect:*What exactly is "smut?"*Why is fantasy so appealing?*What are some of the benefits for women reading spicy romance novels?*What are some of the tricky parts of these books to keep in mind?*Are smutty books basically just porn?*How can romantasy reading be a reclamation of time and pleasure for the busy woman?AND of course we are sharing our favorite books to add to your list and what we are reading next (download the list for yourself here: https://courses.drcassidymft.com/bookrecsLearn more about Vanessa's book and offerings at vmtherapy.com and give her a follow @vanessaandxander!Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Gut health...the gut microbiome...people are talking about it, but what does it all mean?!In my quest for answers, I connected with Cheryl Sew Hoy, founder of Tiny Health. In this episode you're invited to learn about the fascinating world of gut health right alongside with me. During our conversation Cheryl shares her personal journey as an entrepreneur and mother, highlighting how her experiences with pregnancy and childbirth led her to discover the importance of gut health. We dive into what the gut microbiome is, where it comes from, and why it’s crucial for overall health. She shares the role of probiotics and prebiotics in supporting a healthy gut microbiome for both infants and mothers and offers specific dietary and lifestyle recommendations to enhance gut health. Additionally, Cheryl walks us through the process and benefits of gut microbiome testing for the entire family.Resources Mentioned:Tiny Health Website (you can use code DRCASSIDY for $20 off!)Tiny Health on InstagramIf you're a California parent and interested in learning more about working with Dr. Cassidy and her therapy services visit www.drcassidymft.comIf you're not a California resident and interested in starting therapy, you can learn how to find a therapist in your area by visiting https://www.drcassidymft.com/blog/how-to-find-a-therapist-like-meAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

In this heartfelt episode, we welcome back Dr. Jasmine, a clinical pharmacist, perinatal mental health specialist and mom to one, to discuss her journey of deciding to have only one child. Dr. Jasmine shares her personal story of battling severe postpartum depression and anxiety, the pressures and expectations from society, and how she navigated these challenges to make a decision (with support from therapy) that felt right for her and her family. We discuss the societal pressure and expectations of having more than one child as well as the stigma and stereotypes associated with only children and highlighting the joys and benefits of raising an only child. Resources and Links:Dr. Jasmine on Instagram: @pearlsofjasmineDr. Jasmine’s Blog: pearlsofjasmine.comDr. Jasmine’s Substack Newsletter: pearlsofjasmine.substack.com"Healing the Tigress" PodcastIf you're a California parent and interested in learning more about working with Dr. Cassidy and her therapy services visit www.drcassidymft.comIf you're not a California resident and interested in starting therapy, you can learn how to find a therapist in your area by visiting https://www.drcassidymft.com/blog/how-to-find-a-therapist-like-meAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

BLUEY! The beloved Heeler Family has touched the hearts and homes of children and adults around the world. But have you ever wondered what a therapist or parenting expert's take might be on the show and your favorite episodes? Have you ever wanted to really bring home the themes/lessons of the episode with your child or thought to yourself in a tricky parenting moment, "What would Chili or Bandit do?"We've got you covered! I invited fellow therapist and Bluey superfan Tessa Ritchie, LCSW to help me breakdown two of our favorite Bluey episodes: Bad Mood (Season 2) and Perfect (Season 3).You're going to want to take notes on the parenting strategies and connecting conversation starters shared in this episode, but no need to because we did it for you with the free Bluey Breakdown pdf you can download here or by visiting https://courses.drcassidymft.com/blueyguide!Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

In this episode I invite you to tune into my conversation with Emily Oster, professor of Economics, parenting data expert and NYT Bestselling Author. We dive deep into her latest release, "Unexpected," where she explores the often murky waters of pregnancy complications.Together we explore:*Understanding Pregnancy Complications: Emily shares some fascinating insights from "Unexpected," her newest book. We talk about the common threads among pregnancy complications and why it's crucial to understand why things happen during pregnancy. Hint: it's not always as straightforward as we'd like it to be.*Dealing with Medical Gaslighting: Ever heard of medical gaslighting? It's a real thing, and it can leave you feeling dismissed and invalidated by healthcare providers. Emily and I dive into this topic and discuss the importance of feeling supported by your medical provider.Guest Information:Emily Oster: You can connect with her on parentdata.org and Instagram @ProfEmilyOster.Preorder "Unexpected" by Emily Oster and Nathan Fox, MD here!If you're a California parent and interested in learning more about working with Dr. Cassidy and her therapy services visit www.drcassidymft.comIf you're not a California resident and interested in starting therapy, you can learn how to find a therapist in your area by visiting https://www.drcassidymft.com/blog/how-to-find-a-therapist-like-meAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

In this episode I invited Erica Djossa, Canadian based psychotherapist, founder of Momwell, and author of the book Releasing the Motherload: How to Carry Less and Enjoy Motherhood More, back on to the podcast!Together we discuss:• An introduction to intensive mothering: unpacking societal expectations and the weight of invisible burdens in motherhood.• The role of comparison and social media in exacerbating feelings of inadequacy and overwhelm.• Strategies for releasing control and redistributing responsibilities to alleviate burnout and foster personal growth.• Embracing values over perfectionism: practical steps for identifying core values and aligning actions with your most aligned beliefs.• Recognizing the potential for growth and transformation when we embrace discomfort.• Creating space for self-care within motherhood: the importance of setting boundaries and prioritizing mental well-being.Resources Mentioned:• Releasing the Motherload book: pre-order at www.ericadjossa.com• The Invisible Load of Postpartum episode 48• Find Erica on Instagram @momwellTo learn more about Dr. Cassidy's private practice visit https://www.drcassidymft.com/Enjoy this podcast? You'll also love Justine Carino's podcast "Thoughts from the Couch" learn more at www.carinocounseling.com/podcastAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

AI (Artificial Intelligence) isn't going anywhere, but that didn't stop me from (at first) putting my head in the sand about it. But the truth is, it's not going anywhere and our kids are going to grow up with AI being a part of their schooling, future careers, and their life...so it was time to take my head out of the sand and learn everything I can so that I can support them too.This episode with Audrey Wisch, founder and CEO of Curious Cardinals was not originally planned! Our original topic (episode 134) was all about supporting kids in discovering THEIR passions and connecting those passions to their relationship to school (if you haven't checked out that episode yet, you don't want to miss it!)What I noticed though in my interactions with Audrey was how she seamlessly incorporated AI into her business model. I got curious about her use of AI, and discovered she was giving AI workshops to parents around the country. I had SO many questions, and thought you might too...and thus this episode was born!I went into this conversation with A LOT of questions, concerns, and a general sense of overwhelm, and I left feeling empowered and even EXCITED to support my kids with ethically navigating a world in which AI exists.To learn more about Curious Cardinals visit https://www.curiouscardinals.com/To learn more about Dr. Cassidy's private practice visit https://www.drcassidymft.com/Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

"Mommmm why do I have to go to school?!" This is a question all parents will face at some point.In this episode I'm joined by Audrey Wisch, founder and CEO of Curious Cardinals. Curious Cardinals is a peer-mentorship/tutoring company rooted in passion based learning to support kids in nurturing their interests and ambitions...while also getting their homework done.Together we explore steps we can take to support our kids in discovering THEIR passions, and how to connect traditional school learning with real-world passions.This episode provides valuable perspectives for parents seeking to support their children in navigating the intersection of education and personal growth.Audrey has spoken on CNN, in Forbes, and on the Today Show to share her vision to create a community of lifelong learners and doers. She was recognized in the 2022 Forbes 30 Under 30 Education and Youngest category. To learn more about Curious Cardinals visit https://www.curiouscardinals.com.If you're a California parent and interested in learning more about working with Dr. Cassidy and her therapy services visit www.drcassidymft.comIf you're not a California resident and interested in starting therapy, you can learn how to find a therapist in your area by visiting https://www.drcassidymft.com/blog/how-to-find-a-therapist-like-meAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

This one's for the cycle breakers, and in this episode we're unpacking intergenerational trauma.Dr. Mariel Buqué, trauma-informed Psychologist and author of the book BREAK THE CYCLCE: A Guide to Healing Intergenerational Trauma breaks it down for us.Together we explore how to recognize when generational trauma is impacting us today, identifying unhealthy patterns that get passed down in families, how trauma shows up in our bodies and our nervous systems, and steps we can take to break the cycles we're caught in that started before we were born.You deserved someone to protect you from generational pain and break the cycle, that always remains true. Now, let's take steps to get the support you need to be the cycle breaker for yourself, your family, and the next generation.You can learn more about Dr. Cassidy's private practice at https://www.drcassidymft.com/Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

In this episode you get to witness my conversation with Susie Allison, M.Ed., of @busytoddler, in which I share our 3 year olds current struggles with independent play, and the impact it's having on our whole family.Susie talks me through the proven strategies to support independent play and guess what...they worked!Susie shares the benefits of independent play for your child's development and for the whole family system...and how we can still feel present and connected even with more independent play happening in our homes. This is an episode you won't want to miss!Looking for more independent play support from Susie, including some of her favorite toys? Check out her independent play blog post here! Susie Allison is a former teacher with a Master's in Early Childhood Education and a mom to 3 kids. Her mission is to bring hands-on play and learning back to childhood, support others in their parenting journey, and help everyone make it to nap time. Visit her at www.busytoddler.com or on Instagram @busytoddler.*Become a client of Dr. Cassidy's by visiting www.drcassidymft.com (CA residents only).*Not based in California but looking for more support? Click here for steps on how to find a therapist in your area!Join Dr. Cassidy and her cozy era by visiting www.cozyearth.com! Be sure to check out their pajamas made with viscose from bamboo. Use code DRCASSIDY35 for 35% off sitewide!Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

In this episode I invited fellow therapist Tessa Ritchie to join me in sharing the challenges of postpartum for BOTH parents, the impact these struggles can have on our relationship, and how to feel better together!Tessa shares her own personal story of experiencing postpartum anxiety and rage, her partner's struggles with depression postpartum, and the communication tools and strategies they used to heal and feel more present with each other and in parenthood.*Become a client of Dr. Cassidy's or Tessa by visiting www.drcassidymft.com (CA residents only).*Not based in California but looking for more support? Click here for steps on how to find a therapist in your area!Join Dr. Cassidy and her cozy era by visiting www.cozyearth.com! Be sure to check out their pajamas made with viscose from bamboo. Use code DRCASSIDY35 for 35% off sitewide!Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

I am so excited to introduce you to Casey Mouton, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and mom.Casey was the first therapist I hired to join my group practice, and today you get to hear her story.Casey is a survivor of postpartum depression and anxiety, and in today's episode she shares how that experience showed her the kind of support she truly needs. Learning about the type of support SHE needs became protective later on when her son unexpectedly had a stroke and she found herself navigating parenting a child with a disability. She shares how her partner had different needs in terms of support, the mental load of parenting a child with a disability, and steps you can take to feel less alone in your own parenting journey.TW: this story includes a medical emergency associated with Covid and discussions of postpartum depression and anxiety. Sometimes listening to someone else's story is exactly what we need, and sometimes we're not in a space yet to witness someone else's experience, and that's ok. Resources mentioned in the episode:Napa CenterDisability Resource Guide PSI Support Groups*Become a client of Dr. Cassidy's or Casey by visiting www.drcassidymft.com (CA residents only).*Not based in California but looking for more support? Click here for steps on how to find a therapist in your area!Join Dr. Cassidy and her cozy era by visiting www.cozyearth.com! Be sure to check out their pajamas made with viscose from bamboo. Use code DRCASSIDY35 for 35% off sitewide!Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Let's talk about softness, and being soft in a world that can be so hard.What does it mean to be soft? I invited Dr. Akilah Cadet to share in this conversation about softness as a human. Together we explore the beauty of connecting with softness, within ourselves and in our relationships. We identify how softness can get squashed and the benefits of connecting with the parts of us that are soft. We unpack the complexity of being a human in a hard world, the dance between anger and softness, harmony over balance, and Dr. Cadet offers a bridge into accessing our agency and power when faced with hardship within ourselves and the oppressive systems around us.Dr. Cadet is the Founder and CEO of Change Cadet. As a Forbes Next 1000 Entrepreneur her work is behind some of the biggest brands you use everyday. Dismantling white supremacy through storytelling is at the core of her work as a leader, speaker, creative director, producer, writer, editor and author of forthcoming book White Supremacy is All Around: Notes From a Black Disabled Woman in a White World. You can also learn from her through her podcast Soft Black Women.Links to connect with Dr. Cadet's work:Website: https://www.changecadet.com/ Book: https://www.changecadet.com/book Instagram @changecadetAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

This is a Holding Space first! In today's special episode with speech therapists Carly and Katie of Wee Talkers, we are inviting your little one to tune in too!In the first half of the episode Carly and Katie offer supportive (and simple) ways you can support speech everyday with your children. Ever find yourself more stressed from all the information about child development out there? This conversation will leave you feel informed and empowered, without the pressure. You don't need to be a speech therapist to support your child's speech while having fun!Towards the end of the episode we invite your little one to join in with some fun song time! Consider this a connection opportunity, with some hidden speech support thrown in. I also share a connection ritual song that I sing every night with our kids that has proven to help us accept the hard feelings from the day too.Wee Talkers teaches parents of babies and toddlers how to support their child’s language and communication development. They offer connection-driven language resources via online education, courses and memberships. You can learn more from Wee Talkers at https://www.weetalkers.com or on Instagram @weetalkers.*Become a client of Dr. Cassidy's private practice by visiting www.drcassidymft.com (CA residents only).*Not based in California but looking for more support? Click here for steps on how to find a therapist in your area!Join Dr. Cassidy and her cozy era by visiting www.cozyearth.com! Be sure to check out their pajamas made with viscose from bamboo. Use code DRCASSIDY35 for 35% off sitewide!Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

How do we actually experience restorative rest as busy parents? What are the layers that can get in the way when it comes to resting? Why is rest so important?We are diving in for some rest talk in today's episode with Ashley Neese, author of the book Permission to Rest.Ashley was previously on the podcast, episode 38: How to Breathe, following the release of her first book all about the power of breath. She is a breathwork teacher who has spent over a decade working at the intersections of embodiment, transformation, and renewal.I can't wait to share more of her work with you through this conversation, and hope this episode and her book support you in reclaiming rest because you are so worthy of it, just as you are.Get her book Permission to Rest here!*Become a client of Dr. Cassidy's private practice by visiting www.drcassidymft.com (CA residents only).*Not based in California but looking for more support? Click here for steps on how to find a therapist in your area!Join Dr. Cassidy and her cozy era by visiting www.cozyearth.com! Be sure to check out their pajamas made with viscose from bamboo. Use code DRCASSIDY35 for 35% off sitewide!Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Do you find it hard to ask for support and rely on others? Does this struggle show up in your partner relationships? Are you hoping to break this pattern and set a strong model/foundation of autonomy AND interdependence for your kids? Well, i'm so glad you're here! In this episode I share my conversation with Dr. Tracy Dalgleish all about breaking these cycles, getting the support we need from our partners, and finding the balance between intimacy and autonomy in our relationships. Dr. Tracy Dalgleish is a clinical psychologist and relationship expert who is on a mission to help couples break old relationship cycles and find joy in their relationships again.  Her forthcoming debut book, I Didn’t Sign Up for This: A Couples Therapist Shares Real-Life Stories of Breaking Patterns and Finding Joy in Relationships...Including Her Own (September 12, 2023), features case studies from her practice and her own relationship. Be sure to check out her book I Didn't Sign Up For This and her I'm Not Your Shrink Podcast! *Become a client of Dr. Cassidy's private practice by visiting www.drcassidymft.com (CA residents only). *Not based in California but looking for more support? Click here for steps on how to find a therapist in your area! Join Dr. Cassidy and her cozy era by visiting www.cozyearth.com! Be sure to check out their pajamas made with viscose from bamboo. Use code DRCASSIDY35 for 35% off sitewide! Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

In this episode we honor that self-care sounds great, but how does it realistically fit into our busy lives? I sat down with Taylor Elyse Morrison, author of the book Inner Workout, to discuss self-care for skeptics. With the wellness world booming, why are so many of us still struggling?! Tune in and walk away with a deeper understanding and practical tools you can start using today! *Become a client of Dr. Cassidy's private practice by visiting www.drcassidymft.com (CA residents only). *Not based in California but looking for more support? Click here for steps on how to find a therapist in your area! Join Dr. Cassidy and her cozy era by visiting www.cozyearth.com! Be sure to check out their pajamas made with viscose from bamboo. Use code DRCASSIDY35 for 35% off sitewide! Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

In this episode we dive into the world of sibling relationships. Katherine Schwarzenegger Pratt, a New York Times bestselling author, philanthropist, and mother, shares her unique perspective and experiences on this often complex and cherished bond. In this candid conversation, Katherine opens up about her own relationship with her siblings, highlighting the joys and lessons learned along the way. From childhood adventures to adult camaraderie, she shares heartwarming anecdotes that resonate with anyone who has shared a special bond with their brothers or sisters. We explore the dynamics that can shape sibling relationships, the impact of birth order, and how nurturing these connections can contribute to personal growth and emotional well-being. As a mother herself, Katherine also offers valuable insights into helping children build strong sibling bonds and fostering a sense of unity within the family. Join us as we celebrate the power of sibling connections and gain valuable wisdom with Katherine.  Be sure to check out Katherine's children's book Goodnight, Sister and her Instagram Live series Before, During, After Baby! *Become a client of Dr. Cassidy's private practice by visiting www.drcassidymft.com (CA residents only). *Not based in California but looking for more support? Click here for steps on how to find a therapist in your area! Join Dr. Cassidy and her cozy era by visiting www.cozyearth.com! Be sure to check out their pajamas made with viscose from bamboo. Use code DRCASSIDY35 for 35% off sitewide! Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Following on the heels of our last episode all about navigating unexpected challenges and diagnoses as a parent, in this episode Dr. Cassidy talks to a parent who has been through it. Amanda Berg is a mom to a type one diabetic toddler and former NICU RN and contributor to the organization Type One Together. Her toddler was diagnosed with Type One Diabetes at 26 months old (when here second baby was only 4 months old)! In this episode she brings the raw and real of what living with a Type One toddler is like, with a focus on her mental health, getting support, and making meaning. As Amanda would say, "no sugar coating here. We're not happy all the time, and we're not sad all the time. Just real life, with a really hard disease." You can learn more about Type One Together at www.typeonetogether.com. Also be sure to check out the Type One Together brand new podcast, The 108 Podcast! *Become a client of Dr. Cassidy's private practice by visiting www.drcassidymft.com (CA residents only). *Not based in California but looking for more support? Click here for steps on how to find a therapist in your area! Join Dr. Cassidy and her cozy era by visiting www.cozyearth.com! Be sure to check out their joggers made with viscose from bamboo. Use code DRCASSIDY35 for 35% off sitewide! Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

In this episode Dr. Kelly Fradin, pediatrician and author of the book Advanced Parenting, talks to us about the unexpected challenges and diagnoses that many families may find themselves facing. Dr. Fradin shares with us what some of these unexpected challenges and diagnoses might look like, the emotions and struggles that come with them, and advice for taking steps to get support, make a plan, and show up for yourself and your children through the unexpected. To learn more about Dr. Fradin and her book visit https://drkellyfradin.com/ or give her a follow over on Instagram @adviceigivemyfriends. *Download Dr. Cassidy's free Rage Triggers Quiz E-Book at https://courses.drcassidymft.com/rage-triggers-quiz *Become a client of Dr. Cassidy's private practice by visiting www.drcassidymft.com --- Join Dr. Cassidy and her cozy era by visiting www.cozyearth.com! Be sure to check out their joggers made with viscose from bamboo. Use code DRCASSIDY35 for 35% off sitewide! Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

In this episode we explore the roots of perfectionism with anti-racism educator Monique Melton! Monique answers the questions: What is the cost of perfectionism on all humans?What steps can we begin to take to unhook from perfectionism and face the way it hurts black people? Monique Melton is an educator, published author, content creator, international speaker, and host of the Shine Brighter Together podcast. She is also the founder of Shine Bright School, which is a global community of people dedicated to doing the work from the inside out for our liberation. The school offers education on topics such as anti-racism in the workplace, equitable business development, anti-racism parenting, inner work/personal growth, committing to anti-racism as a daily practice, and healthy relationships. She is a wife to her high-school sweetheart and a loving mother to two little ones. She is also a natural big, bold dreamer and a joyfully unapologetic Black woman who believes we shine brighter together. Learn more from her through the Shine Bright School by clicking here or visiting https://www.shinebrightschool.com/ Monique Melton's Website: https://moniquemelton.com/ Follow on IG: @shinebrightertogether and @moemotivate Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

How did you and I first connect? How did you learn about this podcast? My best guess would be that you found yourself here through Instagram. Thank goodness for that! And yet, that little app on our phone can also be the place where we find ourselves in spirals of comparison, shame, overwhelm. That little app gives us access to so many resources and possible connections, but we can leave it feeling more depleted and overwhelmed. Social media's addictive qualities can eat away at all our margins, stealing away from the real connections in front of us, and can have a direct impact on our mental health. So...what can we do about this?  I invited Dr. Anisha Patel-Dunn to explore this with me. Together we name the issues and identify some tangible strategies for developing a healthier relationship with social media.  We are the first generation to enter parenting in the era of social media and it's not going anywhere. So, let's figure it out together. For us, and for our children. Dr. Anisha Patel-Dunn is the Chief Medical Officer at LifeStance Health which you can learn more about at lifestance.com/. To learn more about Dr. Cassidy's California-based private practice visit https://www.drcassidymft.com/ If you're not based in California and looking for a therapist in your area, visit https://www.drcassidymft.com/blog/how-to-find-a-therapist-like-me Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

In this episode we are bridging mental health, interior design, and parenting with therapist turned interior designer Anita Yokota! Anita explores the role that our home environment can have on our mental health and relationships as a parent, and offers simple strategies for designing a home with intention. I also get a chance to ask her my burning questions on making interior design/home purchase decisions and how to create a system for tackling the never-ending laundry. To connect with Anita you can find her on instagram @anitayokota or at her website www.anitayokota.com. Be sure to check out her book Home Therapy! If you liked this episode you might also enjoy: Episode 110: How to Work Through Perfectionism and Tap Into Your Mom Intuition with Renata Cameron Episode 108: Am I Screwing Up My Kids with Dr. Sumi Raghavan To learn more about Dr. Cassidy's California-based private practice visit https://www.drcassidymft.com/ If you're not based in California and looking for a therapist in your area, visit https://www.drcassidymft.com/blog/how-to-find-a-therapist-like-me Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

In this episode I sit down with New York Times Bestselling author Eve Rodsky. Together we explore the real issue of women shouldering the brunt of domestic and parenting responsibilities, regardless of whether they work outside the home. The unequal emotional labor and “invisible work” in a relationship has real costs for everyone involved, but Eve is here to share the light that comes with the solution!  Eve's Fair Play book and card deck completely changed the trajectory of my own marriage, and she's here to share more about the system that saved hers and countless others. To learn more about Eve's work and Fair Play visit https://www.everodsky.com/fair-play To learn more about Dr. Cassidy's California-based private practice visit https://www.drcassidymft.com/ If you're not based in California and looking for a therapist in your area, visit https://www.drcassidymft.com/blog/how-to-find-a-therapist-like-me Make the most of bedtime with Boll and Branch sheets. Get 15% off your first order when you use promo code DRCASSIDY at bollandbranch.com. Exclusions apply. See site for details. Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

I've got one foot in toddler land and one foot in tween land. Yes, it feels like the splits and damn do the splits hurt sometimes. AND, it has also provided me this unique experience to see the thread between these two seasons and the push for independence and big feelings that come with both.  I'm fortunate to call New York Times Bestselling Author and founder of Good Inside, Dr. Becky Kennedy, a friend and colleague. And as I find myself looking ahead to the teen years I had to ask her..."Do you think we're all destined to have a strained relationship with our teens?" Her answer was "No", and together we wondered if we can set the stage for a different relationship with our children early on. In this episode we invite you all to join us in this conversation as we dive deeper into exploring the link between how we parent our children early on and the connection and trust we experience with our teens. Already past those toddler years? Don't worry, we walk you through the important conversations that can support you in building that connection and trust RIGHT where you're at today. To connect with Dr. Becky Kennedy and learn more about her book, community, workshops (like the Potty Learning and Deeply Feeling Kids workshop mentioned in the episode), as well as her podcast visit https://www.goodinside.com. If you're a California resident and interested in learning more about Dr. Cassidy's therapy practice you can connect with her directly at https://www.drcassidymft.com/contact. If you're not a California resident and you're looking for supportive steps to find a therapist visit https://www.drcassidymft.com/blog/how-to-find-a-therapist-like-me. Other episode you might like: Ep. 108 Am I Screwing Up My Kid? with Dr. Sumi Raghavan Athletic Greens is giving you a FREE 1-year supply of Vitamin D AND 5 free travel packs with you first purchase. Go to athleticgreens.com/holdingspace. Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Parenting can be overwhelming, throw in being a Highly-Sensitive Person (HSP) and oof...it can be a lot. In this episode we support you in understanding what it means to be a HSP, the challenges and gifts that come with it, and tangible ways to care for yourself in this modern era of parenting. Amy Lajiness, LCSW, PMH-C is a Therapist and Coach who has spent countless hours supporting Highly Sensitive (HSP) parents in reclaiming their peace and confidence. Amy is a Highly Sensitive Person herself as well as a mother of two highly energetic young children. Amy holds certifications in Perinatal Mental Health and HSP, and is passionate about providing resources for HSP parents, teaching them how to harness their strengths and manage challenges with grace and confidence, in order to thrive in parenthood. You can find Amy at www.highlysensitiveparenthood.com (for HSP Parent Resources & Coaching) and at www.innernaturetherapy.com (for Therapy for HSPs & Parents in California).  Amy is offering listeners of Holding Space 20% off of any resources or services at Highly Sensitive Parenthood, simply use the code HOLDINGSPACE at checkout to save 20% on any of the following: Highly Sensitive Parenthood Course Nourish Coaching Package Highly Sensitive Parenthood Toolkit Supporting Your Highly Sensitive Child Course (Presale) To learn more about Dr. Cassidy's Group Therapy Practice for California parents visit www.drcassidymft.com.   Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Let's talk about sex baby...but after baby!  I'm so excited to share my conversation with New York Times bestselling authors of the book Sex Talks: The Five Conversations that will Transform Your Sex Life, Vanessa and Xander Marin. She's a sex therapist with 20 years of experience, and he's a regular dude! Together they've made it their mission to provide the sex education we all deserve but didn't get. In this episode we are talking to parents, because let's be real...there can be SO many blocks to intimacy after baby and beyond. This episode will help you answer the question: "where do we even start?" Vanessa is also one of my book besties. We connect over our love of spicy fantasy fiction, and share how reading spicy books can be a supportive step in reconnecting with that part of ourselves in parenthood. Connect with Vanessa and Xander over on Instagram @vanessaandxander where they share informed and open sex education with a hint of humor that makes it oh so relatable. You can learn more about Vanessa's work at vmtherapy.com and get their book at sextalksbook.com Athletic Greens is giving you a FREE 1-year supply of Vitamin D AND 5 free travel packs with you first purchase. Go to athleticgreens.com/holdingspace. To connect with Dr. Cassidy or learn more about her private practice, visit www.drcassidymft.com. Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

The pandemic showed us all how quickly things can change, and as parents we had to face that not only for ourselves, but for our kids too. I invited Sarah Rosney, licensed clinical social worker, back on to the podcast to provide strategies for supporting our children (and ourselves) with navigating change.  Whether the change has to do with a new baby, a new home, a new school, a new schedule, a divorce, a death, an illness, or even a new big kid bed...there are ways we can bridge both connection and communication with our children as we move through it. Sarah offers us the roadmap. Follow Sarah and soak up more of her support at @sarah_the_therapist on Instagram or you can learn more about Sarah's courses at https://sarahrosneylcsw.com/mindful-wellness-classroom/ To connect with Dr. Cassidy or learn more about her private practice, visit www.drcassidymft.com. Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Sibling relationships...the challenges, the pressure, the rivalries. Yep, it's real. If you grew up with siblings, maybe you can even connect to these experiences.  Yet, supporting sibling relationships can also provide opportunities for deep connection, empathy-building, and so much more. I am thrilled to share my conversation with Jessica Rolph, co-founder and CEO of Lovevery and mom to 3. Jessica and I offer tangible strategies for you to support the relationship between your children from the start, through their early years and beyond. Learn more about Lovevery (and their amazing subscription play kits) by clicking here! Continue to connect with Jessica and Lovevery on Instagram @lovevery and @jessicarolph and tune into Jessica's podcast My New Life. Athletic Greens is giving you a FREE 1-year supply of Vitamin D AND 5 free travel packs with you first purchase. Go to athleticgreens.com/holdingspace. Make the most of bedtime with Boll and Branch sheets. Get 15% off your first order when you use promo code DRCASSIDY at bollandbranch.com. Exclusions apply. See site for details. Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

You know what's really having it's moment right now (and I'm LOVING it!)? Internal Family Systems and "parts" work. What is Internal Family Systems, and why is this therapeutic approach so helpful when it comes to understanding our triggers and developing a new relationship with our emotions? You're going to leave this episode with the answer. I invited Vanessa Trine, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor on to the podcast to help me unpack why "parts" work is so powerful in our personal work as parents, breaking cycles, and supporting our children. To connect with Vanessa: Website: www.vanessatrine.com Support Deck: https://odddaughterpaper.com/products/support-deck  To learn more about Dr. Cassidy's California group private practice, visit www.drcassidymft.com. Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Today we are talking about origin wounds, those painful experiences from when you were young that find themselves showing up in present day relationships and patterns. I invited fellow Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and author of the book Origins of You, Vienna Pharaon, to walk us through understanding how we can begin to understand and heal our origin wounds. Even if you had a wonderful childhood, we have all experienced disappointment, been hurt, or felt pressure to look or be a certain way. Of course, not everything is experienced as trauma, but that doesn’t make it any less important for us to explore and heal. These wounds can originate in our family systems, but they can also form later on in life through partner relationships, our work environment, friendships, and they can impact our own experience as parents. In this episode Vienna introduces us to 5 origin wounds: worthiness, prioritization, belonging, safety, and trust. You'll leave the episode with an understanding of your own origin wounds and next steps to start the healing process. To connect with Vienna follow along @mindfulmft or visit www.newyorkcouplescounseling.com. You can buy her book Origins of You wherever books are sold or by visiting https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/709274/the-origins-of-you-by-vienna-pharaon-lfmt/. This episode is brought to you by Athletic Greens. To learn more about the AG1 nutritional drink go to www.athleticgreens.com/holdingspace and receive a FREE 1-year supply of Vitamin D AND 5 free travel packs with your first purchase. Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

You're reading the parenting books, following the experts on social media, listening to the podcasts, maybe even buying the courses...and somehow in the tough moment with your child none of the "strategies" feel intuitive...can you relate? Yea, same, and I'm considered one of those "experts!" Maybe you relate to trying to hold it all together, but underneath you wonder if something is actually wrong with YOU. In this episode I invited my good friend and fellow therapist and mom Renata Cameron to unpack these experience with me. Together we discuss the role of anxiety (and the desire to get it perfect) in these tough parenting moments, understanding why we get stuck, and breaking generational cycles through reparenting.  Funny enough, the parts of you that struggle the most will help us unlock that maternal intuition you're trying to tap into, and this episode will not only explain why but will help you take the first step. Renata is one of the amazing therapists for moms in my group practice, and you can connect with us at www.drcassidymft.com! This episode is brought to you by Cozy Earth. Visit https://cozyearth.com/ and use code DRCASSIDY35 for 35% off your order sitewide. I have their joggers and pull-over crew in Ivory! Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

In this episode we are shedding light on the often misdiagnosed experience of Postpartum OCD. I invited Licensed Therapist Jenna Overbaugh to share her professional (and personal!) experience with postpartum OCD. Together we open the door to the internal experience of living with OCD and discuss the symptoms, impact, treatment and how to get the support you need from your healthcare team. Jenna doesn't hold back and you'll leave this episode informed and feeling less alone. Connect with Jenna: @jenna.overbaugh on Instagram All The Hard Things Podcast Resources mentioned in the episode: IOCDF.org (International OCD Foundation)Postpartum.net (Postpartum Support international)Treatmyocd.com (evidence based treatment in and out of the US) This episode is brought to you by Cozy Earth. Visit https://cozyearth.com/ and use code DRCASSIDY35 for 35% off your order sitewide. I have their joggers and pull-over crew in Ivory! To connect with Dr. Cassidy or learn more about her private practice, visit www.drcassidymft.com. Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy