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The Pathway to Thriving
Growing into the Best Version of You
Welcome to the Live Oak Psychology blog — a resource for women in Austin, TX and beyond navigating postpartum depression, mom burnout, relationship patterns, and young adult life transitions. Articles are written by Dr. Emily Turinas, a PhD-level perinatal psychologist with specialized training through Postpartum Support International and personal lived experience with high-risk pregnancy and NICU recovery. Browse by category below, or book a free 15-minute consultation if something you read resonates.
Where Am I in the Matrescence Process? - Quiz
Important: This quiz is a self-assessment tool for informational and educational purposes only and is not a clinical evaluation, diagnosis, or substitute for professional mental health care. Quiz results are not monitored in real time, and submitting the quiz does not alert Dr. Turinas or Live Oak Psychology to your responses. If you are experiencing a mental health crisis, feel unsafe, are in immediate danger, or need immediate support, please do not rely on this quiz or wai
Does My Husband Have ‘Dad Privilege’? Understanding the Emotional Labor Gap
Society has conditioned everyone—including moms—to expect less from dads. The result is an invisible imbalance where mothers carry the mental, emotional, and logistical weight of the household while fathers participate without managing.
Feeling Burnt Out? The Truth About Depleted Mother Syndrome Every Mom Needs to Hear
Table of Contents What Is Depleted Mother Syndrome? The Science Behind Depleted Mother Syndrome How Depleted Mother Syndrome Affects Your Mental Health Practical Strategies to Combat Depleted Mother Syndrome Resources and Tools for Moms A Call to Action for Moms Frequently Asked Questions What Is Depleted Mother Syndrome? Depleted Mother Syndrome (DMS) is more than just being tired. It’s an overwhelming state of physical, mental, and emotional exhaustion that leaves many moms
The Truth About Mom Burnout: What It Is, Why It Happens, and How to Fix It
Hey there, Mama. Let’s have a real talk about something I see way too often in my therapy practice—mom burnout. Now, if you're feeling a bit tired, a little stressed, or like you might just need a nap (okay, who am I kidding, a week-long vacation), you might be thinking, "Yeah, I’m burned out." But here’s the thing: Mom burnout isn’t just being tired—it’s a whole other beast, and it’s got a sneaky way of creeping into your life. You know that feeling when you're constantly ru
Feeling Overwhelmed? Learn What a Perinatal Therapist Is and Why They’re a Lifesaver for New Moms!
Motherhood is a life-changing experience that comes with joy, excitement—and plenty of stress. Whether you’re in the early stages of pregnancy or navigating the whirlwind of new motherhood, feeling overwhelmed is incredibly common. But here’s the good news: a perinatal therapist is specifically trained to help mothers like you during this important time. In this article, we’ll explore what a perinatal therapist does, why their support can be a game changer for overwhelmed mom
What is PPA and PPD in Pregnancy?
The challenging waters of Perinatal Anxiety (PPA) and Postpartum Depression (PPD)
How to Support a Loved One’s Birth Trauma: A Practical, Compassionate Guide
Supporting someone you love after birth trauma isn’t always intuitive. You might feel helpless, unsure of what to say, or afraid to do the wrong thing. But your role can be incredibly meaningful. With empathy, presence, and a few thoughtful actions, you can become a powerful part of their healing journey. Whether your loved one had an emergency C-section, a NICU stay, or felt emotionally dismissed during labor, the aftermath of birth trauma can linger—sometimes for weeks, mon
Checklist for Going Back to Work After Maternity Leave: Everything You Need (Including Your Feelings)
Going back to work after maternity leave isn't just a logistical transition. It's an identity shift, a grief process, and a reorganization of your entire life. The logistics are the easy part.
Mom Guilt: The Silent Struggle No One Talks About
If you’ve ever caught yourself lying awake at night replaying the day’s “failures” as a mom—maybe you raised your voice, forgot to pack a snack, or simply craved a moment alone—you’re not alone. Mom guilt is the quiet, relentless voice that whispers you’re not doing enough, and it’s something almost every mom experiences, especially those of us striving to be perfect or make everyone happy. But here’s the truth: Mom guilt is a modern epidemic fueled by impossible standards. L
Why Do I Feel Like a Bad Mom? Understanding the Inner Critic
The 'bad mom' inner critic isn't about your parenting. It's the internalized voice of impossible standards, unmet needs from your own childhood, and cultural expectations that no human can meet.
Recognizing the 12 Signs of an Unsupportive Husband During Pregnancy (and learn how to Address the Issues)
Table of Contents Introduction Understanding the Importance of Spousal Support During Pregnancy 12 Signs of an Unsupportive Husband During Pregnancy The Impact of Lack of Support on Expectant Mothers Strategies for Addressing an Unsupportive Husband When to Seek Professional Help Conclusion FAQs About Unsupportive Husbands During Pregnancy Introduction Pregnancy is a transformative journey filled with joy, anticipation, and challenges. While expectant mothers often turn to th
Why Every New Mom Deserves a Postpartum Therapist—And How to Find One Fast Near Me!
Becoming a mom can feel like one of the most magical and overwhelming experiences all at once. One minute you're gazing into your baby's eyes, and the next you're Googling, "Postpartum Therapist Near Me" or "Why am I crying for no reason after birth?" If that sounds familiar, you’re not alone. But here’s the thing: you don’t have to navigate the emotional rollercoaster of new motherhood by yourself. In fact, having a Postpartum Therapist Near You can be a total game-changer.
Breaking Down Barriers: Communication Tips to get our unmet needs met in a relationship
Effective communication builds trust, fosters understanding, and strengthens the bonds. How to get our unmet needs in a relationship.
Crafting a Compelling Letter for Return to Work After Leave (with a sample!)
Returning to work after a leave of absence, whether due to medical reasons, family obligations, or personal circumstances, can be a significant transition. This life transition can bring up complex emotions, especially if you're returning after medical or family leave.If you are returning from maternity leave, check out this more specialized post! As a psychologist, you understand the importance of effective communication in navigating such transitions and ensuring a smooth r
Feeling Disconnected from Your Husband after the Baby Arrives? How to Strengthen Your Relationship Postpartum
Feeling disconnected from your husband after baby isn't about falling out of love. It's about two people going through vastly different experiences while trying to keep a tiny human alive. Connection doesn't happen automatically—it requires intentional effort in a season where you have nothing left to give.
Online Postnatal Depression Therapy: A 2024 Guide for New Parents
Table of Contents Understanding Postnatal Depression Virtual Therapy for Postpartum Depression Types of Virtual Therapy for Postnatal Depression How to Choose the Right Therapist The Future of Postnatal Mental Health Support Taking the First Step Towards Healing Additional Resources References Understanding Postnatal Depression Postnatal depression (PND), also known as postpartum depression, is a serious mental health condition that affects up to 20% of new mothers and a sign
Essential Resources for New Dads: Top Websites, Support Groups, Blogs, Books, and Social Media Pages
Approximately one out of every ten fathers experiences postpartum depression. Dad's need support too!
The Secret Weapon for a Healthier Pregnancy: How a Prenatal Therapist Supports You and Baby
Prenatal therapist discusses hormonal changes, physical discomfort, and the rollercoaster of emotions the prenatal period can create.
Understanding the signs, symptoms of postpartum depression: what about new mom therapy?
Everyone will tell you the heightened emotions, exhaustion, and new stresses are normal, but when will you feel like you again? Is it baby blues or postpartum depression? Here we will discuss when normal experiences of postpartum may be indicative of more significant mental health and when it might be time to reach out for professional help and get some new mom therapy. Baby Blues or Postpartum Depression? Often people throw around the terms baby blues and postpartum depressi
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