I am fortunate to be able to blend a very busy private practice with an active family life. Life doesn't slow down for me very often, and I do need to take intentional time off to replenish and fill my cup...which I will be doing this summer for sure. But before, a little update regarding the goings on at my office...From Andrea's Couch...
I have two primary practice specialties which address trauma and life cycle transitions. Most of you know that women's reproductive mental health is one of my loves. I work with many moms (and their families) who are struggling with perinatal depression/anxiety, birth trauma, perinatal loss (miscarriage, stillbirth), infertility, and women entering/in perimenopause. I also volunteer as a Co-Coordinator for Postpartum Support International whereby I provide resources and support for new moms who are looking for qualified mental health services during the childbearing year. It's my 11th year with this largest non-profit dedicated to women's reproductive mental health. I have historically provided trainings and also spoken at conferences for this practice specialty, which will continue to be a part of my practice offerings. I have also incorporated a newer practice specialty over the last 5-10 years...
I discovered also that many of my general population clients had been exposed to narcissistic abuse (a specific form of emotional/psychological abuse) in love, work or family life domains. My most recent work has centered on helping those clients affected by narcissistic abuse in addition to supporting new and expecting parents in the transition to parenthood. Many of you know about my publications. I wrote an ebook entitled Soul Vampires: Reclaiming Your LifeBlood After Narcissistic Abuse . My ebook is available on Bookbaby to access via most online platforms for downloading. I will be updating a new edition over the summer with new resources and links, as well as finishing up a companion workbook for survivors, which I am proud to say, is trauma-informed. Many of you have read my articles for goodtherapy.org and The Minds Journal on subjects ranging from women's reproductive mental health, narcissistic abuse recovery, special needs parenting, grief and loss, expressive arts and trauma. Stay tuned for more publications on these topics and others. I am glad you are following me also on my blog here.
I wanted to update my readers about some new practice offerings on the pipeline coming up...since our world is becoming increasingly technological, I am working to increase my services telephonically and via webcam. Many of you know that I offer psychotherapy and life coaching via telehealth consultation/psychotherapy for those that are geographically far from my office. I am also in the process of uniting forces with another provider to co-facilitate an online support group for survivors of narcissistic abuse (in family of origin and also romantic relationships).
In addition, I am hopping on the podcast bandwagon as well, with the assistance of a cherished colleague. I am looking forward to interviewing many experts in various mental health specialties and sharing their wisdom with you.
I am also getting EMDR certified this year. I completed the first half of the 50 hour training...and I am so excited to utilize this modality in-office for my clients impacted by trauma. One thing that unites all my clients, whether they are experiencing depression, anxiety, PTSD, C-PTSD, grief, loss, stress, etc...is trauma...EMDR is proven to be a very effective modality in helping people move through trauma. I also like to incorporate mindfulness based CBT (cognitive behavioral therapy) with expressive arts modalities, and other interventions.
That's about it for now...sending you well wishes as you begin to enter the summer season...may you replenish, restore, and relax this summer. You deserve it!
Namaste,
Andrea Schneider, LCSW