Why Us

Occupational therapists (OTs) are uniquely qualified to support individuals through any major life transition, whether it is an anticipated event, or an accident or injury. OTs understand that “you are what you do” and what you do (your “occupations”) brings meaning to your life. Whether it is the simple ritual of brewing your coffee in the morning (and enjoying it while still hot!) or rejoining the sports team you played on, mothers often experience a sense of identity loss during the perinatal period. As a new mother, your life is inextricably tied to your baby, and you may not even want to re-engage in formerly important activities, or perhaps you cannot re-engage in those occupations due to various limitations (e.g. physical, time, location).

A perinatal occupational therapist understands the dyadic relationship between mother and baby and can support recovery by addressing daily routines, pain management, ergonomics, feeding and positioning, energy conservation approaches, and self-regulation for mother and baby holistically. OTs serve as a guide to help you find your “what” and “why,” and identify a path forward, incorporating accommodations or modifications to overcome barriers.

Services

  • In this signature 3-hour workshop, expectant mothers will be guided through an introspective process to identify their own strengths, traits, and needs, and assess their homes and relationships in preparation for the changes this tiny human will bring to their life. The journey begins with a gentle, centering yoga session, followed by guided activities to promote self-awareness of roles, routines, and identity. Information, tools, and resources (local and online) will be provided to educate mothers on Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders (PMADs), ergonomics and positioning, lifestyle considerations, self-regulation and co-regulation strategies to promote occupational balance. Participants will leave with an increased sense of confidence, community, and future support network as they approach this new phase of life.

    Please reach out via the Contact Us form if you would like to host this group workshop.

  • An individualized home visit can support parent(s) and baby as a unit with:

    • Ergonomics & positioning

    • Pain management

    • C-section care

    • Environmental modifications

    • Routines & schedules

    • Self-regulation & Co-regulation

    • Energy conservation & strategies for rest

    An Occupational Therapy Assessment begins with an interview to understand areas of strengths and needs of the parent(s) individually, and within their relationship with baby (Occupational Profile). Goals are generated based on the desires of mom and/or parents, and tangible strategies are shared as part of a short- and long-term treatment plan. Additionally, we will help identify signs of PMADs and connect the family to additional resources, if needed.

    Home visits are typically 90 minutes and are available in Washington, DC at this time.

  • Virtual appointments are ideal for consultations or as follow-up from a home visit. A virtual appointment includes a brief Occupational Profile, and support with routines/schedules, self-regulation and co-regulation, energy conservation and strategies for rest, and help identifying PMADs. Clients will receive tools and resources they can immediately apply in order to address identified areas of need.

    Virtual visits are typically 60 minutes and are available in Washington, DC at this time.