As I celebrated turning 40, a few fallen petals from a bouquet reminded me how life changes with time, how things fall away, yet beauty and growth remain. Those petals made me pause and reflect on the constants that have carried me through every season. If you’re noticing your own fallen petals lately, let this be a reminder to breathe, reflect, and honor the parts of you that are still standing strong.

Welcoming a baby after more than 20 years felt like starting from scratch. Finding my “new normal” meant adjusting routines, mindsets, and expectations, sometimes daily. The early postpartum period brought waves of emotions, some expected, others surprising. Between sleepless nights, figuring out childcare, and simply trying to keep it all together, I quickly learned the importance of flexibility, self-compassion, and leaning on my support network.

Every postpartum journey is unique. Whether you have a village of support or are figuring things out on your own, your experience is valid.

Some strategies that helped me—and are supported by research include: prioritizing even small stretches of restorative sleep, eating nourishing meals, gentle movement like walking or stretching, staying connected with friends or family, practicing mindfulness or deep breathing, and knowing when to ask for help.

If you’re feeling overwhelmed, sad, or anxious, therapy can be a safe, evidence-based way to process these changes and develop coping strategies. At Marryland Therapy & Consultation, we provide compassionate support for new moms both in-person in North Little Rock, AR, and online. You don’t have to navigate postpartum alone you deserve support every step of the way.

Marriage is one of life’s biggest commitments, and while love is important, it’s not always enough to navigate the challenges that come with it. Premarital counseling gives couples the tools to build a strong foundation before saying “I do.” As I reflect on my own premarital counseling experience, I realize how much it shaped my marriage and inspired the work I do today.

In a state like Arkansas, where divorce rates are among the highest in the nation, preparing intentionally for marriage isn’t just wise—it’s essential. Premarital counseling helps couples strengthen communication, manage conflict, and align on values and goals, setting the stage for a lasting, healthy partnership.

June has flown by in a haze of newborn snuggles and postpartum healing, but even in the midst of new motherhood, I’ve been reflecting on something bigger: confidence.

Watching my baby reminded me how we all begin—open, vulnerable, and eager to be loved. But what happens when those early needs aren’t met? Many of us carry invisible wounds from childhood that shape how we see ourselves today.

In this post, I’m exploring how early emotional experiences impact confidence—and how, no matter what your past looked like, you can begin rebuilding it. Healing isn’t linear, but it is possible. You’re not broken—you’re growing.

✨ Read more + get 3 steps to start rebuilding confidence right now.

When I was a child, my sister’s life was tragically taken by a violent act. One morning she was with us—by evening, she never came home. Growing up in a rural area, the only support offered was school counseling and a brief visit from a grief counselor It wasn’t enough. Grief, trauma, and healing take time and meaningful resources.

That experience shaped who I am today—a mental health professional deeply committed to helping children and families. At Marryland Therapy and Consultation, we take a holistic approach to care. We address emotional needs, connect families with real-life resources, and recognize the impact of trauma on the persons whole system.

No one should have to go through pain alone. We’re here to help families access the tools they need to heal their heart and support their mind. If you’re not sure where to start, reach out—we’ll walk with you every step of the way.

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