Amanda Perez, LAC


 

I'm Amanda, a Licensed Associate Counselor, and I have a passion for supporting other parents as they navigate the many life changes that come with building a family.

Struggling to conceive or experiencing pregnancy loss can bring on feelings of sadness, frustration, jealousy, guilt or shame.  You may find it difficult to talk to those whom you usually rely on, or you may find that when you do, the conversation leaves you feeling more upset and disconnected.  

In the weeks and months postpartum, you may feel sad and not know why - after all, you’ve always wanted to be a parent. You may be wondering what happened to the person you used to be. You may be experiencing feelings of anxiety that you never felt before, or your anxiety may present as irritability or anger. Maybe now you have a difficult time making decisions, when before you felt strong willed and confident. You may have thoughts that scare you or feel like they are not your own. Any of the phases on the journey to parenthood may leave you wondering when you’ll feel “normal” or “like you” again.  Your partner, who was once your biggest ally and best friend, may feel like a stranger, or you may feel a space between you that was not there before.  

Being a new parent can also make you revisit feelings from your past that you haven’t thought about for a while, like your relationship with your parents or insecurities about your body.  Becoming a parent is one of the biggest identity shifts you will undergo, and it’s normal to take some time to find your footing. Maybe right now your daily routine feels unmanageable, and you’re trying to find the path back to “you” or “us.” 

I earned my Master's degree in Counseling Psychology from St. Elizabeth University. My experience includes working with a range of ages, from adolescents through adults, on issues such as anxiety, depression, addiction and trauma. I received advanced clinical training in perinatal and reproductive mental health, as well as Accelerated Resolution Therapy for trauma work.

As your therapist, I firmly believe that you have all you need inside of you to find your way back to yourself or the life you want. You may feel completely lost and alone right now. And that's ok. You don't have to to do this alone. We will work together on finding solutions, your joy, or any other goals that you may have. I look forward to meeting you and working with you!

Click here to learn more about how I can support and guide you through infertility or prenatal/postpartum concerns.

If you have questions, contact me today for a free initial phone consultation. Ready to make an appointment? I look forward to hearing from you! I’m currently available via telehealth.