Leah Ciner, LCSW
A cute, content baby in the arms of a happy mama. That is many people's vision of parenthood. But reality isn't always so picture-perfect.
Sometimes it's the path getting there - when you yearn for a child but confront obstacles along the way. Treatments can be draining on a physical and emotional level. You might feel isolated from others who move forward, leaving you behind. You might feel disconnected from your partner, and struggle to maintain your relationship. If you are doing this alone, the isolation can be overpowering. The pain of the struggle is real, and the process can feel overwhelming at times. The fear and anxiety about the future can be isolating. Having someone knowledgeable to speak to can help manage these feelings.
Once you are expecting, it's not always smooth sailing. Pregnancy challenges aren't spoken about much, but with pregnancy can come a host of physical and emotional challenges. You deserve support throughout the entire process of becoming a parent.
Once you are holding your new baby, your feelings might surprise you. Some people feel an incredible bliss and love immediately when caring for their child. Others struggle to connect, to function, to balance their own emotional and physical needs with their new baby’s.
Sometimes, a pregnancy does not end the way you dreamed. Whether through a spontaneous loss or a termination, the grief and loss are real and deserving of support.
But there is hope. Together we can work through your struggles. Together we can navigate the challenges of becoming a parent. Together we can help you feel better, have confidence in yourself, and move towards the future you dream of.
My approach is to focus on each person's strengths and needs. Everyone has their own unique journey and I want to learn what your path means to you. Your story is the most important one to focus on during our time together. You are the expert on your life, and I am here to support you through the challenges. At the same time, I want you to walk out with concrete skills that can make your life better today. Utilizing mindfulness, DBT, and a host of other approaches, you can start enjoying life again right now. Each session should leave you feeling more hopeful about the future and more equipped to face your unique circumstances.
My special interest is women going through fertility treatment. IUI, IVF, PGT, and more can sound like an alphabet soup. I will be here to guide you through the emotional maze that is fertility treatment and cheer you on throughout the process.
Click here to learn more about how I can support and guide you through infertility or prenatal/postpartum concerns.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in New Jersey with a Master's in Social Work from Wurzweiler School of Social Work. I am a member of Postpartum Support International and the Mental Health Professionals Group of the American Society for Reproductive Medicine.
Ready to make an appointment? Have some questions first? Click below to contact me or schedule an appointment. I am available for video appointments.
