Episode 38: Postpartum PTSD: The long term impact of gestational complications and root cause healing with Sofia Marie Etzel

Episode 38: Postpartum PTSD: The long term impact of gestational complications and root cause healing with Sofia Marie Etzel

Summary Welcome to another guest episode! In this episode of the Mom Mentality podcast, Natalia is joined by Sofia-Marie Etzel, PharmD, CFMP, an integrative and functional pharmacist, maternal health coach, patient advocate, and the founder of Mom2Moms Apothecary LLC. In honor of June being PTSD awareness month, Sofia shares her personal experience with preeclampsia, birth trauma, and postpartum PTSD. She shares how her own journey led her to her current work in supporting women in reducing their risk for future complications and healing at the root cause. Natalia also shares her experience with preeclampsia and postpartum PTSD and how this has shaped her life and work as a therapist. Natalia shares her current journey with her second pregnancy and the work she is doing, with the support of Sofia, to reduce her risks and support her ability to surrender in her next birth and postpartum.    About our Guest Sofia-Marie Etzel, PharmD, CFMP is an integrative and functional pharmacist, maternal health coach, and patient advocate, and the founder of Mom2Moms Apothecary LLC, an integrative maternal health coaching and education platform built at the intersection of conventional pharmacy and functional medicine. Sofia-Marie supports women across the full maternal health continuum:  from preconception through postpartum and beyond. She has a specialized focus on gestational complications, postpartum recovery, and building the kind of self-advocacy that allows mothers to feel truly informed and empowered in their health decisions. Her clinical lens spans gut health, nervous system regulation, detoxification pathways, nutrigenomics, pharmacogenomics, postpartum depletion, and cellular health — always asking not just what a woman is experiencing, but why. Her work is rooted in both evidence and experience. After her own diagnosis of preeclampsia and the postpartum PTSD and anxiety that followed, Sofia-Marie walked the healing journey she now guides others through; rebuilding through functional nutrition, gut restoration, anti-inflammatory strategies, and nervous system regulation. That lived experience shapes every aspect of her practice. Through Mom2Moms Apothecary LLC, Sofia-Marie offers one-on-one coaching with fully personalized support and advocacy plans, as well as self-paced educational programs that combine foundational curriculum with live weekly support and private community access. She also works directly with maternal health providers, helping practitioners integrate functional medicine principles and genetic insights into their care models and delivers corporate wellness seminars for organizations looking to meaningfully support employees through pregnancy, postpartum, and the return-to-work transition. Sofia-Marie is a mom of two young children and a proud golden retriever mom, based in New York. She brings warmth, clinical depth, and a genuine passion for changing the standard of care that mothers deserve. Connect with Sofia-Marie: @mom2momsapothecary mom2momsapothecaryllc.com [http://mom2momsapothecaryllc.com/]   I look forward to seeing you back here soon for another episode! Until then, be gentle with yourself!   About the Host  Dr. Natalia Rappa is a holistic psychologist. Her private practice focuses on working with adolescents and adults in transitional life phases dealing with anxiety, depression, and trauma. She holds a doctoral degree in school/clinical psychology from Hofstra University. She has specialized  training in Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction and CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy). In addition, she pursued further training in EMDR, an evidenced based treatment for trauma.  She integrates these different approaches to meet the unique needs of each of her clients. The belief at the core of her work is that our mind and bodies want to heal and have an innate wisdom to do so. With a non-judgmental environment, strong therapeutic rapport, and supportive coping techniques, clients are able to access this wisdom within them.    Connect on Instagram: @drnataliarappa    Check out my website: https://www.drnataliarappa.com [https://www.drnataliarappa.com/] Email: drnataliarappa@gmail.com

Episode 37: Redemptive birth, balancing it all, and trusting your intuition with Dr. Adriana Lazare

Summary Welcome to another guest episode! In this episode of the Mom Mentality podcast, Natalia welcomes back Dr. Adriana Lazare. In this heartfelt episode, Adriana shares her transformative pregnancy and birth experiences, highlighting the importance of mental preparation, trusting your body, and choosing supportive healthcare providers. Discover insights on postpartum recovery, the impact of birth choices, and how to navigate motherhood with confidence and peace. We share our journeys through motherhood, exploring topics like postpartum experiences, balancing life and work, sleep, development, and the importance of intuition and self-awareness. We discuss how motherhood transforms us, the significance of embracing natural processes, and the power of perspective and gratitude.   Chapters 03:06 First Birth Experience and Challenges 06:53 The Journey to Home Birth 10:53 Second Birth Experience and Redemption 14:41 Postpartum Differences and Personal Growth 18:18 The Power of Belief in Pregnancy Outcomes 18:46 Mental Health and Preparing for Future Pregnancies 19:32 Finding the Right Healthcare Provider 21:34 The Human Connection in Healthcare 22:23 Postpartum Challenges and Breastfeeding Experiences 24:29 The Impact of Birth Timing on Postpartum Recovery 28:48 The Role of Support Systems in Postpartum 31:08 Navigating Postpartum Recovery 32:41 Transitioning from One to Two Children 36:09 Navigating the Emotional Landscape of Parenting 38:28 Finding Balance in Parenting and Work 42:00 Involving Kids in Daily Life 46:13 Intentional Parenting: Moving Towards or Away From? 52:40 Understanding Sleep: Myths and Realities 54:39 Navigating Sleep Challenges with Infants 57:59 Understanding the Developmental Needs of Babies 01:01:36 The Emotional Journey of Motherhood 01:05:52 Finding Perspective Through Grief and Loss   About our Guest Dr. Adriana is a mom and a chiropractor based in Long Beach, New York. When she was a kid, chiropractic changed her life and ever since it has been a part of who she is. The foundation of her practice is a trust in an innate knowing that each of us has; a trust in the inherent power of the body to adapt, heal and grow. Her practice has become a true family wellness space where she sees all ages and all walks of life, specializing in prenatal and pediatric care as it so aligns with the season of her life. She is passionate about pregnancy, birth and empowering moms in their journey of motherhood. She holds certifications in active release technique and training in pediatric care and rehabilitation methods. She has been blessed to not only receive the magic of chiropractic, but to facilitate and watch it work on others   I look forward to seeing you back here for another episode! Until then, be gentle with yourself!   About the Host  Dr. Natalia Rappa is a holistic psychologist. Her private practice focuses on working with adolescents and adults in transitional life phases dealing with anxiety, depression, and trauma. She holds a doctoral degree in school/clinical psychology from Hofstra University. She has specialized  training in Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction and CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy). In addition, she pursued further training in EMDR, an evidenced based treatment for trauma.  She integrates these different approaches to meet the unique needs of each of her clients. The belief at the core of her work is that our mind and bodies want to heal and have an innate wisdom to do so. With a non-judgmental environment, strong therapeutic rapport, and supportive coping techniques, clients are able to access this wisdom within them.    Connect on Instagram: @drnataliarappa    Check out my website: https://www.drnataliarappa.com [https://www.drnataliarappa.com/] Email: drnataliarappa@gmail.com

Episode 36: Grief and Gratitude: Unveiling the truths of Secondary Infertility with Megan Mckeon

Summary Welcome to another guest episode! In this episode of the Mom Mentality podcast, Natalia speaks with Megan McKeon, devoted mother and school principal. Megan shares her deeply personal journey through secondary infertility, miscarriage, and the challenges of IVF. As an elementary school principal and devoted mother, Megan discusses the emotional toll of her experiences, the lessons learned about her body, and the importance of support from family and friends. She reflects on the complexities of navigating motherhood while facing fertility challenges, the impact of pregnancy loss, and the ongoing struggle for hope and control in her journey to expand her family. In this conversation, Megan and Natalia explore the emotional complexities of infertility, motherhood, and the pressure of societal expectations. They discuss the challenges of navigating grief while raising a child, the impact of secondary infertility, and the importance of community and support. The dialogue emphasizes the need for self-compassion, the significance of sharing experiences, and the empowerment that comes from connecting with others who understand similar struggles.     Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the Journey 02:11 Navigating Infertility Challenges 03:13 First Pregnancy and Miscarriage 06:39 The Decision to Seek Help 07:48 The IVF Experience 10:41 The Birth of Evy and New Hope 11:06 The Emotional Toll of Infertility 12:45 The Struggles of Control in IVF 14:30 The Rollercoaster of Pregnancy Tests 17:53 The Heartbreak of Loss 19:40 Navigating Grief and Loss 21:22 Expectations vs. Reality in Parenthood 23:27 The Emotional Toll of Pregnancy Loss 25:32 Testing and Uncertainty in IVF 26:42 Finding Freedom in Acceptance 28:10 The Burden of Infertility 29:29 Understanding Endometriosis 31:13 The Weight of Comparisons 32:57 The Pressure of Motherhood 35:00 Reliving Trauma in Secondary Infertility 37:22 Balancing Joy and Grief 38:42 Milestones and Memories of Loss 42:04 Navigating Fertility Challenges 45:25 The Emotional Toll of Secondary Infertility 49:02 Finding Joy Amidst Struggles 52:40 The Importance of Self-Care 55:11 Building Community and Advocacy 01:01:09 Embracing Your Feelings 01:03:53 Setting Boundaries for Well-Being   About our Guest Megan McKeon is a devoted mother, wife, and Elementary School Principal who leads with resilience, heart, and unwavering optimism. She stepped into her principal role in September 2020—amid uncertainty and challenge—all while working to build her family. Megan has navigated both infertility and secondary infertility, experiences that have strengthened her empathy, deepened her gratitude, and shaped the way she supports others. At school, she strives to create a warm, inclusive community where students and teachers feel seen and encouraged. Outside of work, Megan cherishes time with her family and loves spending meaningful moments with friends. She recently also started her own podcast to share her story and support other women called Fertility Friends Forever available on Apple and Spotify.    I look forward to seeing you back here next week for another episode! Until then, be gentle with yourself!   About the Host  Dr. Natalia Rappa is a holistic psychologist. Her private practice focuses on working with adolescents and adults in transitional life phases dealing with anxiety, depression, and trauma. She holds a doctoral degree in school/clinical psychology from Hofstra University. She has specialized  training in Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction and CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy). In addition, she pursued further training in EMDR, an evidenced based treatment for trauma.  She integrates these different approaches to meet the unique needs of each of her clients. The belief at the core of her work is that our mind and bodies want to heal and have an innate wisdom to do so. With a non-judgmental environment, strong therapeutic rapport, and supportive coping techniques, clients are able to access this wisdom within them.    Connect on Instagram: @drnataliarappa    Check out my website: https://www.drnataliarappa.com [https://www.drnataliarappa.com/] Email: drnataliarappa@gmail.com

Episode 36: Holiday Boundaries Pep Talk

Welcome to the 36th  episode of The Mom Mentality Podcast!! This SOLO episode gets into the topic of BOUNDARIES as we approach the holidays. We chat about the complexities of navigating the holiday season, particularly for mothers and women dealing with grief and loss. Natalia emphasizes the importance of setting boundaries, managing expectations, and prioritizing self-care. We talk about how to shift your mindset around boundaries and view them as a gift to both you and others around you (yes even when you are saying no to their invitation!)    Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Holiday Reflections 02:19 Navigating Grief and Loss During Holidays 04:45 Setting Boundaries and Managing Expectations 09:59 The Importance of Authenticity in Relationships 14:15 Understanding Boundaries as Bridges, Not Walls 18:13 Conclusion and Gentle Holiday Wishes   Thank you so much for listening! It has been an amazing first year hosting the podcast and I am so grateful to be on this motherhood journey with you!    I know your time is SO precious as a mom! If you enjoyed this episode and it resonated with you it would mean so much for you to share the episode with a fellow mom friend or put it on your social media.    I look forward to seeing you back here next week for another GUEST EPISODE! And it’s gonna be a GOOD ONE!  Until then, be gentle with yourself!   Connect on Instagram: @talkingdrtal     Check out the website: https://www.drnataliarappa.com [https://www.drnataliarappa.com/] Email: drnataliarappa@gmail.com    Disclaimer: Please remember that the information shared on this podcast is intended to educate, support, and uplift you on your motherhood journey. It is not a substitute for professional mental health advice or services. If you are experiencing any emotional distress, mental health challenges, or medical conditions, please seek help from a qualified professional.   holiday season, grief, loss, boundaries, mental health, self-care, authenticity, expectations, relationships, motherhood

Episode 35: Somatic Healing: Reconnecting with the wisdom of your body in Motherhood with Cathy Williams

Summary Welcome to another guest episode! In this episode of the Mom Mentality podcast, Natalia speaks with Cathy Williams, a trailblazer in body-based healing and creative arts therapy. Cathy shares her journey from community development to becoming a movement and expressive arts therapist, emphasizing the importance of somatic practices in healing and emotional processing.We discuss the challenges mothers face in connecting with their bodies and emotions, the role of intuition in motherhood, and practical tips for self-care. The conversation highlights the power of creative expression and movement in processing trauma and emotions, encouraging listeners to embrace their body wisdom and prioritize their well-being.      Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Body-Based Healing and Creative Arts Therapy 02:58 Cathy's Journey to Healing and Self-Discovery 05:43 The Importance of Somatic Work in Emotional Processing 09:42 Understanding Somatic Movement Therapy 18:23 Creativity in Motherhood and Personal Expression 22:25 Movement as a Tool for Processing Emotions and Trauma 26:38 Accessing Body Wisdom Through Movement 29:22 Reconnecting with Intuition and Inner Guidance 34:19 The Impact of Motherhood on Self-Identity 37:51 Accessible Practices for Self-Reflection 43:59 Recognizing Disconnection from the Body 49:47 The Importance of Emotional Release   About our Guest Cathy Williams is a Melbourne born and based Award-winning Author and trail-blazer in the world of body based healing and creative arts therapy.  A trainer and facilitator, Cathy founded Intuitive Self in 2016 where her workshops, courses and one-on-one sessions support women to rekindle their relationship with their bodies and re-learn how to listen to, trust in and follow their intuition.   As an independent mama herself, Cathy has supported women during their pregnancy and motherhood journeys. Known for her compassionate empowering approach, Cathy encourages deep yet playful exploration for self-discovery, healing and personal growth.   I look forward to seeing you back here next week for another episode! Until then, be gentle with yourself!   About the Host  Dr. Natalia Rappa is a holistic psychologist. Her private practice focuses on working with adolescents and adults in transitional life phases dealing with anxiety, depression, and trauma. She holds a doctoral degree in school/clinical psychology from Hofstra University. She has specialized  training in Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction and CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy). In addition, she pursued further training in EMDR, an evidenced based treatment for trauma.  She integrates these different approaches to meet the unique needs of each of her clients. The belief at the core of her work is that our mind and bodies want to heal and have an innate wisdom to do so. With a non-judgmental environment, strong therapeutic rapport, and supportive coping techniques, clients are able to access this wisdom within them.    Connect on Instagram: @drnataliarappa    Check out my website: https://www.drnataliarappa.com [https://www.drnataliarappa.com/] Email: drnataliarappa@gmail.com