Counseling & Therapy Newsletter October 2020

Counseling & Therapy Newsletter October 2020

Oct 21, 2020

newsletter, Counseling Services

 

 

Hello and welcome to FamilyMeans Counseling & Therapy’s Monthly Newsletter!


In each issue we will address a different topic surrounding mental health, highlight a treatment perspective from the field, as well as showcase a few of our own clinicians. Our hope is that this newsletter helps to raise awareness, begins conversations around tough topics, and instills hope.

 

 

As a result of COVID-19 the majority of FamilyMeans Counseling & Therapy sessions are being done using tele-health video calls. Limited in-person sessions for specialized therapies available for current and new clients. To set-up an appointment please call 651-439-4840 or visit FamilyMeans.org. Click here to see COVID-19 updates.

 

 October is Pregnancy and Infant Loss Awareness Month

 

“There are some journeys that never began. Yet in certain ways, don’t ever end.”
– Rachita Bhatia Morales

October is pregnancy and infant loss awareness month.  A time for the community to break the stigma of discussing this devastating loss, and join together to support those who have lost a pregnancy or infant. Many are unaware that 10-15% of pregnancies result in miscarriages, the majority of which occur within the first 12 weeks of pregnancy. As something that effects about 1 in 8 individuals, this topic is rarely mentioned. Many do not share their loss with others for a variety of reasons, and instead suffer and mourn silently.

In recent years, the stigma surrounding pregnancy and infant loss is decreasing, yet still prevalent. Sharing this gut-wrenching loss is courageous and brave. Social media has become a place where you can see pink and blue ribbons (representing this awareness month) along with angel wings and feet, where moms and dads can grieve together with loved ones.

As a community we want to show these individuals we stand by them during this challenging time. But for most, talking about this devastating loss is challenging, the correct words are hard to find. FamilyMeans therapists encourage you to simply be there for the parents, ask how you can support them, and give them space if/when they need it.  

For those working through the grief that comes with the loss of pregnancy or an infant, perinatal therapy is a great resource (learn more below). FamilyMeans Counseling & Therapy can help to assess these challenges and make referrals to community partners who specialize in this type of therapy.

 

 What to say to someone who has had a miscarriage

 

 


 

 Baby feet inside heart

Treatment Perspective: Perinatal Therapy

Perinatal mental health refers to women’s mental health both during pregnancy and postpartum. Some of the most common mental health conditions during this time are anxiety and depression. While pregnant, hormones are elevated and the woman’s body is making many changes in order to nurture a growing child within her. These changes can put a strain on the mother’s mental health.

There is also the stigma surrounding perinatal mental health; this should be a happy time in life, both during pregnancy and once the baby arrives. Often ignored, are the challenges that are faced during this life-altering time. Perinatal mental health counseling is a great option for both men and women as they embark on this new journey.  

Perinatal mental health treatment from a trained professional addresses these specific challenges and is a great support for both women and men. Many of our therapists have gone through extensive training specific to perinatal health and addressing these concerns. These professionals can support you and your family through any challenge that comes during pregnancy or postpartum, including pregnancy loss, medical challenges, and more. Contact FamilyMeans Counseling & Therapy to learn more at 651-439-4840. 

 


 

FamilyMeans Clinician Spotlight

 

 Dana Tonne

 

Dana Tonne, LICSW
School-Based Therapist

Dana is an LICSW that has worked with children, adolescents, and adults in a variety of situations including homelessness, residential facilities, and the court system.  She believes that when working with individuals, including family in the treatment process provides the best potential outcomes.  Attachment Theory and Family Systems Theory are utilized alongside CBT skills while working with children and their families.  Dana ensures that flexibility, meeting the individual/families where they are, and having patience alongside a safe environment, help each individual to feel secure through the process.

 

 Doneila McIntosh

 

Doneila McIntosh, M.DIV, INTERN 
School-Based Therapist

Doneila McIntosh is an intern at FamilyMeans. Doneila is a trained-mindfulness teacher in both MBSR and MSC, both of which she utilizes within the therapeutic setting along with a strengths-based, client-centered approach. Doneila enjoys working with individuals and families navigate the multiplicity of challenges that arise in life. Doneila works as a hospice chaplain in Minneapolis, serving individuals and their families as they prepare for the eventual passing of their loved ones. Doneila is experienced with grief, death and dying, trauma, spirituality, and helping families engage in some of life’s most difficult conversations.