Neurodivergence In The Perinatal Period
Raising a child whilst having a brain that processes information and sensory input differently to most people can bring its own unique set of challenges to parenting.
It is very common for neurodivergent parents to have spent their lives developing techniques and coping strategies to mask or manage their experience of being a neurodivergent person surviving in a neurotypical world.
However, when you become a parent, it is not always possible to put these strategies into practice, or they no longer work as effectively.
Reasons for seeking perinatal therapy when neurodivergent
Worries about advocating for yourself, or your neurodivergence not being understood by other healthcare professionals and the maternity system.
Feeling stressed, overwhelmed or unable to cope with the demands of parenting which can lead to feelings of failure and guilt.
Coping with sensory overwhelm, for example how to manage constant physical touch, or hearing your baby crying.
Needing support to understand what your baby is trying to convey to you, and how you can meet their needs.
Learning strategies to support planning, organisation and developing routines.
Anxiety and distress associated with a strong desire for routine and predictability which does not fit with your baby’s sleep patterns and constantly changing needs.