A Message From Danielle:

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As a teenager, I used to babysit every weekend.  And after the 2-4 hours of being the stand-in-parent, I was exhausted: mentally and physically.  I didn't understand how or why adults chose to do this...and seemed to enjoy it most of the time.  People could spend years searching for "the one" only to interrupt that carefree blissful partnership with kids who needed constant attention and focus.  It wasn't for me...until I met my husband.  I knew he was going to be an awesome dad and that made me want to have children with him...go figure.

 

I'll spare you the details but I will tell you that after our daughter was born, I didn't feel like myself anymore; my journey into motherhood began under a deep cloud of undiagnosed postpartum depression and continued with anxiety during and after my second pregnancy... And that's the real point of this message.  I was there.  I understand.  Thanks to my background in counseling, and this experience, I made it my priority to learn more about Perinatal Mental Health Disorders (more commonly known as disorders like postpartum depression or anxiety).  I sought out professional trainings and certifications and made it my mission to make sure anyone who needs the help will receive it.  Currently, I provide consultation with local area hospitals on best practices.  In addition, I play an active role in Postpartum Support International as a State Liaison and Coordinator, volunteering my time to provide support, encouragement, resources, and education to both families as well as local providers.  

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In my home live two children who test my patience every day, a dog whose barking drives me absolutely insane, and an incredibly supportive and loving husband whom I continue to struggle to prioritize.  Guess what?  I'm not perfect!  And you don't have to be either :) 

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Thank you for allowing me to join you on this journey.