382: Reframing Motherhood through a Feminist Lens with Erin Spahr, LCPC, LCMHC, PMH-C

In today’s episode, we discuss feminism, motherhood, and how to understand modern feminism, which may differ from how we’ve interpreted it in the past. Looking through a feminist lens can be supportive of moms and their partners. Join us! My guest is Erin Spahr, a licensed therapist, mother, feminist, podcast host, and maternal mental health advocate based in Raleigh, NC. She uses a feminist lens in her work with mothers and strives to help them free themselves from oppressive societal expectations and find more confidence and self-compassion. She hosts The Feminist Mom Podcast, where she discusses the intersection of feminism and motherhood with inspiring guests. Erin created an inclusive provider directory that connects mothers, birthing individuals, and families in the US and Canada with perinatal providers who provide inclusivity and identity-affirming care.  Show Highlights: Erin’s journey into her work with motherhood and feminism from a background in social justice and trauma work Erin’s heightened awareness of injustices toward mothers during her perinatal experience The truth vs. misconceptions about feminism A focus on the needs of mothers that are unique (from Dr. Andrea O’Reilly’s work with matricentric feminism) Arguments against feminism in today’s world Societal impacts on motherhood A two-day weekend is NOT working! Shortcomings in the ways we are treating moms The “fix”---through a feminist lens, looking at the individual, relationship, and collective levels An explanation of our patriarchal systems in American society What it means to be a cycle-breaker Resources: Call the National Maternal Mental Health Hotline at 1-833-TLC-MAMA or visit cdph.ca.gov Please find resources in English and Spanish at Postpartum Support International, or by phone/text at 1-800-944-4773. There are many free resources, like online support groups, peer mentors, a specialist provider directory, and perinatal mental health training for therapists, physicians, nurses, doulas, and anyone who wants to be more supportive in offering services.  You can also follow PSI on social media: Instagram, Facebook, and most other platforms Visit www.postpartum.net/professionals/certificate-trainings/ for information on the grief course.   Visit my website, www.wellmindperinatal.com, for more information, resources, and courses you can take today! If you are a California resident looking for a therapist in perinatal mental health, email me about openings for private pay clients! Connect with Erin Spahr Website, Instagram, and The Feminist Mom Podcast