Guest Blog: An Interview with a Perinatal and Parenting Mental Health Therapist
Introduction:
We’re doing another guest blog this week - featuring an interview with our own Brittany Gendron at Mountain Brow Counselling. In this blog article, I have asked a series of questions of Brittany to help us get to know her better and how she practices as a Registered Social Worker and Psychotherapist virtually across Ontario.
Brittany has been a practicing social worker for over 12 years now. She has worked in a variety of settings (hospital, community, primary health care), but the majority of that time has been focused on mental health. Her goal is to help her clients feel empowered, understood, and ready to thrive - both for themselves and for heir families. On a more personal note, Brittany is a mom of two including a baby (so she’s right there with you moms of babes who follow our page!), a former elite runner who is working hard to get back to high level running, and enjoys healthy competition, particularly when it comes to board games like Balderdash. Her most recent Spotify streamed album is GNX - Kendrick Lamar. Keep reading to learn more about Brittany.
Why did you decide to become a therapist and specifically why perinatal mental health? What’s your favourite part about your role?
I’ve always had a profound interest in therapy which began in my undergraduate degree in psychology. When I first became a mom, I experienced firsthand how transformative and, at times, overwhelming the journey into parenthood can be. I was not prepared for the anxiety and low mood that came with my postpartum experience and seeking support from a therapist during that time was incredibly helpful—it gave me a safe space to process the emotions, challenges, and changes I was facing. That experience inspired me to focus on perinatal mental health in my work, not only supporting mothers but also recognizing the importance of fathers' mental health. Parenthood is a life-changing experience for both parents, and I’m passionate about providing a compassionate space where they can navigate these challenges and grow together.
What type of goals do you support clients with? How does your approach or style differ from another?
When working with clients I often focus on helping them understand and manage their reactivity. Parenting can be incredibly rewarding, but it’s also full of moments that challenge our patience and emotional regulation. Reactivity—those automatic, intense responses to stress—often stems from unresolved emotions, past experiences, or even internal conflicts within ourselves.
During sessions I may guide clients to explore the “parts” of themselves that may be driving these reactions. For example, a parent might have a part that feels overwhelmed and another that responds with frustration. By identifying and understanding these parts, parents can begin to connect with their core self—a calm, compassionate place within—and respond to challenges with greater clarity and intention.
In work with clients we also might draw from EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) in therapy for parenting issues because many challenges in parenting are rooted in unresolved past experiences or emotional triggers. For example, a parent might react strongly to their child’s behaviour because it unconsciously reminds them of their own difficult childhood experiences or unmet needs. EMDR helps process and heal these past wounds, reducing emotional reactivity and making space for more thoughtful, calm responses
Addressing reactivity through EMDR and other approaches allows parents to foster deeper connections with their kids and model healthy emotional regulation. My goal is to empower parents to feel grounded, confident, and equipped to navigate the ups and downs of family life
How has your motherhood journey impacted your professional practice?
My journey through motherhood has profoundly shaped my work as a therapist. Experiencing firsthand the joys, challenges, and complexities of raising children has given me a deep understanding of the emotional landscape parents navigate daily. This personal insight enhances my ability to empathize with the struggles of balancing family life and personal growth.
Motherhood has also highlighted the importance of connection, resilience, and self-compassion, values I integrate into my therapeutic approach. It has taught me that parenting is not about perfection but about learning, adapting, and building meaningful relationships. These lessons inspire me to help parents uncover their strengths, manage feelings of overwhelm, and foster deeper connections with their children because I believe the deeper we connect with ourselves the deeper we can hold connection with our children.
By combining my professional expertise with the wisdom gained through my own parenting journey, I strive to create a supportive and understanding space for parents as they navigate their own paths.
How would someone know that they should book an appointment with you? What would you say to someone who is hesitant but struggling with their mental health and wellbeing?
It’s completely normal to feel uncertain about reaching out for therapy, especially when you’re already struggling with your mental health. Taking that first step can feel overwhelming, but it’s also an act of courage and self-care.
Therapy is a space where you don’t have to have it all figured out—it's okay to come as you are. Whether you’re dealing with stress, feeling stuck, or just trying to understand what’s going on, therapy can help you explore what you’re feeling and find ways to move forward.
You don’t have to go through this alone, and you deserve the support. If you’re considering it, that’s already a sign you’re ready to start taking care of yourself in a new way. Sometimes, just having a conversation can help you decide if it’s the right time for you. Whatever you choose, know that you’re not alone, and there are people who want to support you.
What are some immediate tools or steps a parent could start today if she was struggling with infertility and/or pregnancy loss?
Struggling with your mental health as a parent can feel overwhelming, but there are steps you can take to care for yourself and your family:
Slow Down. It’s okay to pause and take a breath. Give yourself permission to step back from unnecessary commitments and focus on what truly matters. Remember, less is often more when it comes to finding balance.
Connect with Trusted Supports. Reach out to the people in your life who you trust—friends, family, or a professional. Share your feelings and let them know what you’re going through. You don’t have to carry the burden alone, and asking for help is a sign of strength.
Practice Self-Compassion. Remind yourself that your current struggle does not define you as a parent. Parenting is a journey, and everyone faces challenges. Being kind to yourself can make a big difference in how you navigate this time.
Focus on Small Wins. Celebrate the little things, like showing up for your child or taking a moment for self-care. These small acts add up and can remind you of your strengths.
Seek Professional Support. If you’re feeling stuck, a therapist can provide tools and strategies to help you work through your challenges. Therapy is a space where you can focus on your wellbeing and learn to care for yourself as you care for your family.
What is your favourite parenting quote that you drawn inspiration from?
“Parenting is a mirror in which we get to see the best of ourselves, and the worst; the richest moments of living, and the most frightening.”
(p.29) Kabat-Zinn, M., & Kabat-Zinn, J. (1997). Everyday Blessings The Inner Work of Mindful Parenting. New York Hyperion
What is your favourite form of self-care? How do you manage to prioritize yourself while also having a young family?
My favorite form of self-care is movement. These days, that often means getting out early for a morning run and savoring a quiet cup of coffee (alone!) before hitting the road. As a mom to a 6 month old and a 6 year old I am able to prioritize self-care because I accept help from family, will sleep in shifts when I feel like lack of sleep is catching up with me, combo feeding, and staying mindful of how I’m feeling. On days when I’m too tired to run—like after a sleepless night with my baby—I adapt. Self-care might look like a quick 5-minute shower, taking a nap during the day or bringing awareness to my breath for 5 minutes when I’m holding the baby while she naps.
I’ve learned that self-care doesn’t have to fit one specific mold or lead to a certain outcome. In the past, I saw it as something I “should” do, which made it feel like a chore or just another item on a to-do list (and I’m not a fan of lists!). Over time, my perspective has shifted. Now, I see self-care as an ongoing process that helps restore balance in my life, no matter what form it takes.
If someone was interested in learning more about your practice and how you can support them, what should they do next?
Check out our website or Instagram page for more detailed information. I would also love to chat with you, book your complimentary telephone consultation at any time you feel ready. You are also welcome to reach out by email directly: brittany.l.gendron@gmail.com.
