Therapy for NICU Parents

The pregnancy and the birth of a child is be a beautiful and exciting moment. But for some parents, the pregnancy can takes an unexpected turn with a newborn being admitted to the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU).

This stressful and distressing experience comes with a unique set of challenges that can deeply impact these parents, particularly new moms.

The Impact on New Moms

Having a baby in the NICU can have a profound a new mother. It's a deeply emotional journey that can stir up a wide range of intense feelings, from deep joy and love for the new arrival to heightened anxiety, worry, and even guilt.

Emotional Ups-and-Downs

The NICU experience can challenge a new mom's sense of control and expectations, as well as lead to a fluctuation between both hope and uncertainty. In fact, a new mom may grapple with feelings of inadequacy—but most of all, longing for a sense of normalcy. Additionally, having a baby in the NICU can also put a strain on their relationship to their spouse or partner which only adds to the stress of the entire experience.

Isolation and Loneliness

The complex nature of this experience can lead to overwhelm and, at times, isolation. Having a baby in the NICU can be an isolating experience for parents, creating a sense of emotional and physical distance from the typical joys of childbirth. Being in the hospital, while the doctors and staff are focused on providing critical care, can lead to feelings of separation from routine, support systems, etc.

Additionally, the uncertainty surrounding the baby's health can contribute to new moms feeling as if they're alone in their experience. Of course, this can all be emotionally and physically draining as parents simply long for their baby to be healthy in the all-clear.

How a Therapist Can Support You in Your NICU Journey

Having support is crucial during this particular experience whether it’s from your partner, family, friends, or other social groups.

A therapist can also provide a deeper level of support that can sometimes be necessary during this time. Below are some ways that a therapist might support a mom of a NICU baby:

  • Creating New Coping Strategies

  • Emotional Validation

  • Processing Grief Associated with the birth/NICU process

  • Empowerment and Advocacy during the hospitalization

  • Establishing Self-Care Routine

  • Developing Parenting Strategies

  • Transitioning Home

Connect with a NICU Therapist in Colorado

You don’t have to navigate this alone—contact us today to learn more about how therapy can be a support during this process and potential next steps for getting started. Schedule a free 15-minute phone consultation or submit an initial inquiry form right here.