Therapy for Social Pressure in Parenthood
Unpack the unrealistic standards placed on you
Make space for your own values, needs, and identity
Learn to quiet the inner (and outer) critics
Let go of comparison, guilt, and “not enough”
Feel more grounded, confident, and connected to your truth
It’s okay if you feel like you’re constantly falling short.
Parenthood comes with a constant stream of advice, opinions, and silent expectations—about how you should feed your baby, speak to your toddler, balance your work, structure your day, post on social media, keep your house, regulate your emotions, and love every second of it.
It’s too much. And it’s no wonder so many parents feel like they’re failing.
Maybe you’re trying to meet everyone else’s expectations, and losing your own voice in the process. Maybe you find yourself parenting from fear—fear of judgment, of being misunderstood, of “messing it all up.” Maybe you’re constantly second-guessing your decisions and wondering if you’re doing enough.
At Matrescence Therapy, we help you step out of the pressure and back into yourself. This is a space to name the invisible load, break free from comparison, and parent in a way that actually feels like you.
The pressure is real. And so is your right to do it differently.
Social pressure can show up as:
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Feeling like you have to be “on” all the time
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Constantly comparing yourself to other parents
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Overthinking every decision—from screen time to snacks
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Feeling judged by family, friends, or strangers
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Doubting your instincts because “everyone else” does it differently
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Guilt, shame, or anxiety when you can’t keep up
This pressure often gets in the way of presence. Of connection. Of trusting yourself. Therapy gives you the space to sort through the noise and tune into what actually matters to you.
Support that meets you where you are.
We understand the mental gymnastics it takes to navigate today’s parenting culture. You don’t have to do this alone—or pretend you’ve got it all figured out.
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All feelings welcome: Resentment, self-doubt, fatigue, and joy can all exist at once. You’re allowed to hold them all.
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You get to rewrite the rules: Let’s talk about what you want parenting to look and feel like—not what the internet or your in-laws say it “should” be.
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Gentle, affirming guidance: No shame. No judgment. Just a space to explore what’s weighing on you and what can help lift the load.
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Realistic support for real life: We’re not here to give you more “shoulds.” We’re here to help you feel more steady and secure in yourself.
You are not meant to live up to an impossible ideal. You’re meant to be a human, building a family in a way that works for you.
You don't have to be everything. Therapy can help.
Let Go of Perfectionism
Reclaim Your Voice in Parenting
Quiet the Inner Critic
Stay Grounded in Your Own Values
MATRESCENCE THERAPY
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Phone number: 224-999-0591
Virtual Sessions Throughout Chicagoland & Illinois
*This is a virtual practice.
All sessions are held through video. You must be residing in Illinois.