How Can I Prepare Emotionally for My Second Child?

Written by Lauren Ratliff, LCSW, PMH-CLauren Ratliff is an Illinois-based certified perinatal therapist, mother of three, and the founder & owner of Matrescence Therapy.Learn more about Lauren  Updated 8/16/2026 Preparing for a second child is about more than...

Can Menopause Symptoms Make Your Mental Health Worse?

Written by Lauren Ratliff, LCSW, PMH-CLauren Ratliff is an Illinois-based certified perinatal therapist, mother of three, and the founder and owner of Matrescence Therapy.Learn more about Lauren Updated 8/16/2026  Yes. If you’re already living with anxiety,...

Why Does IVF Make Me Feel Like My Body Is Failing Me?

Written by Lauren Ratliff, LCSW, PMH-CLauren Ratliff is an Illinois-based certified perinatal therapist, mother of three, and founder of Matrescence Therapy.Learn more about Lauren updated 7/10/26 If failed IVF has left you feeling like your body is failing you,...

Why Is My Second Pregnancy Harder Than My First?

Written by Lauren Ratliff, LCSW, PMH-CLauren Ratliff is an Illinois-based certified perinatal therapist, mother of three, and founder of Matrescence Therapy.Learn more about Lauren updated 7/10/2026 If your second pregnancy feels harder than your first, you’re...

Bonding With Baby: Why Don’t I Feel Connected to My Baby?

Written by Lauren Ratliff, LCSW, PMH-CLauren Ratliff is an Illinois-based certified perinatal therapist, mother of three, and founder & owner of Matrescence Therapy.Learn more about Lauren updated 7/9/2026 Bonding with a baby is the emotional connection that...

How Can I Cope with Perimenopause Symptoms?

Written by Lauren Ratliff, LCSW, PMH-C Lauren Ratliff is an Illinois-based certified perinatal therapist, mother of three, and founder & owner of Matrescence Therapy. Learn more about LaurenUpdated: 7/9/2026 Perimenopause symptoms can feel like your body and...