Overcoming Intrusive Thoughts in Parenthood

Normalize intrusive thoughts & let them go

Reduce shame & fear around intrusive thoughts postpartum

Learn mindfulness skills to sit with these thoughts

Address the underlying causes of intrusive thinking

Let go of perfection & build self-trust

intrusive thoughts postpartum

The hard parts of parenting aren’t always visible—and intrusive thoughts are one of them.

Many new parents are caught off guard by sudden, unwanted thoughts—images or fears that feel disturbing, intrusive, and completely out of character. Maybe you’ve had sudden “what if” fears or images that you can’t shake. Maybe you’re wondering what’s wrong with you for even thinking them. You’re not alone—and these thoughts don’t make you a bad parent.

Together, we can explore what’s beneath the surface—whether it’s anxiety, perfectionism, postpartum OCD, or the immense pressure of parenting. Therapy can help you understand what intrusive thoughts are, why they happen, and how to manage them without spiraling into guilt or fear. We’ll help you build skills to reduce distress, trust yourself again, and find peace of mind.

You don’t have to keep these thoughts to yourself. We’re here to help you move through them—gently, and with care.

Even the hardest thoughts can be met with compassion and care.

Intrusive thoughts postpartum/in parenthood can feel scary, isolating, and hard to talk about. You might find yourself thinking things like:

  • “What if I drop the baby?”
  • “What if something terrible happens and it’s my fault?”
  • “I’m not cut out for this.”
  • “What if I made a huge mistake becoming a parent?”

These thoughts can be deeply distressing, but they’re common—and they don’t make you a bad parent. Therapy offers a supportive space to explore what you’re going through and learn how to respond with compassion instead of fear.

Together, we’ll work on understanding where these thoughts come from, managing the overwhelm, and building tools to help you feel more grounded and in control. Therapy isn’t about silencing your thoughts—it’s about changing how you relate to them so they no longer define your experience.

intrusive thoughts postpartum
intrusive thoughts postpartum

Tailored support for real parents and real challenges – no judgment, just care.

Intrusive thoughts are normal, but that doesn’t make them easy to navigate or understand. Therapy offers a supportive space where you can talk about the thoughts you’re afraid to say out loud and begin to understand them with compassion. Here’s what you can expect:

  • Flexible sessions: Our 45-55 minute sessions are designed with your life in mind. Bring your baby, nurse, change diapers—whatever you need to do, we’ll make it work.
  • Collaborative planning: We’ll start by talking about how you’ve been feeling and work together to create a personalized plan to help you feel more grounded and supported.
  • We are ALL parents: Our therapists truly understand the highs and lows of parenthood—we are all are parents too. You’ll have a safe, compassionate space to share whatever’s on your mind.

You don’t have to navigate this new chapter by yourself. We’re here to walk alongside you and help you find your way.

Intrusive Thoughts as a Parent is Tough. Therapy Can Help.

Emotional Support

Coping Strategies

Build Trust

Reframe Parenting

MATRESCENCE THERAPY

Follow Us

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.