Learning to Love Your Body Again in Parenthood

Process how you feel about changes in your postpartum body

Challenge unrealistic expectations around appearance

Practice self-compassion and body neutrality

Address the thoughts & trauma that influence body image

Reconnect with your body

Adjusting to Motherhood

Your body has been through a lot—it’s okay if your relationship with it needs time, too.

Parenthood changes your body—and sometimes, it changes how you feel about yourself in ways you didn’t expect. Maybe you miss how your body used to look or feel. Maybe you’re struggling with what you see in the mirror. Maybe you just feel disconnected, like your body doesn’t quite feel like yours anymore. You’re not the only one.

Therapy gives you space to talk about all of it—the frustration, the grief, the pressure to “bounce back,” and the quiet ways your relationship with your body has shifted. Whether this is a new struggle or something that’s been with you for years, we can work through it together.

There’s no quick fix here, but with care and support, it’s possible to feel more at home in your body again—at your own pace, and on your own terms.

Body acceptance isn’t about perfection – It’s about finding a way to feel at home in your own skin.

Some parents are surprised by how emotional it feels to get dressed in the morning. Others notice a quiet frustration when their body doesn’t move or look the way it used to. For many, it’s not just about the physical changes—it’s about the stories we start telling ourselves because of them.

Body image struggles in parenthood can sneak into everyday moments, like:

  • Feeling uncomfortable in clothes that used to feel like “you”

  • Avoiding mirrors or photos with your kids

  • Comparing yourself to others and wondering if you’re “behind”

  • Feeling pressure to “bounce back” while juggling everything else

  • Struggling with intimacy or touch because you don’t feel at home in your body

These experiences are more common than most people admit. Therapy gives you a space to say the quiet part out loud—to talk honestly about how you’re feeling in your body, unpack where those feelings come from, and start building a relationship with yourself rooted in kindness, not criticism.

postpartum body

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

Everyone struggles with their body postpartum, but for parents, it’s different – and you don’t have to navigate it alone. Therapy offers a supportive space where you can talk openly about how you feel in your body, explore the impact of these changes, and begin to rebuild a more compassionate relationship with yourself. 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.

Postpartum Body Issues as a Parent is Tough. Therapy Can Help.

Emotional Support

Coping Strategies

Challenge Negative Self-Talk

Build Confidence

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.