Document Type

Dissertation

Degree

Doctor of Philosophy

Major

Education, Counseling

Date of Defense

5-11-2026

Graduate Advisor

Emily Brown, PhD

Committee

Agata Freedle, PhD

Emily Oliviera, PhD

Phillip Waalkes, PhD

Abstract

The experience of transitioning back to work postpartum can be an emotional rollercoaster for women. One that is often filled with identity tensions and sweeping emotions that range from guilt to relief, anxiety to confidence (Dod, 2025; Franzoi et al., 2023; Garcia-Lorenzo et al., 2023). Postpartum can be an emotionally raw and vulnerable time for new mothers as they navigate physical and emotional changes, maternal stress, and the pressures and demands of new motherhood (LeBlanc, 2023; Maylott, 2023). Professional counselors in a clinical setting, also known as clinical mental health counselors, encounter occupationally specific responsibilities that create unique experiences for postpartum counselors returning to work. The job functions of a clinical mental health therapist require empathetic attunement, holding space for clients emotional experiences, processing experiences of transference and countertransference and navigating complex interpersonal interactions (Ivey et al., 2010; Kamkar, 2025).  New mother clinical mental health counselors returning to work postpartum are balancing their unique emotional and relational job requirements while also navigating a transformational transition in their personal lives and the tension of becoming a working mother. This study focuses on the lived experiences of professional counselors as they return to clinical work after the birth of their first child. The findings from this study provide significant insight that illustrates both the strain and resilience present in this transition. This is demonstrated through the interconnected themes of identity integration, lack of systemic and organizational supports, relationship changes in clinical practice, and managing the intensity.  Results highlight the need for increased education and advocacy for and by counselors, counselor educators and supervisors on the specific experiences and needs of postpartum counselors. Results also highlight the ways in which counselor educators and counselor supervisors can shape their courses and supervision knowledge in ways that highlight the challenges and successes experienced by a new mother professional counselor.

Download

Share

COinS