Motheroots Transitions

It's a Collaboration

Motheroots Counseling is a collaboration between independent therapists, Gaby Donnell, LCSW and Laurie Cox, LCSW. Over the past 30 years we have been privileged to accompany families on their journey to parenthood, with the challenges of infertility, the traumas of childbirth and the profound grief of infant and child loss. Gratefully over the past decades awareness of the intense challenges of postpartum depression, anxiety, OCD and psychosis has increased. Resources and training in our community and across the globe have arisen to address the issues of perinatal and postpartum needs. While these healthcare needs have become more apparent, the current political climate has rapidly changed policy and funding for reproductive care. Gaby and Laurie continue to advocate for reproductive care and are grateful for the large community of providers in Portland doing the same.

At this time, Gaby and Laurie are reducing their clinical practice and exploring other avenues to support women and families on this journey. Laurie is available on a limited basis to support individuals referred by their healthcare providers for short-term targeted EMDR. Gaby and Laurie are also available to provide consultation and support to healthcare providers. In addition we plan to offer group gatherings to address impacts during these challenging times.

Growing Through the Challenges

On the journey to parenthood, many people encounter unexpected challenges.

Fertility

Many people face obstacles in fertility and find themselves on an emotional roller coaster. They may feel alone and unsure about how to proceed with difficult decisions. Exploring the impact of this process in a safe environment through counseling allows you to stay connected with yourself and your loved ones.

AREAS WE CAN SUPPORT YOU WITH:

• Fertility concerns and decision-making

• Therapeutic support during the fertility process

• Adoption exploration

Loss

Motheroots counselors support people as they navigate grief and loss. We help our clients communicate their feelings and needs, and find ways to nurture themselves and their relationships. Whatever the challenges, we respect and honor the courage it takes to explore and take your own path.

We can help you address concerns and issues including:

• Pre-term and infant loss

• Termination of pregnancy for medical reasons

• Abortion

• Preparing for a subsequent pregnancy

• Grieving the loss of a parent or family support

• Miscarriage

Prenatal Counseling

The Journey to Parenthood

Throughout time women have come together to support, celebrate, and welcome new parents. Laurie and Gaby are committed to sustaining this tradition by helping their clients connect with their own wisdom and the rich resources in our community.

As you prepare for the birth of a baby, you also travel an inner journey to your new self as a parent. These physical, emotional, and spiritual changes can help you to birth and create an expanded identity. We at Motheroots offer a safe place to explore and honor this journey.  

Postpartum Counseling  

The Road to Parenthood is Rich and Complex

Pregnancy, birth and parenthood can take unexpected turns which leaves people feeling distressed and overwhelmed. Research indicates that a significant number of mothers, and fathers experience postpartum depression and anxiety. Supportive therapy breaks isolation and helps our clients understand the steps to recovery.   

Additional Support

Creative Parenting

Creating a family is a time of intense change. It is challenging to find the time and energy to focus on your relationships and yourself. Many people feel that they are struggling to find a healthy balance.

Experiences in your own upbringing can be obstacles to becoming the parent you wish to be. The counselors at Motheroots are committed to helping people create families that resonate with their own values and beliefs.

We can help you to address concerns and challenges including:

• Relationship concerns

• Balancing work and parenting

• Attachment and bonding

• Childhood issues

• Nurturing self

• Life transitions

• Loss