Beyond Baby Blues: Nurturing Mental Health Through Parenthood
My story truly begins in March 2020. Just a week before my scheduled baby shower — the first grandchild on both sides of the family, and eagerly anticipated by my friend group — the world shut down. Many sacrifices were made during those months. Family events became distant memories. One of the things I struggled with losing was my prenatal classes. This loss marked the beginning of my mental health challenges postpartum. Without a community of mom friends, no one to teach me breathing exercises, what to expect, and uncertain if my husband could be with me during childbirth, I faced a traumatic birth and postpartum experience. As a result, my mental health suffered, and I developed severe postpartum anxiety and obsessive-compulsive tendencies. Suddenly, the woman whose life motto was “Dirt don't hurt” wouldn’t let anyone within 12 feet of my baby for fear of germs and contamination.
It was only after a long wait and participating in a pilot program for postpartum mothers during COVID-19 that I began to find answers through medication, therapy, and peer support. It took all my strength, but I made it through that challenging time as a new mom. I am forever grateful for the study I participated in, which supported me during this crucial period. This experience has underscored for me the immense value of mental health support, particularly for new families.
Recently, I was approached by Sarah, a psychotherapist and fellow parent in the East End. Sarah had previously worked as a Child Life Specialist — a role I deeply respect after my own experience with them as an adolescent. Sarah and I had a lengthy conversation about the critical need for accessible mental health support, especially postpartum and beyond.
When Sarah proposed collaborating, it was one of those moments as a business owner when I trusted my instincts. East End Mom Friends (my project during maternity leave!) is proud to announce our partnership with Toronto Psychotherapy Space. This collaboration is so much more than that to me - it is including something our community desperately needs access to.
“At Toronto Psychotherapy Space (TPS Therapy), we are dedicated to providing comprehensive psychotherapy and counselling services tailored to individuals, couples, and families of all ages. Led by Sarah Hurley, RP, MA, CCLS, CYC, our clinic offers both in-person and virtual appointments to support the Toronto community and clients across Canada.”
CONTENT WARNING: Mention of abuse
So - without further adieu, I want to introduce a professional our community is lucky to have on board, Sarah Hurley!
Meet Sarah Hurley, RP, MA, CCLS, CYC (That’s a lot of letters eh?!)
Sarah Hurley, Registered Psychotherapist and Clinic Owner at Toronto Psychotherapy Space, brings a wealth of expertise in mental health and child life specialization. She is committed to helping individuals navigate various challenges, ensuring each client receives personalized care and support.
At TPS Therapy, they address a wide range of mental health concerns including:
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Self-esteem issues
- Disordered eating
- Childhood issues
- Relationships, dating & sexuality
- Stress
- Trauma
- Grief
Specialized Support
In addition to general mental health services, Sarah’s clinic specializes in:
- Perinatal and maternal mental health
- Narcissistic abuse recovery
- Addressing unhealthy relationship dynamics
- Intimate-partner violence support
“We believe in the importance of finding the right therapist for each client. Whether you're seeking individual therapy, couples counselling, or family therapy, our team is dedicated to providing a safe and supportive environment where healing can flourish.” - Sarah
Book Your Free Consultation
Take the first step towards better mental health today. Visit our website at
https://www.tpstherapy.ca/contactus
to schedule your free 20-minute psychotherapy consultation with one of our experienced therapists.
Thank you Sarah for connecting with East End Mom Friends!
xx Trish Goodwin Lawrence
L&E’s Mom
