Motherhood is a transformative journey filled with joy, challenges, and growth. For many, balancing personal aspirations and familial responsibilities can be daunting. Today, we have the pleasure of speaking with Jordie, a licensed marriage and family therapist, dedicated mother, and advocate for maternal mental health. Jordie shares her insights on managing motherhood, her therapeutic practice, and the importance of community and self-care.

Meet Jordie

Jordie is a licensed marriage and family therapist and a proud mother of two energetic boys, aged three and five. She is deeply committed to helping moms navigate the complexities of motherhood while maintaining their mental well-being. Her work focuses on ensuring moms are happy, healthy, and able to manage the challenges of raising children and maintaining relationships.

The Journey to Therapy

Jordie’s path to becoming a therapist was influenced by her innate desire to help others. Even as a young child, she was drawn to mediating conflicts and offering support. This natural inclination led her to pursue a career in therapy, specifically marriage and family therapy, where she could address the broader systems affecting individuals and families. She believes in looking at the big picture, understanding that people don’t exist in vacuums but within a network of relationships and circumstances.

Challenges in Motherhood and Marriage

One of the biggest challenges Jordie identifies for new and expectant moms is the overwhelming focus on the baby, often at the expense of the mother's well-being. She emphasizes the need for "Mama showers," where the focus is on supporting the mother through massages, time off, or drop-in daycare services. Jordie highlights the importance of acknowledging the transformation women undergo when they become mothers and the need for space to express feelings of inadequacy, anxiety, and even postpartum depression.

For those in long-term relationships, Jordie compares marriage to maintaining a car. Just like a car needs regular maintenance and sometimes major repairs, relationships require ongoing work. Common issues she encounters include communication breakdowns, personal growth in different directions, and the challenges of evolving together over time.

Helping Clients Overcome Challenges

Jordie tailors her approach to each client's unique needs. She provides a safe space for moms to express their struggles without judgment. Whether it's dealing with the unexpected challenges of motherhood or managing the triggers that arise from unresolved personal issues, Jordie offers validation and support. For mothers without a strong support system, she encourages building a community through hobbies or joining groups where they can meet like-minded individuals.

Personal Challenges and Triumphs

As a therapist, entrepreneur, and mother, Jordie faces her own set of challenges. Balancing her professional responsibilities with family life requires setting boundaries and prioritizing her family's needs. She shares her journey of consistently striving for balance, acknowledging that while it’s a continuous effort, it’s essential for personal and professional success.

Advice for Aspiring Therapists and Entrepreneurs

Jordie offers valuable advice for those looking to enter the therapy field or embark on entrepreneurial ventures:

1. Find Your Why: Understanding your motivation is crucial. Whether it's a passion for helping others or the desire to create a better work-life balance, knowing your why will keep you grounded.

2. Confidence is Key: Confidence in your abilities and services is essential. Believe that there is a need for what you offer and be prepared to meet that need with excellence.

3. Set Realistic Goals: Start small with achievable goals. This builds a solid foundation for growth.

4. Build a Quality Product: Whether it's therapy services or any other business, ensuring you have a high-quality offering is vital. This will keep clients coming back and referring others to you.

5. Embrace Community Care: Recognize the importance of community support. Building a network not only provides personal support but also enhances professional growth.

Jordie’s insights into motherhood, therapy, and entrepreneurship highlight the importance of balance, self-care, and community. Her dedication to helping mothers navigate their journeys while maintaining their mental health is truly inspiring. As she continues to expand her practice and support her clients, Jordie remains a beacon of hope and guidance for many.

If you would like to connect with her, you can use the following link https://linktr.ee/heroutletmoms.