Samantha Schaefer, LCSW, PMH-C

11/03/2025

Postpartum anxiety doesn’t always look like panic.

It can look like constant “what if” thoughts, over-Googling baby symptoms, or not being able to sleep even when baby finally does.

It’s a common, treatable experience — and it doesn’t mean you’re failing.

Your mind is working overtime to protect your baby. Therapy can help you feel safe enough to rest again.

Read more on the blog: When the Worry Doesn’t Turn Off: Understanding Postpartum Anxiety.

https://www.schaefertherapy.com/blog

10/28/2025

As one month ends and another begins, it’s easy to rush ahead without pausing to reflect. But taking even a few minutes to check in with yourself can make a meaningful difference in your mood, motivation, and sense of direction.

I created a Monthly Reflection Planner to help you do just that. It’s a free guided worksheet where you can:
-Reflect on what went well this month
-Notice what you’d like to do more (and less) of
-Set intentions for the month ahead
-Ground yourself in affirmations that align with your goals

It’s designed for anyone seeking more mindfulness, balance, and intentional living.

Download your free copy at www.schaefertherapy.com/resource-library

10/27/2025

Do you ever scroll and suddenly feel like everyone else is doing motherhood better?
You’re not alone — and you’re not failing.

In my latest blog post, The Myth of the Perfect Mom: How Comparison Fuels Anxiety, I explore how the pressure to be “enough” impacts our mental health — and what you can do to step off the comparison treadmill.

You’ll learn:
- Why comparison is so common in early motherhood
- How it can feed anxiety and self-doubt
- 5 evidence-based strategies to reframe and reconnect with what actually matters

Perfection isn’t the goal. Connection is.

Read the full post here: www.schaefertherapy.com/blog

10/20/2025

You’ve changed in more ways than anyone prepared you for.

The first year postpartum often brings a deep identity shift that can leave you wondering, “Who am I now?”

It isn’t about getting back to who you were before motherhood. It’s about rediscovering the parts of you that still matter, and learning who you are now — with this new version of yourself.

If you’ve felt disconnected or unsure of where to begin, this week’s blog explores how to rebuild a sense of self in early motherhood, at a pace that feels right for you.

Read more: https://www.schaefertherapy.com/blog/matrescence-identity-first-year-postpartum

03/19/2025

On the outside, you seem like you have it all together—driven, organized, always on top of things. But inside? Your mind is racing, your body is tense, and the pressure to do it all never stops. Sound familiar?

High-functioning anxiety isn’t always obvious, but it can feel like:
- Overthinking every little thing
- Always being “on” and unable to relax
- Overcommitting because saying no feels impossible
- Struggling with sleep despite feeling exhausted
- Perfectionism, self-doubt, and imposter syndrome creeping in

The world may see you as successful, but that doesn’t mean you’re not struggling. You don’t have to push through alone.

Read more about the signs of high-functioning anxiety and ways to manage it.

Questions? Feel free to reach out: Samantha@SchaeferTherapy.com

03/12/2025

Does this picture look familiar?

Whether it's sticky notes or a thousand to-dos in your brain, the mental load of motherhood can feel overwhelming. It's remembering doctor’s appointments, planning meals, tracking school schedules, anticipating everyone’s else needs -- and somehow taking care of ourselves 🤯 It feels like it never ends.

In my latest blog post, learn more about the mental load, why it can lead to burnout and what to we can do about it.

Found something that helps you manage the mental load? Let me know in the comments!

The mental load of motherhood is real—it's the behind-the-scenes effort that keeps everything running. But carrying it alone can lead to burnout. Understanding the mental load is the first step toward finding ways to balance it more effectively.

03/05/2025

Maybe you've thought about starting therapy, but are unsure what to expect. Going into your first therapy session can be a nerve-racking experience, even if you've been to therapy in the past.

Take a look at my latest blog post for more about what to expect and how you can prepare for your first therapy session.

Starting therapy can feel like a big step—exciting for some, nerve-wracking for others. If you’ve been considering therapy but feel unsure about what to expect, you’re not alone. Here’s a breakdown of what your first therapy session will look like and how you can prepare.

02/26/2025

Have you ever felt stuck in painful memories or emotions from the past? EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) is a powerful therapy that helps your brain process trauma in a way that promotes healing and relief.

Rather than just talking about your experiences, EMDR uses bilateral stimulation (like guided eye movements) to help reprocess distressing memories, so they lose their emotional charge. It’s especially effective for PTSD, anxiety, and negative self-beliefs.

EMDR can help you feel lighter, more in control, and free from the weight of past trauma. Want to learn more? Check out my latest blog post or contact me for a free 15-minute consultation.

If you’re struggling with the lingering effects of trauma, you’re not alone. Trauma can feel overwhelming, but healing is possible. Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy is a powerful tool that can help you process and move forward from distressing memories.

02/19/2025

Self-Compassion 101: How to Be Kinder to Yourself

It’s easy to be hard on ourselves—but what if you treated yourself with the same kindness you show your loved ones? Self-compassion can reduce anxiety, build resilience, and boost happiness. In our latest blog, we dive into simple practices and share how therapy can support your journey toward self-kindness.

Imagine speaking to yourself with the same warmth and understanding you'd offer a close friend. That’s the heart of self-compassion. Studies show that it helps reduce anxiety and depression, fosters resilience, and enhances overall well-being

02/12/2025

💡 Postpartum Depression vs. Postpartum Anxiety 💡

Bringing a new baby home is a major life transition, and while many moms experience some emotional ups and downs, postpartum depression (PPD) and postpartum anxiety (PPA) go beyond the typical "baby blues."

🧠 PPD often shows up as: persistent sadness, exhaustion, feelings of hopelessness, and difficulty bonding with your baby.

⚡ PPA, on the other hand, can feel like: racing thoughts, constant worry, restlessness, and a sense of impending doom.

Both are real, valid, and treatable. If you’re wondering what you or a loved one might be experiencing, check out my latest blog post where I break down the symptoms and key differences.

📲 Click the link to read more: https://www.schaefertherapy.com/blog/postpartum-anxiety-depression-whats-the-difference

02/06/2025

Navigating postpartum can be tough, and you're not alone. If you're feeling overwhelmed, it might be time to reach out for support. 💙

Check out my latest blog post to learn 5 key signs that therapy could be the help you need to move forward with confidence. You're stronger than you think, and there’s no shame in seeking support. 🌿

While some emotional and mental health shifts in the postpartum period are expected, others may indicate the need for additional support. Understanding when to seek therapy can help you navigate this transformational period with confidence and care.