In this episode of Phases of Embodiment, Laura talks with Charlene Cross, LCSW, Licensed Clinical Social Worker and founder of Cross Connects, about perinatal and postpartum mental health and what it means to truly support mothers. Charlene shares what led her to this work and her perspective on the mental health challenges that can arise during pregnancy and well after birth.
Laura and Charlene also talk about recent high-profile cases that have brought maternal mental health into the news and the conversations that have followed. They discuss postpartum mental health, stigma, trauma, and the ways we can better support mothers through greater awareness, community, and access to care.
*** Content warning: This episode includes discussion of postpartum mental health, maternal mental health crises, trauma, and recent high-profile cases involving maternal mental health. Please take care while listening and skip or pause the episode if these topics feel difficult or activating for you.
HOTLINE: 1-833-852-6262 (1-833-TLC-MAMA)
ABOUT Charlene Cross, LCSW, is the founder and owner of Cross Connects, a mental health practice based in the Catskill Mountains that oversees nine licensed providers across New York State and serves over 315 clients. With over a decade of experience managing medical and psychiatric care in hospital systems, community family and children's services, geriatric care, and private practice management, Charlene transitioned to establishing her own practice. Following the birth of her second child, her personal experiences with the gaps and stigmas surrounding postpartum care inspired her to specialize in women's health and perinatal services. She is currently pursuing advanced certifications in sex therapy, hormonal shifts, and eating disorders to further expand her practice's specialized care.
Charlene's Mental Health Practice Site:
Charlene's Psychology Today link:
https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/therapists/charlene-cross-windham-ny/1595484
Charlene's PSI (Postpartum support international directory link)
https://psidirectory.com/listing/perinatal-mental-health-provider.html
MENTIONED ON THE SHOW
Postpartum Support Institute
Postpartum Support institute Directory
Maternity Mental Health Hotline
https://mchb.hrsa.gov/programs-impact/national-maternal-mental-health-hotline
In Exploring Mental Health Providers:
Erin's Law Webpage:
YOUR HOST:
Laura Potter