Today we’d like to introduce you to Ashurina Ream.
Thanks for sharing your story with us Ashurina. So, let’s start at the beginning and we can move on from there.
Where does my story start? I’m not exactly sure. You see, I’m a licensed psychologist who became a mother a few years back and that’s where I see most of my story come to life. I could tell you all about my upbringing and education, but that’s not what got me to this moment.
Sometimes, I feel like I got to where I am today by accident. What started off as a mission to explore my own feelings turned into what I believe is my mission. I have been a licensed psychologist for quite some time now and I have worked in various specialties, but when I became a mom I learned about something I never really understood and that is perinatal mood and anxiety disorders.
As I lived through my own transition into motherhood, I recognized that many other women were likely feeling like I was–lost, overwhelmed, isolated, and not like myself. I started to equip myself with the education and the resources to share with everyone I could come in contact with. My hope is to help as many families as possible.
We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc. – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
Like anything you pursue or want to master, it’s never smooth sailing. There have been so many setbacks as I try to leverage social media and learn how to operate platforms and technology that I’ve never utilized before. In addition, the criticism (or perceived criticism) of others can often leave you questioning your journey.
My advice is this: keep your eyes on your own paper. Do you remember a teacher saying this to you? It still applies. Keep your attention on your own goals and aspirations. Once you start letting your attention drift and focus on those around you, you begin to question yourself, become judgmental of your path, and become hesitant. Know that progress often ebbs and flows. Nothing skyrockets consistently. The journey to where you want to be will have roadblocks. Have the confidence to know that the roadblocks are temporary and you can get to where you want to be.
Please tell us more about your work, what you are currently focused on and most proud of.
I’m a psychologist and a certified perinatal mental health provider. Although I am able to work in the field of psychology in just about any capacity, I have chosen to specialize in perinatal mental health. I’d like to think of myself as an educator. My goal is to educate as many people as I can about mental health issues that may arise during pregnancy and the postpartum period. I am passionate about connecting families to resources and being a voice to remind them they are not alone.
I currently offer teletherapy services and collaborate with other local professionals to increase awareness regarding perinatal mood and anxiety disorders.
It would be great to hear about any apps, books, podcasts or other resources that you’ve used and would recommend to others.
Personally, I enjoy music. I try to disconnect from technology throughout the day. Music takes me places and I really love that. It can allow me to experience a multitude of emotions. I highly recommend turning on the radio and dancing around the kitchen.
Contact Info:
- Website: bandofmothers.co
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/psychedmommy/
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