The Arrival of a New Baby & Couples Therapy

The arrival of a new baby is a joyous occasion for couples, but it can also be a time of immense stress and change. Considering couples therapy during this time can prove to be highly beneficial for couples who may struggle to navigate these changes or anticipate difficulty doing so.

Much like premarital counseling, couples therapy can provide a platform for you to openly discuss your hopes, fears, dreams, and expectations with an expert in the field of family, parenting, and child development. It can also help you to prepare for the unknown and provide education to better understand what to expect.

To thrive after a baby, preparation, and support are key. Sleep deprivation, heightened stress levels, and increased sensitivity are common occurrences, and it's important to recognize and prepare for these changes in advance. Additionally, it's vital to quickly repair any ruptures in communication that may occur by apologizing and speaking up when your own feelings have been hurt.

It's important to acknowledge that there will be a shift in the dynamic of the relationship as the baby becomes the primary focus. Creating a village of support by surrounding yourself with other new parents and seeking out mentorship from those who have navigated this transition can also prove to be immensely helpful.

If you lack support from grandparents or family members, it's crucial to find older individuals who have experienced parenthood and can fill that role. Finally, for couples who need additional support, finding a couples therapist who specializes in the transition to parenthood can be incredibly beneficial.

Click on the bottom link to watch our latest video on this full topic in detail, with our Director and Gottman-Trained therapist at Couples Counseling ATL, Stephanie Cook, where she explains everything in further detail!