Becoming a parent for the first time

Adley H.

Becoming a parent for the first time changed me in ways I never expected. It cracked me open—emotionally, mentally, spiritually. I felt love so big it scared me. I also felt grief, fear, rage, and loneliness that no one warned me about. The world expects new parents to feel nothing but joy, but the truth is far more layered—especially if you carry trauma, mental health challenges, or didn’t grow up feeling safe or fully loved yourself. When I had my first living child, I was still healing from the devastating loss of my firstborn. That made parenthood even more emotional and sacred—but also incredibly hard. I was navigating grief while changing diapers. Trying to reparent myself while learning how to raise someone else. All while sleep-deprived, overwhelmed, and unsure if I was doing it "right." I’ve learned that parenting isn’t just about raising a child—it’s about becoming someone new. Shedding old identities. Confronting triggers. Stretching your heart beyond what you thought possible. And sometimes, it’s about quietly surviving the day and trying again tomorrow. If you’re in the thick of it—tired, unsure, deeply in love but also overwhelmed—I see you. You're not alone.

Managing life as a single mom and blending families together

Aimee D.

For many years, I was a single mom raising my kids on my own, going through two divorces, and facing challenges that felt insurmountable at times. I had to figure out how to manage finances, work, and care for my children, all while dealing with the emotional toll of the split. The hardest part was the feeling of starting over with young children and even being pregnant during that time. After remarrying, I found myself navigating the complex world of blending families. It’s not easy, especially when co-parenting with an ex-spouse and trying to balance the needs of my children, some of whom are adults now and others still living at home. I’ve experienced the pain of financial struggles, court battles, and the loneliness of being a single parent. But I’ve also learned how to lean into support, communicate more effectively, and create a loving environment for my family. Now, I offer my experience and listening ear to help others who might be going through similar struggles.

Managing anxiety and raising kids with ADHD and Autism

Alicia F.

I’m a divorced mother of five, currently raising my children with my partner. I live with anxiety, depression, and a major heart condition, which makes daily life both rewarding and challenging. My family also includes a child diagnosed with ADHD and several others who show signs of ADHD and Autism, making parenting an ongoing learning process. I’ve been through the tough experiences of infertility, pregnancy, and being a NICU mom, and I’ve learned to navigate the complexities of both single and co-parenting. My past includes being married to someone struggling with addiction and alcoholism, which further shaped my understanding of the importance of emotional resilience. Professionally, I work in the Emergency Services for Mental Health, and I’m also going back to school to finish my degree. My partner and I are building a homestead together, and though I consider myself a bit of a hippie at heart, I’m incredibly passionate about being helpful, whether that’s through hobbies like knitting, crocheting, or storytelling. Life is never simple, but I’ve learned that with the right mindset and tools, even the toughest challenges can be faced with grace and growth.

The break-up of your family

Ashley F.

In January of 2022, I was 8 months pregnant with my son, Joseph. On January 04, my husband and I separated. I dove into the most intense depression I've ever experienced; I stayed in bed during the day with my phone beside me waiting for it to ring with the news that I could come back home. I lost all excitement for motherhood. When my parents arrived home after work, I would get out of bed, trying to put on a fascade of some semblance of happiness. I would eat dinner, stay up for a few more hours, then crawl back into bed anywhere from 7:30 to 8 PM. A week or so after the separation began, I started working through a devotional book called "Broken Heart On Hold." I don't recall the author, but it was a devotional for women going through an unwanted separation from their husbands. Two of those devotionals stand out to me, and if it weren't for them, I may not have made it. The first one told me to visually "look up into the face of God instead of down into the abyss of your pain." And I did. When the pain felt like it would consume me, I would actually tilt my head upward while imagining the face of God. The second devotional that stood out to me told me to imagine my husband, myself, and Jesus standing in a meadow. I would then imagine taking the pieces of my broken heart out of my husband's hands and placing them into the hands of Jesus. Again, when the pain threatened to consume me, I would visualize this. My excitement for motherhood began to return when my OB gave me the news that I was dilating. That's when it hit me. This was happening. I was having a baby! I wanted this baby. I knew that I would do my best to raise him to the best of my ability. I would be okay. And I am okay! I was awarded sole custody of my sweet, precious baby boy, and I am now about to marry a man who has shown me a fierce, true form of love that I've never experienced before. He loves my son as his own, and my son adores him. I made it. I survived. If it weren't for Jesus, I may not have made it. But I did. And you can, too.

Handling a difficult parent and learning from their mistakes

Brandon S.

I grew up in a conservative Baptist Christian family, where my siblings and I were always under a microscope. My mother was self-centered and egotistical, a trait she still carries to this day. This environment shaped my views on relationships, especially how I navigate family connections. Despite the challenges with my parents, I’ve always tried to teach my children the importance of love and acceptance. I encourage them to be the bigger person, even when faced with difficult behavior from family members, including their grandparents. My journey hasn’t been easy, but through navigating a single-parent household, becoming part of a stepfamily, and experiencing three significant relationships, I’ve learned invaluable lessons about love, commitment, and communication. These experiences have shaped my ability to set healthy boundaries, manage expectations, and cultivate meaningful connections. I firmly believe in the power of love and acceptance for all, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity, and I strive to instill these values in my family and relationships.

Making peace with divorce (and actually thriving after it)

Carina B.

When I got divorced a couple of years ago, I had no idea how lonely the process would feel—even with great friends and family around me. The problem? None of them had been through it. The advice I got didn’t quite land, and honestly, it made me feel even more alone. But divorce, as hard as it was, turned out to be a huge turning point in my life. I grew, I healed, and I’ve come to deeply love the person I am today. Now, friends refer other friends to me whenever they’re navigating a breakup or divorce. I’ve become a sounding board, a cheerleader, and someone who can hold space for how complicated this season can be. If you're overwhelmed, unsure, or just need a little lightness in your day, I’d love to talk. This might feel like the end—but there’s so much possibility on the other side.

Navigating single parenting after a divorce

Carrie M.

After my divorce, I found myself thrown into the deep end of single parenting. At first, I felt completely overwhelmed. My son was young, and I was trying to balance working, managing the household, and figuring out how to provide emotional stability for both of us. I didn’t always have the answers and often felt exhausted. One of the hardest things was adjusting to the silence in the house after the divorce—no more shared responsibilities or support. It was up to me to create the structure and calm that we needed. Over time, I learned how to communicate my needs more clearly, set boundaries, and prioritize self-care. I realized that I couldn’t pour from an empty cup, and that it was okay to ask for help and lean on my friends and family when I needed it. Now, after five years, I’ve become much more grounded in my role as a single mom. I’m no longer just surviving; I’m thriving, and I want to help others who are walking the same path.

Bouncing back after a tough breakup or divorce

Davie H.

Life threw me a curveball more than once growing up with an alcoholic parent, then marrying someone who struggled with the same thing. The divorce was the final blow, but it didn’t break me. It was messy, it was painful, but it was also the beginning of a new chapter. Soon after, I found love again (yes, before the ink was even dry on the divorce papers), and suddenly, I was the proud dad of four kids: one biological, one adopted, and two stepchildren. Welcome to the world of co-parenting and blending families! I’ve leaned on a lot of things to get here, support groups like Al-Anon, therapy, and an unwavering belief in mental health (especially for men). I’ve walked the line between emotional chaos and clarity, and I know exactly what it’s like to feel overwhelmed, stuck, or uncertain about what comes next. I’ve helped other guys who are struggling with addiction, messy breakups, and the madness of co-parenting—and I’m here to tell you: you can rebuild. It might not be easy, but it is worth it.

Healing after a sudden breakup or divorce

DeJon B.

A year and a half ago, everything in my life flipped upside down. I had made the decision to step away from a high-level executive role because the stress was taking a toll, and I wanted to prioritize my marriage. But right after we returned from vacation, while packing up for a new move just days before Christmas, my husband told me he wanted a divorce. I was completely blindsided and heartbroken. Therapy didn’t quite hit the mark for me, and I struggled to find support groups that truly resonated. So, I made my own path. I leaned on the strength I didn’t even know I had, found clarity through my pain, and gradually rebuilt. I got a new executive role, one that aligns more with who I am now. And despite everything, I’ve even found a sense of peace with my ex we’re friends, and though he’s expressed regret, I know my worth and won’t go back.

Choosing family over everything, especially in recovery from alcohol, cocaine, opioids, and benzos

Eric T.

When I finally got sober in 2018, I didn’t do it because I had a court date or lost a job. I did it because I felt empty and I knew deep down that I was meant for more. Fast forward to today: I’m a dad to a 3-year-old son and a 2-year-old daughter, and a stepdad to a 10-year-old whose biological father is still in active addiction. Every day, I wake up with one mission: be the man my kids need. My addiction stole years from me, but recovery gave me something even more valuable: clarity. I learned how to show up. Not just for meetings or work, but for bedtime routines, tough talks, and the little moments that matter. My life now revolves around family, and every decision I make filters through one question: will this make me a better dad? I’ve spent years helping others in recovery, both professionally and in everyday life. But the work I’m most proud of is building a home where love, structure, and second chances live side by side. If you're trying to get clean and stay clean because of your family (or for the future family you hope to have) I’m here. I’ve been there. Let’s talk.

Navigating a spiritual crisis and rebuilding your sense of self

Evans M.

I grew up in a privileged family where maintaining the right relationships and meeting certain standards was the expectation if I wanted support. My marriage, lasting 12 years, ended amicably after lots of counseling. While we parted ways as friends, it wasn’t easy. It was during and after that marriage that I experienced a deep faith and spiritual crisis. Raised in a Christian environment, I found myself questioning everything I had believed, wrestling with the idea of faith in a world that often didn’t seem to care about the truth I had once relied on. But instead of running from the discomfort, I leaned into it, realizing that freedom and finding my own path were the ultimate goals. After years of reflection, it became clear that my journey was about embracing an open mind while seeking peace within myself. Since then, I’ve counseled friends through similar crises, helping them navigate difficult relationship dynamics or faith challenges. I’ve also been able to move forward into a more nomadic lifestyle, finding meaning in everyday moments and helping others along the way. It’s my hope to offer a compassionate ear and a thoughtful perspective to those who are struggling with where they are spiritually and emotionally, especially when it feels like everything is in question.

Overcoming infidelity and divorce while learning to trust yourself again

Hayley D.

I met my husband in college and, like many young couples, I believed we’d built a strong foundation. We were married for six and a half years, and though I often felt small nudges from my instincts that something wasn’t right, I let things slide — hoping love would be enough. When I became pregnant with our daughter, everything started to unravel. Lies and infidelity shattered the trust I’d worked so hard to maintain. I had to face the reality that the life I imagined for us was no longer safe or healthy, and that I needed to make decisions not just for me, but for my daughter’s future. It was overwhelming trying to untangle a shared life — from the house to the dog — while protecting my own peace and the softness of my baby’s heart. I learned to trust myself in the hard moments, even when it meant walking away from what was familiar.

Creating a loving and supportive step-parenting journey

Jenna L.

When I became a step-parent at 24 and took on full-time care of my stepdaughter at 26, I stepped into a world full of challenges and growth. While I was essentially a single parent for many years, I learned how to build a strong, loving bond with my stepdaughter, even amidst a chaotic environment. Although there were times of emotional strain and hardship dealing with the effects of my ex-husband’s behavior and navigating difficult family dynamics, my focus was always on providing stability and love for my stepdaughter. Through therapy, I discovered healthier ways to cope with my own insecurities and attachment issues, allowing me to show up as a better parent. As my stepdaughter blossomed into a kind, motivated young woman, I realized the strength and resilience that comes from creating a nurturing, supportive family environment. Whether it's navigating step-parenting challenges or healing from difficult family dynamics, I would love to offer guidance and support to others on a similar journey.

Raising kids as a single parent through life’s hardest seasons

Jennifer P.

I became a mom at 19 and now have five kids ranging from a toddler to young adults. I’ve raised them through some incredibly tough seasons—divorce, domestic violence, co-parenting challenges, and the constant juggle of meeting everyone's needs without losing myself completely. I’ve had babies on my hip while calming down a teen, all while trying to figure out who I was in the midst of it all. There were times when the anxiety and depression felt louder than anything else, but therapy and leaning on trusted friends helped me stay upright. I’ve learned how to ask for help, how to trust my gut, and how to talk with my kids in ways that help them feel seen—even when things were messy. One of the biggest lessons? Just because it’s hard doesn’t mean you’re failing. Now, I love supporting other parents who are deep in it. I don’t have all the answers, but I know how to listen, reflect, and hold space when it feels like everything is falling apart.

Navigating the chaos of parenting while blending families

Jessica B.

Life took an unexpected turn for me. I was a Navy veteran planning to move across the country with my son, but two months before I was set to leave, I met my husband on eHarmony. A year later, we were married, and I was pregnant with our first baby. The speed of it all was overwhelming, but it was nothing compared to blending families—especially when my husband already had four daughters, including twins. With all of the sudden changes, I had to quickly learn how to make it all work. Through the years, I’ve figured out how to juggle the ups and downs of parenting, including homeschooling my kids in a way that fits our family’s unique needs. I’m not your typical homeschool mom—I rely on a nanny to teach the younger ones and help my older son stay on track with his assignments. It’s definitely not the traditional model, but it works for us. Over time, I’ve learned how important it is to feel validated in your experience as a mom, especially when things get overwhelming. I wish I had someone to talk to in the early days of my parenting journey, someone who could help me feel like I wasn’t alone. Now, I’m passionate about supporting other moms, helping them find ways to cope with the chaos, and offering tools that have worked for me along the way.

Finding yourself again in midlife after burnout and divorce

Jill K.

Hi, I’m a divorced mom of four (ages 7 to 16), and a few years ago, I hit a wall—hard. Professionally, I was burned out. Personally, I was unraveling. I had always been the one who “had it together,” but inside, I was crumbling under the weight of perfectionism, people-pleasing, and unspoken mental health struggles. At 40, I was diagnosed with ADHD, and it was like turning on a light in a room I didn’t know I’d been sitting in all my life. That diagnosis became a starting point—not just for understanding my brain, but for learning how to stop abandoning myself. I’ve been slowly and steadily untangling my identity from old stories and outdated roles. Divorce brought its own set of heartbreak and growth, especially as a mom trying to guide four kids through the same transition. There’s no roadmap for rebuilding your life in midlife, but I’ve gotten really good at getting curious, asking the right questions, and leaning into the unknown. I don’t have everything figured out, but I’m no longer afraid to start over—and I’d love to walk with you while you find your way, too.

Divorce after 30 years when your whole map gets redrawn

Kari K.

Thirty years. That's how long I was married before everything changed. Starting over wasn't just scary - it was disorienting. I'll share what it's like to grieve a shared life, rediscover your own voice, and build a brand-new story in a season you never expected.

Navigating the complexities of adoption and parenting a blended family

Katina J.

As a parent of eight, including two children adopted from China with special needs, I’ve experienced the joys and challenges of raising a blended family. Over the years, I've supported our kids through surgeries, behavioral and attachment issues, and setting healthy boundaries. These challenges have shaped me with a deep well of empathy and resilience. I’ve learned that trust, communication, and flexibility are key in parenting, especially when blending families or parenting children with special needs. My experience as a trained hospice worker, death doula, and grief coach has also deepened my understanding of life's transitions, whether it's navigating grief or supporting a family member through loss. I've been married for nearly 30 years, and through that time, my relationship has grown stronger through communication and mutual support. Whether you're a parent facing unique challenges or dealing with a life transition, I’m here to offer perspective, support, and a listening ear. I know firsthand the power of connection and showing up for others, and I want to help you find your strength and resilience.

Breaking cycles of addiction (weed, coke, meth) for your children

Kellie D.

I grew up in a home where fear felt normal. My dad used meth to cope with his mental health struggles and the pain of losing his father, but it came out as anger. He lashed out at my mom constantly, and I was surrounded by yelling, chaos, and instability. I never felt safe. By the time I was a teen, I had turned to drugs myself—starting with marijuana at 13, then cocaine, and eventually meth by 1-It felt like the only way to numb everything I had absorbed growing up. At 23, I hit a breaking point and made the decision to leave hard drugs behind. A few years later, becoming a mom gave me a new purpose. I looked at my children and knew I had to give them something different. That meant healing, taking accountability, and learning how to parent with love instead of fear. I’ve worked hard to break those generational patterns, and I’m proud of the mom I’ve become. Now I support others who are trying to rewrite their family story because I know what it means to grow up in pain and still choose to build something better.

Rebuilding after divorce while parenting and healing

Korin L.

When I went through my divorce, I had just become a new mom. On top of that, I lost a close family member around the same time. I was completely overwhelmed — grieving, exhausted, and trying to care for a tiny human while navigating the end of my marriage. My ex and I had very different personalities. He was pessimistic and often made me feel like my natural optimism was naive or annoying. I started shrinking myself, second-guessing my feelings, and believing I had to face everything alone. At first, I was diagnosed with depression, but it wasn’t until much later that I learned I actually had ADHD and C-PTSD. That diagnosis helped everything click. I realized I wasn’t broken — I was just navigating a world that wasn’t built for my brain. Support groups played a big role in my healing. They helped me process the emotional fallout, recognize patterns of self-blame, and start showing myself compassion. Now, I’m in a place of deep acceptance, raising a neurodivergent child while learning and growing alongside them. I know how isolating it can be to rebuild after divorce, especially when you’re also parenting and untangling years of emotional confusion. You don’t have to do it alone. I’ve been there, and I’d love to walk with you through it.