We're so excited to shine a light on a topic that’s close to our hearts—maternal mental health. We had the privilege of interviewing an integral part of Dr. Alex's own birth team, Courtney, a therapist, doula, and the founder of Soulfully Rooted Wellness.
Courtney is based in Dallas, Texas, where her private practice specializes in perinatal mental health. She and her team are dedicated to supporting families from conception through pregnancy and into the postpartum period. What makes Courtney’s journey remarkable is how her personal experiences as a mother have shaped her passion for helping others navigate the emotional complexities of parenthood.
From Aspiring Nurse to Maternal Health Advocate
Courtney’s path to maternal mental health wasn’t linear. She initially pursued a career as a labor and delivery nurse, but after a challenging biochemistry course, she shifted her focus to psychology. After earning her degree, she completed a master’s in social work. Despite stepping away from the birth world, her own pregnancy reignited her interest.
Choosing a birth center, along with the support of a midwife and doula, profoundly influenced her. After a positive birth experience, she became a certified doula, eventually leaving her 9-to-5 job to dedicate herself full-time to maternal health. Today, she balances her work as a therapist and doula, supporting families in their most vulnerable moments.
Growing Soulfully Rooted Wellness
Soulfully Rooted Wellness began as a solo venture but has since grown into a thriving practice with a team of six therapists. Each therapist brings their own expertise, focusing on different aspects of perinatal mental health. While Courtney loves working with couples expecting a new baby, her team also provides support for clients facing grief, brain injuries, and a variety of other mental health challenges.
Maternal mental health goes beyond just postpartum depression, which often gets the most attention. Courtney emphasizes the importance of addressing the full spectrum of emotional well-being—from the anxiety of preconception to the emotional shifts that come with welcoming a new baby. Her approach is holistic, considering each client’s unique background, culture, and environment.
The Power of Proactive Mental Health Care
Courtney’s message is clear: mental health care should start before the baby arrives. Establishing support during pregnancy allows expectant parents to explore their anxieties, fears, and relationship dynamics early on. As Courtney puts it, pregnancy and postpartum are much like a wedding and marriage—while the big day gets the spotlight, the real work happens afterward.
This proactive approach isn’t just about mental health; it’s also about practical preparation. From planning for postpartum life to setting realistic expectations with your partner, early engagement helps parents feel more equipped for the challenges ahead. Courtney also stresses the importance of addressing any past mental health issues that might resurface postpartum and building a strong support system.
Trauma-Informed Care: A Cornerstone of Maternal Health
A key aspect of Courtney’s practice is her commitment to trauma-informed care. As both a therapist and doula, she creates safe spaces for clients to share their experiences and proactively addresses potential triggers during the birth process. Her work extends to training other healthcare providers in trauma-informed care, emphasizing the importance of recognizing how trauma impacts both patients and providers.
Courtney’s holistic approach to maternal mental health ensures that her clients receive comprehensive care. She collaborates closely with other providers in the Dallas-Fort Worth area, including pelvic floor therapists, chiropractors, and other specialists, to offer well-rounded support.
Supporting Families Holistically
Courtney’s work at Soulfully Rooted Wellness is a testament to the power of holistic, proactive care. Whether you’re navigating the early stages of pregnancy or adjusting to life with a new baby, her message is simple: you don’t have to go it alone. There’s support available, and it’s never too early—or too late—to seek help.
If you’re in the Dallas area and need support, reach out to Soulfully Rooted Wellness. And wherever you are on your journey, remember that taking care of your mental health is a vital part of thriving as a parent.
If you currently need support with any birthing team issue click below to start your journey with booking a free consult call!
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