In this special listener series episode of The Birth Trauma Mama Podcast, Kayleigh sits down with Lillian, a licensed clinical social worker to unpack both the personal and professional realities of NICU trauma, for parents, families, and the clinicians who support them.

As a psychotherapist specializing in perinatal mental health, Lillian has spent years supporting women through infertility, postpartum mood disorders, and the transition to motherhood. But her work took on new meaning after her own experience as a NICU parent, giving birth to triplets at 34 weeks during the height of COVID-19 and being separated from her babies for ten long days after delivery.

Through vulnerability and clinical wisdom, Lillian shares what it’s really like to be a “visitor” in your own child’s life, the deep shame that can come from not feeling instantly bonded, and the importance of validation and compassion in healing from perinatal trauma.

Together, Kayleigh and Lillian explore:

👶 The unique layers of trauma in NICU experiences, even when you “expect” them
💔 The shame and guilt parents feel when bonding doesn’t happen right away
🧠 Why NICU parents often delay treatment and what healing can look like months later
💬 The power of validation, psychoeducation, and space before trauma reprocessing
🪞 How lived experience can strengthen, but not define, a therapist’s work
🌱 The reminder that you can hold both gratitude and grief in your NICU story

Lillian’s story is a powerful reminder that even when your baby is “okay,” you still deserve care, space, and healing. Her clinical perspective brings hope and understanding to every parent who’s ever walked out of a NICU feeling both grateful and broken and to every provider working to support them better.

Resources & Links

💜 Connect with Lillian: nyctherapygroup.com
| @nyctherapygroup
💬 Connect with Kayleigh: @thebirthtrauma_mama
🌐 Learn more at HoldingHopePerinatal.com

For more birth trauma content and a community full of love and support, head to my Instagram at @thebirthtrauma_mama.
Learn more about the support and services I offer through The Birth Trauma Mama Therapy & Support Services.
Disclaimer - The views and opinions expressed by guests on The Birth Trauma Mama Podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect the official stance, views, or positions of The Birth Trauma Mama Podcast. The content shared is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as professional or medical advice and/or endorsement.