I don’t remember the exact moment it happened—when my own needs, my dreams, my sense of self quietly slipped into the background. Maybe it was when the meltdowns started, or when the anxiety took over, or when I realized that if I didn’t hold everything together, no one else would.

Some days, I feel like I exist only in relation to others. I am Mom. The one who manages the emotions, the schedules, the unspoken needs. The one who anticipates the next crisis before it happens. The one who never stops.

Today was one of those days. My kiddo woke up on edge, refusing to get out of bed for school. I tried to stay calm, tried to be understanding, but inside, I could feel my frustration and fear rising. Why is it always like this? I coaxed, encouraged, reasoned, and still—nothing. Just more resistance, more anger, more walls being built between us. And then the guilt hits: Am I pushing too hard? Not hard enough?

By the time I got out the door, I’m already exhausted. And then came the text from school—another situation, another call from the counselor. Another moment where I had to drop everything, hold it together, and go pick up the pieces. I plastered on my “strong mom” face, but inside, I’m either crumbling or numb.

And then there are those things I rarely have space to deal with. My things. I used to have dreams—big ones. I wanted things that had nothing to do with laundry, therapy appointments, or making sure everyone else is okay. Now, I wonder if it’s selfish to still want those things. To want space. To want something that is mine. And yet, the thought of claiming that space feels impossible. The guilt creeps in. What if I take my eyes off the ball and everything falls apart?

In therapy we’ll work together to untangle the self-blame, exhaustion, feeling like a failure, and cultivate space for your dreams as well as the dreams you have for your kids. You can explore how to show up for yourself with less guilt and worry about others’ perceptions and judgment. Because taking care of you isn’t selfish—it’s necessary–and one of the best things you can do as a parent and partner.

You don’t have to figure this out by yourself. There is room for you in this story, too. Therapy can help you find your way back. I’m here when you’re ready.