Dr. Ted Obbard

Each of the three times I have been present at the birth of one of my children, I have been overwhelmed by a sense of reverence... It was quite suddenly, the first day of creation; the Goddess giving birth to a world... Like men since the beginning of time I wondered: What can I ever create that will equal the magnificence of this new life?

   ~   Sam Keen

 

Having a new baby is both a joy and a tremendous stress on a couple. Sleepless nights, financial pressures, unexplained crying, expectations of in-laws, piles of laundry – the list literally doesn’t end – can drive new parents crazy.

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Many partners end up feeling overwhelmed, underappreciated, and resentful. How can they not see all that I am doing? Why don’t they help out more? Unspoken expectations of perfect parenting – and often career pressures – can bring on waves of guilt and sadness.

 

Others may feel ignored and shut out of the new family. Financial pressures and partner demands seem to pull in opposite directions. Nothing I do is good enough! It’s all ‘baby, baby, baby!’ – what happened to my partner? It can easily lead to shutting down, ‘walking on eggshells’ or disappearing into work.

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You thought the baby would bring you together, but it seems to be driving you apart. Resentment, loneliness, and even postpartum depression can set in for either partner. Where is this all headed?

 

In new parent counseling, I can help you plan for, and recover from, the challenges of becoming a family. With my help, you can manage the stress, improve communication, and deepen your teamwork and intimacy.

 

Two-thirds of couples suffer a significant – and lasting – drop in marital satisfaction after the transition to parenthood. However, new parents who engage in couples counseling can avoid the pitfalls and build a more loving, stronger family.

 

As a male psychologist, I help new parents in the Oakland Berkeley area learn how to deal with the stresses of a new baby. In perinatal couples counseling, you will learn how to deal with the incessant demands of a new baby in a way that brings you closer together. Your relationship is the nest in which your new child will grow. Working on it now is the greatest gift you can give your children.

 

To talk more about how couples counseling can help you as you become a family, call me at (510) 210-5352 or email me at DrTedObbard@Gmail.com 

 

I look forward to talking with you.

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