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Understanding and Navigating Postpartum Depression and Anxiety

Therapeutic CounsellingHaving a baby is often talked about as one of the most joyful moments in a person’s life. However, it’s important to acknowledge that the postpartum period can also be incredibly emotionally and physically challenging . It’s common for new parents to experience a wide range of emotions, including stress, exhaustion and anxiety. In some cases, this can escalate into postpartum depression and anxiety.

At Breathing Space Counselling, we understand that postpartum depression and anxiety can have a significant impact on the birthing parent and their family. That’s why we offer counselling services specifically tailored to help new parents navigate these challenges.

In this blog post, we’ll take a closer look at postpartum depression and anxiety, and provide some tips for coping and seeking support.

Understanding Postpartum Depression and Anxiety

Postpartum depression and anxiety (PPD/PPA) are both mental health conditions that can affect birthing parents. PPD/PPA affects about 10 – 16% of birthing parents in the first year of parenthood. They are different from the “baby blues,” which are a common experience that typically subside within a few days or weeks after giving birth. Postpartum depression and anxiety, on the other hand, can last for several months or longer.

Postpartum depression can include experiencing feelings of: sadness, hopelessness, overwhelm, guilt, anger or rage, worthlessness, loss of interest in life, difficulty with making decisions, thoughts of being a terrible parent, or frightening thoughts of harming yourself or your baby. It can also manifest as physical symptoms like headaches, stomach aches, changes in appetite and/or sleep patterns.

PPD/PPA can begin during pregnancy or after baby is born, and can persist for weeks or even months after giving birth.
Postpartum anxiety, on the other hand, is marked by excessive worry and fear that can interfere with daily life. Symptoms may include: a racing heart, sweating, trembling, excessive worry & self-doubt, intrusive thoughts or images of harm to the baby, and difficulty sleeping. Postpartum anxiety can make it difficult to take care of oneself and the new baby.

Risk Factors

Some birthing parents are at higher risk of experiencing PPD/PPA. This includes people who:

  • Have experienced depression or anxiety in the past, or have a family history of depression or anxiety.
  • Had a traumatic pregnancy or birthing experience.
  • Went through a stressful or traumatic experience before or during pregnancy, such as loss of a loved one, infertility, miscarriage, etc.
  • Have a history of domestic violence, sexual or other abuse.
  • Had a traumatic childhood, such as loss of a parent, an absent parent, or a difficult relationship with a parent.
  • Are isolated and have too little support from friends, family and community.

Navigating Postpartum Depression and Anxiety

If you are experiencing postpartum depression or anxiety, it’s important to seek help as soon as possible. Here are some tips for navigating this experience:

  • Reach out for support: Talk to your partner, family members, or friends about how you’re feeling. Consider joining a support group for new parents or seek out professional counselling.
  • Practice self-care: Be gentle and kind to yourself about the fact that you’re a new parent and things are going to feel hard. Do small things for yourself that are meaningful to you and manageable, such as going for a short walk or eating a nourishing meal.
  • Prioritize sleep and exercise: Getting enough sleep and exercise can help improve your mood and reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety.
  • Set realistic expectations: Don’t put too much pressure on yourself to be the “perfect” parent — perfect doesn’t exist. It’s okay to not know, take things one day at a time and ask for help along the way.

The Pacific Postpartum Support Society is a wonderful free resource for parents experiencing PPD/PPA. They offer phone and text message support, as well as support groups for birthing parents and their partners. You can learn more about them here.

Our Counsellors at Breathing Space Counselling can also provide therapeutic counselling for postpartum depression and anxiety in our Port Moody offices or online/by telephone. We can help you to develop strategies to navigate your entry into parenthood, and work through difficult emotions in a safe and supportive environment.

Take the First Step

If you’re struggling with postpartum depression or anxiety, please know, you’re not alone. Seeking help is a sign of strength and at Breathing Space Counselling we’re here to support you.

Contact us today to schedule a free phone consultation and take that first step towards your healing and recovery.

To the Women of Iran: A Love Letter

iran-women-protests

By Elmira Fakhr

There are thousands of people grieving their friends and family members who have been tragically killed in the fight for freedom from the oppression of the Islamic Regime in Iran. These brave souls have continued fighting a brutal government, putting their lives on the line. Despite the endless losses, they have not lost hope or the will to fight for a brighter future for themselves and their loved ones.

This is a love letter from one of our Associate Counsellors, Elmira Fakhr, who left Iran and has settled in Canada. She has chosen to make a life here and she continues to use her voice to fight for her people at home by keeping their stories alive.

Dearest Women of Iran,

It is difficult to express what I feel in simple words.

The world is watching as you fight to gain your most basic rights from the Islamic Regime in Iran. I have seen videos of your courageous protests within the last seven months. You have been tortured, raped, imprisoned, and killed.

Dear Sisters — please know, the world has heard your voice.

The strength and bravery you have shown to stand up for what you believe is admirable. You are an inspiration to so many women – and all people – around the world.

I feel your pain and sorrow deeply. Mothers, daughters, sisters, and friends have been lost in this battle and we miss them so much. I feel appreciation for our fathers, sons, brothers, and friends who have chosen to stand by our side and fight for us in this revolution.

You have inspired us all to move and make change happen. We will continue to share your stories and be your voice. We will be stronger as we stand together.

This is the revolution started by strong women of Iran – and you will not be forgotten.

Elmira is offering a limited number of reduced cost sessions to Iranian community members who are affected by this struggle.

  • A maximum of 8 online sessions at $65 each are available.
  • They are available to those who could not otherwise afford private counselling (have financial need for reduced cost sessions & do not have insurance benefits).
  • Sessions are available in English or Farsi.
  • Please email Elmira at [email protected] for more information.

We Are Hiring Again! Become an Associate Counsellor with Us!

By Shahaa Kakar & Nasreen Gulamhusein

Breathing Space Counselling is a thriving private counselling practice in Port Moody, BC. It was founded in 2016 by two Master Therapeutic Counsellors, Nasreen Gulamhusein & Shahaa Kakar. We offer in-person and online counselling for individuals and couples. We also offer community events and professional development training for fellow counsellors.

We have built a trusted reputation in our community and due to overwhelming demand, we have expanded and brought on two Associate Counsellors. We are now seeking a third Associate Counsellor to work alongside us in our private practice. This is a wonderful opportunity to be mentored by two established counsellors and join an inclusive and heart-centred work culture.

What We Are Looking For:

Whether you are newly graduated or an established counsellor, we welcome all applicants who work with individuals and couples. If you have not worked with couples before, but are open to being mentored in this area, please feel free to apply.

This opportunity is for an Office Associate who will work in our beautiful space in Port Moody. The successful applicant must be available for 15 hours per week. Those hours need to fall within the following days/times and must include some evening or weekend shifts):

Monday, 8am – 9pm
Wednesday, 8am – 9pm
Friday, 3pm – 9pm
Saturday, 8am – 9pm
Sunday, 8am – 9pm

The exact schedule will be negotiated with the successful candidate.


You Are Someone Who Will:

  • Be Transparent – be authentic, honest, and real… even when it’s difficult
  • Be Kind – speak and act with thoughtfulness and consideration
  • Be Human – drop perfection, allow for mistakes, fall down and get back up
  • Honour Your Commitments – say what you mean and do what you promise
  • Bring Your Magic – get creative, share your ideas, inspire and be inspired

You Have the Following:

  • A recognised counselling qualification (diploma or masters degree).
  • Are a current BC/Canadian Registered Counsellor in good standing (all designations will be considered, e.g. RTC, MTC, RCC, CCC, RSW, RPC-C, RPC, MPCC, MPCC-S, etc.).
  • Hold current Professional Liability Insurance.
  • Have a Registered Supervisor and are receiving regular supervision at the time of applying.
  • Are committed to undertaking continuous professional development.
  • Uphold the highest professional, ethical and professional standards in your practice and consistently adhere to your counselling association’s code of ethics.
  • Are able to commit a minimum of 15 hours per week for clients to consistently book in with you. This could include a mix of daytime, evening and weekend hours (specific days and times are negotiable). Some evening and/or weekend availability is required as these are high demand times for clients.
  • An awareness of (or, a willingness to learn about) privilege and marginalization and how these might impact your lens/bias while you are counselling.
  • A willingness to engage in continual learning and dialogue towards creating a safe, inclusive and diverse culture within our practice (both with clients and with each other).

Bonus If You Also Have Any of These:

Knowledge, experience and/or training in working with:

  • couples (such as Gottman training, EFT, etc.)
  • teens and/or families
  • somatic therapy modalities (such as EMDR, Somatic Experiencing, AEDP, relational somatic therapy, etc.)
  • eating disorders, body image, addiction, trauma, PPD/PPA, polyamorous/non-monogamous relationships, chronic pain, and bullying
  • specific communities, such as LGBTQIA+communities, racialized communities, neurodiverse communities, Indigenous communities, disabled & Deaf communities, etc. Lived experience will be considered an asset

We Offer the Following:

  • Flexible and negotiable working hours.
  • A competitive Associate Counsellor package/fee split, with incentives to grow.
  • Targeted marketing and client recruitment on your behalf.
  • Ongoing support and mentoring, as needed.
  • Simple and easy to use online scheduling software.
  • Standard forms, filing system, and client receipting is provided.
  • A bright and inviting counselling centre in the heart of Port Moody, which includes two counselling offices, a multi-purpose main space/waiting room and kitchenette facilities (close to SkyTrain and street parking).
  • A work culture that values belly laughs, celebrating the little things, getting through the tough moments together, and indulging in good food. 😉

To Apply – Please send the following to [email protected]:

  • An updated resume and cover letter detailing why you believe you would be a good fit for our team and what you have to offer. Please be specific about your experience with individuals and couples.
  • Two professional references (eg – from a Registered Supervisor, Counselling Teacher or Employer). Written references are preferred.

    The successful applicant will also be required to provide:

  • A copy of your active counselling registration from your relevant association.
  • A copy of your diploma/masters certificate.
    A copy of your active Professional Insurance certificate/policy.


Deadline for applications is Friday September 30th at 11:59pm.

We Are Hiring Associate Counsellors!

By Shahaa Kakar & Nasreen Gulamhusein

Breathing Space Counselling is a thriving private counselling practice in Port Moody, BC. It was founded in 2016 by two Master Therapeutic Counsellors, Nasreen Gulamhusein & Shahaa Kakar. We offer in-person and online counselling for individuals and couples. We also offer community events and professional development training for fellow counsellors.

We have built a trusted reputation in our community and due to overwhelming demand, our client lists are full. We are seeking two Associate Counsellors to work alongside us in our private practice. This is a wonderful opportunity to be mentored by two established counsellors and join an inclusive and heart-centred work culture.

What We Are Looking For:

Whether you are newly graduated or an established counsellor, we welcome all applicants who work with individuals and/or couples. Opportunities are available for both Office Associates (who will work in our beautiful space in Port Moody) and Remote Associates (who will work exclusively online from the comfort of your own space).

You Are Someone Who Will:

  • Be Transparent – be authentic, honest, and real… even when it’s difficult
  • Be Kind – speak and act with thoughtfulness and consideration
  • Be Human – drop perfection, allow for mistakes, fall down and get back up
  • Honour Your Commitments – say what you mean and do what you promise
  • Bring Your Magic – get creative, share your ideas, inspire and be inspired

You Have the Following:

  • A recognised counselling qualification (diploma or masters degree).
  • Are a current BC/Canadian Registered Counsellor in good standing (all designations will be considered, e.g. RTC, MTC, RCC, CCC, RSW, RPC-C, RPC, MPCC, MPCC-S, etc.).
  • Hold current Professional Liability Insurance.
  • Have a Registered Supervisor and are receiving regular supervision at the time of applying.
  • Are committed to undertaking continuous professional development.
  • Uphold the highest professional, ethical and professional standards in your practice and consistently adhere to your counselling association’s code of ethics.
  • Are able to commit a minimum of 15 hours per week for clients to consistently book in with you. This could include a mix of daytime, evening and weekend hours (specific days and times are negotiable). Some evening and/or weekend availability is required as these are high demand times for clients.
  • An awareness of (or, a willingness to learn about) privilege and marginalization and how these might impact your lens/bias while you are counselling.
  • A willingness to engage in continual learning and dialogue towards creating a safe, inclusive and diverse culture within our practice (both with clients and with each other).

Bonus If You Also Have Any of These:

Knowledge, experience and/or training in working with:

  • couples (such as Gottman training, EFT, etc.)
  • teens and/or families
  • somatic therapy modalities (such as EMDR, Somatic Experiencing, AEDP, etc.)
  • eating disorders, body image, addiction, trauma, polyamorous/non-monogamous relationships, chronic pain, and bullying
  • specific communities, such as LGBTQIA+communities, racialized communities, neurodiverse communities, Indigenous communities, disabled & Deaf communities, etc. Lived experience will be considered an asset.

We Offer the Following:

  • Flexible and negotiable working hours.
  • A competitive Associate Counsellor package/fee split, with incentives to grow.
  • Targeted marketing and client recruitment on your behalf.
  • Ongoing support and mentoring, as needed.
  • Simple and easy to use online scheduling software.
  • Standard forms, filing system, and client receipting is provided.
  • A bright and inviting counselling centre in the heart of Port Moody, which includes two counselling offices, a multi-purpose main space/waiting room and kitchenette facilities (close to SkyTrain and street parking).
  • A work culture that values belly laughs, celebrating the little things, getting through the tough moments together, and indulging in good food. 😉

To Apply – Please send the following to [email protected]:

  • An updated resume and cover letter detailing why you believe you would be a good fit for our team and what you have to offer.
  • In your email subject line, please let us know what position you are applying for as follows: Application: Office Associate or Application: Remote Associate
  • Two professional references (eg – from a Registered Supervisor, Counselling Teacher or Employer).
  • A copy of your active counselling registration from your relevant association.
  • A copy of your diploma/masters certificate.
  • A copy of your active Professional Insurance certificate/policy.


Deadline for applications is Friday March 25th at 11:59pm.

Free Online Counselling for QTBI Folks

By Shahaa Kakar

(July 20, 2020 Update: Please note that all funds have now been used up. Qmunity is fundraising to be able to continue this initiative. Updates will be posted here when funds become available once again.)

Qmunity are offering a much-needed initiative where self-identified QTBI (Queer, Trans, Black or Indigenous) people can have access to a limited number of free counselling sessions.

Qmunity is a non-profit organization based in Vancouver, BC that works to improve queer, trans, and Two-Spirit lives. According to the organization, “In light of ongoing racist oppression, violence and police brutality in QTBI communities, as an organization we are committing to prioritizing and financially supporting QTBI people in accessing mental health services from QTBIPOC counsellors.”

Breathing Space Counselling is honoured to be able to support this initiative. Our co-founder, Shahaa Kakar, is an approved provider and is offering online sessions. Spaces are limited and are available on a first come, first serve basis. Up to four free sessions are available. If you would like to know more or to take up this offer, please email Shahaa at [email protected] More information about Shahaa is available here.

To find out who else is an approved provider, please contact Qmunity directly.

Update on Sessions During Phase Two

By Nasreen Gulamhusein & Shahaa Kakar

As Phase Two of the pandemic begins and things slowly start to open up again, some of you might be wondering what Breathing Space is up to!

Phase 2 is still brand new, and as doors slowly start to reopen, there are many unknowns. In response to this, we will continue to offer counselling sessions exclusively online for the month of June. At the end of this month, we will post an update here on our blog about when in-person sessions will likely commence. (Online and/or telephone counselling will also continue to be available.)

Please know, we are in active discussions about how to best consider our collective safety, while also taking into consideration government guidelines and regulations. We realize things like plexiglass walls, masks, and gloves have impact on the therapeutic experience and environment. As we make our choices, we are deeply committed to giving you a safe experience – both physically and emotionally.

We so appreciate your patience as we figure out how best to take these next steps. One thing we know for certain — we miss seeing our clients in person so much! We are so looking forward to seeing everyone in-person again, hopefully sooner rather than later.

In the meantime — stay healthy, kind and safe!