Alex Shrake, PhD

Whether you are new to therapy or this is a familiar process for you, I’m so glad that you are here. I am here to support you through all stages of your parenting journey, including fertility, pregnancy, postpartum, and early parenthood. Parenting during this period can be both challenging and incredibly rewarding. Precisely because of this duality, parenting presents us with opportunities for deep personal growth and connection. We will work together to find and strengthen your unique parenting style, find more joy in the small moments, and developing strategies to care for yourself amongst the complexity of parenthood. Additionally, I provide support for healthcare providers and fellow therapists to address the emotional complexity of working in helping professions. This work may be focused on continued personal and professional growth or address burnout, vicarious trauma, or the distress that comes with ethical dilemmas and systemic stressors in these professional pursuits. My approach is informed by attachment theory, family systems, trauma-informed care (including as an EMDR trained therapist) and Internal Family Systems (IFS). These frameworks help us understand how early relationships, family dynamics, and unresolved trauma shape our present experiences. By exploring these experiences, we will uncover patterns, explore alternative ways of thinking, and apply mindful strategies that align with your values. In our work together, you can expect a warm, curious, and non-judgmental environment where you will feel heard, understood, and supported. Whether you're navigating the emotional complexities of postpartum mental health or challenges like depression, anxiety, or trauma, or simply looking for support on building a nurturing relationship with your child or professional life, I look forward to connecting with you.