Written by Online therapist Dr. Gloria Vanderhorst, Ph.D.

Good to see you,

Have you ever considered how your earliest experiences shape not just who you are, but how you connect with others, including your own children?

This week, I joined the Becoming Parents Podcast to share my journey from my own birth experience to parenting my daughter, and how those experiences influenced my work as a psychologist. We explored how early life events, family dynamics, and mindful reflection can guide growth, healing, and deeper connections.

In this episode, we talk about:

• How my birth and my mother’s reaction shaped my early experiences

• What happens when we reflect on our upbringing from a new perspective

• The power of clear communication and valuing others in relationships

• Lessons from working with preschool boys about emotional expression

• How fathers can help their children access the full range of feelings

• The ideas behind my book Read, Reflect, Respond: The 3 R’s of Growth and Change

If you’ve ever wondered how your personal history impacts your parenting, relationships, or professional life, this conversation is packed with insights and reflections to help you grow and connect more deeply.

🎧 Listen to the Podcast Episode

Rooting for your growth,

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