Welcome to Braving Motherhood: Counseling & Wellness.
Where motherhood and metamorphosis meet- gently, bravely, beautifully.
Virtual perinatal therapy for women and couples navigating pregnancy, postpartum, loss, and infertility throughout Illinois.
About Us
Becoming a mother changes everything. Your body, your relationships, your sense of self. And while that transformation can be beautiful, it can also be overwhelming, grief-filled, and hard in ways nobody warned you about. At Braving Motherhood, we believe every part of your journey deserves to be honored. The hope and the heartbreak. The joy and the exhaustion. The version of you that is still becoming.
Whether you’re navigating through infertility, loss, pregnancy, postpartum, or motherhood, our compassionate counseling offers a safe space to explore your feelings, heal old wounds, and build resilience. Together, we’ll embrace the beauty of change and nurture your strength as you step into this new chapter of your life.
Take the first gentle step toward wellness- because motherhood is a brave journey, and you don’t have to face it alone.
Our Approach
Therapy at Braving Motherhood is not one-size-fits-all. It is informed by your story, your history, and where you are right now.
We use a trauma-informed, relational approach to help you process what you're carrying, reconnect with yourself and your partner, and navigate this season with more clarity and support.
Whether you are facing postpartum anxiety, pregnancy after loss, birth trauma, infertility grief, or the quiet overwhelm of new motherhood, you will find a space here that takes all of it seriously.
Telehealth Options
All therapy sessions are offered virtually via a secure, HIPAA-compliant video platform, so you can access compassionate perinatal mental health support from the comfort of your own home, anywhere in Illinois.
Our services
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Individual Therapy
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Couples Therapy
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Child Life Specialist Support
Meet Danielle
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Danielle Callaghan, MA, LCPC, ALMFT, CLS
Our blog
You Can Be Grateful and Struggling: Making Space for Both in Motherhood
Why Therapy During Pregnancy Isn’t “Extra” — It’s Proactive
You’re Not Just Tired—You’re Becoming: The Emotional Labor of New Motherhood
Navigating Relationship Changes After Baby: Why It’s Normal and How Therapy Can Help
FAQs
What is perinatal psychotherapy?
Perinatal psychotherapy focuses on supporting mental health during infertility, loss, pregnancy, postpartum, and early motherhood. It addresses common challenges such as anxiety, depression, birth trauma, identity shifts, and relational changes through evidence-based therapeutic approaches.
Who can benefit from therapy at Braving Motherhood ?
Our services are designed for individuals at any stage of the perinatal journey- including infertility, loss, pregnancy, postpartum, and early parenting- as well as couples and families navigating changes during this time. If you’re experiencing emotional distress, feeling overwhelmed, or simply want support, therapy can be a valuable resource.
Does Braving Motherhood only work with moms?
Not at all! While Braving Motherhood specializes in perinatal mental health and supporting clients through the transitions of pregnancy, postpartum, and parenting- we are here for anyonenavigating change, identity shifts, loss, stress, or emotional overwhelm.
We work with:
Mothers, fathers, partners, and caregivers
Individuals navigating infertility, grief, or trauma
Clients at any stage of life who are seeking therapy for anxiety, depression, life transitions, or relationship challenges
Young adults, professionals, and anyone exploring identity, purpose, or healing
We welcome clients of all genders and family structures. Therapy is a space for your story- whether or not it involves parenthood.
What qualifications does the therapist have?
Danielle is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC), Associate Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (ALMFT), and a certified Perinatal Mental Health specialist (PMH-C). She also brings over a decade of experience as a Child Life Specialist in the NICU and pediatric emergency department, giving her a uniquely informed perspective on supporting families through some of life's most vulnerable moments.
How do remote therapy sessions work?
All sessions are conducted securely via a HIPAA-compliant video platform. You’ll receive a private link before your appointment and can join from anywhere with a stable internet connection. This allows you to access support conveniently and confidentially from home.
What can I expect during my first session?
Your initial session is a chance to share your story, goals, and concerns. We’ll discuss how therapy can best support you and create a personalized plan for your care. There’s no pressure or judgement- just a compassionate space to begin your journey.
How often are sessions scheduled?
Frequency varies based on your needs, preferences, and availability. Many clients start with weekly sessions and adjust as progress is made. We’ll collaborate to find a schedule that fits your life and supports your healing.
Do you accept insurance?
Yes. Braving Motherhood accepts private insurance and offers self-pay options. We are in-network with Blue Cross Blue Shield (BCBS) PPO, Aetna PPO, and Cigna PPO plans. For clients with out-of-network insurance plans, we can provide a superbill to assist with reimbursement.
How do I get started?
You can reach out via the Contact page to schedule a free consultation or directly book your first therapy session. I’m here to answer any questions you have before beginning.