Reproductive Rights and Mental Health with Dr. Carissa Gustafson

In this bonus episode of the Feminist Mom Podcast, we’re diving into a critical and urgent conversation at the intersection of reproductive rights and mental health—a topic that has only become more pressing in the aftermath of the Supreme Court’s decision to overturn Roe v. Wade. Joining me is Dr. Carissa Gustafson, PMH-C, a clinical psychologist and expert in maternal mental health, to explore:

• The mental health toll of losing reproductive autonomy

• How therapy can empower women to advocate for their rights

• The role of cultural narratives and systemic oppression in shaping our experiences of motherhood and reproductive healthcare

• Why reclaiming anger is a valid and necessary response to oppression

Dr. Gustafson also shares her own insights and experiences, offering a powerful perspective on why reproductive choice is essential for women’s well-being.

Dr. Carissa Gustafson, PMH-C, is a clinical psychologist and author of Reclaim Your Life: Acceptance and Commitment Therapy in 7 Weeks. Based in Los Angeles, she specializes in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), helping people develop mindfulness and self-compassion skills to navigate difficult emotions. Dr. Gustafson has a special interest in supporting high-achieving women through stress, anxiety, depression, and perinatal mental health challenges. She sees clients through Heartship Psychological Services at Village Birth.

Read Dr. Carissa Gustafson’s blog post on the Inclusive Provider Directory. 

Mentioned in the episode

• Self-Compassion: The Proven Power of Being Kind to Yourself by Dr. Kristin Neff

• Real Self-Care: A Transformative Program for Redefining Wellness by Dr. Pooja Lakshmin

• Screaming on the Inside: The Unsustainability of American Motherhood by Jessica Grose

Register for the webinar cosponsored with Exhale Pro-Voice: “Understanding Abortion Stigma & Providing Compassionate Support” Friday, March 14th, 2025 | 12-1pm ET

Work with Dr. Carissa Gustafson 

Follow Dr. Gustafson on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr.carissagustafson/

Follow Erin on Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠instagram.com/feminist.mom.therapist⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Learn more about Erin: www.erinspahrtherapy.com

Podcast Website: www.feministmompodcast.com

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