Crystal came to Healthier Moms and Babies during an especially difficult postpartum period. As a single mother navigating depression and anxiety after the premature birth of her son, she was also facing the challenges of caring for a baby with developmental needs, largely on her own. With limited support from family and friends, the weight of it all began to take a toll on her mental health.
Through the Maternal Mental Health program, Crystal was connected with therapist Glenis, who provided consistent, compassionate counseling. In their one-on-one sessions, Glenis created a safe space for Crystal to be heard, offering validation, encouragement, and practical tools to better understand perinatal mood disorders. Together, they focused on building Crystal’s self-esteem, strengthening her sense of empowerment, and helping her recognize her own resilience.
Crystal’s home visitor and therapist became her core support system, working together to provide coordinated, consistent care. Her therapist supported her through postpartum depression and anxiety while helping her rebuild confidence as a mother. At the same time, her home visitor provided education, answered questions about her baby’s development, monitored health, and connected her to community resources and support groups. They stayed in close communication to ensure her care was aligned and responsive to her needs. Because of this coordinated support, she felt less isolated and more confident in her role as a mother.
Crystal shared, “Healthier Moms and Babies has supported me in more ways than I can fully express. One of the greatest gifts it gave me was the realization that I am not alone. Glenis helped me see the truth about who I am and reminded me of the strong, capable mother I am to my son.”
Today, Crystal continues to pursue her goals, including working toward a graduate degree, while caring for her son. With the support of Healthier Moms and Babies and Glenis, she has found strength, stability, and hope in a season that once felt overwhelming.
