Blog - Hopeful Beginnings

Fathers Experiencing Postpartum Depression – PPD

Children, Family, fathers, Mental Health

In 2022, Hopeful Beginnings was proud to take on our first few male clients into our mental health/counseling program. It was a much-needed mindset adjustment for myself as a human services professional and for the agency. Having worked for much of my career listening to victims of domestic violence, I will always be…

What are the signs of Perinatal Depression

Counseling, Mental Health, Mother, Pregnancy

Depression or anxiety that occurs during pregnancy is called perinatal depression or perinatal anxiety. Perinatal depression can include symptoms such as; frequent crying, mood swings, irritability, extreme fatigue, difficulty concentrating, sleep problems, loss of sexual interest, anxiety, appetite changes, negative scary thoughts, feelings of inadequacy, hopelessness and despair. Perinatal anxiety includes symptoms similar…

Mother’s fear of seeking Mental Health Support

Children, Counseling, Mental Health

One of the most common fears that prevent new mothers from seeking mental health support is the fear that their child (or children) will be taken away from them if they reveal that they have “dark” or intrusive thoughts. As a woman and a mother who sits in a position of privilege -white,…

I Love My Family Photo Collage Instagram Post 3

Hopeful Beginnings 2022 in Review

Adoption, Children, Counseling, Family, fathers, Grief & Loss, Mental Health, Mother, Pregnancy, self care, Social Worker, Teen, Teen Parenting

As we wind down 2022, I want to take time to reflect on the best present that we can give this season and that is the gift of hope. On so many occasions in this past year, I have been asked to explain Hopeful Beginnings – our work as an agency – and…

A New Mom’s counseling success story

Adoption, Children, Counseling, Family, Mental Health, Mother, Pregnancy

Not every story at Hopeful Beginnings ends on a joyous note but when they do, we celebrate those moments with our clients. Here is one of the incredible stories that we were so grateful to be a part of: Aubrey came to Hopeful Beginnings seeking counseling for postpartum depression that had become consuming….

Our Adoption Story

Adoption, Children, Counseling, Family

“We chose our adoption with Hopeful Beginnings, because they made us feel comfortable from the first time we met them. Everyone was approachable and kind through the process. It helped to have friends and families support, but it also helped to have an agency who listened and answered our questions and concerns. Adoptive…

Mom’s Mental Health

Children, Family, Mental Health, Mother, mothers

Mental health is a dynamic place where as you pass through life, through good times and bad, it ebbs and flows. During the time that is not so great, there is Hopeful Beginnings where you can get the help you need before and after having a baby. If you are pregnant and it’s…

Children’s Illnesses

Children, Family

Children’s illnesses and when to know if and when things are serious and your child has to be transported to the hospital. First of all, before baby is born, it is important to either ask for a medical kit and a cold vaporizer. A good thermometer is very important to purchase. You can call the Doctor’s…

Child Birth Education

Children, Family, mothers, Pregnancy

Child Birth Education – if you ask my husband, the two full days of childbirth education I asked (forced?) him to attend with me at the hospital were among the longest two days of his life. Nine years later, I don’t remember many of the details except that there were lots and lots…

Hopeful Beginnings of St. Mary’s Services was established in 1887, with the vision of providing every child a good home. We continue this mission with adoption services and maternity counseling services.