The Reality Behind the Word “Mum”
Motherhood can be one of life’s most rewarding roles — but also one of the most exhausting and overwhelming.
You might have expected tiredness and nappies; you may not have expected the constant mental load, the mum guilt, or the sense that you’ve lost touch with who you are outside of being a parent.
For many women, parenting comes with a hidden pressure to do it all: to be patient, calm, available, and nurturing at all times. But the truth is, no one can live up to that impossible standard. And when you feel like you’re falling short, it can chip away at your confidence and mental health.
At Hope Therapy & Counselling Services, we offer a space where you can talk openly about the realities of parenting without fear of judgement — and where you can learn to care for yourself as well as your children.
Why Parenting Can Feel Overwhelming
Being a parent today is different from any other time in history. Social media shows only the highlight reels. Advice is everywhere — and much of it is conflicting. Meanwhile, work, financial pressures, and household responsibilities all compete for your energy and attention.
Common challenges we hear from mothers include:
Changes in identity and self-esteem since becoming a parent.
Feeling like there’s never enough time for yourself.
Struggling to set boundaries with children, partners, or extended family.
Guilt when work or personal needs take priority.
Worry about whether you’re “doing it right.”
The Mental Health Impact of Motherhood
Motherhood can bring joy and pride — but also stress, anxiety, and even grief for the life you had before.
In the UK, 68% of mothers say they experience “mum guilt” on a regular basis (Parentkind, 2023). Research also shows that mothers are more likely than fathers to experience symptoms of anxiety and depression during their parenting years (NHS, 2023).
Left unaddressed, these feelings can lead to burnout, resentment, and disconnection from your own needs.
Motherhood & Parenting Counselling
Counselling offers a confidential, supportive space to:
- Talk openly about your struggles without fear of judgement.
- Explore the pressures and expectations you face.
- Learn practical tools for managing stress and overwhelm.
- Strengthen your confidence in your parenting choices.
- Reconnect with your personal identity outside of motherhood.
Some women come to counselling to cope with the demands of early motherhood; others seek support during the teenage years, when family dynamics can shift dramatically. Wherever you are on the parenting journey, you don’t have to navigate it alone.
Why Choose Hope Therapy & Counselling Services?
Judgement-free support tailored to your situation.
Experienced counsellors who understand the unique challenges faced by mothers.
Flexible options for online, phone, or in-person sessions.
Free initial consultation to help you take the first step with confidence.
You’re a Person as Well as a Parent
When you invest in your own wellbeing, you’re also investing in your children’s wellbeing. A calmer, happier you makes for a calmer, happier home. Counselling isn’t about “fixing” you — it’s about helping you feel supported, understood, and more able to enjoy the parts of parenting that matter most to you.
Frequently Asked Questions About Motherhood & Parenting Counselling
Q: Is this only for new mothers?
No — we work with parents at every stage, from pregnancy to adult children. Each stage has its own challenges.
Q: Will you tell me how to parent my children?
No. We don’t give prescriptive parenting advice. We help you reflect on your values, understand your triggers, and develop strategies that work for you.
Q: What if my partner doesn’t understand why I need counselling?
It’s common for others not to see the internal struggles you’re experiencing. Counselling can help you explain your needs and boundaries more clearly.
Q: Can I bring my baby or child to sessions?
For in-person sessions, this may be possible in some cases — but most parents find it easier to focus when they have uninterrupted time for themselves.