From Anxiety to
Identity Loss
EPISODE 3:
Honest Conversations on Postpartum Mental Health with Kate Borsato
In This Episode:
In this episode of More than Milestones, host KC Rickerd is joined by Kate Borsato, a mental health therapist specializing in motherhood and perinatal care. Together, they dive deep into the realities of postpartum mental health, shedding light on experiences that often go unspoken—postpartum anxiety, intrusive thoughts, and even postpartum rage.
Kate shares her expertise on how to distinguish between the “normal” worries of motherhood and anxiety that disrupts daily life. She and KC discuss how shame keeps many moms silent, why finding a specialist in perinatal mental health therapy can be life-changing, and the ways unmet needs and expectations contribute to feelings of rage in motherhood.
The conversation also explores identity loss after becoming a mother, and the intentional effort it takes to reclaim joy, self-care, and a sense of self beyond parenting. Kate offers practical strategies for anxiety management, including mindfulness practices, reducing sensory stimulation, and small daily acts of self-care that remind moms of their worth.
What You’ll Learn in This Episode:
Why anxiety is a signal for help, not just a normal part of motherhood.
How postpartum anxiety and intrusive thoughts can manifest in daily life.
The role of shame in preventing moms from seeking support.
What postpartum rage really means and why it often shows up.
The importance of finding a perinatal mental health specialist.
Simple strategies for anxiety management, including mindfulness and nervous system regulation.
How self-care practices—big or small—can shift your mental well-being.
Why reclaiming your identity after motherhood requires intentional steps.
This conversation is an honest, compassionate look at the challenges so many mothers face but rarely talk about. Whether you’re navigating postpartum mental health yourself or supporting someone who is, KC and Kate offer insights, validation, and tangible tools to help mothers feel less alone.
Listen now for an empowering discussion on postpartum anxiety, intrusive thoughts, identity loss, and the path to healing in motherhood.
SHOW NOTES & LINKS
🛒 Shop KC’s favorite mom & baby finds
🤝 Sponsor or guest inquiries? Contact us at podcast@milestonesandmotherhood.com
Love what you’re hearing? Follow, leave a review, and share this episode with a fellow mom or caregiver who needs a little less pressure and a little more support. 🤍
This episode was brought to you by the Pivot Ball Change Network.
Follow KC on Instagram
This episode’s sponsors
Offering zero-sugar electrolyte mixes with a bold, salty punch that helps you ‘stay salty’ and keep going. Formulated with just electrolytes you need: sodium, potassium, magnesium. It’s winning over athletes, wellness fans, and anyone who wants a cleaner, tastier way to hydrate.
Looking For Milestone Support?
If you’re looking for expert milestone support beyond the podcast, explore my collection of pediatric physical therapy–based masterclasses designed for parents of babies and toddlers. From tummy time and rolling to sitting, crawling, and walking, each class gives you clear, step-by-step guidance rooted in play and connection with no confusion, no endless Googling. These on-demand classes are packed with practical strategies to help your little one reach motor milestones with confidence, while giving you peace of mind that you’re supporting their development in the best way.