The Community Support Circle exists because some seasons can’t be talked about anywhere else. I’ve sat with women in private practice through losses they weren’t allowed to grieve at their own jobs, fertility journeys their families wouldn’t discuss, and postpartum experiences that didn’t match anyone’s narrative. The Circle is where those conversations happen with other women who are in or have been in the same place. It’s not group therapy. I’m not a therapist. It’s a guided peer conversation, and what’s said in the room stays in the room.
Who this is for
- Mothers in postpartum recovery, whether it’s week two or year two
- Women on a fertility journey, with or without a current pregnancy
- Mothers grieving a pregnancy loss, an infant loss, or a loss they haven’t yet named
- Anyone who needs other women in the same season more than they need a clinical appointment
How it works
The Circle meets twice a month. Susan opens and closes the conversation but doesn’t lecture. Most of the time is held by the participants. There’s a quiet five minutes at the start and the end. Tissues are on the floor between two chairs because someone always needs them.
What to expect
- 6 to 10 women per circle
- No required disclosure, listening is participating
- A facilitated discussion, not a presentation
- A list of professional referrals available at the end if anyone wants one
Cost
Free. The Circle is offered free to every mother who needs it. No one is asked for anything at the door.
Topics covered
- Postpartum recovery in body and mind
- Fertility journeys and the wait
- Pregnancy loss and grief
- Returning to work, partnership, and selfhood