Hey everyone! I wanted to share some updates with you all. Back in 2017, I kicked off Amanda Fincher- Counseling for Girls, and by 2018, I expanded into my group practice, SoCo Counseling. My goal has always been to offer top-notch mental health services to the greater South County area, with a vision of extending our reach throughout Maryland. While my focus initially centered on working with teens, preteens, and their moms, life has brought about some changes. Between shifts in my own family dynamics, adjustments in school schedules, and just a natural evolution of interests and passions, I'm embarking on a new journey. I'm transitioning into niches that focus on post-partum support, maternal mental health, mothering, parenting skills and assisting moms at various stages of life. Exciting times ahead! 

What is perinatal mental health? 

The perinatal period encompasses the time during pregnancy and the first year after childbirth. Besides being a major life transition, this period involves numerous hormonal shifts, physical changes, and emotional adjustments, making it a time of both joy and potential challenges. Prioritizing the emotional well-being of the mother during this time is crucial not only for her but also for the healthy development of the new baby.

Some challenges often encountered during the perinatal period include:

• Heightened anxiety levels around thoughts of childbirth, parenting, and the future.

• Facing complications during childbirth or coping with the loss of a pregnancy.

• Conditions like postpartum depression and anxiety.

• Navigating the shift to parenthood.

• Relationship strains.

A perinatal mental health therapist provides invaluable mental health support for the mother during this time.

 

A little more about me:  I currently serve clients in Churchton (Deale), Maryland located in southern Anne Arundel County (SoCo) and around the state virtually. My specialty is working with teen and preteen girls and supporting the mothers who love them. 

 

Born and raised in Cecil County, I earned my Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice and a Master of Education in School Counseling from the University of Maryland College Park. I currently live in a rural area within Anne Arundel County, which has enabled me to enjoy small community life, including the joy of keeping chickens.

 

As a Professional School Counselor, I have worked closely with children Pre-K through 8th grade and implemented over a hundred 504 plans for students with additional educational needs. I have also practiced as a child therapist, supporting children and teens in individual sessions with a variety of developmental, social and emotional needs as well as issues related to body image and puberty.

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My role as a therapist has also included adults. With training in mental health, suicide prevention, trauma-focused therapy, crisis intervention, and emergency planning and response, I've used my skills to help First Responders and Victims of Natural Disasters with the American Red Cross. 

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As a National Board Certified Teacher and School Counselor, I have had the pleasure of presenting at national conferences on the topic of Measuring Mindfulness in a School Setting and Implementing Second Step.  Additionally, I have delivered over 100 mental health workshops and presentations to educators, leaders, and parents. 

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I am also a Master Reiki Practitioner and enjoy integrating Reiki and mindfulness into my therapeutic sessions with teens and adults. 

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