Our Services
Mental wellness through empowerment and support
Lisa Van Huyse Psychotherapy offers expert, empathetic guidance to navigate emotional and mental health challenges. Our evidence-based techniques, rooted in deep understanding and respect for your individual story, foster resilience and growth. Experience our dedicated care on your path to well-being.
Perinatal Counseling
Professionally, there are few things I love more than perinatal counseling. I believe that the transition to parenthood is an incredibly important time that can come with a range of emotions—joy, anxiety, and sometimes unexpected challenges. Whether you’re adjusting to pregnancy, navigating postpartum life, or working through the emotional ups and downs of early parenthood, I’m here to help.
Processing your baby’s birth experience is something I believe is often overlooked, yet so important. Whether your birth went as planned or was far from what you expected, giving yourself the space to reflect and heal can make a huge difference. I also specialize in working with birth trauma and understand how difficult it can be to process a challenging or traumatic birth experience. You don’t have to go through this alone—I’m here to offer a safe, supportive space where you can work through your feelings and begin to heal.
If you’re looking for someone who understands the complexities of perinatal mental health and the importance of birth processing and trauma recovery, I’m here to support you every step of the way.
A Deeper Look At Perinatal Psychotherapy
Perinatal psychotherapy addresses emotional, psychological, and mental health challenges that occur during pregnancy and the postpartum period. Here are some frequently asked questions about perinatal psychotherapy:
1. What is perinatal psychotherapy?
Perinatal psychotherapy is a specialized form of therapy that focuses on the mental health of individuals during the perinatal period, which includes pregnancy and the postpartum phase. It aims to address issues like anxiety, depression, trauma, and adjustment challenges associated with motherhood.
2. Who can benefit from perinatal psychotherapy?
Anyone experiencing emotional difficulties during pregnancy or postpartum can benefit. This includes mothers dealing with:
- Prenatal anxiety or depression
- Postpartum depression (PPD)
- Birth trauma
- Pregnancy loss or miscarriage
- Adjustment to motherhood
- Anxiety related to becoming a parent
3. What are common issues addressed in perinatal psychotherapy?
Some common concerns include:
- Prenatal and postpartum depression or anxiety
- Body image concerns
- Fear of childbirth
- Relationship or marital stress
- Adjusting to changes in identity and lifestyle
- Concerns about bonding with the baby
- Sleep deprivation and exhaustion
- Grief after miscarriage, stillbirth, or infertility struggles
4. How is perinatal psychotherapy different from regular therapy?
Perinatal psychotherapy is specifically tailored to the unique challenges of pregnancy and new parenthood. Therapists specializing in this area are trained to understand the hormonal, physical, and emotional shifts during this period, providing a more comprehensive understanding of what new parents face.
5. When should I seek perinatal psychotherapy?
You should seek help if:
- You feel overwhelmed or anxious about pregnancy or motherhood.
- You’re experiencing persistent sadness, irritability, or fatigue that affects daily life.
- You’re struggling with intrusive thoughts, panic attacks, or a sense of hopelessness.
- You’ve experienced pregnancy loss or trauma.
- You have difficulties bonding with your baby.
6. How long does perinatal psychotherapy last?
The duration of therapy depends on individual needs. Some may benefit from short-term therapy (e.g., 6–12 sessions), while others might need ongoing support for several months, particularly if symptoms are more severe or if there’s a history of mental health concerns.
7. Can I start therapy before giving birth?
Yes, many people benefit from starting therapy during pregnancy, particularly if they have anxiety about childbirth or want to prepare emotionally for parenthood.
8. Does perinatal psychotherapy help with birth trauma?
Yes, perinatal therapy can help individuals process traumatic birth experiences, offering a space to work through feelings of grief, anger, or anxiety, and helping in the emotional recovery from trauma.
Group Therapy
Support Groups for Grief, Pregnancy Loss, and Fertility Struggles
I offer compassionate support groups for individuals experiencing grief, pregnancy loss, or fertility challenges. These groups are designed to provide a nurturing space where you can connect with others who understand your experience, share your story, and find strength in community. Groups are held throughout the year, typically on weekday evenings, making them easier to fit into your schedule.
It’s normal to feel hesitant about group therapy—many people are unsure about sharing personal struggles in a group setting. But from my experience, both as a therapist and someone who has walked through similar challenges, I’ve seen the incredible healing that can happen in these groups. Personally, it’s my favorite form of therapy. The sense of connection and understanding that develops often feels deeply comforting, and many find it easier to open up than they initially expected.
If you’d like to learn more or find out when the next group is starting, please reach out. I’m happy to answer any questions and provide more details. You don’t have to go through this alone—there’s a supportive community waiting when you’re ready.
Grief Therapy
Grief
Grief isn’t always a straightforward process—it can be messy, complicated, and deeply personal. It doesn’t always fit into a neat box or follow a predictable path, and that’s okay. Whether your grief stems from the loss of a loved one, the end of a significant relationship, a life transition, or something else entirely, it’s valid. The complexity of your emotions doesn’t diminish the importance of what you’re feeling. In fact, it often speaks to the depth of your connection and the impact that person or experience had on your life.
My goal is to create a warm, compassionate space where you can explore your grief in all its forms—whether it’s sadness, anger, confusion, or even relief. I understand that grief can bring up a wide range of emotions that aren’t always easy to process, and I’m here to support you through them, without judgment. This is a space where you can talk openly, without the need to “fix” or “move on” from your feelings before you’re ready.
You don’t have to carry this burden alone. Together, we’ll work through the layers of grief, allowing space for healing, understanding, and eventually, finding a way forward that honors your unique experience. While it might feel impossible at times, there can be moments of light, meaning, and even beauty within the grief process. I believe that by giving yourself the space and time to grieve, you’re also giving yourself the opportunity to grow and heal in ways that feel true to you. Let’s walk through this together, at your pace, finding strength and resilience along the way.
Miscarriage, Stillbirth and Abortion
Miscarriage, Stillbirth, and Abortion Support
Miscarriage
Experiencing a miscarriage can be incredibly heartbreaking, and the emotional impact often extends far beyond the loss itself. Feelings of anxiety, fear, and uncertainty about the future are common, and navigating these emotions can feel overwhelming. Whether you need just a few sessions to address the immediate pain or longer-term support, I’m here to help.
Having personally experienced pregnancy loss through an ectopic pregnancy, I understand the depth of this pain and the isolation it can bring. Years later, I still think of that baby on their due date. I offer a warm, non-judgmental space where you can process your grief, ask questions, and explore your emotions. My goal is to help you find your path to healing, whether that’s working through your loss or managing the fear of trying to get pregnant again.
Stillbirth
Stillbirth is an unimaginable loss, and the grief that follows is often filled with shock, sadness, and unanswered questions. It’s not uncommon to feel lost in the aftermath, and fears about trying to conceive again can add another layer of emotional complexity. Whether your loss is recent or you’ve been carrying this grief for some time, I’m here to offer support.
I believe in creating a space where your grief is treated with care and respect, allowing you to openly talk about your baby, your hopes, and your heartache. Together, we can work through the complicated emotions that accompany stillbirth—whether that’s anger, sadness, or guilt. You deserve a space to heal, and I’m here to help you find peace and understanding.
Abortion
Abortion is a deeply personal experience, whether it was due to medical necessity, personal choice, or unexpected circumstances. The emotional impact can be complex, ranging from relief to grief or confusion. I’m here to offer compassionate, non-judgmental support as you process your feelings, whatever they may be.
Too often, abortion isn’t given the space for emotional processing it deserves. Many feel pressured to move on quickly, unsure of who they can talk to without fear of judgment. My aim is to provide a safe environment where you can explore your emotions at your own pace. Whether you need short-term support or ongoing therapy, I’m here to help you work through the emotional weight, whether it’s impacting your relationships, future plans, or your sense of self.
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If any of these experiences resonate with you, I’m here to listen and support you through the healing process. Let’s work together to help you find peace and clarity.
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Infertility
Infertility Counseling with Compassion and Understanding
As a psychotherapist specializing in infertility, you won’t need to explain the details of your treatments—I’m familiar with the terms and acronyms, from IVF and IUI to FSH, AMH, and PCOS. I understand how emotionally challenging infertility can be, and I’m here to offer a warm, supportive space where you can share your experiences without the pressure of having to define or explain everything.
My approach is empathetic and down-to-earth, making it easy for you to open up about the stress, anxiety, heartache—or the joy that can come with positive news—throughout your fertility journey. Whether you’re feeling overwhelmed by treatment options or simply need someone to talk to about your feelings, I’m here to listen and support you.
If you’re looking for a therapist who understands infertility and offers genuine care, let’s connect. You don’t have to face this experience alone
Individual Therapy
Individual Counseling Tailored to You
While I specialize in grief and perinatal counselling, my support extends to whatever life brings your way—whether it’s relationships, setting boundaries, managing stress, life transitions, or anything else. My goal is to help you navigate the challenges you’re facing, no matter what they are.
Even if we initially work together for grief or perinatal support, our work can continue to grow with you. As your needs change, we can explore other areas of your life together, helping you adapt and thrive through new challenges.
I’m a warm, supportive, and down-to-earth therapist. You won’t find any stuffy, formal atmosphere here—just a relaxed, welcoming space where you can be yourself and feel truly heard.
If you think I might be a good fit or if you’re unsure where to begin, please reach out. I’m here to listen, support, and guide you through whatever you’re going through.
WHY CHOOSE US
Your Wellness, Our Mission
Choosing Lisa Van Huyse Psychotherapy means selecting a path to renewed vitality and joy. We partner with you to reclaim the life you love, supporting you every step of the way with empathy, expertise, and evidence-based care.
Comprehensive Care for All
Embrace a holistic therapy approach that values and attends to every aspect of your being in our supportive, inclusive setting.
Empathetic Listening
Be heard and understood in a space where empathetic listening forms the cornerstone of every treatment plan.
Growth and Resilience
Build resilience and promote personal growth with strategies tailored to navigate life’s challenges effectively.
Mindful Healing
Engage in mindful practices that encourage presence, awareness, and healing in a tranquil and nurturing environment.
Collaborative Strategies
Co-create your path to wellness with our therapists, combining your insights with our expertise for effective results.
Innovative Techniques
Benefit from a blend of traditional and modern therapeutic techniques designed to foster lasting change.
Cultural Competency
Experience care that’s sensitive to cultural nuances, ensuring your background is respected in your healing journey.
Continuity of Care
Rely on consistent and continuous support that adapts as your therapy needs evolve over time.