There are internal and societal pressures in making birthing and parenting decisions that are magnified for the BIPOC community. My guest explains how incorporating ancestral practices can be supportive, shares her valuable work, and highlights the importance of doulas for people of color.
Dr. Suzanne Mungalez (aka Dr. Zann) is a licensed clinical psychologist in CA, certified in perinatal mental health, a childbirth educator, a certified lactation education specialist, and a trained doula. She has worked in hospital settings and birthing centers alongside OB-GYNs, midwives, and other birth workers. She is black, Congolese-American, and queer, along with being a gender-expansive woman and mother who has given birth in the comfort of her own home. Her background and experience shape her expertise in clinical work and how she holds space for her patients. Dr. Zann describes herself as “tender with people, tough on systems, and relentlessly committed to our collective liberation.”
Show Highlights:
Dr. Zann’s path to the perinatal work she does today
The need to equip people with knowledge
Everyone needs support and community!
Pressures in birthing and parenting decisions for people of color
Dr. Zann’s help includes guided meditation, visualizations, therapy, and education.
The benefits of incorporating ancestral background into birth experiences
Considerations for people of color in “mom rage” and finding safe spaces to express yourself
Understanding the role and benefits of a doula
Dr. Zann’s unique support for people in the transition to parenthood
Ways of telling your birth story that bring empowerment, healing, and community
How things are changing for the better for the BIPOC community—but it’s still not enough! More support is always needed!
Dr. Zann’s appeal to people of color
Resources:
Connect with Dr. Zann
Website and Instagram.
Call the National Maternal Mental Health Hotline at 1-833-TLC-MAMA or visit cdph.ca.gov
Please find resources in English and Spanish at Postpartum Support International, or by phone/text at 1-800-944-4773. There are many free resources, like online support groups, peer mentors, a specialist provider directory, and perinatal mental health training for therapists, physicians, nurses, doulas, and anyone who wants to be more supportive in offering services.
You can also follow PSI on social media: Instagram, Facebook, and most other platforms.
Visit www.postpartum.net/professionals/certificate-trainings/ for information on the grief course.
Visit my website, www.wellmindperinatal.com, for more information, resources, and courses you can take today!
If you are a California resident looking for a therapist in perinatal mental health, email me about openings for private pay clients!
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