EPISODE X
We can’t do it all: From guilt to growth

This episode features a reflective and deeply engaging conversation that explores systemic issues in mental health care, particularly related to parenting and perinatal support. Olivia shares insights from her academic research, professional practice, and personal experience, including how her work with incarcerated mothers, her sociological background, and her own journey as a parent shaped her approach to perinatal mental health.

The discussion emphasizes the importance of trauma-informed, community-based care, the power of choice in mental health services, the intergenerational nature of healing, and the societal pressures modern parents face. The episode also highlights creative programming like book clubs and listening circles that foster connection, reflection, and peer support.

Important Messages

Rethinking mental health access: Access to high-quality, accessible mental health care is often hindered by a lack of funding. People should have the freedom to choose their therapist, the type of therapy, how often they receive care, and where it takes place — rather than being pushed into rigid, one-size-fits-all systems like "six sessions of CBT." Unfortunately, current policies often fail to reflect the diverse mental health needs of families and communities.

Community-based supports work: Initiatives such as book clubs and listening circles provide meaningful opportunities for shared learning and reflection. These kinds of community-based supports not only empower professionals and community members alike, but also strengthen local capacity to address perinatal mental health.

Parenting under pressure: The internal struggle to be a “good mom” is a common theme across a wide range of populations — including among incarcerated mothers. Feelings of guilt, shame, and the weight of societal expectations are pervasive, regardless of one’s background or life circumstances.

Intergenerational healing happens in steps: Healing doesn’t have to happen all at once or within a single generation. Instead, each generation can take on a piece of the work and carry it forward. Embracing this mindset can foster compassion and perspective, particularly for parents doing their best with limited models or resources to guide them.

Resources Mentioned

• Canadian Perinatal Mental Health Trainings: A program or resource offering training for those interested in perinatal mental health, potentially including professionals in the field.

• Impossible Parenting: Creating a new culture of mental health for parents, by Olivia Scobie

Olivia Scobie (PhD-c, MA, MSW, RSW)

Olivia is a social worker who specializes in parental mental health, reproductive trauma, and provider burnout. She is the author of the book Impossible Parenting: Creating a New Culture of Mental Health for Parents and is currently completing a PhD in Health Policy and Equity. Olivia is the co-founder and executive director at Canadian Perinatal Mental Health Trainings and co-leads the psychotherapy placement program at Perinatal Wellbeing Ontario. Most importantly, she believes in eating dessert every day, barrier free access to mental health services, and reminding parents they are doing a great job as often as possible.