Securely Attached - podcast cover

Securely Attached

Dr. Sarah Brendrsarahbren.com
Securely Attached is your go-to parenting podcast, supporting moms and dads from pregnancy all the way through their child's adolescence and every stage in between. Join us every Tuesday as clinical psychologist and mom of two Dr. Sarah Bren shares her expertise and interviews top experts in the field, simplifying complicated concepts and pulling back the curtain on the brain science and psychology that drives and shapes the parent-child relationship. And now, every Thursday, Dr. Sarah Bren is joined by Dr. Emily Upshur and Dr. Rebecca Hershberg for a special segment, Beyond The Sessions. We’re answering YOUR parenting questions from the perspective of clinical psychologists highly trained in developmental science and real-life moms who get that parenting is messy, and sometimes we have to laugh, cry, and throw out the “rules.” From toddler tantrums, to effective discipline strategies, to leaning into the principles of respectful parenting, and to managing your own mental wellness as a parent—this podcast is your ultimate resource for judgment-free, research-backed information you know you can trust. About Sarah Bren, PhD Dr. Sarah Bren is a licensed clinical psychologist and mom of two who helps parents understand the building blocks of child development and how secure relationships form and thrive. Her work is focused on helping parents find their inner confidence so they can respond to any parenting problem that comes along and raise kids who are healthy, resilient, and kind.
Last refreshed:
Follow this podcast in the Metacast mobile app to refresh it and see new episodes.
Download Metacast podcast app
Podcasts are better in Metacast mobile app
Don't just listen to podcasts. Learn from them with transcripts, summaries, and chapters for every episode. Skim, search, and bookmark insights. Learn more

Episodes

231. Q&A: How can I build my toddler's assertiveness skills?

Beyond the Sessions is answering YOUR parenting questions! In this episode, Dr. Rebecca Hershberg and I talk about... 4:38 - What Dr. Sarah says about assertiveness skills that causes Dr. Rebecca to have a major eye-roll moment. 6:08 - The assertiveness skills that you can expect to see at different stages of your child's development - and how to allow these things to shift, change, and be fluid. 7:02 - Understanding what is happening in your toddler and young child's brain as they grow, so you ...

Aug 22, 202431 min

230. Busting positive parenting myths to help you authentically foster secure attachment and connection with Raised Good's Tracy Gillett

Are you feeling overwhelmed with all the conflicting parenting advice out there? In this episode, I'm joined by Raised Good's Tracy Gillett to discuss how one simple guiding principle can serve as your parenting compass. In this episode, we explore: - How the attachment relationship comes into play when our kids are “pushing our buttons” and what we can do to decrease how often they test the limits. - What rupture and repair is and how this can be an underrated and incredibly impactful strategy ...

Aug 20, 20241 hr 4 min

229. Q&A: A 10-year-old’s take on starting a new school year, navigating friendships, and what he wants every parent to keep in mind

Beyond the Sessions is answering YOUR parenting questions! In this episode, Dr. Rebecca Hershberg, Dr. Emily Upshur, me, and and a very special guest talk about... 2:48 - The changes a 5th grader, Henry, is expecting are in store for him before the start of a new school year and how he feels about them. 4:22 - What it feels like to meet new people and how a kid views making new friends. 5:13 - The one thing Henry thinks would help him feel ready for the start of school, and what he thinks all pa...

Aug 15, 202428 min

228. A deep dive into potty learning: Everything you need to know to successfully potty train your child

Is potty training causing your stress or anxiety? I’m unpacking everything you need to know to help your child learn to use the potty with more confidence and ease. In this episode, we explore: - Readiness Signs: What to look for physically, behaviorally, and emotionally to know if your child is ready to start potty training. - Setting the Stage: What to do before you start potty training to create a supportive environment that encourages independence and reduces pressure around the potty. - How...

Aug 13, 202458 min

227. Q&A: My kid's hands are always in their pants, how do I set a boundary without shaming them?

Beyond the Sessions is answering YOUR parenting questions! In this episode, Dr. Rebecca Hershberg and I talk about... 3:40 - As a culture, we don't often talk about the way the body works and it can be shocking for parents when we see our young child have an erection or explore what feels good to them. 4:50 - Finding that in-between space between understanding that this isn't sexual at this age and also acknowledging that this feels good. 7:38 - When, where, and how it's best to have these conve...

Aug 08, 202424 min

226. Pelvic care, energetic healing, and body wisdom: Taking a holistic approach to women's health with Tami Lynn Kent

What if the key to unlocking your full potential lies in a part of your body that’s often overlooked and misunderstood? This week we're diving into the transformative world of holistic pelvic care with Tami Lynn Kent. In this episode, we explore: Integrating Eastern and Western Approaches : The importance of integrating both physical therapy for the pelvic floor as well as energetic practices, like breath work and meditation to help women connect with their pelvic regions. Addressing Gaps in Fem...

Aug 06, 202453 min

225. Q&A: What do I do if my child would never stop eating unless I restrict them?

Beyond the Sessions is answering YOUR parenting questions! In this episode, Dr. Rebecca Hershberg and I talk about... 3:02 - The combination of a child who loves eating and a mom's anxiety about how much she is eating can be tricky. 4:04 - Strategies for slowing down mealtimes to build your child's ability for "tuning into their belly" versus just enjoying the taste of the food. 5:29 - What types and methods of restrictions are appropriate and which ones do you want to try to avoid. 10:42 - Unde...

Aug 01, 202427 min

224. Unlocking motivation: Helping kids who seem stuck with Dr. Ellen Braaten

Are you worried about your child’s lack of motivation or their constant struggle to keep up? This week I'm diving into the complexities of child motivation with Dr. Ellen Braaten. In this episode we explore: 👉🏻 Impact of COVID-19: The pandemic's role in exacerbating motivational challenges and what we can do to combat it. 👉🏻 Attachment Myths: Common misconceptions about attachment and the importance of separating parental anxieties from a child's development. 👉🏻 Fostering Responsibility: P...

Jul 30, 202456 min

223. Q&A: How do I know if my child is too young for therapy?

Beyond the Sessions is answering YOUR parenting questions! In this episode, Dr. Emily Upshur and I talk about... 1:40 - A mental health professional can help you determine whether you should start with parenting support or individual therapy for your young child. 3:05 - Understanding the therapeutic support options available for young kids. 6:05 - Having a parent present during the beginning of sessions can help facilitate and strengthen a therapeutic alliance between the child and the therapist...

Jul 25, 202423 min

222. Cycle syncing, restorative practices, and natural rhythms: Taking a holistic approach to self-care with Dr. Jessica Plancich Shinners

Get ready for an enlightening conversation with Dr. Jessica Plancich Shinners as we explore the importance of cycle syncing, the science and art of care, and holistic health. In this episode, we delve into: Whole Mind-Body Health: Insights into the importance of caring for our minds, bodies, and spirit in an integrated and holistic manner. Biological and Evolutionary Perspectives: The natural caregiving instincts biologically hardwired in women and how leaning into these evolutionary traits can ...

Jul 23, 202458 min

221. Q&A: Are love languages legit?

Beyond the Sessions is answering YOUR parenting questions! In this episode, Dr. Rebecca Hershberg, Dr. Emily Upshur, and I talk about... 3:00 - Love languages help us contextualize how we can attune in our relationships and that reminds us that what we need may be different from what another person needs to feel connected. 6:22 - Love languages is a simpler way to break down the principles of reflective functioning. 9:50 - Understanding the 5 love languages: Words of affirmation, quality time, g...

Jul 18, 202433 min

220. Redefining what it means to be neurodiverse: Harnessing the power of the human brain with Wynford Dore

Joining me this week is researcher, entrepreneur, and dedicated father, Wynford Dore. In this deeply personal and enlightening conversation, Wynford shares his transformative journey from successful businessman to pioneering advocate for neurodiversity, sparked by his daughter’s struggles with learning difficulties. In this episode, we explore: Uncovering the Root Causes: Groundbreaking research revealing that many neurodiverse symptoms stem from an underdeveloped cerebellum and how this underst...

Jul 16, 202454 min

219. Q&A: How can I foster a strong sibling bond between my social butterfly and more introverted daughter?

Beyond the Sessions is answering YOUR parenting questions! In this episode, Dr. Rebecca Hershberg, Dr. Emily Upshur, and I talk about... 3:47 - "When something is challenging for you, watching a close counterpart (like a sister) breeze through it is very difficult." 4:39 - These reactions can be externalizing (like being mean to her sibling) or internalizing (like feeling bad about herself). 5:12 - To what extent is it the older siblings job to manage her younger sister's struggles? 6:32 - Conve...

Jul 11, 202428 min

218. Navigating conflict in your relationship: Reducing tension and stress in parenting for a stronger partnership with Dr. Marina Rosenthal

Join me for an enlightening episode as we delve into the complexities of parenting and relationships with couples therapist Dr. Marina Rosenthal. In this episode, we explore: Differing Parenting Styles: We shed light on the stress that arises when partners have different parenting styles, values, or standards and strategies for communicating so neither parent feels criticized. Navigating Conflicts: Practical strategies for couples to build insight into their parenting patterns, emphasizes that t...

Jul 09, 202451 min

217. Q&A: Is there a right and wrong way to encourage independent play?

Beyond the Sessions is answering YOUR parenting questions! In this episode, Dr. Rebecca Hershberg, Dr. Emily Upshur, and I talk about... 3:23 - The developmental appropriateness of independent play - it might not last as long as our culture might lead you to believe it should. 4:25 - To foster independence, you might have to first allow your child to be dependent on you. (And the psychology of how and why this actually works!) 7:05 - The difference between independent play versus "why can't they...

Jul 04, 202420 min

216. How "mom brain" can be our greatest strength, not our biggest weakness with Dr. Nicole Pensak

>>> Click here to download my FREE Mental Health Postpartum Checklist that walks you through creating a personalized mental health support system and allows you to feel more confident and relaxed, knowing you have a plan for whatever your unique postpartum experience may be. <<< Joining me this week is clinical psychologist and the author of Rattled: How to Calm New Mom Anxiety with the Power of the Postpartum Brain, Dr. Nicole Pensak. Together we have an enlightening conversat...

Jul 02, 20241 hr

215. Q&A: Does teaching my kid to punch a pillow when they're mad make them more aggressive?

Beyond the Sessions is answering YOUR parenting questions! In this episode Dr. Rebecca Hershberg and I talk about... 2:15 - Catharsis theory, letting out our feelings of anger, frustrating, or rage with aggressive behaviors (that do not hurt others) can be beneficial. 3:20 - Does teaching aggressive behaviors, even socially acceptable ones like punching a pillow, lead our kids' brains to pair their angry urges with aggressive actions? 7:52 - Working to understand the root of your child's anger c...

Jun 27, 202427 min

214. Raising emotionally intelligent sons: Parenting boys to combat "toxic masculinity" with Ruth Whippman

We’re diving into the complexities of raising boys during a transformative time in history with our special guest, Ruth Whippman. Ruth is an acclaimed author whose latest book, BoyMom , masterfully blends memoir, cultural critique, and reporting. In this episode, we explore: Brain Development : The differences in brain development between boys and girls, highlighting why baby boys need more intensive caregiving in their early months and how these differences impact emotional regulation and attac...

Jun 25, 202451 min

213. Q&A: What's the best way to talk about my child's diagnosis with her and her sibling?

Beyond the Sessions is answering YOUR parenting questions! In this episode Dr. Rebecca Hershberg and I talk about... 2:49 - Sharing information in an honest and developmentally appropriate way is helpful for kids, so it can be empowering to tell your child the name of the diagnosis. 3:50 - Want to learn more about helping kids feel comfortable and confident taking advantage of school supports? Listen to the podcast episode we reference in this conversation. 6:24 - Suggestions for specific langua...

Jun 20, 202424 min

212. Movement and motherhood: Expert advice on staying active throughout pregnancy and well into parenthood with Dr. Megan Roche

We're talking about pregnancy, fitness, and mental health! Joining me is Dr. Megan Roche. Megan received her medical degree from Stanford University, is the co-founder of the running coaching group Some Work All Play, and is currently pregnant with her second child. In this episode, we explore: Navigating Confusing Guidelines: We tackle the often confusing and sometimes scary guidelines around pregnancy and exercise. Megan demystifies the do's and don'ts and emphasizes the importance of balancin...

Jun 18, 202453 min

211. Q&A: Why June sucks! (for parents and kids)

Beyond the Sessions is answering YOUR parenting questions! In this episode, Dr. Rebecca Hershberg, Dr. Emily Upshur, and I talk about... 2:10 - In June there is often an influx of "end of the school year" activities, performances, and events added on top of our already packed schedules. 5:32 - School is winding down, we're starting to feel energized by the thought of summer, but we're also still confined to the school-year schedule. 7:30 - Practical strategies to make the end of the year more st...

Jun 13, 202425 min

210. Independent sleeping: Practical solutions for getting your child to stay in their own bed with Eileen Henry

In this episode, sleep specialist Eileen Henry and I discuss a common challenge: how to get your child to make it all the way through the night in their own bed. Eileen helps us unravel this complex issue by addressing: Assessing the Situation : When to let it be and when to make a change. Understanding Motivations : Identifying whether the desire to reclaim your bed is for personal space, relationship reasons, or concerns about your child's development. Balancing Needs : The importance of ensur...

Jun 11, 20241 hr 7 min

209. Q&A: How can I get my toddler to share and play nicely with other kids?

Beyond the Sessions is answering YOUR parenting questions! In this episode, Dr. Rebecca Hershberg, Dr. Emily Upshur, and I talk about... 1:50 - It's very developmentally typical for toddlers to have trouble with sharing and also there are things you can do to encourage and build this skill. 7:25 - At 2.5 years-old, kids will likely need an adult to narrate and also facilitate the sharing so they learn how it's done. 11:40 - Kids can become territorial at this age, so it can be helpful to have pl...

Jun 06, 202425 min

208. Using Internal Family Systems to emotionally support mothers with the creators of The Mothercentric Approach

When a child is born, so too is a mother. In this episode, we'll explore this metamorphosis and how the abrupt shift into motherhood can shatter our former identity into many different parts (and why that doesn’t necessarily have to be a bad thing). Joining me is Rebecca Geshuri and Jessica Sorci, the brilliant creators behind The Mothercentric Approach, which blends Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapy with maternal mental health. Rebecca and Jessica will help listeners understand IFS and how ...

Jun 04, 202456 min

207. Q&A: How can I help my child maintain their friendships over the summer?

Beyond the Sessions is answering YOUR parenting questions! In this episode, Dr. Rebecca Hershberg, Dr. Emily Upshur, and I talk about... 2:27 - Reframe your goal from being about maintaining the specific friendships to be about maintaining the social skills your child has acquired over the school year instead. 4:13 - Using summer as your child's opportunity to get to try something new and allow them to explore different parts of themselves. 6:26 - If a child has struggled in the past, the friend...

May 30, 202425 min

206. Picky eating, ARFID, and SPACE: How a new anxiety treatment can help your child be more flexible around food with Dr. Yaara Shimshoni

Reduce stress around mealtimes and help your child be more flexible with what they eat! Joining me today is Dr. Yaara Shimshoni, a clinical psychologist and a clinical assistant professor at the Yale School of Medicine, Child Study Center. We'll explore the complexities of Avoidant Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID) and its distinction from typical picky eating. Yaara will detail how this severe eating disorder impacts children's health and social lives, and offer practical strategies for ...

May 28, 202456 min

205. Q&A: How can I use a positive parenting approach with my older kids?

Beyond the Sessions is answering YOUR parenting questions! In this episode, Dr. Rebecca Hershberg, Dr. Emily Upshur, and I talk about... 1:53 - What "positive parenting" really is from a psychological perspective. 4:20 - Our child's development is not always linear, it's important to consider their regulation level and other situational factors when we set our expectations of them. 5:20 - As parents, we're often more triggered when our elementary-aged and older kids exhibit "bad behaviors." 7:19...

May 23, 202420 min

204. The science of “mom-rage” and how to use mindfulness as a tool for being less reactive with Diana Winston

From neurological changes during pregnancy to the demands of parenthood, we explore the science behind "mom-rage" and how mindfulness can help rewire our responses. Here to help us explore the meaning behind anger, the difference between reactivity and responsiveness, and practical steps to navigate mom-rage with grace and understanding is Diana Winston. Diana is the Director of Mindfulness Education at UCLA's Mindful Awareness Research Center and is the author of The Little Book of Being: Pract...

May 21, 202449 min

203. Q&A: What strategies can help me be more attuned to my child?

Beyond the Sessions is answering YOUR parenting questions! In this episode Dr. Emily Upshur and I talk about... 3:10 - What you can be on the lookout for to alert you to the fact that you are (or aren't) properly attuning to your child. 5:10 - Strategies to help parents attune to children whose cues and signals are harder to read and understand. 9:36 - Focusing on a granular moment can lead to confusion for parents, but zooming out can help you be more accurate in your understanding of what your...

May 16, 202423 min

202. Regulation, reward systems, and rest: Rewiring the way our kids interact with screens with Alé Duarte

Are we asking the wrong questions when it comes to our kids’ screen usage? In a world where technology isn’t going away, the right questions may be less about time limits, access, and controlling their behaviors and more about how we can build a child’s internal regulation system and rewire the reward center in their brain and body that screens are designed to hijack. Joining me to offer a paradigm shift for the way we approach technology with children is somatic educator and therapist, Alé Duar...

May 14, 20241 hr 6 min
Hosted on Libsyn
For the best experience, listen in Metacast app for iOS or Android