Misconceptions

Dr. Shana Frydman, PhD, LCSW, is the Clinical Director of Shalom Task Force, overseeing the agency's trauma-informed direct services and prevention programming. Previously, she served as CEO for seven years, leading the organization through significant growth, expanding legal services, the hotline/chatline, and educational initiatives to support survivors and promote healthy relationships in the Jewish community. With over 20 years of experience in domestic abuse and family violence, Dr. Frydman is a trauma-informed therapist, consultant, and speaker. She has held leadership roles at UJA Federation, leading its Task Force on Family Violence, and served on the advisory board of the NYC Mayor's Office. She lectures and publishes on domestic violence, sexual abuse, trauma, and culturally informed practice. In addition to her role at Shalom Task Force, she maintains a private practice and provides consulting and training for organizations and professionals. Dr. Frydman earned her MSW at the University of Maryland and her PhD at Hunter College Silberman School of Social Work/CUNY Grad Center.   CONNECT WITH DVORA ENTIN: Website: https://www.dvoraentin.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dvoraentin YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@misconceptionspodcast  

Dr. Neill Epperson is a nationally recognized psychiatrist and a leading voice in women's mental health across the lifespan. She serves as Professor and the Robert Freedman Endowed Chair of the Department of Psychiatry at the University of Colorado School of Medicine, where she also leads as Executive Director of the Helen E. and Arthur Johnson Depression Center. Before joining CU-Anschutz, Dr. Epperson founded and directed the Penn Center for Women's Behavioral Wellness and Penn PROMOTES at the University of Pennsylvania. Her groundbreaking work has advanced our understanding of how hormones, sex, and reproductive status influence brain function and mental health—especially during key life transitions like puberty, pregnancy, and menopause. A prolific researcher with more than 250 peer-reviewed publications, Dr. Epperson's work has been consistently funded by the NIH for over two decades. She is also a dedicated mentor, educator, and advocate for integrating sex and gender into all aspects of biomedical research. CONNECT WITH DVORA ENTIN: Website: https://www.dvoraentin.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dvoraentin YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@misconceptionspodcast  

Sarah Rivkah Kohn is the founder & director of Links Family, providing children & teens who lost a parent with emotional and practical support services tailored to the unique needs of grieving families. Sarah Rivkah has gained 100s of hours of grief training, through organizations such as Our House Grief, NACG, and more. She has provided specialized grief trainings for Ohel, Wurzweiler/Sara Schenirer, Kinus Hashluchos, CORE, and others. Her ability to combine professional insight with compassionate understanding has made her a trusted resource for communities, educators, and mental health professionals alike. Sarah Rivkah is dedicated to creating a more sensitive and grief-aware world and empowering grieving children, teens, and adults with the tools they need to process and honor their grief as they navigate their unique life journeys.    CONNECT WITH DVORA ENTIN: Website: https://www.dvoraentin.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dvoraentin YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@misconceptionspodcast  

Dr. Jonathan Herman is a New York-based OB/GYN who has delivered over 12,000 babies and spent decades championing women's health. A leader in hereditary cancer screening, Dr. Herman is known for his work with BRCA and Lynch Syndrome, helping patients understand and manage their genetic cancer risk. He has delivered over 600 lectures nationwide, appeared on The Doctors, and served as a medical advisor on the documentary Inheritance, which follows three women navigating the impact of the BRCA gene.   CONNECT WITH DVORA ENTIN: Website: https://www.dvoraentin.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dvoraentin YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@misconceptionspodcast      

Brennan Peterson is a professor in the Department of Marriage and Family Therapy at Chapman University in Orange, California.  He studies the psychological impact of infertility on men and women.  He is a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California, specializing in fertility counseling, couple therapy, and trauma. CONNECT WITH DVORA ENTIN: Website: https://www.dvoraentin.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dvoraentin YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@misconceptionspodcast  

Jessica Zucker is a Los Angeles-based psychologist specializing in reproductive health and the author of the award-winning book I HAD A MISCARRIAGE: A Memoir, a Movement. Jessica is the creator of the viral #IHadaMiscarriage campaign. Her writing has appeared in The New York Times, The Washington Post, New York Magazine, Vogue, and Harvard Business Review, among others. She's been featured on NPR, The Today Show, and Good Morning America and earned advanced degrees from New York University and Harvard University. Her next book, NORMALIZE IT: Upending the Silence, Stigma, and Shame That Shape Women's Lives, is due out April 22nd. Where to buy the book: https://www.amazon.com/dp/1683738144 https://bookshop.org/p/books/normalize-it-upending-the-silence-stigma-and-shame-that-shape-women-s-lives/7bTd5Tpai2fwDAW9?ean=9781683738145&next=t& Jessica's Instagram: @ihadamiscarriage Jessica's Website: drjessicazucker.com   CONNECT DVORA ENTIN: Website: https://www.dvoraentin.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dvoraentin YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@misconceptionspodcast

Rabbi Larry Rothwachs is a licensed social worker and accomplished leader in both rabbinic and mental health fields.  Since August 2002, Rabbi Rothwachs has served as the senior rabbi of Congregation Beth Aaron in Teaneck, New Jersey, fostering a warm and supportive community alongside his wife, Chaviva, a special education teacher at the Sinai Schools. Rabbi Rothwachs is a graduate of Yeshiva College, the Azrieli School of Jewish Education, and the Wurzweiler School of Social Work, and he received his semicha from the Rabbi Isaac Elchanan Theological Seminary (RIETS). From 1998 to 2016, he taught Talmud at Yeshiva University High School for Boys and the Rosenbaum Yeshiva of North Jersey. In April 2016, he was appointed Director of Professional Rabbinics at RIETS, where he trains and mentors future rabbinic leaders.  Additionally, since 2016, he has served as the head rabbi of Camp Morasha, the largest orthodox summer camp in North America. His extensive background includes leadership roles such as president of the Rabbinical Council of Bergen County and executive committee member of the Rabbinical Council of America. In May 2016, Rabbi Rothwachs was recognized by The Forward as one of "America's Most Inspiring Rabbis."   In January 2023, Rabbi Rothwachs was appointed as the founding rabbi of Meromei Shemesh, a developing community in Ramat Beit Shemesh, Israel. Inspired by over two decades of rabbinic leadership in Teaneck, where he witnessed 20% of his congregants make aliyah, Rabbi Rothwachs brings his extensive experience to this aspirational, Torah-centric kehilla. Meromei Shemesh is designed to be a vibrant shul-centered community, combining the warmth and connectivity of an American shul with the spiritual richness of life in Israel.   Rabbi Rothwachs also maintains a personal blog (larryrothwachs.com), where he shares insights, reflections, and resources related to Torah, mental health, and personal growth.   CONNECT DVORA ENTIN: Website: https://www.dvoraentin.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dvoraentin YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@misconceptionspodcast

Dr. Elissa Hellman is an experienced board-certified OBGYN.  She received her medical degree from NYU School of Medicine and completed her residency at Northshore University Hospital in Long Island in OBGYN.  Dr. Hellman has been in clinical practice for 15 years with a recent move from Milwaukee, WI to Israel.  She is also the physician at her self-named telemedicine gynecology practice focused on the health needs of Jewish women (www.drelissahellmanmd).  Through this platform, she offers one on one consultations to address gaps in knowledge and education many Jewish women face as they go through their reproductive years.  She also developed two educational courses Girls Growing Up, a puberty course for Jewish girls and The Kallah Curriculum, for Jewish brides who want to feel as prepared as possible in all aspects of women's health and reproduction as they can.  Instagram (@drelissahellmanmd) is where she hangs out and tries to have a little fun spreading evidence-based information about all the stages of womanhood- with a Jewish twist!   CONNECT DVORA ENTIN: Website: https://www.dvoraentin.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dvoraentin YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@misconceptionspodcast

Talli Yehuda Rosenbaum is an individual and couple therapist and currently certified as a sex therapist  and sex therapy supervisor by International Associates of Psychosexual Therapists (IAPST) and is a certified as a sex therapist by the Israeli Society for Sex Therapy (ISST). She is co-author with Dr. David Ribner of the book “I am For My Beloved: A Guide to Enhanced Intimacy for Married Couples.”  and co-editor with Dr. Anna Padoa of  the Springer textbook entitled “The Overactive Pelvic Floor.” She has authored over 40  journal articles and several book chapters  on trauma, sexual pain disorders, sexual health, unconsummated marriage, and sexuality and Judaism and is an associate editor of the Sexual Medicine Reviews. Talli earned a Masters in Clinical Sociology and Counseling and a certificate in Mental Health Studies from the University of North Texas.  She holds a bachelors degree in Physical Therapy from Northwestern University and before training in psychotherapy, treated patients as a physical therapist for 25 years.   In addition to maintaining an active private practice,  Talli co-hosts the Intimate Judaism podcast with Rabbi Scott Kahn and is the academic advisor for Yahel: The Center for Jewish Intimacy.  Talli frequently lectures both in Israel and abroad, both to lay as well as professional audiences, and has presented various webinar courses currently available online.   CONNECT DVORA ENTIN: Website: https://www.dvoraentin.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dvoraentin YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@misconceptionspodcast

Nicole McNelis is a licensed mental health therapist and perinatal mental health counseling specialist.  She is the founder of an award-winning counseling private practice in the suburbs of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania – where she also resides with her family. Passionate about supporting individuals through life transitions both big and small, Nicole helps her clients move through the overwhelm and exhaustion of juggling it all – all the time. Nicole has been featured as a mental health expert in print publications, online media, books, and podcasts. Serving as a Subject Matter Expert and Conference Presenter for Postpartum Support International, Nicole is honored to serve the perinatal mental health community.  For more information on Nicole and her practice, visit  www.nicolemcnelis.com. CONNECT DVORA ENTIN: Website: https://www.dvoraentin.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dvoraentin YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@misconceptionspodcast

Dvori Rosenbaum lives with her family in Melbourne, Australia. Besides for being a mother of 8 and grandmother too, she runs a home bakery that makes popular babka, challah and other goodies. Together with her husband, they also are involved in several chesed organizations. After losing their one week old son Refoel 13 years ago, they channeled their experience to help others, culminating in bringing Knafayim to Australia and running it there.   CONNECT DVORA ENTIN: Website: https://www.dvoraentin.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dvoraentin YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@misconceptionspodcast

Emily Schlussel Markovic is an obstetrician gynecologist, completing a fellowship in Maternal Fetal Medicine at Maimonides Medical Center and a smitten mother of two girls. She draws on her own patient experiences with infertility and chronic disease to be a more caring and empathic medical provider. Emily enjoys hiking, traveling and really good vegetarian food.    CONNECT DVORA ENTIN: Website: https://www.dvoraentin.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dvoraentin YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@misconceptionspodcast

Chanie Delman, LCSW, PMH-C is a reproductive and maternal mental health therapist. Chanie supports women experiencing infertility, infancy, and miscarriage loss, postpartum mood disorders, motherhood and loss of all ages. She also specializes in working with partners of those struggling with addictions. Chanie maintains a private practice in Queens, the Five Towns and offers virtual sessions as well. Chanie can be reached at chaniedelman@gmail.com.   CONNECT DVORA ENTIN: Website: https://www.dvoraentin.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dvoraentin YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@misconceptionspodcast

Maya Grobel is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and psychotherapist in private practice where she specializes in supporting individuals and couples struggling to conceive or building their family in alternative ways. Maya is also co-founder of EM•POWER with Moxi, a company focused on education, support and logistics in embryo donation. Maya and her TV producer husband Noah made a feature length film documenting their tumultuous journey to parenthood, which ended with the birth of their daughter who was conceived via embryo donation. The film, called One More Shot, debuted on Netflix in January 2018 and is now available on Amazon Prime.    Maya Grobel: EM•POWER with Moxi: https://www.empowerwithmoxi.com/ IG @empowerwithmoxi FB Empowerwithmoxi LinkedIn Empowerwithmoxi   Dvora Entin:  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dvoraentin YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@misconceptionspodcast

Yaakov Rabinowitz is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and an ordained Rabbi. He currently works as a therapist focusing in reproductive mental health, mood disorders, and the impacts of mental health challenges on relationships. Yaakov spent three years living in Berlin, Germany while working in outreach for the Lauder Foundation and Olami,  and he is married with two daughters.    CONNECT DVORA ENTIN: Website: https://www.dvoraentin.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dvoraentin YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@misconceptionspodcast

Jackie, LMSW, earned her Masters in Social Work from the University of Pennsylvania and holds certification in Applied Behavior Analysis from Arcadia University. Passionate about supporting children and their families, she focuses on addressing their social, emotional, and academic needs in the school setting. Jackie specializes in facilitating children's social skills, self-regulation, and executive functioning. Beyond her professional pursuits, she values community and connection, believing strongly in the power of collective support. Jackie welcomes opportunities to create awareness around complex issues facing members of our community. Jackie resides in Lower Merion, PA, with her husband, Stephen, and their three children.      CONNECT DVORA ENTIN: Website: https://www.dvoraentin.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dvoraentin YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@misconceptionspodcast

Tova Warburg Sinensky is a graduate of Nishmat's first U.S. Yoatzot Halacha cohort, and has worked as a Yoetzet Halacha for over ten years.  In addition to serving the Greater Philadelphia and Atlanta communities, Tova is on the advisory committee of the Jewish Fertility Foundation, has consulted on sexuality curricula for high schools, and has published resources and articles pertaining to Taharat Hamishpacha and the broader religious experience of women.  Tova also works as a Program Consultant for the Jewish New Teacher Project, where she trains and coaches educators in the art and science of mentoring beginning teachers.   Tova graduated Summa Cum Laude from the Stern College Honors Program with a Bachelor's Degree in Philosophy, holds a Master's Degree in Education from the Azrieli Graduate School and holds certificates from Yeshiva University's Graduate Program for Advanced Talmudic Studies and Nishmat's Miriam Glaubach Center. She lives in Bala Cynwyd, PA with her husband and three children. * * * *    *** CONNECT WITH ME: Website: https://www.dvoraentin.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dvoraentin YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@misconceptionspodcast

Elke, residing in Monsey, NY, is a devoted mother and founder of Tikvaseinu's helpline, launched in November of 2022.  Motivated by her personal experience with a Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorder (PMAD), she passionately initiated this organization to offer support to women facing similar challenges.  Elke is committed to raising awareness about postpartum depression and reducing the stigma associated with discussing such issues.  Her primary objectives include building a robust support network and ensuring access to essential resources for the women and families of Monsey.   * * * *   *** CONNECT WITH ME: Website: https://www.dvoraentin.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dvoraentin YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@misconceptionspodcast

Rachel Weinerman, MD is an Associate Professor at Case Western Reserve University and a Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility specialist at University Hospitals in Cleveland, OH, where she is the Program Director for the REI Fellowship. She attended Harvard Medical School and completed OB/GYN training at NYU followed by REI fellowship at the University of Pennsylvania. Dr. Weinerman specializes in complex fertility and recurrent pregnancy loss care and is also the Director of Third-Party Reproduction at University Hospitals.  She is an active member of ASRM, SREI, and SART. Her research interests include the impact of ART procedures on implantation environment and neonatal outcomes, and she investigates these areas through clinical and translational methods. She has published numerous research publications, book chapters, and editorials.  Dr. Weinerman is a passionate teacher and educator of medical students, residents, and fellows.   CONNECT DVORA ENTIN: Website: https://www.dvoraentin.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dvoraentin YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@misconceptionspodcast

Tamar Daniel is a creative professional Originally from London, Via Israel who now call Philadelphia home.  She has 16 years experience working with brands such as Topshop and Anthropologie in roles ranging from design to sourcing and marketing, as well as founding her own fashion line, which sold in 2019.  Tamar loves yoga, fresh hummus, and hanging out in her PA home with her husband and their five kids.    CONNECT DVORA ENTIN: Website: https://www.dvoraentin.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dvoraentin YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@misconceptionspodcast

Diana Melnick is a registered psychotherapist and certified intimacy therapist. She runs a multidisciplinary clinic in Toronto specializing in couples therapy and intimacy function. She has been a kalla teacher for close to 15 years.    Sara Klein is a registered Physiotherapist with more than 15 years of experience. She graduated from the University of Toronto with an MScPT in 2005 and subsequently completed additional training in Woman's Pelvic Health Physiotherapy. Sara specializes in the treatment of pelvic floor dysfunction including pelvic pain, bowel and bladder dysfunction, pregnancy and postpartum recovery.  Sara is passionate about treating people with pain and also serves as a researcher, educator and staff physiotherapist in the Chronic Pain Program at the Hospital for Sick Children assessing and treating teens and children with persistent pain conditions.   *** CONNECT WITH ME: Website: https://www.dvoraentin.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dvoraentin YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@misconceptionspodcast

Adina Landa is a proud mother of 6, k"ah, a shlucha in Northern California and Life Coach for Chabad Moms. In between growing and running her Chabad Center, and caring for her adorable kids, she's also the host of The Confident Chabad Mom Podcast and facilitates a membership called The Calm & Confident Chabad Mom Tribe. She's passionate about taking moms from stressed and overwhelmed to calm, confident and present. She aims to take the struggle out of the juggle so moms can enjoy their #momlife, not just get through it.   *** CONNECT WITH ME: Website: https://www.dvoraentin.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dvoraentin YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@misconceptionspodcast

  *** CONNECT WITH ME: Website: https://www.dvoraentin.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dvoraentin YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@misconceptionspodcast

Rachel Honeyman is a martial artist, writer, and the founder of honeybebold, a hub for empowering female entrepreneurs in their businesses and bodies through bold branding, impactful websites, and transformative self-defense skills. She lives in Long Island, NY with her husband Tzvi and their two bunnies, Tonks and Lupin. And if you couldn't tell, she's a huge Harry Potter nerd.   https://www.kveller.com/our-infertility-journey-was-excruciating-enough-then-came-coronavirus/ https://blogs.timesofisrael.com/i-had-a-miscarriage-while-reading-megillat-esther/ https://www.grapplearts.com/jiu-jitsu-and-grief/  https://theribbonbox.com/fertility/what-we-learned-from-choosing-an-egg-donor-for-fertility-treatment CONNECT DVORA ENTIN: Website: https://www.dvoraentin.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dvoraentin YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@misconceptionspodcast

Dr. Esther Rollhaus is an adult, child, and adolescent psychiatrist in private practice in Riverdale, NY and via telepsychiatry to New York, New Jersey, Connecticut, Pennsylvania, and Florida. She has a particular interest in women's mental health, infertility and pregnancy loss, and pregnancy and postpartum mental health. Esther received her medical degree from the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai. She completed general adult psychiatry residency and child and adolescent psychiatry fellowship at Montefiore Medical Center.  She has pursued post-graduate training in reproductive and women's mental health via Postpartum Support International, Project Teach, and the American Society of Reproductive Medicine. CONNECT WITH DR. ESTHER ROLLHAUSE Web: childandfamilypsychiatry.com   CONNECT DVORA ENTIN: Website: https://www.dvoraentin.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dvoraentin YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@misconceptionspodcast

Rabbi Michael Bleicher, LCSW, is passionate about supporting the mental health of his clients throughout their fertility journey. Whether the struggle is learning of a fetal anomaly, infertility, reproductive loss, termination or coping with perinatal mood and anxiety disorders such as postpartum anxiety and depression, he offers a sensitive and supportive space for individuals and couples to process their experiences and to gain the insight and skills necessary to navigate the road ahead. He is the director of clinical training at Achieve Behavioral Health, an outpatient behavioral health center located in Rockland County, New York and the clinical supervisor of its Women's Health track. He feels privileged to be affiliated with many Jewish organizations that are dedicated to supporting couples struggling with infertility and reproductive loss including Bonei Olam, Knafayim and Yesh Tikvah. Michael maintains a private practice in New York and New Jersey and has been privileged to lecture in communities throughout North America and Israel. You are welcome to contact him at BleicherLCSW@gmail.com.   CONNECT DVORA ENTIN: Website: https://www.dvoraentin.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dvoraentin YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@misconceptionspodcast

Abby Grayson, MA, LPC Abby Grayson is a Licensed Professional Counselor in private practice in Skillman, NJ. Abby specializes in treating clients who are experiencing infertility and/or using assisted reproduction technology to build a family. Abby's area of expertise is long-term counseling relationships with infertility patients, focusing on the complex emotional impact of building a family through non-traditional means and issues related to donor-gamete conception throughout the lifespan. Abby is also a specialized trauma therapist, with a particular interest in the clinical intersection between complex trauma and infertility. Abby has been a faculty member at the annual Jefferson Infertility Counseling Conference at Jefferson Medical School, teaching other clinicians about working with donor gamete recipients. Abby also volunteers with various organizations to raise awareness about hereditary cancer risk in the Jewish community.   CONNECT DVORA ENTIN: Website: https://www.dvoraentin.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dvoraentin YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@misconceptionspodcast

Tiffany Conyers is an expert therapist working with perinatal women.  Eavesdrop on this fascinating conversation between two faith-filled therapists - the conflicts, the challenges, and how faith holds them together.   *** CONNECT WITH ME: Website: https://www.dvoraentin.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dvoraentin YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@misconceptionspodcast

Hillary Waller, a skilled therapist with years of experience at Karen Kleiman's Postpartum Stress Center takes us through a conversation about the transition to motherhood, how matrescence changes us and how we have to talk more about it.   CONNECT DVORA ENTIN: Website: https://www.dvoraentin.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dvoraentin YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@misconceptionspodcast

In continuation to episode 14 PART ONE, Malka takes on her personal experience of infertility and the choices and chances that occur along the way. A fierce advocate and supporter of others, Malka chose to share so others feel less alone. Join us for this powerful conversation.   About Malka Edinger: Malka Edinger is a speech-language pathologist, wife, and mother. Professionally, Malka works with middle school students who require support for language-based learning disabilities and social communication disorders. Malka became involved in the larger infertility/loss community while struggling for several years with infertility, pregnancy loss, a TFMR pregnancy, starting a surrogacy journey, and then enduring a high risk pregnancy and pre-term birth. During her journey to becoming a mother, Malka both sought-out the support of community resources and closely connected with other infertility warriors along the way. Currently, Malka serves as an empathetic friend and knowledgeable resource for others who are struggling on their journey to parenthood. In her free time, (what free time?), Malka enjoys thrift shopping, cooking with fresh herbs, watching reality TV, and dreaming up creative projects she might get to “one day.”   * * * *   *** CONNECT WITH ME: Website: https://www.dvoraentin.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dvoraentin YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@misconceptionspodcast

In this episode, Malka takes on her personal experience of infertility and the choices and chances that occur along the way. A fierce advocate and supporter of others, Malka chose to share so others feel less alone. Join us for this powerful conversation.   About Malka Edinger Malka Edinger is a speech-language pathologist, wife, and mother. Professionally, Malka works with middle school students who require support for language-based learning disabilities and social communication disorders. Malka became involved in the larger infertility/loss community while struggling for several years with infertility, pregnancy loss, a TFMR pregnancy, starting a surrogacy journey, and then enduring a high risk pregnancy and pre-term birth. During her journey to becoming a mother, Malka both sought-out the support of community resources and closely connected with other infertility warriors along the way. Currently, Malka serves as an empathetic friend and knowledgeable resource for others who are struggling on their journey to parenthood. In her free time, (what free time?), Malka enjoys thrift shopping, cooking with fresh herbs, watching reality TV, and dreaming up creative projects she might get to “one day.”   * * * *   *** CONNECT WITH ME: Website: https://www.dvoraentin.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dvoraentin YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@misconceptionspodcast

Joanne Cacciatore, PhD is one of the world's premier experts in traumatic grief, with specific focus on the death of a child. As a master educator and researcher, Joanne shares her lived and learned experiences about the language of grief and loss. Listen and learn from this compassionate and unique individual.   About Dr. Joanne Cacciatore: Dr. Joanne Cacciatore is a Professor at Arizona State University, a Senior Sustainability Scholar, and Director of the Graduate Certificate in Trauma and Bereavement Program.  She is in the top 2% of scholars in the world in her field of study, and has devoted her life to research, practice, and community based care of those suffering traumatic grief.  She served on Oprah and Prince Harry's Mental Health Committee for the Apple TV Series, The Me You Can't See, which also featured her work at the Selah Carefarm, a sustainable, therapeutic community that brings rescued animals together with humans who are grieving the tragic death of a child, parent, partner, or other primary family member. Her numerous research studies have been published in top tier journals such as the Lancet, and other medical journals, and she just released one the Great Courses called Understanding and Coping with Grief with Audible.  Her best selling book, Bearing the Unbearable: Love, loss, and the heartbreaking path of grief, has been published in seven languages and is a seminal text in grief courses all over the world. Her newborn daughter, Cheyenne, died in 1994 changing the entire course of her life.   Guest links:  www.JoanneCacciatore.com or www.SelahCarefarm.com   CONNECT WITH ME:  Website: https://www.dvoraentin.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dvoraentin YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@misconceptionspodcast

When lightning strikes twice. The unusual story of a mother and therapist choosing to terminate a pregnancy due to fetal anomaly. Julie is a renowned expert in the field of Reproductive mental health and explores the complex experience of being on both sides of the couch.   CONNECT DVORA ENTIN: Website: https://www.dvoraentin.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dvoraentin YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@misconceptionspodcast

Attention all perinatal therapists! It's unusual to have the opportunity to learn clinical insights from a therapist and survivor of a rare and catastrophic birth trauma. This bonus episode is a mini-training from an expert with lived experience of the most complex kind. Get ready to take notes, this one is a real gift. Keep your ears open for future therapist edition bonus episodes to strengthen your clinical practice!   About Kayleigh Summers: Kayleigh Summers is a licensed clinical social worker and private practice owner in Downingtown, PA. She specializes in perinatal trauma and has specific training in both perinatal mental health and EMDR. Kayleigh uses her training as a licensed therapist and her lived experience as an Amniotic Fluid Embolism survivor to treat and support families experiencing perinatal trauma. Kayleigh has also created thriving birth trauma support communities through Instagram and Tik Tok, as well as her podcast, where she provides connection, story sharing, and resources to support those experiencing birth and other trauma.   Guest links:  Website: https://thebirthtraumamama.com/  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thebirthtrauma_mama/  Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thebirthtrauma_mama    Dvora Entin:  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dvoraentin YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@misconceptionspodcast

When Infertility is experienced by a religious couple, the process of Mikvah (laws of family purity) can become incredibly complicated. Listen to Carly Chodosh, a licensed therapist and sex therapist and Mikvah Director explore the complexities of this personal and private space. About Carly Chodosh Carly Chodosh LCSW, CST, PMH-C is a psychotherapist and Mikvah Director in Lower Merion, PA. Currently, Carly is the only dual-certified sex therapist (through AASECT) and perinatal mental health therapist (PMH-C) in the Orthodox Jewish world. In addition to working with individuals and couples, Carly provides continuing education and training for new and developing Mikvaos around the world, as well as continuing education for Kallah Teachers, Yoetzot, and Rebbetzins around the intersection of halachic practice and mental health.   * * * *** CONNECT WITH ME: Website: https://www.dvoraentin.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dvoraentin YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@misconceptionspodcast

Shifra Rabinowitz's experience of motherhood may catch you by surprise. It may make you wonder if other women feel this way and question the assumptions around religious women and family building. With her unique perspective and experience, Shifra offers support to all women experiencing a different and sometimes surprising reality of motherhood.   About Shifra Rabinowitz: Shifra Rabinowitz, MHC is committed to providing quality mental health care and support for individuals and families navigating the challenges of fertility and family. She has extensive experience in crisis response, managing a shelter for recovering addicts and trauma survivors and mentoring single mothers. She is a sleep consultant and passionate about empowering women throughout the lifespan. Shifra has a Master's Degree in Mental Health Counseling, and has advanced training in Perinatal and Reproductive Mental Health. She is currently seeing clients through telehealth in NY, PA, and NJ.   Website: https://www.dvoraentin.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dvoraentin YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@misconceptionspodcast

OCD and intrusive thoughts often show up in the experience of the postpartum parent. It can feel confusing and distressing to those experiencing uncomfortable and often scary thoughts about their baby and themselves. Join us for a fascinating conversation with an internationally renowned expert  on OCD!   About Elyssa Kushner: Elyssa Kushner is a graduate of Stern College and completed her masters and doctorate in clinical psychology at Lasalle University. She worked for several years at the Center for the Treatment and Study of Anxiety at the University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine before joining the staff at the Corporal Michael Crescenz VA medical center as an assistant director of training.  At the VA, Dr. Kushner has helped to develop a national training program for treating depression in groups as well as works as a national consultant for training programs in depression and suicide safety planning. In addition, she has a small private practice focusing on anxiety disorders, mostly in the Orthodox Jewish community.    Website: https://www.dvoraentin.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dvoraentin YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@misconceptionspodcast

Our chromosomes hold the secrets of who we are and who we become. When confronting genetic identity and challenges in a pregnancy, the terminology and experience can be confusing. Listen as our expert, Erica Schindewolf, breaks down the meaning and the making of who we are!   * * * *   *** CONNECT WITH ME: Website: https://www.dvoraentin.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dvoraentin YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@misconceptionspodcast

Rivka Sidorsky is a master therapist and certified sex therapist. Join us for this fascinating conversation about women's sexual health, the interplay between the emotional and physical experience of intimacy and direct conversation around sexual pain.    About Rivka Sidorsky: Rivka Sidorsky, LCSW-C, CST is an AASECT Certified Sex Therapist, a licensed clinical social worker, a Board Certified Supervisor, a published author, a Harvard University research fellowship recipient, and an experienced lecturer. She is the owner and director of a group psychotherapy practice in Silver Spring, Maryland. She is a professional member of the American Association of Sex Educators, Counselors, and Therapists, the International Society for the Study of Women's Sexual Health, and the International Society for Sexual Medicine. She was personally mentored and was trained in sexual dysfunction and sex therapy from internationally renowned Dr. Laura Berman, Oprah's relationship and sex expert, at the Berman Center in Chicago. In addition to her private practice, she speaks widely on improving intimacy, female function and dysfunction, and on intimacy after cancer at professional conferences, universities, hospitals, and for community events. She lives in Silver Spring with her husband and their four children. For more information and for appointments, www.rivkasidorsky.com   Connect with Rivka Sidorsky: https://www.facebook.com/RivkaSidorskyLLC https://www.instagram.com/rivkasidorskysextherapy/ www.rivkasidorsky.com

Many of you may have met Birdie Gunyon Meyer as a facilitator of PSI's as a hilarious and bluntly honest seasoned professional nurse, counselor, lactation specialist and expert bra fitter!  Today's conversation talks about the beginning of her work and the value of support and connection in the postpartum experience.    * * * *   *** CONNECT WITH ME: Website: https://www.dvoraentin.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dvoraentin YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@misconceptionspodcast

Medication and Motherhood can be one of the more confusing experiences of the reproductive years. Every parent seeks to create the safest experience for their unborn child while balancing the responsibility to their own physical and mental health. Learn about the way that medication decisions are made and the most up-to-date research about meds and moods! About Dr. Rachel Shmuts, DO Dr. Rachel Shmuts, DO, is a reproductive and general adult psychiatrist practicing in Southern New Jersey. She graduated from the University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey School of Osteopathic Medicine in 2009 and pursued her general adult psychiatry residency training at Thomas Jefferson University Hospital in Philadelphia. She then completed a fellowship in Consultation-Liaison Psychiatry at the University of Pennsylvania, where she discovered her clinical passion in women's mental health. Dr. Shmuts is currently the Vice Chair of Education and Psychiatry Program Residency Director at Rowan University School of Osteopathic Medicine and in the past was involved in many academic programs and curriculum reform for medical student education. She has been an invited speaker to myriad training programs as well as regional, national, and international conferences on topics in reproductive psychiatry. and truly enjoys the collaborative and interdisciplinary nature of her work. In addition to her clinical and educational work, she served as the Treasurer for Postpartum Support International's New Jersey Chapter, and she is active on other boards, committees, and advocacy groups serving the mental health care needs of the community.    * * *   *** CONNECT WITH ME: Website: https://www.dvoraentin.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dvoraentin YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@misconceptionspodcast

Ever wonder about men coping with infertility? Do they have the same challenges when dealing with the medical and emotional complexity of building their family? Listen to this vibrant conversation between Dvora and Bill Petok, an expert in men and infertility to learn more about how men are different and not so different when navigating the infertility experience.   About Bill Petok, PhD Bill Petok earned his doctorate at the University of Maryland, College Park, in 1978. In full time independent practice in Baltimore, he is also a Clinical Associate Professor of Obstetrics and Gynecology at the Sidney Kimmel Medical College of Thomas Jefferson University in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, where he teaches residents and externs about human sexuality. Dr. Petok's other professional activities include the co-production of two films for training therapists, multiple journal articles, book chapters and regular presentations at state, national and international conferences on reproductive and sexual health. Bill has served as a board member of the ARC/Prince George's County and is a past president of the Anne Arundel County Children's Council. He is a past Chair of the Mental Health Professional Group of the American Society for Reproductive Medicine and currently serves on the steering committee of Seeds of Hope, a program of Jewish Community Services, which offers support and resources to Jewish individuals, couples, and families in Greater Baltimore experiencing infertility and family building challenges.   Connect with Bill Petok, PhD www.drpetok.com   Dvora Entin:  Website: https://www.dvoraentin.com/  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dvoraentin/ 

When Aliza and her husband hoped to create a family, they never imagined that route would include surrogacy. As an orthodox couple, they needed to navigate the halachic (religious law), emotional and financial experience of taking a route to parenthood that was mostly unpaved. From their experience, Aliza has built a community of women and couples exploring the possibilities of surrogacy in a supported and compassionate way.   Dvora Entin:  Website: https://www.dvoraentin.com/  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dvoraentin/ 

When Birth becomes a Trauma: Kayleigh Summers was expecting her first child, and after an uneventful labor the birth took a frightening turn. Listen to her story unfold and learn about the impact of birth trauma on identity, motherhood and parenting.    Guest links:  Website: https://thebirthtraumamama.com/  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thebirthtrauma_mama/  Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thebirthtrauma_mama  Dvora Entin: Website: https://www.dvoraentin.com/  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dvoraentin/ 

Misconceptions is a groundbreaking podcast dedicated to inspiring and empowering women across the globe. We focus on motherhood, maternal mental health and women's reproductive health often through the cultural lens of the Jewish woman. We dispel myths and challenge misconceptions with solid science, data and education.  Perfect for mothers, aspiring mothers, health professionals, or anyone interested in understanding the often complex and highly misunderstood world of women's maternal and reproductive health. Your host, Dvora Entin, is a licensed therapist, trained sex therapist and specialist in perinatal mental health. With an unwavering dedication to sharing evidence-based information, Dvora explores intriguing topics, guiding women through the intricate landscapes of mental health and reproductive struggles with resilience and empathy. Let's dispel these Misconceptions together!   CONNECT DVORA ENTIN: Website: https://www.dvoraentin.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dvoraentin