about Riley

Therapist for Pregnancy and Postpartum in Wichita, KS

riley blanton t-lmft

I have been where you are sitting.

As a first-time mom grieving a traumatic birth experience, I found myself searching the web for support in postpartum.

As a clinician, I would LOVE to be there for you in this transition time.

who am i?

I am a C-section, birth-trauma-surviving, VBAC, foster, and adoptive mama of three. I've formula fed and breastfed. I've labored at a birthing center and at a hospital. I haven't lived through everything you have, but I think that's the beauty of sitting together and learning your experience.

Pronouns: she/her/hers

why am I qualified?

I received my Bachelor's in Psychology from Old Dominion University in 2020 and graduated with a Master's in Marriage and Family Therapy from Friends University in 2023.

I currently serve on the Kansas Chapter of Postpartum Support International as their Communications Director. I am constantly educating myself further in order to provide you the best care possible.

HOW CAN I HELP YOU?

Ultimately, therapy is your experience, and you guide your treatment. Things I can help you identify or process through include: mood changes that come with pregnancy and postpartum, how becoming a parent changed your view of your own childhood, not feeling like or recognizing yourself anymore, previous loss experiences, increasing your confidence, working out issues in your relationship, processing disappointing birth or pregnancy experience, etc.

what are my values?

I am a pro-choice, LGBTQIA+ affirming, inclusive, non-judgmental, sailor-mouthed individual and therapist. I believe everyone is welcome inside and outside of my office regardless of sexual orientation, income status, gender identity, ethnicity, or past history.

what am i like in therapy?

In the therapy room, you might find me making jokes, bringing out Play-Doh, and tearing up alongside you. I prioritize creating a non-judgmental space for you with a splash of humor. Creativity and play are my strong suits, but I also value the hard moments because that’s where growth begins.

WHAT DO I DO FOR FUN?

If I had no responsibilities and free childcare, you could find me writing or reading in a cozy blanket for days on end. With a cup of coffee in hand of course.

THE OFFICE

counseling for new moms

Holding New Therapy is located inside the offices of Flourish Wellness Collective. We collaborate with other perinatal providers, including medication management, pelvic floor therapists, doulas, placenta encapsulation providers, as well as other therapists.

I can collaborate with your care team as well if you wish — inside or outside of Flourish Wellness Collective! Communication between your therapist, doula, ob-gyn, primary care physician, or midwife can play an important role in supporting your mental health during your pregnancy and postpartum!

flourish perinatal wellness collective
therapy for abortion
Holding New Therapy in Wichita, KS

trainings completed

The Institute of Birth, Breath, and Death's Holding Space for Abortion

The Seleni Institute's Black Perinatal Mental Health

Various trainings from Postpartum Support International's Annual 2023 Conference with topics that include Termination for Medical Reasons, Post-Abortion Support, Paternal Mental Health, Perinatal Support for Individuals with Personality Disorders, etc.

certifications

Level 2 Certified in Gottman Method Couples Therapy

In the process of pursuing my Perinatal Mental Health Certification from Postpartum Support International

job experience

In addition to being a private practice therapist, I also am a Mental Health Contract Writer for DotDash Meredith and have published articles for Health.com, VerywellFamily.com, VerywellHealth.com, and Parents.com.

I also enjoy teaching psychology students as an adjunct professor for Friends University in Wichita, KS.

professional MEMBERSHIPS

Postpartum Support International (2022)

American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy (2021)

Delta Kappa (2021)