The transition to motherhood is often framed as joyful, yet many new mothers experience guilt, shame, and a sense of loss. These challenges stem from the complex process of maternal identity development, where personal, relational, and societal expectations collide. This session explores the emotional experiences of early motherhood, examining how guilt, shame, and grief emerge. Participants will learn practical, developmentally informed strategies to support adjustment, help clients normalize experiences, and foster self-compassion through evidence-based and creative counseling interventions.