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<p>We are excited to introduce our new membership plan, designed to provide comprehensive care for just $125/month with an annual committment or $150/month for a monthly membership. This plan ensures that you receive the holistic care you need without worrying about the cost.</p><h2>What Does the Membership Plan Include?</h2><p>Our membership plan offers a range of benefits that cater to your mental health needs. Here’s what you can expect:</p><ul><li>60 minute intake session (psychiatric diagnostic evaluation)</li><li>9 medication management visits per year (30 minutes each)</li><li>Completion of paperwork like FMLA or letters of support</li><li>Accessibility to you care team with reliable responses&nbsp;</li><li>While this DOES NOT include therapy we will coordinate either with your therapist or refer you to a therapist we know and trust</li><li>Cost is $125/month with annual committment or $150/month for month to month</li><li>One time $100 intiation fee (waived with annual commitment)</li></ul><p><span style="font-family: var(--head-fontFamily); font-size: calc(32px * var(--head-fontSize, 1)); font-style: var(--head-fontStyle, normal); font-weight: var(--head-fontWeight, 500); background-color: rgba(249,250,251,var(--tw-bg-opacity));" data-mce-style="font-family: var(--head-fontFamily); font-size: calc(32px * var(--head-fontSize, 1)); font-style: var(--head-fontStyle, normal); font-weight: var(--head-fontWeight, 500); background-color: rgba(249,250,251,var(--tw-bg-opacity));">How to Join</span><br></p><p><a title="Sign Up Here" href="https://intakeq.com/booking/iq1wiy" data-mce-href="https://intakeq.com/booking/iq1wiy">Sign Up Here</a><br data-mce-bogus="1"></p><p>Joining our membership plan is simple. You can sign up online and choose either the annual membership option for $125/month or the month to month option at $150/month. Our team is ready to assist you with the enrollment process.</p><p>We believe that mental health care should be accessible and affordable. With our new membership plan, you can take the first step towards better mental health today.</p><h2>About Dr. Craig<br data-mce-bogus="1"></h2><p>Dr. Craig received both her B.S. and M.D. at Texas A&amp;M University. &nbsp;She completed her Psychiatry Residency at University of Illinois at Chicago. &nbsp;Dr. Craig is board certified in General Adult Psychiatry. &nbsp;After finishing her residency she went on to be the first full-time psychiatrist at Howard Brown Health (a local LGBT community organization). She built the department from 2 staff members to a team of 7 psychiatrists and nurse practitioners. She also served as head of the psychiatry department. From there she went on to work full-time at the VA where she has had a focus in trauma and PTSD working in the Auburn Gresham neighborhood.</p><p>Dr. Craig has also had a complicated journey building her own family. This has given her both personal and professional experience with infertility and treatments like IVF. She is passionate about women's health and loves supporting women through fertility challenges, loss, perinatal mental health and the postpartum period. She also has an apprection for the unique challenges the LGBT community has when it comes to building a family.&nbsp;</p><p>She is also an herbalist and enjoys growing and making her own medicine from plants. She likes to combine the knowledge gained through both medical school and her herbal studies for a unique approach to psychiatry. She likes to combine ancient wisdom with modern medicine.</p>

Introducing Our New Membership Plan: Comprehensive Care for $125/Month

<h2>Understanding Holistic Psychiatry</h2><p>Holistic psychiatry looks at the whole person. It considers mental, emotional, physical, and spiritual health. This approach can help people find balance in all areas of life. It is different from traditional psychiatry, which often focuses only on symptoms.</p><p>In Illinois, many people are turning to holistic psychiatry. They want a more comprehensive way to manage mental health conditions. This method can include therapy, lifestyle changes, and natural treatments.</p><p>Through virtual sessions, psychiatrists can provide therapy, guidance, and support. They can also monitor progress and make necessary adjustments to treatment plans. This makes it easier for people to stay on track with their mental health goals.</p><p>Common treatments include:</p><ul><li>Therapy and counseling</li><li>Mindfulness and meditation</li><li>Nutrition and exercise plans</li><li>Herbal and natural remedies</li><li>Mental Health medications</li></ul><p>These methods can work together to improve overall well-being.</p><h3>Accessing Holistic Psychiatry in Illinois</h3><p>If you live in Illinois, you have several options for accessing holistic psychiatry. Many clinics offer virtual care, making it easy to get started. You can search online for providers who specialize in this approach.</p><p>When choosing a provider, look for someone who is experienced and certified. It is also important to find a good fit. The right psychiatrist will listen to your needs and work with you to create a personalized treatment plan.</p><p>During the first session, your psychiatrist will ask about your health history and current concerns. They will then suggest a treatment plan that fits your needs. Follow-up sessions will help track your progress and make any needed changes.</p><p>Virtual care offers a convenient way to receive holistic psychiatric treatment. It can help you achieve better mental health from the comfort of your home.</p><p>If you are looking for a new way to manage your mental health, consider Betula Mental Health. With virtual care, you can start your journey to better well-being today. Start here to find the best online psychiatrist.</p>

Holistic Psychiatry in Illinois: Virtual Care for Mental Health Conditions

<h2>Understanding Night Weaning</h2><p>Are you feeling exhausted and burnt out by breastfeeding but not quite ready to wean? Nightweaning may be for you!&nbsp;</p><p>Night weaning is the process of reducing and eventually stopping nighttime feedings for your baby. This step can be challenging for both parents and babies. It's important to approach it gently and with a combination of patience and determination. It can be a nice alternative to fully weaning.&nbsp;</p><p>Many parents wonder when the right time is to start night weaning. Nightweaning is not recommended prior to 12 months of age. Often people recommend 18 months of age because the child is more able to understand the concept, but it is definitely possible to nightwean before this.&nbsp;</p><p>Arguably nightweaning readiness has much more to do with where you are at than wehther or not your child is ready. Most children, if they were to choose, would not nightwean. The reality is, breastfeeding throughout the night is a lot on the body, mind and spirit! It is okay if you have hit your limit.&nbsp;</p><figure id="figure-4m9xdk6g2am0e029ip"><img id="4m9xdk6g2am0e029ip" src="https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1503431760783-91f2569f6802?crop=entropy&amp;cs=tinysrgb&amp;fit=max&amp;fm=jpg&amp;ixid=M3wyNjI5NjF8MHwxfHNlYXJjaHwyMHx8bW90aGVyJTIwYmFieXxlbnwwfHx8fDE3MjQ4NTgyNDF8MA&amp;ixlib=rb-4.0.3&amp;q=80&amp;w=1080" alt="mother baby" class="object-cover bg-gray-100" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;" data-mce-src="https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1503431760783-91f2569f6802?crop=entropy&amp;cs=tinysrgb&amp;fit=max&amp;fm=jpg&amp;ixid=M3wyNjI5NjF8MHwxfHNlYXJjaHwyMHx8bW90aGVyJTIwYmFieXxlbnwwfHx8fDE3MjQ4NTgyNDF8MA&amp;ixlib=rb-4.0.3&amp;q=80&amp;w=1080" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;"></figure><p><br></p><h2>Creating a Night Weaning Plan</h2><p>Creating a plan can make night weaning smoother for everyone. There are 2 approaches. You can do it all at once or cut back gradually. It really just depends on what sounds more manageable to you. The book Nursies When The Sun Shines can be a helpful tool in explaining the concept to your child.&nbsp;</p><p>It really all comes down to will and determination. Make up your mind that you are ready! Pick a time where you have some extra time to rest during the day because it may intially result in some sleepless nights. Your child will likely not be thrilled about this process.&nbsp;</p><p>Believe in yourself! You can do this! You may be really used to comforting your child with the boob but there are other options available. They often take more work at first but they will eventually be comforting to your child.</p><p>- have a bottle of water ready at the bedside</p><p>- if your child is teething consider giving a dose of ibuprofen before bed (ideally you wouldn't nightwean while teething but kids are always teething)</p><p>- enlist the support of a partner or friend (it can be very helpful to handoff at 4 am when you're at your wit's end)</p><p>- back rubs, walking back and forth, singing, rocking in a rocking chair are all helpful methods</p><p>- offering a favorite stuffed animal or blanket for comfort</p><p>- don't be afraid of just offering a snack (our 4 am wakeups were unbearable until my husband figured out if you offer our kid a nutrigrain bar he will eat it and immediately fall back asleep, saved an hour of misery each night and he's already starting to grow out of this)</p><p>- remember everything is temporary! It really depends on the kid how long they will protest over nightweaning. I nightweaned my daughter at 18 months and it was a few miserable nights but she caught on pretty quickly and starting sleeping much better. I nightweaned my son at 14 months and it was a much more challenging time and he took a couple weeks to accept there would be no more "bop" at night.&nbsp;</p><p>- if this is what you need, it will all be worth it in the end!</p><figure id="figure-pyasa12ihbm0e02dba"><img id="pyasa12ihbm0e02dba" src="https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1545177251-f63921bd2b2a?crop=entropy&amp;cs=tinysrgb&amp;fit=max&amp;fm=jpg&amp;ixid=M3wyNjI5NjF8MHwxfHNlYXJjaHw1fHxwYXJlbnQlMjBiYWJ5fGVufDB8fHx8MTcyNDg1ODI0Nnww&amp;ixlib=rb-4.0.3&amp;q=80&amp;w=1080" alt="parent baby" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 " style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;" data-mce-src="https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1545177251-f63921bd2b2a?crop=entropy&amp;cs=tinysrgb&amp;fit=max&amp;fm=jpg&amp;ixid=M3wyNjI5NjF8MHwxfHNlYXJjaHw1fHxwYXJlbnQlMjBiYWJ5fGVufDB8fHx8MTcyNDg1ODI0Nnww&amp;ixlib=rb-4.0.3&amp;q=80&amp;w=1080" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;"></figure><p>Stick to your plan and try to maintain a regular nighttime routine. This helps your baby understand that nighttime is for sleeping, not feeding.</p><p>It might take a few weeks for your baby to adjust to the new routine. Be patient and stay consistent with your approach.</p><h3>Handling Setbacks</h3><p>Setbacks are normal during the night weaning process. Your baby might wake up more often or seem fussier than usual. This is a normal part of the adjustment period.</p><p>Stay calm and continue to offer comfort without feeding. Over time, your baby will adapt to the new routine. It's also okay if you have a really bad night and need to feed. It's a process. Please be kind to yourself. It's also okay to change your mind and decide the time is not right. You can always try again in the future. Often people try and nightwean before 18 months and find it so challenging they stop and try again at 18 month and have success.&nbsp;</p><p>Additionally, night weaning can encourage a more structured daytime feeding schedule, ensuring your baby gets the necessary nutrients during the day.</p><h3>When to Seek Help</h3><p>If you find the night weaning process particularly challenging, don't hesitate to seek help. Your pediatrician can offer advice and support. You can also consider consulting a sleep specialist or a lactation consultant for additional guidance.</p><p>Remember, every baby is different, and what works for one family might not work for another. Trust your instincts and do what feels right for you and your baby.</p><h2>Conclusion</h2><p>Night weaning is a significant milestone in your baby's development. Approach it with patience, determination and consistency. It is not helpful to anyone to plow through your need to sleep and have your body to yourself at night. It can make a big difference in how you feel in your body to have boundaries around breastfeeding. Find the right time for you and trust that you can do this! It will be hard but, most often, worth it!</p>

Night Weaning: A Gentle Approach for You and Your Child

<h2>Understanding Seasonal Depression</h2><p>Seasonal depression, also known as Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), affects many people during certain times of the year. It usually occurs in the fall and winter months when daylight hours are shorter. People with SAD may feel lethargic, sad, and lose interest in activities they usually enjoy. SAD often happens earlier than you think. People associate the changes with mood with the changes in weather when in fact it is actually the changes in light. <br></p><p>One effective treatment for seasonal depression is phototherapy, also known as light therapy. This treatment involves exposure to bright light that mimics natural sunlight. It can help alleviate the symptoms of SAD and improve overall mood. I often recommend people start using their light around labor day weekend. <br></p><figure id="figure-ztpmpsg3vgm01jg36m"><img id="ztpmpsg3vgm01jg36m" src="https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1500462918059-b1a0cb512f1d?crop=entropy&amp;cs=tinysrgb&amp;fit=max&amp;fm=jpg&amp;ixid=M3wyNjI5NjF8MHwxfHNlYXJjaHw4fHxsaWdodCUyMHRoZXJhcHl8ZW58MHx8fHwxNzI0MTA0NzM5fDA&amp;ixlib=rb-4.0.3&amp;q=80&amp;w=1080" alt="light therapy" class="object-cover bg-gray-100" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;" data-mce-src="https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1500462918059-b1a0cb512f1d?crop=entropy&amp;cs=tinysrgb&amp;fit=max&amp;fm=jpg&amp;ixid=M3wyNjI5NjF8MHwxfHNlYXJjaHw4fHxsaWdodCUyMHRoZXJhcHl8ZW58MHx8fHwxNzI0MTA0NzM5fDA&amp;ixlib=rb-4.0.3&amp;q=80&amp;w=1080" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;"></figure><p><br></p><p>The light from the box helps regulate the body's sleep-wake cycle, also known as the circadian rhythm. This can improve sleep patterns and reduce feelings of fatigue and sadness.</p><h3>Benefits of Phototherapy</h3><p>Phototherapy offers several benefits for those suffering from seasonal depression:</p><ul><li><strong>Improves Mood:</strong> Regular exposure to bright light can boost mood and energy levels.</li><li><strong>Enhances Sleep:</strong> It helps regulate sleep patterns, making it easier to fall asleep and wake up.</li><li><strong>Increases Energy:</strong> Many people report feeling more energetic and less lethargic after phototherapy sessions.</li></ul><p>Here are some tips to help you get started:</p><ol><li><strong>Make sure you use a light with the brightness of 10,000 lux. This is very important otherwise your light may be ineffective.</strong><br data-mce-bogus="1"></li><li>Use the light box in the morning, ideally within an hour of waking up.</li><li>Sit about 16 to 24 inches away from the light box.</li><li>Keep your eyes open, but do not look directly at the light.</li><li>Start with 10-15 minutes per session. You may want to increase as the days get darker for up to 30 minutes per session. You can also add an evening session around sunset if the morning session is not sufficient.<br></li></ol><p>Consistency is key. Regular use of the light box can help you see improvements in your mood and energy levels.</p><p>Talk to your provider if you notice insomnia, decreased need for sleep, talking faster than usual, spending more money than usual or any other signs of mania as the light can induce mania.</p><p>If you have bipolar disorder, the light can be beneficial to you but please do this under the guidance of a psychaitrist. <br data-mce-bogus="1"></p><h2>Consulting a Professional</h2><p>Before starting phototherapy, it is important to consult a healthcare professional. They can help determine if phototherapy is right for you and guide you on how to use it safely. Phototherapy is generally safe, but it may not be suitable for everyone, especially those with certain eye conditions.</p><p>If you are struggling with seasonal depression, consider reaching out to our practice. We are here to help you navigate your mental health journey with care and compassion.</p>

The Benefits of Phototherapy for Seasonal Depression

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<h2>Understanding PMDD</h2><p>Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD) affects many women. The DSM defines it as at least 5 of the following...</p><p>- marked affective lability</p><p>- marked irritability or anger or increased interpersonal conflicts</p><p>- marked depressed mood, feelings of hopelessness or self-deprecating thoughts&nbsp;</p><p>- marked anxiety, tension and/or feeling so fbeing keyed up or on edge</p><p>- decreased interest in usual activities</p><p>- subjective difficulty in concentration</p><p>- lethargy, easy fatiguability or market lack of energy</p><p>- marked change in appetite</p><p>- hypersomnia or insomnia&nbsp;</p><p>- sense of being overwhelmed or out of control</p><p>Sound familiar?</p><p>Managing PMDD often involves lifestyle changes and medical treatments. One approach is to focus on key nutrients like calcium, magnesium, and zinc. These minerals can play a significant role in alleviating PMDD symptoms. Mental health medications like SSRIs can also be helpful and can be taken 2 weeks before your period. Some people also find cutting out sugar to be helpful (unpopular opinion, I know).&nbsp;</p><h2>The Importance of Calcium</h2><p>Calcium is essential for bone health, but it also impacts mood and muscle function. Studies show that women with higher calcium intake experience fewer PMDD symptoms. This mineral helps reduce bloating, cramps, and mood swings.</p><p>You can find calcium in dairy products, leafy greens, and fortified foods. Supplements are also an option for those who struggle to get enough calcium from their diet.</p><p>Foods rich in magnesium include nuts, seeds, whole grains, and dark chocolate. Like calcium, magnesium supplements can be beneficial, especially for those with dietary restrictions.</p><h2>The Role of Zinc</h2><p>Zinc supports immune function and hormone balance. It can help reduce the severity of PMDD symptoms by regulating mood and reducing inflammation. Zinc also plays a role in serotonin production, which affects mood stability.</p><p>Good sources of zinc are meat, shellfish, legumes, and seeds. If dietary intake is insufficient, zinc supplements can be considered.</p><p>Here are some tips for incorporating these nutrients into your diet:</p><ul><li>Include a variety of fruits and vegetables in your meals.</li><li>Choose whole grains over refined grains.</li><li>Opt for lean proteins and dairy products.</li><li>Consider supplements if your diet lacks these nutrients</li></ul><p><br></p><h2>Magnesium benefits</h2><p>Have you ever craved chocolate the 2 weeks before your period? It could be that you're actually low on magnesium. Most americans have diets that are deficient in magnesium. Magnesium has been shown to help muscles relax including menstrual cramps. Some studies have also shown that magnesium can help with sleep and anxiety.&nbsp;</p><p>There are several types of magnesium and it can be confusing to choose one. Long story short, magnesium citrate is the easiest to absorb and is generally the most recommended.&nbsp;</p><h2>When to see your doctor...</h2><p>If your symptoms become severe, especially if you are experiencing suicidal thoughts, please go to your nearest ER or see if your doctor. While supplementing vitamins can ease some of the symptoms associated with PMDD, they often are not sufficient to control symptoms. Discuss what you're experiencing with your healthcare provider so you can make a decision together on what's right for you.&nbsp;</p><p>At Betula Mental Health, we like to combine therapies. Often, someone may need medicine to help with these symptoms but find that they are still experiencing agitation or rage. Calcium, magnesium and zinc can be suprisingly helpful in curbing these symptoms. Sometimes the best therapy is to combine something like an antidepressant with vitamins.&nbsp;</p><p>Here is the brand we like best...</p><p><a title="Ca/Mg/Zn" href="<script src='https://us.fullscript.com/oembed/embed.js' data-fs='{&quot;product_id&quot;:&quot;92072&quot;,&quot;store_slug&quot;:&quot;lcraig1715280092&quot;,&quot;return&quot;:&quot;product_card&quot;}'></script>" data-mce-href="<script src='https:/us.fullscript.com/oembed/embed.js' data-fs='{&quot;product_id&quot;:&quot;92072&quot;,&quot;store_slug&quot;:&quot;lcraig1715280092&quot;,&quot;return&quot;:&quot;product_card&quot;}'></script>">&lt;script src='https://us.fullscript.com/oembed/embed.js' data-fs='{"product_id":"92072","store_slug":"lcraig1715280092","return":"product_card"}'&gt;&lt;/script&gt;</a></p><p><br></p>

The Role of Calcium, Magnesium, and Zinc in Managing PMDD

<h2>Introducing Our New Support Group</h2><p>We are pleased to announce the launch of our new support group for individuals undergoing IVF and those who have experienced loss. This group aims to provide a safe space for sharing experiences, finding comfort, and gaining strength from others who understand.</p><p>Our holistic approach to mental health includes addressing the emotional challenges that come with fertility treatments and loss. We believe that connecting with others in similar situations can be a powerful step towards healing.</p><p>Participants can share their stories, listen to others, and engage in activities designed to promote emotional well-being.</p><p><strong> The group will meet the first Wednesday of every month from 6-7 pm online.</strong></p><h3>Who is eligible</h3><p>This group is a good fit for you if...</p><ul><li>You are in active fertility treatments&nbsp;</li><li>You have had a recent miscarriage, failed transfers or chemical pregnancies</li><li>Open to all genders, birthing and non-birthing people<br></li></ul><p>Fertility struggles can be incredibly isolating and lonely. We are very excited to build community and support each other through this challenging time.&nbsp;</p><h3>About the facilitators</h3><p>Adina Holloman, LCSW and Laura Craig, MD are both mental health experts with lived experience with IVF. We look forward to drawing upon our personal experience with IVF and loss to support others as well as our professional expertise as a licensed clinical social worker and psychiatrist. While we both have experience in therapy, we look forward to moderating this group more as peers.<br></p><h2>Sign up:</h2><p><a title="IVF and Loss Support Group" href="https://betula.intakeq.com/booking" data-mce-href="https://betula.intakeq.com/booking">IVF and Loss Support Group</a><br data-mce-bogus="1"></p>

Blog

Introducing Our New Membership Plan: Comprehensive Care f...

Holistic Psychiatry in Illinois: Virtual Care for Mental ...

Night Weaning: A Gentle Approach for You and Your Child

The Benefits of Phototherapy for Seasonal Depression

The Role of Calcium, Magnesium, and Zinc in Managing PMDD

Announcing Our New Support Group for IVF and Loss