Anyone who’s suffered a perinatal loss––the death of an infant due to miscarriage, stillbirth, or neonatal complications––knows too well the loneliness that accompanies such overwhelming sadness. In a society where men are encouraged to act rather than feel, even fathers of healthy newborns often bear the immense challenges of their role in acute isolation. One therapist has created networks of support where fathers can share their insights or explore their grief in community with other fathers.
On this episode of Transforming Trauma, Emily chats with Adam Angel, LCSW-C, LICSW, the founder of Dads With Wisdom, a series of virtual and hybrid groups that provide a welcoming environment where men can navigate the complex pressures of fatherhood, isolation and loss. Adam has 15+ years of experience and is uniquely qualified to facilitate conversations around paternal mental health. He suffered a perinatal loss on his journey to becoming a father of two. Emily and Adam discuss the current shortage of mental health resources available to fathers, traumas distinct to fatherhood, and how NARM strengthens the peer group dynamic.
“As I was doing my community work with young men over the years, I was thinking about doing groups,” says Adam. A personal trauma compelled him to create the space he longed for. “We lost our child in our first pregnancy pretty late. It was a stillbirth, and this really impacted me in terms of the support that wasn't available for men.” Through his perinatal loss, Adam realized that grieving fathers needed an outlet for their emotions––but in a format that honored their fear of becoming completely vulnerable in a way that men aren’t encouraged to be.
NARM fits well within the group structure, says Adam. “What I'm doing is being with whatever comes up for them. I'll ask if…it's okay to be here for a little longer, just me and that person.” By the end of the sessions, “we're talking about why don't we have a community to raise kids in and…the generational trauma that has separated us from the wisdom and the support that we've needed in parenting.”
Transforming Trauma is inspired by Adam’s commitment to community and ability to recast his pain into profound purpose. We welcome his example of strength in vulnerability.
GUEST BIO
Adam Angel LCSW-C, LICSW, is a clinical social worker with 15 years of experience working with youth, adults, and families. Adam is a licensed social worker and NARM Therapist. His specializations include postpartum mood and anxiety disorders and developmental trauma. He currently facilitates a number of multistage dad support and therapy groups for dads. Adam lives in Silver Spring with his wife, two kids and their dog.
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