In this deeply emotional and powerful listener episode, Kayleigh is joined by sisters identical twin sisters Alison and Holly, whose journeys through pregnancy, birth trauma, medical trauma, and survival became heartbreakingly intertwined. Both clinical psychologists, both high-achieving perfectionists, and both navigating pregnancy at the same time, neither could have imagined the life-altering experiences ahead of them. From severe pregnancy complications and traumatic medical experiences to a devastating accident involving Holly while pregnant with twins, this conversation explores the profound impact trauma can have not only on individuals—but on families navigating it together. Through vulnerability, honesty, and immense strength, Alison and Holly share what it meant to survive the unimaginable while also supporting one another as sisters, twins, clinicians, and mothers. This episode is raw, validating, heartbreaking, and ultimately full of hope and resilience. 💛 ✨ In this episode, we cover: 🧬 Alison’s journey through pregnancy after stage four endometriosis, prior loss, and previous medical trauma 🌨️ Going into early labor at 28 weeks during a Seattle snowstorm and experiencing a life-threatening allergic reaction 🚑 What it felt like to be coded during pregnancy—and the unexpected sense of safety Alison experienced in that moment 👯 Holly finding out she was unexpectedly pregnant with twins while watching her sister navigate a high-risk pregnancy 📚 The pressure of trying to have the “perfect” healthy pregnancy and how trauma disrupted those expectations 🏥 Alison’s traumatic birth experience, severe hemorrhage, postpartum complications, and prolonged hospitalization 💔 The emotional toll of postpartum PTSD, dissociation, flashbacks, and medical gaslighting 🫶 The profound impact one compassionate provider had during Alison’s darkest moments 🚗 Holly’s terrifying hit-and-run accident at nearly 30 weeks pregnant with twins 🌤️ The surreal details trauma imprints on memory—and the moments both sisters still vividly remember 🧠 How their experiences transformed the way they understand trauma both personally and professionally as psychologists 🌱 The complicated process of healing while navigating motherhood, survival, and family trauma together 💞 The unique bond of sisters walking through trauma side by side and what it meant to not feel alone 💛 This episode is for you if: 🌼 You’ve experienced birth trauma, medical trauma, or a traumatic pregnancy 🌀 You’ve struggled with postpartum PTSD, anxiety, dissociation, or flashbacks 🤍 You’re processing grief around how your pregnancy or birth experience unfolded 🪞 You’ve felt pressure to “do everything right” during pregnancy and still experienced trauma 👭 You understand the healing power of having someone who truly sees and validates your experience ✨ You want to feel less alone in the complexities of trauma and recovery You can follow along with the Alison and Holly on their socials: @Alison.phd & @holly.phd Alison's website: alisonphd.com Holly's website: hollyphd.com Take a listen to Alison & Holly's podcast: Twin Minds Unwind Podcast This conversation is a reminder that trauma can change us deeply—but so can compassion, connection, and being witnessed in our pain. Alison and Holly’s story is one of survival, sisterhood, and finding ways to keep moving forward even after life changes in an instant. 💛 For more birth trauma content and a community full of love and support, head to my Instagram at @thebirthtrauma_mama. Learn more about the support and services I offer through The Birth Trauma Mama Therapy & Support Services. Disclaimer - The views and opinions expressed by guests on The Birth Trauma Mama Podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect the official stance, views, or positions of The Birth Trauma Mama Podcast. The content shared is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as professional or medical advice and/or endorsement.
