Episode 29

Self-Compassion in Motherhood with Kimberley Quinlan, LMFT

Episode Summary

In this powerful episode, Dr. Sterling sits down with Kimberley Quinlan, a licensed marriage and family therapist specializing in OCD, anxiety, and self-compassion. With her unique background in cognitive behavioral therapy from Oxford and extensive experience treating anxiety disorders, Kimberley shares profound insights on why self-criticism often intensifies in motherhood and how to break free from perfectionism.

Key Moments [45 mins]

00:00 - Introduction to Kimberley Quinlan's expertise 05:30 - The evolutionary roots of self-criticism 12:15 - Why self-compassion is harder in motherhood 18:45 - Breaking free from achievement-based worth 25:30 - Practical self-compassion exercises 35:20 - Modeling self-kindness for our children

Powerful Quotes

"The practice of self-criticism and self-judgment actually has played a role in our evolution... However, now we're not in that threatening environment. We're overusing a strategy that can be helpful in dire situations in everyday life." - Kimberley Quinlan


"Being willing to feel your emotions is actually, it's so simple. But listen... these very simple things of being slightly kinder to yourself and feeling your emotions... can be life changing." - Dr. Sterling


Resources Mentioned


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About the Podcast

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Ask Dr. Sterling Podcast
The baby making years are hard. I’m here to help.

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About your host

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Christine Sterling

As an OB/GYN, I’ve helped hundreds of mothers bring babies into the world. Time and again, the mothers I’ve cared for expressed frustration and overwhelm at all of the conflicting information and advice.

Women don’t need more information to sift through, they need one trusted resource they can rely on for medical advice as well as strategies for having a calm and confident journey.

I started Sterling Parents so that overworked, stressed moms can relax. I want to provide the expert advice they are looking for SO they can stop digging for answers and get in touch with their own inner wisdom.

I want to lighten your load so you can thrive as the mom you are meant to be.