Reproductive freedom and body autonomy is of central importance to my philosophy behind being a mental health therapist. As a perinatal specialist, it is of utmost concern to me that individuals feel in charge of the decisions impacting their own body. Every person should have the basic fundamental right to make decisions regarding their own body and reproductive choices. And in cases where that choice has been taken from them, whether by family or governmental policy, individuals need information, resources, and support to
address that trauma. When people are denied the right to have autonomy over their own body, the consequences can be devastating. These consequences extend far beyond the individual, affecting each and every one of us, even if we do not immediately recognize that impact.