Episode 5

full
Published on:

13th Feb 2026

How to Deal with Mom Guilt | With Jessica Tomich Sorci

Jessica Tomich Sorci, LMFT and creator of the Mom Parts Method, shares insights on transforming mom guilt and shame using Internal Family Systems therapy. She reveals why these painful feelings aren't signs of failure, but actually pathways to healing both ourselves and our mothering.

Key Takeaways

  1. Guilt has purpose: It's a reminder when we've acted outside our values and creates opportunity for repair
  2. Shame points to old wounds: Shame is a "bookmark for your unmet needs" from childhood that still need healing
  3. Motherhood activates everything: Kids are like "heat-seeking hovercrafts" for our unresolved issues, making motherhood both triggering and healing
  4. You're mothering two kids: You're always mothering your actual child plus your inner child who still needs care
  5. Parts are trying to help: Even our "worst" internal parts are actually trying to protect and help us, they just need updating

About the Guest

Jessica Tomich Sorci, LMFT, is a pioneer in maternal mental health who created the Mom Parts method, applying Internal Family Systems therapy to motherhood. As a Level 3 Certified IFS Therapist and Certified Perinatal Mental Health Professional, she brings deep expertise to helping mothers transform difficult emotions into self-compassion.

Connect with Jessica:

  1. Website: https://www.jessicatomichsorci.com/
  2. Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jessicatomichsorci/
  3. LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jessica-tomich-sorci-2b577056/

Resources Mentioned

  1. When Good Moms Feel Bad - Jessica's book co-authored with Rebecca Geshuri
  2. Mom Parts Community - Online community and salons for mothers
  3. Mothercentered Approach Training - Professional training program for therapists
  4. Internal Family Systems Institute - Founded by Richard Schwartz, creator of IFS therapy
  5. Introduction to Internal Family Systems by Richard Schwartz

Learn more about secure parenting: https://www.attachmentnerd.com/secure-parenting-program

Connect with Eli:

  1. Website: https://www.attachmentnerd.com/
  2. Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/attachmentnerd/
  3. TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@attachmentnerd

Music by Gold Child: https://www.goldchildmusic.com/

Show artwork for How To Deal

About the Podcast

How To Deal
With The Attachment Nerd, Eli Harwood
How To Deal is the podcast for parents who want to raise emotionally healthy kids in a world full of messy moments. Therapist and bestselling author Eli Harwood (aka The Attachment Nerd) brings you real stories, expert advice, and practical tools to build stronger relationships with your children—and yourself. Attachmentnerd.com