The Matricentric Way: Foundations
Matrescence, Motherhood and Maternal Mental Health
Become a Certified Matrescence Educator
A nine-week training in matrescence, Motherhood, and mother-centered care.
Explore the developmental, relational, and cultural experiences that shape mothers’ lives and develop a foundation for educating and supporting mothers in your community.
A New Framework for Supporting Mothers
When we support a mother, we are meeting more than her symptoms, her parenting questions, or the responsibilities she carries.
We are meeting a person who is developing, navigating relationships, and making meaning within a culture that has powerful ideas about who a mother should be.
The Matricentric Way: Foundations offers a broader way to understand her experience.
Over nine weeks, you’ll explore matrescence, maternal identity, Motherhood Studies, and the social and cultural conditions that shape mothers’ lives. Through recorded lessons, reflection, and live learning with Chelsea Robinson, MSW, LCSW, you’ll develop a foundation for mother-centered support. No previous experience working with Mothers necessary.
Our original Matricentric Way training, reimagined as a nine-week foundational course.
A new way to understand and support mothers
Mothers’ experiences are shaped by many interconnected factors: their mental health, their development and identity, their relationships, and the expectations and systems surrounding them.
Yet these parts of the experience are not always considered together.
The Matricentric Way brings them into conversation. Rooted in matrescence and Motherhood Studies, including matricentric feminism, this course invites you to explore the mother as a whole person—one whose needs, development, knowledge, and well-being matter.
Together, we’ll consider not only what mothers are experiencing, but also the conditions in which they are mothering and what needs to change to support them.
Why this learning matters
A mother may be told that she needs more self-care, more patience, or a better way to manage her time. Those supports can be useful. But they may leave important questions unexplored.
What has changed in her identity and relationships? What expectations has she inherited about being a “good mother”? How do her circumstances shape the choices available to her?
When we bring matrescence and the context of motherhood into view, we can offer mothers language for their experiences and a broader understanding of their needs.
TMW Foundations helps you:
Understand matrescence as a process of maternal development.
Explore the social and cultural expectations that shape motherhood.
Recognize the distinction between a mother’s experience and the conditions in which she mothers.
Develop language for conversations about maternal identity, care, and empowerment.
Reflect on how these ideas can inform your work, relationships, and community.
Who is TMW Foundations for?
You do not need previous experience to begin.
Foundations is for people who are curious about matrescence and want to understand mothers’ experiences more fully. You may be entering this field for the first time, considering how you want to support mothers, or exploring your own relationship to motherhood.
It is also for experienced professionals who are newer to matrescence and Motherhood Studies, including therapists, doulas, healthcare professionals, coaches, educators, advocates, and community practitioners.
You’ll be invited to bring your own perspective while learning alongside others who care about how mothers are understood and supported.
Already Supporting Mothers and Familiar with Matrescence?
If you’re ready to deepen how you apply these ideas in your work, TMW Frameworks in Practice may be your next step.
Designed for professionals already supporting mothers, this five-week applied training brings together the TMW frameworks through recorded lessons, live learning, and practice, followed by two months of consultation.
Context Matters: In TMW we believe that Motherhood is Political
The way we support mothers needs to change. Traditional models of care are no longer sufficient—mothers need validation, education, normalization, and community. The Matricentric Way provides a new framework that addresses the cultural context of motherhood, recognizing that the challenges mothers face are often rooted in systemic issues, not personal failures.
In this training, you'll explore:
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The limitations of traditional models: Why asking mothers to breathe through it or try meditation is not enough - and perpetuates the pathology of them.
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The importance of a socio-cultural lens: Understanding that it's a we problem, not a me problem.
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The power of education: How knowledge can help mothers transform not only their personal experience of Motherhood, but the collective.
What You’ll Learn: A Comprehensive Approach to Maternal Care
The Matricentric Way Live Learning is a 5-month commitment in a group format that includes 12 weeks of intensive learning and four bi-monthly case consultations. This program is designed to help you develop a personal orientation to supporting mothers through the lens of matrescence and a deeper understanding of the cultural context of motherhood. Our Self-Paced Learning option gives you the flexibility to start today and learn at your own pace!
Course Outline:
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Explore the evolving landscape of motherhood, from conception to postpartum, and uncover the systemic changes urgently needed. With audio, slides, and reflection tools, gain the insights and inspiration to advocate for and drive meaningful transformation.
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Delve into the rich history and foundational theories of matrescence, guided by leading voices like Dr. Aurelié Athan. This in-depth lesson offers insights to deepen your personal and professional understanding, inviting reflection and meaningful integration into your life and work.
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Discover the core principles of matrescence that guide this transformative model of care, offering wisdom to shape your own path forward. This in-depth lesson weaves years of practice and insights from leading theorists, providing profound clarity and inspiration for your journey.
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Embrace the gifts of matrescence—opportunities for growth, self-discovery, and becoming your truest self through the challenges and joys of motherhood. This in-depth lesson offers profound insights that transcend motherhood, shaping every aspect of life and inviting deep reflection and personal transformation.
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Explore the concept of The Motherline and its connection to matricentric feminism and Motherhood Studies, as we shift focus to the larger cultural context in which mothers navigate their matrescence. This 45-minute lesson weaves together themes of empowerment, advocacy, and interconnection, drawing from the groundbreaking work of pioneers like Sara Ruddick and Andrea O'Reilly, offering rich insights to inform your practice.
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Dive into the foundational theories of matricentric feminism and Motherhood Studies, exploring concepts like patriarchal motherhood, intensive mothering, and motherwork. This lesson highlights the distinct meanings of Mother, Mothering, and Motherhood, offering language and insights to better support mothers in understanding and expressing their experiences.
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This lesson delves into the critical theories shaping our understanding of patriarchal and normative Motherhood, exploring intersectionality, intensive mothering, and the "good girl"/"perfect mother" myth. It highlights how these frameworks impact mothers' experiences, offering insights to challenge and transform the cultural narratives surrounding motherhood
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Explore hope, transformation, and the challenge of patriarchal Motherhood, envisioning a mother-centered, mother-led future. Grounded in matricentric feminism and feminist mothering, it empowers mothers to transcend societal norms and drive meaningful change.
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Look toward the future of motherhood and the collective responsibility to reshape the cultural context in which mothers thrive. As a matrescence educator and facilitator of The Matricentric Way, you are equipped to lead, reflect, and inspire meaningful change.
“I signed up for The Matricentric Way because of my deep interest in how becoming a mother impacts a mother's identity.
A friend and colleague had just completed the program and raved about her experience. I had resisted going down the "matrescence" rabbit hole (which I’m now kicking myself for!), but the more I explored maternal identity further, the more I realized it was something I couldn’t avoid. I was drawn in by the powerful language Chelsea Robinson used on her website, like “The way we are supporting mothers needs to change” and “Mothers need validation, normalization, and one another. They need education, data, and a paradigm shift.” These statements resonated with me and captured what I knew was true from my personal and professional experiences.
Chelsea didn’t just deliver on what she promised—she knocked it out of the park. From the beginning, I started learning concepts and tools I could immediately share with my clients, and I saw its instant impact. Having the words to describe what so many new moms are feeling, coupled with the research and data to more powerfully say, “You’re not alone,” has been a game changer. I feel incredibly grateful to have been a participant and to now count Chelsea as a mentor. The course materials, resources, and reflection prompts are something I know I’ll return to again and again for probably years to come. We covered so much, and yet, it feels like we’ve just scratched the surface in the best way.
If you’re feeling called to learn more about how to truly support moms through their transition into motherhood, to find the words to describe their experiences, and to better understand the unique challenges mothers face today, I can’t recommend this training program enough.”
A Holistic Live Learning Experience with Real-World Application
When you enroll in The Matricentric Way Live Learning, you gain access to a comprehensive set of resources designed to support both your personal and professional growth:
9 Pre-Recorded Impactful Lessons
For live participants, lessons are released weekly, while self-paced learners enjoy full access from day one. Each lesson, ranging from 20 to 90 minutes, is designed to fit seamlessly into your schedule while delivering impactful insights
11 Workbooks for Further Learning
Deep dive into lesson material with these workbooks, tailored for both personal and professional application.
Process your experiences and insights in a supportive group setting.
9 Group Calls
Process your experiences and insights in a supportive group setting.
Unlimited Access to a Private Online Community
Connect with peers and receive real-time support from Chelsea and others.
Have any questions? Read our FAQs
Become a Certified Matrescence Educator
Upon successful completion of TMW Foundations and its certification requirements, you will receive the designation Certified Matrescence Educator through The Matricentric Way.
This certification recognizes your foundational learning in matrescence, maternal identity, Motherhood Studies, and mother-centered care. It prepares you to share this education within your existing professional role or community setting.
Certification is awarded independently by The Matricentric Way. It does not confer a professional license or qualify participants to provide mental health assessment, diagnosis, or treatment beyond their existing credentials and scope of practice.
See the full list of requirements for certification in the FAQs.
Two learning options available
Live Learning
Our live learning with certification is a 9- week commitment in a group format that includes 9 weeks of intensive learning and four bi-monthly case consultations. The certification includes 9 pre-recorded lessons, corresponding workbooks for deeper reflection, group calls, and access to an online community of like-minded professionals and more!
This program is designed to help you develop a personal orientation to supporting mothers through the lens of matrescence and a deeper understanding of the cultural context of motherhood.
Trust-based pricing:
$1800 USD | $1200 USD | $800 USD
Payment plans available. Please choose the rate that feels accessible and sustainable for your current season. No explanation required.
Self-Paced Training
This flexible, self-paced format is designed to make paradigm-shifting education more accessible. The training includes 9 pre-recorded lessons, and corresponding workbooks for deeper reflection.
Explore topics such as patriarchy, identity, and empowered mothering through the lens of matrescence—all at your own pace.
Trust-based pricing:
$1200 USD | $800 USD | $500 USD
Payment plans available. Please choose the rate that feels accessible and sustainable for your current season. No explanation required.
Live Learning is now available at discounted rate for non-profits, government agencies, and group practices.
Continue Your Learning with the TMW Expert Series
Explore new perspectives from voices shaping maternal care and Motherhood Studies.
Looking for an opportunity to extend your learning? The TMW Expert Series brings together guest educators to explore topics that deepen our understanding of mothers’ experiences, maternal well-being, and the cultural context of motherhood.
This optional series is available as an additional purchase for TMW students and graduates. More information in 2027.
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Main Educator
Chelsea Robinson is a pioneering expert in maternal mental health and the founder of Mama’s Modern Village, blending over a decade of clinical trauma work with insights from Motherhood Studies to redefine support for mothers. Her work, including The Matricentric Way, empowers professionals and mothers to navigate matrescence with compassion and clarity.
Learn more about Chelsea here.
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Guest Educator
Ambreia Meadows-Fernandez is an award-winning writer, speaker, and facilitator interested in all things that encourage mamas and their communities to heal and thrive. She is also a yoga instructor and the founder of FreeBlackmotherhood.
Ambreia joins the matrescentric way for this live class as an opportunity for critical conversation. There is no way we can reimagine motherhood without dismantling the norms, ideologies and assumptions within normative motherhood that further oppressed the most marginalized. In this exciting conversation, students will be invited to learn more about the every day resistance of black mothers in black motherhood.
Learn more about Ambreia Meadows-Fernandez here.
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Guest Educator
Dr. Jodi Vandenberg-Daves is a coach, consultant, and author of Modern Motherhood: An American History and other works on intersectional gender issues. Partnering with The Matricentric Way, she brings her expertise to a two-part series exploring the history of motherhood.
Learn more about Dr. Jodi Vandenberg-Daves here.
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Guest Educator
Dr. Jodi Pawluski, a neuroscientist, therapist, and international expert on the maternal brain, joins The Matricentric Way to explore the science of "mommy brain." This bonus lesson challenges stigmas and highlights the transformative power of understanding the maternal brain in parenting and perinatal mental health.
Learn more about Dr. Jodi Pawluski here.
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Guest Educator
Dr. Andrea O’Reilly, the theorist behind Matricentric Feminism and the field of Motherhood Studies, joins The Matricentric Way in a collaborative dialogue with students, answering all questions and exploring all thoughts as we bridge theory into practice. This bonus opportunity is one of a kind; a truly unique experience to sit “face to face” with THE brilliant mind behind so many of the theories and concepts explored inside this training.
Learn more about Dr. Andrea O’Reilly here.
Is The Matricentric Way Right for You?
If you are a clinical therapist, physician, yoga teacher, doula, educator, or someone passionate about supporting mothers and contributing to the paradigm shift in maternal care, this program is for you. The Matricentric Way provides the tools, knowledge, and community to help you make a meaningful impact in your work and the lives of the mothers you support.
"The Matricentric Way training by Mama's Modern Village is nothing short of transformative.
The depth and thoroughness of the information provided are impressive—it’s clear that every topic is rooted in extensive research and insight into the multifaceted experiences of motherhood today. Beyond simply delivering information, this training truly takes you on a profound emotional and reflective journey, pushing you to explore your beliefs and reflect on your own matrescence.
Each module brings so many 'aha' moments as you realize how much of your understanding of motherhood has been shaped by implicit norms and expectations. The training gives you the tools to thoughtfully question and redefine what it means to mother in an empowered way. I walked away with not only a wealth of knowledge but a newfound clarity and confidence in my own mothering journey and in helping other moms along theirs.”
Be Part of the Change in Maternal Care
Are you ready to join a community of professionals dedicated to transforming maternal care?
Enroll in The Matricentric Way today and start making a difference in the lives of mothers and their families.
Frequently asked questions
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No. Foundations welcomes people entering the field for the first time as well as experienced professionals who want a foundation in matrescence and Motherhood Studies.
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Yes, however adapted into 9 weeks verses 5 months. It brings the nine foundational lessons together with live group learning in a nine-week format.
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Foundations introduces matrescence, motherhood, and mother-centered care. No prior experience working with Mothers required.
Frameworks in Practice is an applied course for people already supporting mothers who want to integrate the TMW frameworks into their professional work. It includes six weeks of live learning and a follow-up consultation period.
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A self-paced learning option is available for those who prefer to explore the material on their own schedule.
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This depends on your license and state, however we can support in an application if possible.
TMW Foundations is PSI approved for CEUs.
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To earn certification, students must:
Complete all nine recorded lessons.
Participate in at least 7 of the 9 live learning components and complete any required makeup activities.
Submit a final educational project demonstrating an accurate understanding of the course material and how they intend to share it.
Demonstrate appropriate attribution of sources and an understanding of the boundaries of their role.
Full attendance, submission, and completion requirements will be provided before enrollment.
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Yes!
You don’t need an established business—or a fully formed plan—to join TMW Foundations. You may be exploring a new direction, expanding your existing work, or discovering how you’d like to support mothers.
Through the lessons, reflection, and live conversations, you’ll have space to consider how this learning connects to your strengths, interests, and community. Bring your questions as you begin imagining what your work could look like.
TMW Foundations focuses on matrescence education and mother-centered care. It offers grounding and connection as you find your direction; dedicated mother-centered business coaching, marketing, and business setup are outside the course curriculum but offered within The Matricentric Way.
Get Started with These Free Resources
Ready to begin your journey before enrolling in the full training?
Explore our free resources, packed with insights and tools to help you reimagine motherhood and support mothers with greater understanding and care.
These resources provide an excellent starting point for transforming your perspective on motherhood and building a strong foundation for further learning.