Maternal Mental Health Explained: Anxiety, Postpartum Depression & Identity

In this episode, Dr Margreet Barnardt sits down with Clinical Psychologist and mother of two Kiara Sunder for an honest, compassionate deep dive into maternal mental health. Transitioning into motherhood—a process known as matrescence—brings profound physical, emotional, and psychological shifts that are rarely discussed openly. Drawing from both her extensive clinical expertise and her personal journey through motherhood, Kiara offers grounded wisdom, practical guidance, and deep validation to help navigate the unseen struggles of pregnancy, postpartum, and identity after baby.

Whether you are an expectant parent, a mother in the thick of the newborn days, or a healthcare professional supporting growing families, this conversation will equip you with clear insight and gentle reassurance.

About Our Guest

Kiara Sunder is a Clinical Psychologist in private practice in Durban (HPCSA, BHF, and PSYSSA registered). She earned her Master’s degree in Clinical Psychology Cum Laude from the University of KwaZulu-Natal, receiving multiple academic scholarships and National Research Foundation awards for research excellence.

With experience spanning district hospitals, psychiatric facilities, and private practice, Kiara specializes in individual and group psychotherapy, crisis intervention, psychometrics, and child and adolescent mental health. Beyond clinical practice, she is an expert speaker for the Babies R Us Mama Club National Campaign and contributes to mental health columns reaching over 220,000 readers nationwide. She is deeply passionate about psychoeducation, maternal mental health advocacy, and empowering families through evidence-based, compassionate care.

Follow Kiara: @kiara_sunder_psychologist