We are Crescent and Crown.
Our Why
We founded Crescent and Crown to provide solace and hope to marginalized identities. Our mission is to bridge the gap in access to quality mental healthcare to address issues related to the reproductive journey.
Like the crescent moon, we want to offer you light and optimism on the journey to parenthood. We will always encourage you to proudly wear your crown on your head despite the adversities that you encounter along the way.
Our founders & therapists
TELETHERAPY: ILLINOIS
Ashley Hunt, MSW, LCSW, PMH-C
My interest in perinatal mental health began during my employment at an outpatient women’s health center. While there, I worked with women navigating the complexities of high-risk pregnancies, unexpected pregnancies, birth trauma, perinatal loss, and most common perinatal mood and anxiety disorders. I have worked closely with Obstetricians, Perinatal Psychiatrists, Maternal Fetal Medicine Physicians, and Genetic Counselors, thus gaining a wealth of knowledge about the various challenges of managing a pregnancy.
My interest in perinatal health turned into a passion for reproductive health and fertility when I faced my own infertility challenges. After undergoing a multi-myomectomy to remove several fibroids, I was diagnosed with Diminished Ovarian Reserve (DOR); this diagnosis meant that In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) was necessary to grow my own family. My experience with infertility further faced unique challenges as I am also a Single Mother by Choice (SMC/SMBC). As a Black woman, I understand the adversity individuals of color face when attempting to access reproductive health services. I strive to be a support for clients as they navigate their own reproductive journeys.
I am client-focused when working with individuals and families, encouraging them to actively participate in their treatment. I use a mixture of modalities, from cognitive-behavioral techniques to holistic and integrative approaches. I always strive to bring culture and identity into the therapy space because I believe one’s lived experiences are often shaped by their personal identities.
TELETHERAPY: ILLINOIS
Lyla Wakut, MSW, LCSW, PMH-C
My passion for perinatal mental health began when I was a neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) social worker. I saw firsthand the psychological and physical complexities that developed after a preterm baby was born. From processing birth trauma to providing support for postpartum depression and anxiety, I became an advocate and confidant to first-time parents and parents with multiples. Working in the NICU inspired me to move from medical social work to perinatal mental health full-time. As a perinatal therapist, I have worked with with individuals at every stage of the reproductive journey; from trying to conceive with infertility, having preterm babies, traumatic births, miscarriages and postpartum depression and anxiety.
Transitioning to parenthood and managing emotions postpartum can be difficult. My goal as a therapist is to provide a safe space where you can process these major life changes, understand past experiences that are negatively impacting your present self and identify coping skills. I use a trauma informed approach that is strengths based. I have the Perinatal Mental Health Certification through Postpartum Support International. I am trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR).
I am a mixed Latina, living with Type 1 Diabetes, and I understand how having intersectional identities and navigating the healthcare system can be difficult. Creating an inclusive space where you feel empowered during your therapeutic process is at my forefront.