Photo of Pam Barnes-Palty, PsyD, Psychologist
Pam Barnes-Palty
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Phoenix, AZ 85048  (Online Only)
Often when we imagine the process of pregnancy and having a baby, we picture moments of happiness and joy. But pregnancy, birth, and parenting are like the rest of life. There is often joy, but there can be tough times too. Sometimes pregnancy and postparttum depression, anxiety and self-doubt become overwhelming. The unexpected happens, things don't go as planned, relationships change, or grief and loss occurs. If you are having concerns about becoming pregnant, pregnancy, birth, postpartum, pregnancy loss, or being a new parent, you are not alone. Please know it's not your fault, you can get help, and you can feel better.
Often when we imagine the process of pregnancy and having a baby, we picture moments of happiness and joy. But pregnancy, birth, and parenting are like the rest of life. There is often joy, but there can be tough times too. Sometimes pregnancy and postparttum depression, anxiety and self-doubt become overwhelming. The unexpected happens, things don't go as planned, relationships change, or grief and loss occurs. If you are having concerns about becoming pregnant, pregnancy, birth, postpartum, pregnancy loss, or being a new parent, you are not alone. Please know it's not your fault, you can get help, and you can feel better.
(480) 418-8458 View (480) 418-8458
Photo of Angela White, MA, NCC, LPC, Counselor
Angela White
Counselor, MA, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tucson, AZ 85712
With advanced Certificate Trainings in Maternal Mental Health, I have a heartfelt passion to support women thru their journey from Pre-pregnancy thru Postpartum- and beyond.
There are times in life where we feel extremely alone, lonely, misunderstood, unhappy and beyond frustrated. Sometimes these overwhelming feelings can be about others; and sometimes about ourselves. These situations can arise because of: anxiety, change, depression, grief, conflict, and immense life challenges. At times, these problems are too much to face and bear alone. I specialize in helping clients through overwhelming problems and challenges. I collaborate with my clients to find changes they want to make, how they want to "see and live" their lives. My approach to therapy is a positive, hopeful, open approach.
With advanced Certificate Trainings in Maternal Mental Health, I have a heartfelt passion to support women thru their journey from Pre-pregnancy thru Postpartum- and beyond.
There are times in life where we feel extremely alone, lonely, misunderstood, unhappy and beyond frustrated. Sometimes these overwhelming feelings can be about others; and sometimes about ourselves. These situations can arise because of: anxiety, change, depression, grief, conflict, and immense life challenges. At times, these problems are too much to face and bear alone. I specialize in helping clients through overwhelming problems and challenges. I collaborate with my clients to find changes they want to make, how they want to "see and live" their lives. My approach to therapy is a positive, hopeful, open approach.
(520) 261-7599 View (520) 261-7599
Photo of Cindy Unger, MA, LPCC, LPC, CPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Cindy Unger
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPCC, LPC, CPC
Verified Verified
Are you overwhelmed with anxiety or trying to manage the stress of relationships in your life? Do you have a dream that you're not fulfilling in your life? I'm here to help! I work with adults and older teens struggling with anxiety & panic attacks, OCD, pregnancy/postpartum struggles and birth trauma, addiction, past sexual assault and/or abuse, relationship challenges (especially in dating, marriage, and breakups), and life transitions. I have a background in alternative health and I value an approach that integrates physical health, relationships, non-medical approaches, and self-empowerment.
Are you overwhelmed with anxiety or trying to manage the stress of relationships in your life? Do you have a dream that you're not fulfilling in your life? I'm here to help! I work with adults and older teens struggling with anxiety & panic attacks, OCD, pregnancy/postpartum struggles and birth trauma, addiction, past sexual assault and/or abuse, relationship challenges (especially in dating, marriage, and breakups), and life transitions. I have a background in alternative health and I value an approach that integrates physical health, relationships, non-medical approaches, and self-empowerment.
(928) 275-4144 View (928) 275-4144
Photo of Jessica Bauer, MC, LAC, Counselor
Jessica Bauer
Counselor, MC, LAC
Verified Verified
Gilbert, AZ 85234
My other passion is working with postpartum/perinatal moms.
Therapy is for everyone and anyone no matter what! Coming to therapy can be intimidating and scary, it's a huge step, but a courageous one. I will be there along side you to try and make it less scary and so you have someone who will be along for the ride. My mission is to provide therapy that makes you feel comfortable and that you're not alone. I strive to make therapy a place of comfort where we collaborate together in this process so your needs are met. I take a very empathetic approach, I might throw some light heartedness in when needed and will work along side you to create goals that are unique to you.
My other passion is working with postpartum/perinatal moms.
Therapy is for everyone and anyone no matter what! Coming to therapy can be intimidating and scary, it's a huge step, but a courageous one. I will be there along side you to try and make it less scary and so you have someone who will be along for the ride. My mission is to provide therapy that makes you feel comfortable and that you're not alone. I strive to make therapy a place of comfort where we collaborate together in this process so your needs are met. I take a very empathetic approach, I might throw some light heartedness in when needed and will work along side you to create goals that are unique to you.
(928) 589-5783 View (928) 589-5783
Photo of Tina Stoffel, MSc, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Tina Stoffel
Licensed Professional Counselor, MSc, LPC
Verified Verified
Mesa, AZ 85210
**ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS** Welcome! What an honor it is to start this journey with you. I know that reaching out for help can often be the most difficult part of the therapeutic process. I am wholeheartedly committed to helping you during a difficult time on your journey in life. I see couples and adults of all ages and specialize in women’s issues including perinatal mental health. Life happens; stress, mental illness, substance abuse, trauma, for example, can all be too much at times, causing us to disconnect. You currently possess strengths that will help you to make progress in your journey toward your best self.
**ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS** Welcome! What an honor it is to start this journey with you. I know that reaching out for help can often be the most difficult part of the therapeutic process. I am wholeheartedly committed to helping you during a difficult time on your journey in life. I see couples and adults of all ages and specialize in women’s issues including perinatal mental health. Life happens; stress, mental illness, substance abuse, trauma, for example, can all be too much at times, causing us to disconnect. You currently possess strengths that will help you to make progress in your journey toward your best self.
(480) 605-1524 View (480) 605-1524
Photo of Jade Bruno, MAS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jade Bruno
Marriage & Family Therapist, MAS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mesa, AZ 85207  (Online Only)
ATTENTION: PREGNANT AND NEW MAMAS! Did you know 1 in 5 women suffer from Postpartum Depression and Anxiety? Do any of these feelings sound familiar? Overwhelmed, GUILTY, racing thoughts, WORRIED.ALL. THE. TIME., exhausted, confused, irritated, angry, resentful towards your partner, family members and friends, feeling empty, nothing or NUMB, just knowing that something is NOT right, AFRAID to reach out for help?
ATTENTION: PREGNANT AND NEW MAMAS! Did you know 1 in 5 women suffer from Postpartum Depression and Anxiety? Do any of these feelings sound familiar? Overwhelmed, GUILTY, racing thoughts, WORRIED.ALL. THE. TIME., exhausted, confused, irritated, angry, resentful towards your partner, family members and friends, feeling empty, nothing or NUMB, just knowing that something is NOT right, AFRAID to reach out for help?
(480) 462-5524 View (480) 462-5524
Photo of Audrey Cione, MA, Counselor
Audrey Cione
Counselor, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tucson, AZ 85712
My experience as a mother led to my interest in Perinatal Mental Health, pursuing a Perinatal Mental Health Certification, and working with mothers and their families.
Taking new patients age 16 and older. Virtual appointments available. Feeling more overwhelmed each day? Are you no longer enjoying the things you used to love? If you find yourself farther from your purpose, we provide a supportive and compassionate space to guide you back to the goals that are meaningful to you. We work together to develop skills that enable you to be present for yourself and your loved ones, as well as move forward towards your goals. We will collaborate to gain hope, process your experiences, and heal with a new sense of purpose.
My experience as a mother led to my interest in Perinatal Mental Health, pursuing a Perinatal Mental Health Certification, and working with mothers and their families.
Taking new patients age 16 and older. Virtual appointments available. Feeling more overwhelmed each day? Are you no longer enjoying the things you used to love? If you find yourself farther from your purpose, we provide a supportive and compassionate space to guide you back to the goals that are meaningful to you. We work together to develop skills that enable you to be present for yourself and your loved ones, as well as move forward towards your goals. We will collaborate to gain hope, process your experiences, and heal with a new sense of purpose.
(520) 780-8413 View (520) 780-8413
Photo of Lorain Moorehead, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lorain Moorehead
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85044
Do you feel like you’ve made it to a place where you expected to be happy but instead you are lashing out or suffering from anxiety or panic? Maybe you're noticing more frustration with people or certain thoughts holding you back. It’s possible this is coming from experiences that you thought you’d moved on from, and even though you have an idea why you are reacting this way you haven't been able to make a change on your own. Otherwise, maybe you had expectations for pregnancy or child birth that were not met or were even traumatic, and you want to process this experience in order to move into the next stage of life.
Do you feel like you’ve made it to a place where you expected to be happy but instead you are lashing out or suffering from anxiety or panic? Maybe you're noticing more frustration with people or certain thoughts holding you back. It’s possible this is coming from experiences that you thought you’d moved on from, and even though you have an idea why you are reacting this way you haven't been able to make a change on your own. Otherwise, maybe you had expectations for pregnancy or child birth that were not met or were even traumatic, and you want to process this experience in order to move into the next stage of life.
(602) 932-0879 View (602) 932-0879
Photo of Hannah Beer, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Hannah Beer
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Scottsdale, AZ 85251  (Online Only)
Do you have everyday, ordinary life struggles that you think aren’t ‘big enough’ for therapy? Or maybe you find yourself dealing with more severe issues of anxiety, depression, postpartum, or substance use? Regardless of your starting point it’s okay to admit you can’t do it alone; we were made to be social creatures. As a licensed professional counselor, my goal is to empower you to be the expert of your own life while simultaneously journeying alongside you as we navigate finding solutions together.
Do you have everyday, ordinary life struggles that you think aren’t ‘big enough’ for therapy? Or maybe you find yourself dealing with more severe issues of anxiety, depression, postpartum, or substance use? Regardless of your starting point it’s okay to admit you can’t do it alone; we were made to be social creatures. As a licensed professional counselor, my goal is to empower you to be the expert of your own life while simultaneously journeying alongside you as we navigate finding solutions together.
(623) 304-8195 View (623) 304-8195
Photo of Stacy Bettelon, LAC, Counselor
Stacy Bettelon
Counselor, LAC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85007  (Online Only)
Statistics show that 1 in 5 women (under reported in my opinion) will experience Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders.
The road to parenthood can be a beautiful time for many, but for others it can feel extremely daunting. From the time a woman finds out they are expecting, tons of hormonal and emotional changes will begin. I believe that having a strong support system to know about Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders (PMAD's) is essential to help navigate overwhelming and unpleasant symptoms! My goal, as a therapist, is to support, validate and meet clients where they are at in their mental health journey. I want all of my clients to know that they do not have to do this alone! I am here to help!
Statistics show that 1 in 5 women (under reported in my opinion) will experience Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders.
The road to parenthood can be a beautiful time for many, but for others it can feel extremely daunting. From the time a woman finds out they are expecting, tons of hormonal and emotional changes will begin. I believe that having a strong support system to know about Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders (PMAD's) is essential to help navigate overwhelming and unpleasant symptoms! My goal, as a therapist, is to support, validate and meet clients where they are at in their mental health journey. I want all of my clients to know that they do not have to do this alone! I am here to help!
(602) 975-2166 View (602) 975-2166
Photo of Kimberly Kriesel, LPC, PMH-C, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kimberly Kriesel
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, PMH-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chandler, AZ 85248
Kim Kriesel is passionate about helping women and their partners to and through motherhood. No two women will experience the road to motherhood in the same way and sometimes becoming a mom is not the experience we had anticipated for most of our lives. For 1 in 11 women (couples), infertility and recurrent pregnancy loss are a devastating reality they never dreamed would touch their lives. Reaching out for support is a great choice during this difficult time.
Kim Kriesel is passionate about helping women and their partners to and through motherhood. No two women will experience the road to motherhood in the same way and sometimes becoming a mom is not the experience we had anticipated for most of our lives. For 1 in 11 women (couples), infertility and recurrent pregnancy loss are a devastating reality they never dreamed would touch their lives. Reaching out for support is a great choice during this difficult time.
(480) 428-3868 View (480) 428-3868
Photo of Keri Sipek, LAMFT, PMH-C, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Keri Sipek
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LAMFT, PMH-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tempe, AZ 85284
Now offering daytime & evening appointments. Reaching out for help can be difficult & takes courage. I’m here to offer a safe space & provide support while you explore your issues. From there, you can begin to heal & create positive change in your life & relationships. My experience includes working with couples, & individual adults who have struggled with infidelity, relationship strain, sexual issues, parenting, depression, anxiety, & more. In addition, I work with women & couples struggling with infertility, postpartum anxiety, postpartum depression, traumatic birth recovery, & adjustment to parenthood.
Now offering daytime & evening appointments. Reaching out for help can be difficult & takes courage. I’m here to offer a safe space & provide support while you explore your issues. From there, you can begin to heal & create positive change in your life & relationships. My experience includes working with couples, & individual adults who have struggled with infidelity, relationship strain, sexual issues, parenting, depression, anxiety, & more. In addition, I work with women & couples struggling with infertility, postpartum anxiety, postpartum depression, traumatic birth recovery, & adjustment to parenthood.
(520) 346-3402 View (520) 346-3402
Photo of Sherry J. Duson, MA, LPC, LMFT, PMH-C, Marriage & Family Therapist
Sherry J. Duson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LPC, LMFT, PMH-C
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Tucson, AZ 85718
I am a therapist who desires to create a safe, comfortable environment for you to work on what is troubling you. I see my role as assisting you to better understand your challenges, and to access your resources to address them. I have over twenty years of experience as a perinatal mental health provider, and a marriage and family therapist and clinical supervisor. I believe in the resilience of each person and bring a great deal of my own creativity and energy to each of my clients. I strive to be respectful and supportive of those I work with, and am always mindful that I am working for you, to your benefit.
I am a therapist who desires to create a safe, comfortable environment for you to work on what is troubling you. I see my role as assisting you to better understand your challenges, and to access your resources to address them. I have over twenty years of experience as a perinatal mental health provider, and a marriage and family therapist and clinical supervisor. I believe in the resilience of each person and bring a great deal of my own creativity and energy to each of my clients. I strive to be respectful and supportive of those I work with, and am always mindful that I am working for you, to your benefit.
(520) 224-1495 View (520) 224-1495
Photo of Hattie Carr, LMSW
Hattie Carr
Licensed Master Social Worker, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chandler, AZ 85286
Motivated by my own pregnancy and postpartum challenges, I became a therapist to fill the void I experienced in finding support.
My ideal client might be someone experiencing a major life transition, such as pregnancy or postpartum, or a teenager who is seeking support and validation. They may be struggling with anxiety, depression, or grief related to these experiences. Their needs include understanding, coping strategies, and a safe space to express their emotions. Their goal is to navigate these challenges with resilience and to feel empowered in their journey. Ultimately, they want to feel heard, understood, and supported as they navigate this transformative time in their lives.
Motivated by my own pregnancy and postpartum challenges, I became a therapist to fill the void I experienced in finding support.
My ideal client might be someone experiencing a major life transition, such as pregnancy or postpartum, or a teenager who is seeking support and validation. They may be struggling with anxiety, depression, or grief related to these experiences. Their needs include understanding, coping strategies, and a safe space to express their emotions. Their goal is to navigate these challenges with resilience and to feel empowered in their journey. Ultimately, they want to feel heard, understood, and supported as they navigate this transformative time in their lives.
(623) 294-4495 View (623) 294-4495
Photo of Charee' Washington, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Charee' Washington
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85044
I'm an EMDR and Perinatal Mental Health Trained Therapist specializing in Trauma, Perinatal/Post Partum Mental Health, and strained/broken relationships.
Are you feeling trapped in a relentless cycle? Do you find yourself grappling with more shattered relationships than fulfilling ones? Perhaps you've recently welcomed a new baby into your life and are struggling to navigate the emotional landscape of motherhood. If any of these scenarios resonate with you, then I'm here to offer support.
I'm an EMDR and Perinatal Mental Health Trained Therapist specializing in Trauma, Perinatal/Post Partum Mental Health, and strained/broken relationships.
Are you feeling trapped in a relentless cycle? Do you find yourself grappling with more shattered relationships than fulfilling ones? Perhaps you've recently welcomed a new baby into your life and are struggling to navigate the emotional landscape of motherhood. If any of these scenarios resonate with you, then I'm here to offer support.
(602) 671-3833 View (602) 671-3833
Photo of Marlys L Reardon, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Marlys L Reardon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Gilbert, AZ 85296  (Online Only)
I am trained in CBT, Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders, EMDR, Motivational Interviewing, DBT Skills, Hypnotherapy, and Treatment for Addictions.
Accepting NEW Clients! Let's work together to discover the truest version of yourself! The decision to seek therapy is a courageous, personal one that honors your life experiences and journey. My objective when working with clients is to provide a safe, comfortable space where they can share freely and without judgement. Your therapeutic journey will be aimed at addressing the behaviors that block you, preventing you from living your most authentic, joyful life. My approach is holistic; centering on assessing emotional and mental health concerns, as well as physical health, familial interactions, community, and spiritual needs.
I am trained in CBT, Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders, EMDR, Motivational Interviewing, DBT Skills, Hypnotherapy, and Treatment for Addictions.
Accepting NEW Clients! Let's work together to discover the truest version of yourself! The decision to seek therapy is a courageous, personal one that honors your life experiences and journey. My objective when working with clients is to provide a safe, comfortable space where they can share freely and without judgement. Your therapeutic journey will be aimed at addressing the behaviors that block you, preventing you from living your most authentic, joyful life. My approach is holistic; centering on assessing emotional and mental health concerns, as well as physical health, familial interactions, community, and spiritual needs.
(480) 418-1364 View (480) 418-1364
Photo of Melissa Dohse Cultivate Counseling, LCSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Melissa Dohse Cultivate Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Flagstaff, AZ 86001
I specialize in working with survivors of trauma, women in the postpartum period, individuals parenting with previous trauma histories and teens.
Your capacity for change, healing, and growth, is why I do this work. In the 10 years that I have been in the field, courage is what has always shown up at my door. Courage is always what leads us to change. Courage to believe that things could be different, that life doesn't have to feel this way, that I can feel whole. It would be an honor to walk alongside you on your journey from courage to hope.
I specialize in working with survivors of trauma, women in the postpartum period, individuals parenting with previous trauma histories and teens.
Your capacity for change, healing, and growth, is why I do this work. In the 10 years that I have been in the field, courage is what has always shown up at my door. Courage is always what leads us to change. Courage to believe that things could be different, that life doesn't have to feel this way, that I can feel whole. It would be an honor to walk alongside you on your journey from courage to hope.
(928) 323-3208 View (928) 323-3208
Photo of Taylor Kruse, MA, LPC, PMH-C, Licensed Professional Counselor
Taylor Kruse
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, PMH-C
Verified Verified
Mesa, AZ 85209
As a provider trained in perinatal mental health, my primary focus is helping those experiencing pregnancy-related mood and anxiety disorders, as well as their partners.
I'm glad you're here, in this very moment, because it means you have already taken one of the first steps in wanting to make a change; to do something different. Seeking therapy is one of the most vulnerable, yet rewarding challenges a person can experience. If you are struggling with pregnancy related mood and/or anxiety disorders, including lack of coping skills, major life changes/transitions, difficulty with communication, relationship issues, or anything causing distress in your life, please know I am here to listen and do my absolute best to help.
As a provider trained in perinatal mental health, my primary focus is helping those experiencing pregnancy-related mood and anxiety disorders, as well as their partners.
I'm glad you're here, in this very moment, because it means you have already taken one of the first steps in wanting to make a change; to do something different. Seeking therapy is one of the most vulnerable, yet rewarding challenges a person can experience. If you are struggling with pregnancy related mood and/or anxiety disorders, including lack of coping skills, major life changes/transitions, difficulty with communication, relationship issues, or anything causing distress in your life, please know I am here to listen and do my absolute best to help.
(480) 725-6342 View (480) 725-6342
Photo of Jennifer Szabo, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jennifer Szabo
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Gilbert, AZ 85298  (Online Only)
I am also trained in perinatal mood & anxiety disorders, OCD and comfortable working with Bipolar & Borderline.
Feeling consumed by intrusive, unwanted thoughts that interrupt your daily living? Are you wanting to regain power over your thoughts and life? I understand how difficult it may seem to begin the healing process. But, you do not need to do it alone. When you meet with me you will be welcomed into a nonjudgmental space that will allow you to explore the possible source of your current challenges and ways you can enhance your well-being. I do not believe therapy has to be a painful experience, it can be a healing and rewarding journey. I can walk along side you as you begin to regain control of your life.
I am also trained in perinatal mood & anxiety disorders, OCD and comfortable working with Bipolar & Borderline.
Feeling consumed by intrusive, unwanted thoughts that interrupt your daily living? Are you wanting to regain power over your thoughts and life? I understand how difficult it may seem to begin the healing process. But, you do not need to do it alone. When you meet with me you will be welcomed into a nonjudgmental space that will allow you to explore the possible source of your current challenges and ways you can enhance your well-being. I do not believe therapy has to be a painful experience, it can be a healing and rewarding journey. I can walk along side you as you begin to regain control of your life.
(480) 878-7894 View (480) 878-7894
Photo of Valerie Ogborn, PhD, Psychologist
Valerie Ogborn
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Oro Valley, AZ 85737
I have specialized training working with women who are struggling with perinatal or postpartum mood and/or anxiety disorders as well.
Have you been feeling overwhelmed, burnt out, and/or frequently stressed? Are you ready to gain more awareness surrounding old, unhelpful patterns? Therapy may not only help with the improvement of mental, but physical health as well. I would love to help you achieve better overall wellness. I am a licensed clinical psychologist who works with adults (18+) and I primarily practice from a cognitive behavioral perspective. I also incorporate mindfulness techniques and deep breathing to help facilitate growth and progress in therapy. I offer teletherapy in numerous states and in-person therapy in Tucson, Arizona.
I have specialized training working with women who are struggling with perinatal or postpartum mood and/or anxiety disorders as well.
Have you been feeling overwhelmed, burnt out, and/or frequently stressed? Are you ready to gain more awareness surrounding old, unhelpful patterns? Therapy may not only help with the improvement of mental, but physical health as well. I would love to help you achieve better overall wellness. I am a licensed clinical psychologist who works with adults (18+) and I primarily practice from a cognitive behavioral perspective. I also incorporate mindfulness techniques and deep breathing to help facilitate growth and progress in therapy. I offer teletherapy in numerous states and in-person therapy in Tucson, Arizona.
(520) 201-0242 View (520) 201-0242
Pregnancy, Prenatal, Postpartum Therapists

What are the most effective ways to address pregnancy, prenatal, and postpartum concerns?

The most effective way to address pregnancy, prenatal, and postpartum concerns is by finding a therapist who has prior experience helping other patients overcome the challenge being faced. For example, a marriage and family therapist may have experience helping couples adjust to their new relationship dynamic. An anxiety specialist may have experience helping with phobias or illness anxiety related to the child’s health. A depression specialist may have experience treating postpartum depression.

When should I seek treatment for prenatal or postpartum concerns?

Pregnancy and the postpartum period involve intense physical and mental changes; a degree of upset and instability is normal. However, if these changes impair daily functioning, it may be time to seek help. This distinction is pertinent for postpartum depression: A period of teariness, irritability, and distress is difficult but normal in the one to two weeks after childbirth (sometimes called the “baby blues.”) But if feelings of sadness and hopelessness persist beyond that period, the person should seek treatment.

How do I manage worries during pregnancy or the postnatal period?

A therapist can help patients develop the tools they need to manage anxieties during or after pregnancy. Cognitive behavioral therapy can help people identify and reframe harmful patterns of thought, and change their behaviors. Other techniques and skills can allow people to develop acceptance, psychological flexibility, self-compassion, communication skills, and more.

Are there specific medications for postpartum depression?

In 2019, the FDA approved the first medication designed to treat postpartum depression. The medication is called brexanolone and is delivered intravenously by a medical professional over the course of a few days. However, typical antidepressants, which are more accessible, can also treat postpartum depression. The disorder is often best treated through a combination of medication and therapy.