Pregnancy, Prenatal, Postpartum Therapists in Walnut Creek, CA

Photo of Rupa Puri Zimmermann, Psychologist in Walnut Creek, CA
Rupa Puri Zimmermann
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Walnut Creek, CA 94596
I have specialized training to treat individuals coping with mental health complications during and after pregnancy.
When people enter a time in their life or a situation where they may feel down, worried, overwhelmed, or without many options, I believe therapy can shed light on new paths. Using Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), I help people gain a sense of control by teaching them effective ways to communicate, regulate their emotions, and improve interpersonal relationships to bring about needed change. I work collaboratively with my clients and their families so they can improve their quality of life and thrive.
I have specialized training to treat individuals coping with mental health complications during and after pregnancy.
When people enter a time in their life or a situation where they may feel down, worried, overwhelmed, or without many options, I believe therapy can shed light on new paths. Using Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), I help people gain a sense of control by teaching them effective ways to communicate, regulate their emotions, and improve interpersonal relationships to bring about needed change. I work collaboratively with my clients and their families so they can improve their quality of life and thrive.
(925) 961-5340 View (925) 961-5340
Photo of Mind Matters Psychotherapy Coaching & EMDR, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Walnut Creek, CA
Mind Matters Psychotherapy Coaching & EMDR
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Walnut Creek, CA 94596
We are a group of clinicians committed to providing skilled, supportive therapy and coaching to our clients. Our therapists use a strength-based approach to building relationships with clients that provide the trust needed to make big change. We specialize in seeing women in transitional stages of life, including but not limited to; pre-and postpartum struggles, anxiety, eating disorders, addictive behaviors, depression, role confusion, relationship stress, parenting dynamics and trauma. We love to see couples, children and individual adults ready to move past barriers and experience more joy in relationships and life.
We are a group of clinicians committed to providing skilled, supportive therapy and coaching to our clients. Our therapists use a strength-based approach to building relationships with clients that provide the trust needed to make big change. We specialize in seeing women in transitional stages of life, including but not limited to; pre-and postpartum struggles, anxiety, eating disorders, addictive behaviors, depression, role confusion, relationship stress, parenting dynamics and trauma. We love to see couples, children and individual adults ready to move past barriers and experience more joy in relationships and life.
(925) 378-4684 View (925) 378-4684
Photo of Dr. Kelli Grobe, Psychologist in Walnut Creek, CA
Dr. Kelli Grobe
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Walnut Creek, CA 94598  (Online Only)
Welcome! My therapy practice is focused on the complexities and challenges faced by teens, parents, and individual adults. I also have a passion for working specifically with pregnant and postpartum women in their transition into parenthood. My approach to therapy is always collaborative and client-centered, empowering clients to create long-term progress and change. I work to promote your innate resiliency and to build insight and tools to help you and your family thrive. My clinical approach is integrative and includes Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Solution-Focused, Psychodynamic, Relational, and Mindfulness.
Welcome! My therapy practice is focused on the complexities and challenges faced by teens, parents, and individual adults. I also have a passion for working specifically with pregnant and postpartum women in their transition into parenthood. My approach to therapy is always collaborative and client-centered, empowering clients to create long-term progress and change. I work to promote your innate resiliency and to build insight and tools to help you and your family thrive. My clinical approach is integrative and includes Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Solution-Focused, Psychodynamic, Relational, and Mindfulness.
(925) 322-0078 View (925) 322-0078
Photo of Kristina Blatter, Psychologist in Walnut Creek, CA
Kristina Blatter
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Walnut Creek, CA 94596
I am also here to offer support for those with pre/postpartum concerns and difficulties surrounding infertility and fertility treatments.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist with 15 years of experience. I have worked in many different environments including hospitals, drug and alcohol treatment, residential treatment, and in community mental health.  I am now committed to guiding folks in a more intimate private practice setting either in office or via telehealth. If you're dealing with specific mental health challenges or just looking to gain more insight into what is holding you back, my goal is to explore your path to emotional well being. I hope to get to know you!
I am also here to offer support for those with pre/postpartum concerns and difficulties surrounding infertility and fertility treatments.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist with 15 years of experience. I have worked in many different environments including hospitals, drug and alcohol treatment, residential treatment, and in community mental health.  I am now committed to guiding folks in a more intimate private practice setting either in office or via telehealth. If you're dealing with specific mental health challenges or just looking to gain more insight into what is holding you back, my goal is to explore your path to emotional well being. I hope to get to know you!
(510) 983-7668 View (510) 983-7668
Photo of Julianne Fox, Marriage & Family Therapist in Walnut Creek, CA
Julianne Fox
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Walnut Creek, CA 94596
I specialize in working with couples who are planning to have children, postpartum parents, and families to help promote healing and growth. Having and raising children is one of the hardest and longest-term projects anyone will ever take on. I want to help parents engage in this process with self-awareness, intention, and love to help improve their own well-being, as well as the child or children's. I believe wellness starts in the home and each member of a family unit can help contribute to positive connections through taking time to work on themselves and then care for others.
I specialize in working with couples who are planning to have children, postpartum parents, and families to help promote healing and growth. Having and raising children is one of the hardest and longest-term projects anyone will ever take on. I want to help parents engage in this process with self-awareness, intention, and love to help improve their own well-being, as well as the child or children's. I believe wellness starts in the home and each member of a family unit can help contribute to positive connections through taking time to work on themselves and then care for others.
(510) 405-6802 View (510) 405-6802
Photo of Victoria Rutsch, Marriage & Family Therapist in Walnut Creek, CA
Victoria Rutsch
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, PMH-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Walnut Creek, CA 94598
Did everyone tell you how wonderful pregnancy would be? Or how beautiful childbirth is? And now you feel like they all lied to your face. Or worse, maybe it was amazing for them but it’s terrible for you. You don’t get it and you’re wondering, Did I do something wrong? You’re feeling alone and misunderstood. Or maybe you’re struggling with life transitions such as parenting, a job change, or recovering from a scary event. I’m here to tell you that you can feel better, moving forward in your season of life with feelings of being in control, hopeful, and confident.
Did everyone tell you how wonderful pregnancy would be? Or how beautiful childbirth is? And now you feel like they all lied to your face. Or worse, maybe it was amazing for them but it’s terrible for you. You don’t get it and you’re wondering, Did I do something wrong? You’re feeling alone and misunderstood. Or maybe you’re struggling with life transitions such as parenting, a job change, or recovering from a scary event. I’m here to tell you that you can feel better, moving forward in your season of life with feelings of being in control, hopeful, and confident.
(925) 291-4026 View (925) 291-4026
Photo of Kate Rebecca Scimia, Marriage & Family Therapist in Walnut Creek, CA
Kate Rebecca Scimia
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, PMH-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Walnut Creek, CA 94598
I am Perinatal Mental Health Certified (PMH-C) with additional training in pregnancy and postpartum mood and anxiety disorders and have a passion for working with moms and families adjusting to parenthood.
I work from an attachment, strength-based perspective as I assist teens and adults with a variety of challenges including depression, anxiety, life transitions, trauma, and relationships. Often the story we tell ourselves about the world profoundly impacts how we think, feel, and behave, and taking a closer look at these stories can help us heal. I utilize different therapeutic practices including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Narrative therapy and Motivational Interviewing.
I am Perinatal Mental Health Certified (PMH-C) with additional training in pregnancy and postpartum mood and anxiety disorders and have a passion for working with moms and families adjusting to parenthood.
I work from an attachment, strength-based perspective as I assist teens and adults with a variety of challenges including depression, anxiety, life transitions, trauma, and relationships. Often the story we tell ourselves about the world profoundly impacts how we think, feel, and behave, and taking a closer look at these stories can help us heal. I utilize different therapeutic practices including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Narrative therapy and Motivational Interviewing.
(925) 267-6402 View (925) 267-6402
Photo of Daniella K Bermudez, Marriage & Family Therapist in Walnut Creek, CA
Daniella K Bermudez
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, PMH-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Walnut Creek, CA 94598
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in the State of California, with an office in Walnut Creek, CA. I am a trained psychotherapist certified in Perinatal Mental Health and offer professional therapeutic services covering a variety of issues and concerns. I have clinical experience in the areas of grief and loss, depression, anxiety, trauma, crisis management, suicide prevention, life transitions, parenting stress, and reproductive and maternal mental health. I experience working in various settings, including community health, prenatal clinic, non-profit organizations, schools and in-home counseling.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in the State of California, with an office in Walnut Creek, CA. I am a trained psychotherapist certified in Perinatal Mental Health and offer professional therapeutic services covering a variety of issues and concerns. I have clinical experience in the areas of grief and loss, depression, anxiety, trauma, crisis management, suicide prevention, life transitions, parenting stress, and reproductive and maternal mental health. I experience working in various settings, including community health, prenatal clinic, non-profit organizations, schools and in-home counseling.
(925) 515-4150 View (925) 515-4150
Photo of Meri Levy, Marriage & Family Therapist in Walnut Creek, CA
Meri Levy
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, PMH-C
Verified Verified
11 Endorsed
Walnut Creek, CA 94596
I am certified in perinatal mental health, including anxiety, depression, OCD, birth and NICU trauma, and pregnancy and infant loss.
I work best with adults who hard on themselves, especially parents and people experiencing chronic pain. Do you often feel like you "should" be doing more or better? Do you feel guilty taking time for yourself? Do you have mixed feelings about parenthood or your relationship? Learning how to treat ourselves with compassion, accepting our negative feelings as well as the positive ones, and balancing caretaking for others with caring for ourselves is something many of us have to learn as adults. These are areas I help my clients with daily. You don't need to struggle with these issues alone.
I am certified in perinatal mental health, including anxiety, depression, OCD, birth and NICU trauma, and pregnancy and infant loss.
I work best with adults who hard on themselves, especially parents and people experiencing chronic pain. Do you often feel like you "should" be doing more or better? Do you feel guilty taking time for yourself? Do you have mixed feelings about parenthood or your relationship? Learning how to treat ourselves with compassion, accepting our negative feelings as well as the positive ones, and balancing caretaking for others with caring for ourselves is something many of us have to learn as adults. These are areas I help my clients with daily. You don't need to struggle with these issues alone.
(925) 804-3567 View (925) 804-3567
Photo of Mary Reyna, Psychologist in Walnut Creek, CA
Mary Reyna
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Walnut Creek, CA 94595
Greetings! I am a bicultural, bilingual psychologist with 14 years of clinical expertise, specializing in working with children 0-18, adults, and parents from diverse backgrounds. My extensive clinical background encompasses trauma, attachment, adoption, foster care, parent/child dyad therapy, postpartum depression, anxiety and mood diagnosis, as well as addressing school or social difficulties. My professional journey has spanned community, home, school, and clinical settings. In my practice, I collaborate with co-parents and children, guiding them through the intricacies of new experiences and emotions following a separation.
Greetings! I am a bicultural, bilingual psychologist with 14 years of clinical expertise, specializing in working with children 0-18, adults, and parents from diverse backgrounds. My extensive clinical background encompasses trauma, attachment, adoption, foster care, parent/child dyad therapy, postpartum depression, anxiety and mood diagnosis, as well as addressing school or social difficulties. My professional journey has spanned community, home, school, and clinical settings. In my practice, I collaborate with co-parents and children, guiding them through the intricacies of new experiences and emotions following a separation.
(510) 439-0654 View (510) 439-0654
Photo of Melissa Friedman, Marriage & Family Therapist in Walnut Creek, CA
Melissa Friedman
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Walnut Creek, CA 94596  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed MFT with extensive experience providing individual psychotherapy to teens and adults. I work with clients presenting with a wide range of challenges including severe and persistent mental health challenges, depression, anxiety, trauma, chronic suicidality, grief, substance use, relational and life transition challenges. I work with people living with HIV and Transgender, Nonbinary and Gender expansive individuals. I also work with women in all stages of the life span and I am currently working towards a specialization in prenatal and perinatal mental health.
I am a Licensed MFT with extensive experience providing individual psychotherapy to teens and adults. I work with clients presenting with a wide range of challenges including severe and persistent mental health challenges, depression, anxiety, trauma, chronic suicidality, grief, substance use, relational and life transition challenges. I work with people living with HIV and Transgender, Nonbinary and Gender expansive individuals. I also work with women in all stages of the life span and I am currently working towards a specialization in prenatal and perinatal mental health.
(925) 268-7806 View (925) 268-7806
Photo of Tanya Dughman-Chala Psy.D, Psychologist in Walnut Creek, CA
Tanya Dughman-Chala Psy.D
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Walnut Creek, CA 94596
My strengths and passions include working with individuals navigating relationship challenges, issues of young adulthood, new parenthood, peripartum and postpartum mood disorders, survivors of sexual abuse, eating disorders and issues of grief and loss.
I am a strength-based therapist with a warm, nonjudgmental and direct approach. Championing evidence based practices such as ACT, cognitive behavioral and interpersonal therapy, I utilize these modalities to help you evaluate and work through maladaptive thought patterns and behaviors that are keeping you "stuck" in your present situation. I will work collaboratively with you to create a culturally sensitive and uniquely tailored treatment plan. Holding a strong belief that therapeutic relationship is a privilege, I approach all my clients with curiosity, compassion and empathy.
My strengths and passions include working with individuals navigating relationship challenges, issues of young adulthood, new parenthood, peripartum and postpartum mood disorders, survivors of sexual abuse, eating disorders and issues of grief and loss.
I am a strength-based therapist with a warm, nonjudgmental and direct approach. Championing evidence based practices such as ACT, cognitive behavioral and interpersonal therapy, I utilize these modalities to help you evaluate and work through maladaptive thought patterns and behaviors that are keeping you "stuck" in your present situation. I will work collaboratively with you to create a culturally sensitive and uniquely tailored treatment plan. Holding a strong belief that therapeutic relationship is a privilege, I approach all my clients with curiosity, compassion and empathy.
(925) 962-5316 View (925) 962-5316
Photo of Daniela (Dani) Pallafacchina, Pre-Licensed Professional in Walnut Creek, CA
Daniela (Dani) Pallafacchina
Pre-Licensed Professional, PsyD, MAMFT
Verified Verified
Walnut Creek, CA 94596
My specialties include relationships, attachment trauma, gender identity, eating disorders, addictions, adolescence, infertility, postpartum depression, and aging.
Hello! I'm a postdoctoral level therapist with experience working with a variety of clients who have different backgrounds, interests, and concerns. I work with individuals, both adults and adolescents, in a safe, understanding, accepting, non-judgmental environment. My intent is to focus on you as an individual, honor your experience, and genuinely hear your truth. I foster an inclusive environment for everyone, honoring your sexuality and gender.
My specialties include relationships, attachment trauma, gender identity, eating disorders, addictions, adolescence, infertility, postpartum depression, and aging.
Hello! I'm a postdoctoral level therapist with experience working with a variety of clients who have different backgrounds, interests, and concerns. I work with individuals, both adults and adolescents, in a safe, understanding, accepting, non-judgmental environment. My intent is to focus on you as an individual, honor your experience, and genuinely hear your truth. I foster an inclusive environment for everyone, honoring your sexuality and gender.
(707) 209-7037 View (707) 209-7037
Photo of Daniela Finnegan, Marriage & Family Therapist in Walnut Creek, CA
Daniela Finnegan
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Walnut Creek, CA 94598
My hope is to help individuals (teens and adults) and families navigate the emotions that can impact their sense of self, their relationships, and their overall lives. With a compassionate and collaborative approach, we will work together to explore your unique strengths and empower you to take control of your own healing. I support individuals, couples, and families with an emphasis on caregivers in overcoming presenting challenges such as anxiety, depression, pregnancy/prenatal/postpartum, parenting, school/work difficulties, life transitions, and relationship conflicts.
My hope is to help individuals (teens and adults) and families navigate the emotions that can impact their sense of self, their relationships, and their overall lives. With a compassionate and collaborative approach, we will work together to explore your unique strengths and empower you to take control of your own healing. I support individuals, couples, and families with an emphasis on caregivers in overcoming presenting challenges such as anxiety, depression, pregnancy/prenatal/postpartum, parenting, school/work difficulties, life transitions, and relationship conflicts.
(925) 886-0870 View (925) 886-0870
Photo of Jillian Perry, Marriage & Family Therapist in Walnut Creek, CA
Jillian Perry
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, PMH-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Walnut Creek, CA 94595
Finding support beginning in pregnancy can help the transitions of motherhood once your sweet baby is born.
Motherhood can bring levels of joy you never thought possible, and it can also be overwhelming. Living in those dualities seems to be a daily experience. Some of the emotions and thoughts you are navigating during pregnancy and postpartum were not in the books or articles about what to expect during this time. Perinatal mood disorders and anxiety are experienced by 1 in 7 women. Please know you are not alone and help is here.
Finding support beginning in pregnancy can help the transitions of motherhood once your sweet baby is born.
Motherhood can bring levels of joy you never thought possible, and it can also be overwhelming. Living in those dualities seems to be a daily experience. Some of the emotions and thoughts you are navigating during pregnancy and postpartum were not in the books or articles about what to expect during this time. Perinatal mood disorders and anxiety are experienced by 1 in 7 women. Please know you are not alone and help is here.
(925) 261-7865 View (925) 261-7865
Photo of Aileen Cunanan Dwight, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Walnut Creek, CA
Aileen Cunanan Dwight
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Walnut Creek, CA 94596  (Online Only)
I have specialties treating Men's Issues, Early Psychosis, & Postpartum Depression.
You can feel better, reconnect with others and create the life & relationships you desire. One of the most caring actions you can make for yourself and for your loved ones is seeking help. www.CaliforniaTherapy.Care
I have specialties treating Men's Issues, Early Psychosis, & Postpartum Depression.
You can feel better, reconnect with others and create the life & relationships you desire. One of the most caring actions you can make for yourself and for your loved ones is seeking help. www.CaliforniaTherapy.Care
(925) 476-0804 View (925) 476-0804
Photo of Tali Korati Biale, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Walnut Creek, CA
Tali Korati Biale
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
Walnut Creek, CA 94596
I love working with teens, families, and adults, especially those navigating the challenges of parenthood and the identity shifts that change brings. I am passionate about supporting moms through the challenges of pregnancy and postpartum and working with anyone who is navigating depression, anxiety, grief and loss, life transitions, and relationship concerns.
I love working with teens, families, and adults, especially those navigating the challenges of parenthood and the identity shifts that change brings. I am passionate about supporting moms through the challenges of pregnancy and postpartum and working with anyone who is navigating depression, anxiety, grief and loss, life transitions, and relationship concerns.
(925) 966-3457 View (925) 966-3457
Photo of Roya Taghehchian, Marriage & Family Therapist in Walnut Creek, CA
Roya Taghehchian
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Walnut Creek, CA 94595  (Online Only)
I am a licensed marriage and family therapist working primarily with individuals and couples dealing with anxiety/depression, trauma, and major life events including grief, peri/postpartum, and the aftereffects of infidelity. I have completed my Attachment-Focused EMDR Basic Training through the Parnell Institute.
I am a licensed marriage and family therapist working primarily with individuals and couples dealing with anxiety/depression, trauma, and major life events including grief, peri/postpartum, and the aftereffects of infidelity. I have completed my Attachment-Focused EMDR Basic Training through the Parnell Institute.
(925) 378-4666 View (925) 378-4666
Photo of Audrey Silverman Foote, Marriage & Family Therapist in Walnut Creek, CA
Audrey Silverman Foote
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Walnut Creek, CA 94598  (Online Only)
I have been a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in private practice in the East Bay for over 30 years, providing psychotherapy for adults, couples, families, adolescents, and groups. I work from a holistic perspective, creating a safe environment to encourage the therapeutic process. I specialize in working with: relationship issues, recovery from sexual, physical, and emotional abuse and other childhood traumas; depression; anxiety, low self esteem; codependency issues; parenting concerns; compulsive eating patterns; body image dissatisfaction, chronic illness, and perinatal loss. I integrate in-depth psychotherapy with EMDR, Expressive Arts Therapy, Somatic Experiencing, Jungian Sand Tray, and Dream Work.
I have been a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in private practice in the East Bay for over 30 years, providing psychotherapy for adults, couples, families, adolescents, and groups. I work from a holistic perspective, creating a safe environment to encourage the therapeutic process. I specialize in working with: relationship issues, recovery from sexual, physical, and emotional abuse and other childhood traumas; depression; anxiety, low self esteem; codependency issues; parenting concerns; compulsive eating patterns; body image dissatisfaction, chronic illness, and perinatal loss. I integrate in-depth psychotherapy with EMDR, Expressive Arts Therapy, Somatic Experiencing, Jungian Sand Tray, and Dream Work.
(925) 892-3864 View (925) 892-3864
Photo of Nicole Kangas, Marriage & Family Therapist in Walnut Creek, CA
Nicole Kangas
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, MA, LMFT, JD
Verified Verified
Walnut Creek, CA 94595
My practice also has a special commitment to helping women and couples with the emotional and psychological issues related to reproductive health, including infertility, pregnancy and postpartum issues, birth trauma, and perinatal loss.
*VIDEO/PHONE SESSIONS AVAILABLE* Do you find yourself facing difficult or unexpected struggles? Responding to life's challenges can be hard and can result in stress and unwanted feelings or symptoms. I am here to help you gain the strength, confidence, and clarity needed to tackle life’s obstacles and to feel well. I work with individuals from adolescence through adulthood who are dealing with a range of issues including stress, anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, life transitions, relationship and parenting concerns, grief and loss, trauma recovery, and more. I also help couples work through problems and strengthen their bond.
My practice also has a special commitment to helping women and couples with the emotional and psychological issues related to reproductive health, including infertility, pregnancy and postpartum issues, birth trauma, and perinatal loss.
*VIDEO/PHONE SESSIONS AVAILABLE* Do you find yourself facing difficult or unexpected struggles? Responding to life's challenges can be hard and can result in stress and unwanted feelings or symptoms. I am here to help you gain the strength, confidence, and clarity needed to tackle life’s obstacles and to feel well. I work with individuals from adolescence through adulthood who are dealing with a range of issues including stress, anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, life transitions, relationship and parenting concerns, grief and loss, trauma recovery, and more. I also help couples work through problems and strengthen their bond.
(925) 660-7363 View (925) 660-7363

See more therapy options for Walnut Creek

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.