Photo of Riley Brennan, Marriage & Family Therapist Intern in 60602, IL
Riley Brennan
Marriage & Family Therapist Intern
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60602
My main priority is to create a strong, safe relationship for you to share and grow. I approach therapy as a collaborative process where you are the expert on your life. I work with families, relationships and individuals with a particular interest in working with teens and parents with children of any age. I am especially interested in addressing teen mood instability, parenting, relationship issues, harm to self or others and gender dynamics.
My main priority is to create a strong, safe relationship for you to share and grow. I approach therapy as a collaborative process where you are the expert on your life. I work with families, relationships and individuals with a particular interest in working with teens and parents with children of any age. I am especially interested in addressing teen mood instability, parenting, relationship issues, harm to self or others and gender dynamics.
(312) 313-7698 x1 View (312) 313-7698 x1
Photo of Nik Wilson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 60602, IL
Nik Wilson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60602  (Online Only)
Being human is messy and the relationships we have with ourselves and others can often feel even messier. However, you, through your lived experiences, have a significant amount of important data about what is working for you versus what is not. Together we can use that data and determine what variables have been supportive as well as what elements may need a revised approach. Therapeutic work with me involves a deep respect for consent – you get to choose our direction, our focus, and where we are headed. I may gently steer us down a path, but ultimately you are the captain of our journey.
Being human is messy and the relationships we have with ourselves and others can often feel even messier. However, you, through your lived experiences, have a significant amount of important data about what is working for you versus what is not. Together we can use that data and determine what variables have been supportive as well as what elements may need a revised approach. Therapeutic work with me involves a deep respect for consent – you get to choose our direction, our focus, and where we are headed. I may gently steer us down a path, but ultimately you are the captain of our journey.
(312) 847-8517 View (312) 847-8517
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.