Photo of Amy Dickerson, Marriage & Family Therapist in Arizona
Amy Dickerson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, MFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
I am a professional member of Postpartum Support International, and have attended training sessions necessary to hone my skills in working with this special population.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or depressed? Are you having difficulty adjusting to a new transition in your life? I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and have worked in a private practice setting for over ten years. I enjoy working with a broad range of issues related to relationships and mental health. Over the years I have become passionate about working with mothers struggling with loss, pregnancy and postpartum related depression, anxiety, or obsessive-compulsive disorder. 15-20% of pregnant women and new mothers suffer from perinatal mood and anxiety disorders. If you are struggling, you are not alone.
I am a professional member of Postpartum Support International, and have attended training sessions necessary to hone my skills in working with this special population.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or depressed? Are you having difficulty adjusting to a new transition in your life? I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and have worked in a private practice setting for over ten years. I enjoy working with a broad range of issues related to relationships and mental health. Over the years I have become passionate about working with mothers struggling with loss, pregnancy and postpartum related depression, anxiety, or obsessive-compulsive disorder. 15-20% of pregnant women and new mothers suffer from perinatal mood and anxiety disorders. If you are struggling, you are not alone.
(909) 894-0891 View (909) 894-0891
Photo of Sandra A Tursini, Licensed Professional Counselor in Arizona
Sandra A Tursini
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, MC, LPC
Verified Verified
Tempe, AZ 85282
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in Private Practice, with over 30 years of experience in individual, family, marital, divorce, blended family, child and adolescent counseling, and veteran's issues. During that time, I have developed an understanding of human nature that guides me down the path to best help each individual. I believe that no one gets through life without some adversity and difficulty. I strive to treat each person as a unique individual and reinforce their worth and dignity. My clients range in ages from 2 through adult, including the geriatric group.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in Private Practice, with over 30 years of experience in individual, family, marital, divorce, blended family, child and adolescent counseling, and veteran's issues. During that time, I have developed an understanding of human nature that guides me down the path to best help each individual. I believe that no one gets through life without some adversity and difficulty. I strive to treat each person as a unique individual and reinforce their worth and dignity. My clients range in ages from 2 through adult, including the geriatric group.
(480) 508-9447 View (480) 508-9447
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.