Photo of Elizabeth Anne Deig, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in San Diego, CA
Elizabeth Anne Deig
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92110
I have experience supporting individuals and couples dealing with depression, anxiety, the impacts of trauma, relationship distress, adjustment issues relating to family life transitions, as well as specialized training in perinatal mood and anxiety disorders and supporting individuals and couples as they transition to parenthood.
Our life experiences and social influences inform the ways that we cope, sometimes leading us in directions we do not desire and into ways of being in relationships that can be destructive. My belief is that at the heart of each and every human there are strengths and preferred narratives to be discovered and there is an innate ability to cultivate self-compassion, to heal from the past, to learn to communicate our needs and desires, and ultimately to create healthy relationships. I am passionate about supporting you in achieving lasting connection, joy, and fulfillment in your relationships.
I have experience supporting individuals and couples dealing with depression, anxiety, the impacts of trauma, relationship distress, adjustment issues relating to family life transitions, as well as specialized training in perinatal mood and anxiety disorders and supporting individuals and couples as they transition to parenthood.
Our life experiences and social influences inform the ways that we cope, sometimes leading us in directions we do not desire and into ways of being in relationships that can be destructive. My belief is that at the heart of each and every human there are strengths and preferred narratives to be discovered and there is an innate ability to cultivate self-compassion, to heal from the past, to learn to communicate our needs and desires, and ultimately to create healthy relationships. I am passionate about supporting you in achieving lasting connection, joy, and fulfillment in your relationships.
(619) 821-2450 View (619) 821-2450
Photo of Elizabeth 'betsy' Muirhead, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in San Diego, CA
Elizabeth 'betsy' Muirhead
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92110
I have experience working with perinatal mood and anxiety disorders, and am passionate about supporting clients as they navigate the transition into parenthood.
Are you in a current life transition or struggling to find your overall purpose? I believe you can create meaningful change by enhancing your understanding of beliefs, patterns, and relational dynamics that no longer benefit you. During our work together, I will utilize evidence-based methods to assist you in developing healthier ways of interacting with yourself and others. My therapeutic approach is diverse, drawing on a range of theoretical frameworks. I will rely on you to be the expert in your own life as I work as an active and attentive guide towards the path of healing and growth.
I have experience working with perinatal mood and anxiety disorders, and am passionate about supporting clients as they navigate the transition into parenthood.
Are you in a current life transition or struggling to find your overall purpose? I believe you can create meaningful change by enhancing your understanding of beliefs, patterns, and relational dynamics that no longer benefit you. During our work together, I will utilize evidence-based methods to assist you in developing healthier ways of interacting with yourself and others. My therapeutic approach is diverse, drawing on a range of theoretical frameworks. I will rely on you to be the expert in your own life as I work as an active and attentive guide towards the path of healing and growth.
(619) 503-7562 View (619) 503-7562
Photo of Evelyn Robarts, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Diego, CA
Evelyn Robarts
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92106
My experiences working within the realm of Reproductive Medicine has given me the opportunity an advocate for the screening and treatment of perinatal and post partum mood and anxiety disorders.
"Perhaps strength doesn't reside in having never been broken but in the courage required to grow in the broken places" I believe that pursuing and seeking out help through therapy is an act of bravery. It is my privilege as a therapist to help guide individuals through difficult times in order to help them find meaning and resilience. My experience as both a nurse and a therapist gives me a unique open-minded perspective in empathetically addressing issues for clients in both short and long-term therapy.
My experiences working within the realm of Reproductive Medicine has given me the opportunity an advocate for the screening and treatment of perinatal and post partum mood and anxiety disorders.
"Perhaps strength doesn't reside in having never been broken but in the courage required to grow in the broken places" I believe that pursuing and seeking out help through therapy is an act of bravery. It is my privilege as a therapist to help guide individuals through difficult times in order to help them find meaning and resilience. My experience as both a nurse and a therapist gives me a unique open-minded perspective in empathetically addressing issues for clients in both short and long-term therapy.
(619) 363-5172 View (619) 363-5172
Photo of Kristina Yé, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Diego, CA
Kristina Yé
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, PMH-C
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92108  (Online Only)
I help women with trauma, anxiety, OCD, and perinatal mental health concerns not only manage symptoms, but tackle their roots through mind-body therapies.
Do you often wrestle with worry or anxiety, negative thoughts, big emotions, or flashbacks? Maybe you're pregnant or recently had a baby and are finding it tough to adjust to this new transition? Imagine feeling confident and at ease as you navigate your daily life. Experiencing life without reacting to fear and pain. Imagine living a rich and fulfilling life that's guided by your values instead of by fear and anxiety. I can help you make the shift from surviving to thriving.
I help women with trauma, anxiety, OCD, and perinatal mental health concerns not only manage symptoms, but tackle their roots through mind-body therapies.
Do you often wrestle with worry or anxiety, negative thoughts, big emotions, or flashbacks? Maybe you're pregnant or recently had a baby and are finding it tough to adjust to this new transition? Imagine feeling confident and at ease as you navigate your daily life. Experiencing life without reacting to fear and pain. Imagine living a rich and fulfilling life that's guided by your values instead of by fear and anxiety. I can help you make the shift from surviving to thriving.
(619) 738-6770 View (619) 738-6770
Photo of Vera McGrath, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Diego, CA
Vera McGrath
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92129
Pregnancy, postpartum, and parenting often feel so different from what we have pictured. Worry and anxiety, emotional rollercoasters, relationship issues, frustration, and overwhelm can be all part of our experience. If you find yourself struggling and not knowing how to get through your day, now is the time to connect with the right therapist and to get support. You don’t have to feel alone in this and figure it all out on your own. Let us work together to find ways to help you feel empowered and confident throughout this crazy and challenging journey.
Pregnancy, postpartum, and parenting often feel so different from what we have pictured. Worry and anxiety, emotional rollercoasters, relationship issues, frustration, and overwhelm can be all part of our experience. If you find yourself struggling and not knowing how to get through your day, now is the time to connect with the right therapist and to get support. You don’t have to feel alone in this and figure it all out on your own. Let us work together to find ways to help you feel empowered and confident throughout this crazy and challenging journey.
(442) 300-3108 View (442) 300-3108
Photo of Megan Wilcox, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Diego, CA
Megan Wilcox
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CCE, LE
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92103
I’ve also completed post-graduate training in Somatic Experiencing, Expressive Arts & SandPlay, Mindfulness and Self-compassion, Pregnancy & Postpartum support, Childbirth & Lactation education.
Tell me about your North Star...What are you hoping to move towards? What are you hoping to move away from? What do you want more and less of for yourself and your relationships? What kind of change are you looking to create in your life? Perhaps you’re seeking therapy in response to a time of transition, challenge you’re up against, or are wanting to move towards healing a past or current wound or re-storying a relationship. We all deserve support in moving closer to the preferences for our lives, our relationships, our ways of thinking, feeling & being.
I’ve also completed post-graduate training in Somatic Experiencing, Expressive Arts & SandPlay, Mindfulness and Self-compassion, Pregnancy & Postpartum support, Childbirth & Lactation education.
Tell me about your North Star...What are you hoping to move towards? What are you hoping to move away from? What do you want more and less of for yourself and your relationships? What kind of change are you looking to create in your life? Perhaps you’re seeking therapy in response to a time of transition, challenge you’re up against, or are wanting to move towards healing a past or current wound or re-storying a relationship. We all deserve support in moving closer to the preferences for our lives, our relationships, our ways of thinking, feeling & being.
(619) 367-8289 View (619) 367-8289
Photo of Meg Semler, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Diego, CA
Meg Semler
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92110
I am experienced in treating depression, anxiety, PTSD, trauma, relationship issues, and perinatal mood and anxiety disorders.
I help couples and individuals explore how our past experiences influence our current behaviors and relationships. I believe that a deeper understanding of the connection between past and present builds compassion for ourselves and our partners, gives us greater insight into our relational patterns, and fosters self-awareness and change. I use a trauma-informed, attachment-based approach to help couples rebuild intimacy, connection, and trust, and to help individuals heal past traumas and work to meet personal and relational goals.
I am experienced in treating depression, anxiety, PTSD, trauma, relationship issues, and perinatal mood and anxiety disorders.
I help couples and individuals explore how our past experiences influence our current behaviors and relationships. I believe that a deeper understanding of the connection between past and present builds compassion for ourselves and our partners, gives us greater insight into our relational patterns, and fosters self-awareness and change. I use a trauma-informed, attachment-based approach to help couples rebuild intimacy, connection, and trust, and to help individuals heal past traumas and work to meet personal and relational goals.
(619) 268-8266 View (619) 268-8266
Photo of Keri Lynne Sebourn, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Diego, CA
Keri Lynne Sebourn
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92109
I have experience working with those suffering with depression, anxiety, the fall out of a traumatic event/chronic trauma, OCD, relationship difficulties, postpartum depression, attachment injuries.
The first step on the path to healing can be the hardest. Often times, we feel fragile, whether it be from past trauma, debilitating depression, anxiety, conflictual relationships, and the overall stresses attributed to life. Sometimes we feel surrounded by people who look but do not see us, hear but do not listen or understand which can lead you to feel isolated, disconnected, and misunderstood. Therapy is a space to navigate this desolate plane, a place to help you achieve a more fruitful and fulfilling connection with yourself and others. I have experience working with couples, individuals and families.
I have experience working with those suffering with depression, anxiety, the fall out of a traumatic event/chronic trauma, OCD, relationship difficulties, postpartum depression, attachment injuries.
The first step on the path to healing can be the hardest. Often times, we feel fragile, whether it be from past trauma, debilitating depression, anxiety, conflictual relationships, and the overall stresses attributed to life. Sometimes we feel surrounded by people who look but do not see us, hear but do not listen or understand which can lead you to feel isolated, disconnected, and misunderstood. Therapy is a space to navigate this desolate plane, a place to help you achieve a more fruitful and fulfilling connection with yourself and others. I have experience working with couples, individuals and families.
(951) 355-7860 View (951) 355-7860
Photo of Becca Lantry, Associate Marriage & Family Therapist in San Diego, CA
Becca Lantry
Associate Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MS
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92101  (Online Only)
I work with those experiencing all facets of depression, anxiety, postpartum depression, postpartum anxiety, mood disorders, PTSD, grief, OCD, trauma, sexual dysfunction, mental health impacts due to chronic pain, and much more.
I believe that you are the expert of your own experiences. Together we can collaborate to come to a place in life that you prefer. I implement a tailored approach that meets your needs by fusing approaches from Narrative Family Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, Collaborative Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and Expressive Arts Therapy practices. If you think I may be a good fit for you, feel free to text, call or email Becca for a free 15 minute consultation.
I work with those experiencing all facets of depression, anxiety, postpartum depression, postpartum anxiety, mood disorders, PTSD, grief, OCD, trauma, sexual dysfunction, mental health impacts due to chronic pain, and much more.
I believe that you are the expert of your own experiences. Together we can collaborate to come to a place in life that you prefer. I implement a tailored approach that meets your needs by fusing approaches from Narrative Family Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, Collaborative Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and Expressive Arts Therapy practices. If you think I may be a good fit for you, feel free to text, call or email Becca for a free 15 minute consultation.
(619) 393-4016 View (619) 393-4016
Photo of Melissa Houlston, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Diego, CA
Melissa Houlston
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92123
My specialties include LEOs, anxiety, depression, addiction, codependency, trauma, crisis resolution, grief, pregnancy/postpartum, and family/relational.
The thought of going to therapy can be overwhelming and scary, but it doesn't have to be. As your therapist, I will hold a safe space for you, free from judgement and provide plenty of support. This will be a place where you can heal from past traumas and/or present issues that are making you feel stuck. I will meet you where you are and only take you where you want to go. I have over eight years of experience in both mental health and hospital settings. I started my career as an ER Social Worker at CHOC and most recently was with the County of Orange providing psychological evaluations for suicidal and homicidal minors.
My specialties include LEOs, anxiety, depression, addiction, codependency, trauma, crisis resolution, grief, pregnancy/postpartum, and family/relational.
The thought of going to therapy can be overwhelming and scary, but it doesn't have to be. As your therapist, I will hold a safe space for you, free from judgement and provide plenty of support. This will be a place where you can heal from past traumas and/or present issues that are making you feel stuck. I will meet you where you are and only take you where you want to go. I have over eight years of experience in both mental health and hospital settings. I started my career as an ER Social Worker at CHOC and most recently was with the County of Orange providing psychological evaluations for suicidal and homicidal minors.
(909) 316-3351 View (909) 316-3351
Photo of Rachel Benavidez, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Diego, CA
Rachel Benavidez
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92101  (Online Only)
If you are an individual who's struggled with a sense of emptiness, sadness, or anxiety, I may be able to help. I work with issues such as co-dependency, compulsive behaviors, failed relationships, anger, depression, worry, and postpartum depression/anxiety. I believe the healing work therapy creates is a topsy-turvy journey and my ultimate goal is for you to get the very best because you deserve it. Let's talk further to see how I can support your healing journey. LGBTIA+ friendly, Non-judgemental, trauma-informed, compassionate therapy.
If you are an individual who's struggled with a sense of emptiness, sadness, or anxiety, I may be able to help. I work with issues such as co-dependency, compulsive behaviors, failed relationships, anger, depression, worry, and postpartum depression/anxiety. I believe the healing work therapy creates is a topsy-turvy journey and my ultimate goal is for you to get the very best because you deserve it. Let's talk further to see how I can support your healing journey. LGBTIA+ friendly, Non-judgemental, trauma-informed, compassionate therapy.
(323) 765-1540 View (323) 765-1540
Photo of Sarah Ryan, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Diego, CA
Sarah Ryan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, EMDR-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92101  (Online Only)
I am a licensed clinical social worker and certified EMDR therapist that enjoys working with adults across the lifespan. I have experience working with diverse adult populations experiencing mood disorders, anxiety, low self-esteem, grief, trauma, relational difficulties, and family of origin issues. I specialize in trauma and particularly enjoy working with individuals whose past experiences are impacting their ability to connect with others, navigate life transitions, or regulate emotions. Additionally, I have received advanced training in Perinatal Mental Health through PSI and enjoy working with this population.
I am a licensed clinical social worker and certified EMDR therapist that enjoys working with adults across the lifespan. I have experience working with diverse adult populations experiencing mood disorders, anxiety, low self-esteem, grief, trauma, relational difficulties, and family of origin issues. I specialize in trauma and particularly enjoy working with individuals whose past experiences are impacting their ability to connect with others, navigate life transitions, or regulate emotions. Additionally, I have received advanced training in Perinatal Mental Health through PSI and enjoy working with this population.
(949) 519-4248 View (949) 519-4248
Photo of Jillian Early, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Diego, CA
Jillian Early
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92139
Hi there, I'm Jillian Early, a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW), and I love working with parents navigating those tricky years of planning, pregnancy, postpartum, and early parenting. While no two people's stories are the same, my typical clients are those who are in the midst of a desired life transition and are encountering anxiety, depressed mood, indecision, new difficulties coping with daily life, or shifts in identity.
Hi there, I'm Jillian Early, a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW), and I love working with parents navigating those tricky years of planning, pregnancy, postpartum, and early parenting. While no two people's stories are the same, my typical clients are those who are in the midst of a desired life transition and are encountering anxiety, depressed mood, indecision, new difficulties coping with daily life, or shifts in identity.
(626) 648-5310 View (626) 648-5310
Photo of Judith (Jae) Davis, Pre-Licensed Professional in San Diego, CA
Judith (Jae) Davis
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, APCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92123  (Online Only)
I am a culturally affirming Mental Health Therapist with over 10 yrs of experience in the field. I work with adults and young adults from diverse backgrounds, with a focus on underrepresented groups. We will identify your objectives, potential roadblocks, and strategies for overcoming them. I practice through a lens of self-compassion. My areas of expertise include, but are not limited to: Moms; life/career transitions; addiction; relationships; self-esteem; mood disorders; body image; and trauma. Therapy is a collaborative journey, and I'd like to work with you to improve the quality of your life and achieve mental well-being.
I am a culturally affirming Mental Health Therapist with over 10 yrs of experience in the field. I work with adults and young adults from diverse backgrounds, with a focus on underrepresented groups. We will identify your objectives, potential roadblocks, and strategies for overcoming them. I practice through a lens of self-compassion. My areas of expertise include, but are not limited to: Moms; life/career transitions; addiction; relationships; self-esteem; mood disorders; body image; and trauma. Therapy is a collaborative journey, and I'd like to work with you to improve the quality of your life and achieve mental well-being.
(619) 332-2292 View (619) 332-2292
Photo of Amy Saloner, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Diego, CA
Amy Saloner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92108  (Online Only)
I work best with adults and children who are open to the process, who are curious and willing to give things a try. I am most excited to work with those who want a more holistic and integrated approach to mental health. I am more than a therapist, I am also a nutritional therapist, community builder and functional health practitioner. If you are interested in connecting the dots between our lifestyle, nutrition, mental well-being, relationships and sense of belonging, then we will go far together.
I work best with adults and children who are open to the process, who are curious and willing to give things a try. I am most excited to work with those who want a more holistic and integrated approach to mental health. I am more than a therapist, I am also a nutritional therapist, community builder and functional health practitioner. If you are interested in connecting the dots between our lifestyle, nutrition, mental well-being, relationships and sense of belonging, then we will go far together.
(619) 558-5179 View (619) 558-5179
Photo of Kari Katzenmeier, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Diego, CA
Kari Katzenmeier
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92127
If you avoid the conflict to keep the peace you start a war inside yourself - Glennon Doyle. While this statement is SO true, many of us learned to avoid conflict as a way to protect ourselves from emotional pain. However, over time, that leads to the abandonment of your authentic self. The result may be mood difficulties, anxiety, depression, etc. I would be honored to help you unpack your story, find and heal the hurting places. Doing so empowers you to face and cope with conflict more effectively.
If you avoid the conflict to keep the peace you start a war inside yourself - Glennon Doyle. While this statement is SO true, many of us learned to avoid conflict as a way to protect ourselves from emotional pain. However, over time, that leads to the abandonment of your authentic self. The result may be mood difficulties, anxiety, depression, etc. I would be honored to help you unpack your story, find and heal the hurting places. Doing so empowers you to face and cope with conflict more effectively.
(858) 293-7984 View (858) 293-7984
Photo of Kendall Stewart, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in San Diego, CA
Kendall Stewart
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92108
Hi, Glad you found me! Let’s work together. I specialize in working with a variety clients – children, women, families, and mothers. If you or your loved ones are navigating the challenges of anxiety, depression, or trauma, you've come to the right place. I provide a safe and supportive space where you can learn, express, and develop the tools to overcome these hurdles. Together, we'll embark on a journey of healing and self-discovery. Whether it's finding peace, building resilience, or mending relationships, my goal is to help you or your family on the path to a brighter and healthier future. It is an honor to support you.
Hi, Glad you found me! Let’s work together. I specialize in working with a variety clients – children, women, families, and mothers. If you or your loved ones are navigating the challenges of anxiety, depression, or trauma, you've come to the right place. I provide a safe and supportive space where you can learn, express, and develop the tools to overcome these hurdles. Together, we'll embark on a journey of healing and self-discovery. Whether it's finding peace, building resilience, or mending relationships, my goal is to help you or your family on the path to a brighter and healthier future. It is an honor to support you.
(619) 304-9429 View (619) 304-9429
Photo of Lindsey Stewart, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Diego, CA
Lindsey Stewart
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, LPCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92101  (Online Only)
You have been through a trauma, loss. Something so painful it defies words. You are looking for more than coping tools (although some of that is good!), you are looking to feel better and create meaning from these hard experiences. You want to leave painful experiences behind but you find yourself reacting intensely to things in a way that makes you realize that your pain gets activated more than you want it to. You’re ready to both develop insight and coping tools and release your pain from your nervous system. I am a certified EMDR provider and completed coursework as a Certified Mental Health Integrative Medical Provider.
You have been through a trauma, loss. Something so painful it defies words. You are looking for more than coping tools (although some of that is good!), you are looking to feel better and create meaning from these hard experiences. You want to leave painful experiences behind but you find yourself reacting intensely to things in a way that makes you realize that your pain gets activated more than you want it to. You’re ready to both develop insight and coping tools and release your pain from your nervous system. I am a certified EMDR provider and completed coursework as a Certified Mental Health Integrative Medical Provider.
(916) 414-9764 View (916) 414-9764
Photo of Elizabeth Donahue Marucheau, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Diego, CA
Elizabeth Donahue Marucheau, LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92121
I have operated my private practice since 1991 and have 30 years of experience working in a wide variety of mental health settings. My approach works to eliminate symptoms that can interfere with living a life that is worth celebrating. My work is grounded in neuroscience principles, developmental theories, attachment theory, and polyvagal theory.
I have operated my private practice since 1991 and have 30 years of experience working in a wide variety of mental health settings. My approach works to eliminate symptoms that can interfere with living a life that is worth celebrating. My work is grounded in neuroscience principles, developmental theories, attachment theory, and polyvagal theory.
(619) 567-4688 View (619) 567-4688
Photo of Sierra Family Therapy Center San Diego, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Diego, CA
Sierra Family Therapy Center San Diego
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92130
At Sierra Family Therapy, we offer a wide range of treatment to provide deep healing and recovery. We offer Individual, Family, Couples, and Child/Adolescent treatment. We work with a variety of issues such as depression, anxiety, stress, dealing with grief, loss, loneliness, interpersonal relationships, trauma work using EMDR/Brainspotting, resolving sexual difficulties, healing childhood wounds, eating disorders, learning effective communication and anger release, overcoming money and power struggles, exploring purpose and meaning in life, and freeing creativity, spontaneity and joy.
At Sierra Family Therapy, we offer a wide range of treatment to provide deep healing and recovery. We offer Individual, Family, Couples, and Child/Adolescent treatment. We work with a variety of issues such as depression, anxiety, stress, dealing with grief, loss, loneliness, interpersonal relationships, trauma work using EMDR/Brainspotting, resolving sexual difficulties, healing childhood wounds, eating disorders, learning effective communication and anger release, overcoming money and power struggles, exploring purpose and meaning in life, and freeing creativity, spontaneity and joy.
(619) 329-9107 View (619) 329-9107
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.