Pregnancy, Prenatal, Postpartum Therapists in California

Photo of Aditi Uttarwar - Little Seedlings Therapy Center, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in California
Aditi Uttarwar - Little Seedlings Therapy Center
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, LPCC, R-DMT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Alameda, CA 94501
I am a licensed clinical professional counselor and a registered dance movement therapist. My expertise encompasses postpartum, pregnancy, parenting, as well as support for infants, children, and families. My therapeutic approach is rooted in harnessing the body's wisdom, allowing us to explore and effect change through the body. I guide you in understanding body signals and collaboratively develop strategies to facilitate the desired transformations. I believe in the power of nonverbal communication and self-expression to foster emotional growth and strengthen connections within these vital relationships.
I am a licensed clinical professional counselor and a registered dance movement therapist. My expertise encompasses postpartum, pregnancy, parenting, as well as support for infants, children, and families. My therapeutic approach is rooted in harnessing the body's wisdom, allowing us to explore and effect change through the body. I guide you in understanding body signals and collaboratively develop strategies to facilitate the desired transformations. I believe in the power of nonverbal communication and self-expression to foster emotional growth and strengthen connections within these vital relationships.
(510) 390-9581 View (510) 390-9581
Photo of Anne M. Dennis, Marriage & Family Therapist in California
Anne M. Dennis
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Pasadena, CA 91106  (Online Only)
Welcome to my Practice. I am currently accepting new patients. My work includes Individuals, Couples and Families in the assessment and treatment of trauma, anxiety, depression, mood disorders, job dissatisfaction, relationship issues and grief and loss. In addition, I specialize in the assessment and treatment of Perinatal and Postpartum Depression/ Anxiety. Considering therapy is a positive step for yourself, your relationship or your family this year.
Welcome to my Practice. I am currently accepting new patients. My work includes Individuals, Couples and Families in the assessment and treatment of trauma, anxiety, depression, mood disorders, job dissatisfaction, relationship issues and grief and loss. In addition, I specialize in the assessment and treatment of Perinatal and Postpartum Depression/ Anxiety. Considering therapy is a positive step for yourself, your relationship or your family this year.
(626) 325-0318 View (626) 325-0318
Photo of Gloria M Kardong in California
Gloria M Kardong
MD, DFAPA, DABPN
Verified Verified
Palo Alto, CA 94301  (Online Only)
In addition, I have a specialty in Women's Health Care, eg pregnancy and postpartum-related problems, infertility, gynecologic oncology, menopause, PMS and other hormonal issues, PTSD/childhood sexual abuse, weight, eating disorders, sexuality and relationships.
I am a psychiatrist providing psychotherapy and/or psychopharmacology, depending on the client's needs. I believe it is important to offer individualized care based on the client's problems, concerns and preferences. My style is warm, collaborative and interactive. I can help with a practical, solution-focused approach for current problems. I also do exploratory therapy to address unresolved issues from the past that may be interfering with living your life as fully as possible. My clients also seek depth therapy to promote personal growth, insight and self awareness. LICENSED IN 20 STATES--Virtual therapy and med management.
In addition, I have a specialty in Women's Health Care, eg pregnancy and postpartum-related problems, infertility, gynecologic oncology, menopause, PMS and other hormonal issues, PTSD/childhood sexual abuse, weight, eating disorders, sexuality and relationships.
I am a psychiatrist providing psychotherapy and/or psychopharmacology, depending on the client's needs. I believe it is important to offer individualized care based on the client's problems, concerns and preferences. My style is warm, collaborative and interactive. I can help with a practical, solution-focused approach for current problems. I also do exploratory therapy to address unresolved issues from the past that may be interfering with living your life as fully as possible. My clients also seek depth therapy to promote personal growth, insight and self awareness. LICENSED IN 20 STATES--Virtual therapy and med management.
(650) 800-5502 View (650) 800-5502
Photo of Linda D Gallegos, Marriage & Family Therapist in California
Linda D Gallegos
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, PMH-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Maria, CA 93455
I am also certified in Perinatal Mental Health.
I believe the issue that brings us to therapy is the desire to heal, to change, to feel content in the way we view ourselves in the world. I help individuals become healthier versions of themselves. Together we can address areas of concern that may include anxiety, depression, difficult relationships, life transitions, grief, and trauma. I teach coping skills to help tolerate the emotions that come with adversity, and help clients make changes through self awareness. I welcome the opportunity to listen to your story, and support you on your journey in managing difficult life circumstances.
I am also certified in Perinatal Mental Health.
I believe the issue that brings us to therapy is the desire to heal, to change, to feel content in the way we view ourselves in the world. I help individuals become healthier versions of themselves. Together we can address areas of concern that may include anxiety, depression, difficult relationships, life transitions, grief, and trauma. I teach coping skills to help tolerate the emotions that come with adversity, and help clients make changes through self awareness. I welcome the opportunity to listen to your story, and support you on your journey in managing difficult life circumstances.
(805) 429-8924 View (805) 429-8924
Photo of Robin Pritchard Giesen, Marriage & Family Therapist in California
Robin Pritchard Giesen
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Long Beach, CA 90807
I have specialized training in maternal mental heath and pregnancy loss thru Postpartum Support International and the Seleni Institute.
ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS. Is the journey to motherhood not what you expected? Becoming a mom can be overwhelming, exhausting and leave you feeling anxious, depressed, isolated and even disconnected from your partner. When the rest of the world expects us to be basking in the glow of motherhood and reminds us to cherish every moment it can be especially hard to admit we're having a difficult time staying afloat. You are not alone. Twenty percent of new moms experience significant mood disturbance and 67% of couples report a significant decrease is martial satisfaction after the birth of a child.
I have specialized training in maternal mental heath and pregnancy loss thru Postpartum Support International and the Seleni Institute.
ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS. Is the journey to motherhood not what you expected? Becoming a mom can be overwhelming, exhausting and leave you feeling anxious, depressed, isolated and even disconnected from your partner. When the rest of the world expects us to be basking in the glow of motherhood and reminds us to cherish every moment it can be especially hard to admit we're having a difficult time staying afloat. You are not alone. Twenty percent of new moms experience significant mood disturbance and 67% of couples report a significant decrease is martial satisfaction after the birth of a child.
(562) 221-7544 View (562) 221-7544
Photo of Becca Gasperoni, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in California
Becca Gasperoni
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Santa Barbara, CA 93101
I’m passionate about supporting others on their journey, especially those who are navigating pregnancy and the postpartum period, and those who are hoping to learn tools to cope with anxiety and heal from the impacts of trauma.
There are moments in life when we need a space where we feel supported, heard, and met with compassion. I believe that effective therapy can help us move toward a sense of completeness, awareness, and deeper self-understanding. I provide a warm and supportive space for exploration, change, and healing. Together, we will work collaboratively to equip you with the tools you need to enjoy your life, work, and relationships, and to move through the world with a greater sense of purpose.
I’m passionate about supporting others on their journey, especially those who are navigating pregnancy and the postpartum period, and those who are hoping to learn tools to cope with anxiety and heal from the impacts of trauma.
There are moments in life when we need a space where we feel supported, heard, and met with compassion. I believe that effective therapy can help us move toward a sense of completeness, awareness, and deeper self-understanding. I provide a warm and supportive space for exploration, change, and healing. Together, we will work collaboratively to equip you with the tools you need to enjoy your life, work, and relationships, and to move through the world with a greater sense of purpose.
(805) 301-9958 View (805) 301-9958
Photo of Hannah Singer, Psychologist in California
Hannah Singer
Psychologist, PsyD, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Agoura Hills, CA 91301
I specialize in treating anxiety, trauma, and maternal mental health concerns, including prenatal and postpartum depression and anxiety.
No matter how hard you try to relax and stop worrying, you can't stop yourself from replaying the past and imagining "what-if" scenarios in the future. As a licensed clinical psychologist, my job is to help you find relief from the repetitive thoughts and overwhelming feelings that are sucking the joy from your life. We will work together to identify what is causing your distress and help you find more effective ways to cope.
I specialize in treating anxiety, trauma, and maternal mental health concerns, including prenatal and postpartum depression and anxiety.
No matter how hard you try to relax and stop worrying, you can't stop yourself from replaying the past and imagining "what-if" scenarios in the future. As a licensed clinical psychologist, my job is to help you find relief from the repetitive thoughts and overwhelming feelings that are sucking the joy from your life. We will work together to identify what is causing your distress and help you find more effective ways to cope.
Photo of Elizabeth Theriault, Associate Clinical Social Worker in California
Elizabeth Theriault
Associate Clinical Social Worker, MSW, MPH, ASW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Rosa, CA 95409
I have formal training in Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders, I am also a Certified Innate Postpartum Practitioner with a unique and deep knowledge of women's physiological, biological and hormonal health across the life span.
I specialize in supporting women during life transitions. This might be due to welcoming a new child into your home and relationship, life stage (perimenopause /menopause), ending a relationship or a chronic illness. You might be experiencing a sense that you have lost a part of yourself. Maybe your anxiety or depression is preventing you from enjoying your life fully, or feeling overwhelmed with how to move forward with the life that you want. Often during life's transitions it is a powerful time to take a pause and reflect. I am here to support you as a guide back to your own inner wisdom and path home to yourself.
I have formal training in Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders, I am also a Certified Innate Postpartum Practitioner with a unique and deep knowledge of women's physiological, biological and hormonal health across the life span.
I specialize in supporting women during life transitions. This might be due to welcoming a new child into your home and relationship, life stage (perimenopause /menopause), ending a relationship or a chronic illness. You might be experiencing a sense that you have lost a part of yourself. Maybe your anxiety or depression is preventing you from enjoying your life fully, or feeling overwhelmed with how to move forward with the life that you want. Often during life's transitions it is a powerful time to take a pause and reflect. I am here to support you as a guide back to your own inner wisdom and path home to yourself.
(707) 306-8671 View (707) 306-8671
Photo of Leah Turano, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in California
Leah Turano
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, APCC
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90034
I specialize in working with attachment, parenting, the perinatal journey, intimate partnerships, life transitions, separation + divorce, trauma and identity.
I believe that we are holistic, interdependent, relational beings, more than the sum of our parts with deep complexity. I value the here and now and I am deeply committed to helping folks be fully alive in their bodies, relationships, and work. It is an honor to witness clients uncovering their own truth and live it. I incorporate the deeper aspects of clients’ history, personality, aspirations and context to assist unlocking their potential for living a fully expressed life. The body and nervous system, along with the mind, are used to facilitate healing and growth which is not always available in traditional talk therapy.
I specialize in working with attachment, parenting, the perinatal journey, intimate partnerships, life transitions, separation + divorce, trauma and identity.
I believe that we are holistic, interdependent, relational beings, more than the sum of our parts with deep complexity. I value the here and now and I am deeply committed to helping folks be fully alive in their bodies, relationships, and work. It is an honor to witness clients uncovering their own truth and live it. I incorporate the deeper aspects of clients’ history, personality, aspirations and context to assist unlocking their potential for living a fully expressed life. The body and nervous system, along with the mind, are used to facilitate healing and growth which is not always available in traditional talk therapy.
(310) 929-6265 View (310) 929-6265
Photo of Sherry Kalish, Marriage & Family Therapist in California
Sherry Kalish
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92131
At my practice, I take a holistic and collaborative approach to therapy, working in partnership with you to provide the support and tools you need to feel empowered and in control of your life. I offer guidance on managing stressors, navigating work-life balance, boosting self-esteem, addressing perfectionism, combating burnout, and enhancing relationships in both personal and professional spheres. I am also dedicated to working with women on a diverse range of issues, including infertility, pregnancy, postpartum, and the challenges of motherhood.
At my practice, I take a holistic and collaborative approach to therapy, working in partnership with you to provide the support and tools you need to feel empowered and in control of your life. I offer guidance on managing stressors, navigating work-life balance, boosting self-esteem, addressing perfectionism, combating burnout, and enhancing relationships in both personal and professional spheres. I am also dedicated to working with women on a diverse range of issues, including infertility, pregnancy, postpartum, and the challenges of motherhood.
(858) 732-9219 View (858) 732-9219
Photo of Michelle Nelson, Marriage & Family Therapist in California
Michelle Nelson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, PMH-C
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Lodi, CA 95240
Are you feeling anxious, isolated, sad, irritable, or overwhelmed in the months or years following the birth of your child? Perhaps you’re coping with the loss of your pregnancy or infant, or navigating a pregnancy with circumstances that feel uncertain? Are you a parent who is struggling to find time and space for self-care as you juggle the many demands of raising children? I am here to support you during this time. I offer counseling services to California residents in the perinatal/postpartum periods who are struggling with depression, anxiety, grief/loss, birth trauma/PTSD, and managing the challenges of parenthood.
Are you feeling anxious, isolated, sad, irritable, or overwhelmed in the months or years following the birth of your child? Perhaps you’re coping with the loss of your pregnancy or infant, or navigating a pregnancy with circumstances that feel uncertain? Are you a parent who is struggling to find time and space for self-care as you juggle the many demands of raising children? I am here to support you during this time. I offer counseling services to California residents in the perinatal/postpartum periods who are struggling with depression, anxiety, grief/loss, birth trauma/PTSD, and managing the challenges of parenthood.
(209) 439-5269 View (209) 439-5269
Photo of Rupa Puri Zimmermann, Psychologist in California
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 Michelle Pow, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in California
Michelle Pow
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90019  (Online Only)
Hi, I’m Michelle! I am a second-generation Asian American mental health therapist and most importantly Human. As an Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I believe providing a trauma-informed, culturally responsive, and social justice-oriented environment is critically important to doing this brave work. My goal is to support you on your journey to understanding yourself, healing from the past, and creating the life you want to live. My specialties include: First/Second Generation Asian American Mental Health, Intergenerational Trauma/Conflict, Relationships, Postpartum Mental Health, Racial Trauma, Depression, Anxiety, and Self-Esteem
Hi, I’m Michelle! I am a second-generation Asian American mental health therapist and most importantly Human. As an Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I believe providing a trauma-informed, culturally responsive, and social justice-oriented environment is critically important to doing this brave work. My goal is to support you on your journey to understanding yourself, healing from the past, and creating the life you want to live. My specialties include: First/Second Generation Asian American Mental Health, Intergenerational Trauma/Conflict, Relationships, Postpartum Mental Health, Racial Trauma, Depression, Anxiety, and Self-Esteem
(213) 375-1763 View (213) 375-1763
Photo of Sasha McPherson, Marriage & Family Therapist in California
Sasha McPherson
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, PMH-C
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Ventura, CA 93003
I have specialized training and experience in the treatment of depression and anxiety, perinatal mental health, and maintaining “coupleship” after baby.
Feeling overwhelmed or not like yourself lately? Has becoming a mom impacted your relationship? Finding yourself resentful or irritable as times? If this sounds familiar, I would love to connect for a free 15-minute consultation to discuss how I can help. I love helping women and fellow moms to overcome the symptoms of anxiety, depression, or ADHD that have pulled them away from the life that they want. I believe when we gain insight and understanding about what we are experiencing, learn effective strategies to challenge our symptoms, and have the right support, we can take back our lives and things CAN get better.
I have specialized training and experience in the treatment of depression and anxiety, perinatal mental health, and maintaining “coupleship” after baby.
Feeling overwhelmed or not like yourself lately? Has becoming a mom impacted your relationship? Finding yourself resentful or irritable as times? If this sounds familiar, I would love to connect for a free 15-minute consultation to discuss how I can help. I love helping women and fellow moms to overcome the symptoms of anxiety, depression, or ADHD that have pulled them away from the life that they want. I believe when we gain insight and understanding about what we are experiencing, learn effective strategies to challenge our symptoms, and have the right support, we can take back our lives and things CAN get better.
(805) 360-5901 View (805) 360-5901
Photo of Melissa Pumper, Psychologist in California
Melissa Pumper
Psychologist
Verified Verified
Petaluma, CA 94975  (Online Only)
I am a licensed clinical psychologist providing virtual therapy for adults in California. I specialize in the treatment of overwhelming emotions, anxiety, trauma, and perinatal anxiety and trauma related concerns. I strive to create a safe, warm, collaborative, and nonjudgmental alliance through which I will compassionately encourage you to increase self-awareness, reflect on your emotions and behaviors, and commit to changes that will help you feel better. We can work together to help you feel less anxious, overwhelmed, and stuck, and more peaceful, empowered, and connected. We can help you feel more like yourself again.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist providing virtual therapy for adults in California. I specialize in the treatment of overwhelming emotions, anxiety, trauma, and perinatal anxiety and trauma related concerns. I strive to create a safe, warm, collaborative, and nonjudgmental alliance through which I will compassionately encourage you to increase self-awareness, reflect on your emotions and behaviors, and commit to changes that will help you feel better. We can work together to help you feel less anxious, overwhelmed, and stuck, and more peaceful, empowered, and connected. We can help you feel more like yourself again.
(707) 744-3893 View (707) 744-3893
Photo of Desiree Moffitt, Marriage & Family Therapist in California
Desiree Moffitt
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, PMH-C
Verified Verified
Ladera Ranch, CA 92694  (Online Only)
First, I want to say that looking into therapy can sometimes be a daunting endeavor, so I commend you for being here! I work with adults who struggle with issues related to anxiety, distorted eating and eating disorders, perinatal and postpartum symptoms, self-esteem and self-worth, burnout and overwhelm, and stress-related issues. I work with my clients to set attainable and realistic goals that help them to improve their daily functioning, mental load, and overall sense of well-being.
First, I want to say that looking into therapy can sometimes be a daunting endeavor, so I commend you for being here! I work with adults who struggle with issues related to anxiety, distorted eating and eating disorders, perinatal and postpartum symptoms, self-esteem and self-worth, burnout and overwhelm, and stress-related issues. I work with my clients to set attainable and realistic goals that help them to improve their daily functioning, mental load, and overall sense of well-being.
(949) 749-3268 View (949) 749-3268
Photo of Sarina Castro, Psychologist in California
Sarina Castro
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94123
2) working with all women's issues, such as body image, sense of self, pregnancy and post-partum adjustment, perinatal mood concerns, identity shifts in motherhood, mid-life hormonal changes.
My approach to my work with clients is warm and engaging, honest and straightforward. Together we can explore the areas of your life that you have concerns about so that we can identify and understand what is getting in your way. We will work collaboratively in a non-judgmental atmosphere that is individually tailored to your needs. Engaging in a focused and thoughtful therapy process can help you gain clarity about yourself and your relationships, develop new emotional skills and capacities, and overall cultivate a more fulfilling life.
2) working with all women's issues, such as body image, sense of self, pregnancy and post-partum adjustment, perinatal mood concerns, identity shifts in motherhood, mid-life hormonal changes.
My approach to my work with clients is warm and engaging, honest and straightforward. Together we can explore the areas of your life that you have concerns about so that we can identify and understand what is getting in your way. We will work collaboratively in a non-judgmental atmosphere that is individually tailored to your needs. Engaging in a focused and thoughtful therapy process can help you gain clarity about yourself and your relationships, develop new emotional skills and capacities, and overall cultivate a more fulfilling life.
(415) 594-5290 View (415) 594-5290
Photo of Kayla Haberern, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in California
Kayla Haberern
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, LPCC, R-DMT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94109
Welcome to Feet in the Sand Holistic Therapy! Whether you are seeking therapy for yourself, a child, or your family, this can be a very difficult process, so I honor your wisdom and your steps in your healing journey. With many years of experience, I specialize in working with infants and children, families, and pregnant and postpartum women. I deeply care about you as a client and my heart is truly in this work.
Welcome to Feet in the Sand Holistic Therapy! Whether you are seeking therapy for yourself, a child, or your family, this can be a very difficult process, so I honor your wisdom and your steps in your healing journey. With many years of experience, I specialize in working with infants and children, families, and pregnant and postpartum women. I deeply care about you as a client and my heart is truly in this work.
(628) 257-8438 View (628) 257-8438
Photo of Erika Miranda, Marriage & Family Therapist in California
Erika Miranda
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, PMH-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bakersfield, CA 93309
Waitlist for new clients
I have my Perinatal Mental Health Certification via Postpartum Support International.
Welcome to my profile. I believe it's important to find the Therapist that is right for you. I am passionate about diminishing the stigma surrounding mental health issues within my community.
I have my Perinatal Mental Health Certification via Postpartum Support International.
Welcome to my profile. I believe it's important to find the Therapist that is right for you. I am passionate about diminishing the stigma surrounding mental health issues within my community.
(661) 529-2114 View (661) 529-2114
Photo of Bloom Maternal Therapy in California
Bloom Maternal Therapy
Verified Verified
Pismo Beach, CA 93449
Bloom Maternal Therapy offers individual and couples therapy for women and their partners during the perinatal period.
Are you experiencing feelings of anxiety or depression as a new mom? Does it feel like you're the only one in your friend group who is struggling with infertility or a miscarriage loss? Do you ever miss your old life before you had children? Now more than ever, women are experiencing high rates of infertility, miscarriage and perinatal depression and anxiety. At Bloom Maternal Therapy we believe everyone deserves mental and emotional support during pre-conception, pregnancy, postpartum and parenting years.
Bloom Maternal Therapy offers individual and couples therapy for women and their partners during the perinatal period.
Are you experiencing feelings of anxiety or depression as a new mom? Does it feel like you're the only one in your friend group who is struggling with infertility or a miscarriage loss? Do you ever miss your old life before you had children? Now more than ever, women are experiencing high rates of infertility, miscarriage and perinatal depression and anxiety. At Bloom Maternal Therapy we believe everyone deserves mental and emotional support during pre-conception, pregnancy, postpartum and parenting years.
(805) 749-7132 View (805) 749-7132

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.