Pregnancy, Prenatal, Postpartum Therapists in Milwaukee, WI

Photo of Madison Schiller, Counselor, LPC, NCC
Madison Schiller
Counselor, LPC, NCC
Milwaukee, WI 53202
Additionally, I am passionate about working with women and couples in the areas of perinatal mental health and reproductive concerns.
Whether you are beginning your therapy journey, or looking to continue care, diving into therapy can be challenging and uncertain. So, I’m glad you’re here. I am a person-centered therapist who believes everyone has the power to create change and foster wellness in their lives.
Additionally, I am passionate about working with women and couples in the areas of perinatal mental health and reproductive concerns.
Whether you are beginning your therapy journey, or looking to continue care, diving into therapy can be challenging and uncertain. So, I’m glad you’re here. I am a person-centered therapist who believes everyone has the power to create change and foster wellness in their lives.
(262) 624-0983 View (262) 624-0983
Photo of Katy Kujala-Korpela, Pre-Licensed Professional
Katy Kujala-Korpela
Pre-Licensed Professional
Milwaukee, WI 53208
I’m deeply passionate about serving the LGBTQIA+ and neurodivergent communities, with a special focus on parents and perinatal families.
I love supporting families. Over the last ten years the way I have supported families through out Milwaukee has evolved. I started facilitating birth trauma groups 10 years ago. My current special interest is supporting parents who have neurodivergent children.
I’m deeply passionate about serving the LGBTQIA+ and neurodivergent communities, with a special focus on parents and perinatal families.
I love supporting families. Over the last ten years the way I have supported families through out Milwaukee has evolved. I started facilitating birth trauma groups 10 years ago. My current special interest is supporting parents who have neurodivergent children.
(414) 207-4582 View (414) 207-4582
Photo of Carrie Torres, Counselor, MS, LPC
Carrie Torres
Counselor, MS, LPC
3 Endorsed
Milwaukee, WI 53202
I specialize in OCD, including body-focused repetitive behaviors, anxiety, & pregnant & postpartum mood disorders.
If anxiety and fear are constant companions, life probably feels like an uphill battle. Living with relentless-intrusive thoughts, terrifying images, paralyzing anxiety, and mental and health-related fears is exhausting. Being pregnant or a new parent adds additional factors like hormonal changes, stress, and responsibility, which can make symptoms worse. Working with me, you will gain a better understanding of what is happening, reduce anxiety, fear, and shame, and learn helpful tools and coping skills to manage and regain self-trust.
I specialize in OCD, including body-focused repetitive behaviors, anxiety, & pregnant & postpartum mood disorders.
If anxiety and fear are constant companions, life probably feels like an uphill battle. Living with relentless-intrusive thoughts, terrifying images, paralyzing anxiety, and mental and health-related fears is exhausting. Being pregnant or a new parent adds additional factors like hormonal changes, stress, and responsibility, which can make symptoms worse. Working with me, you will gain a better understanding of what is happening, reduce anxiety, fear, and shame, and learn helpful tools and coping skills to manage and regain self-trust.
(414) 867-2248 View (414) 867-2248
Photo of Sarah Benitez-Zandi, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Sarah Benitez-Zandi
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
2 Endorsed
Online Only
I help clients navigating anxiety, trauma, fertility, perinatal challenges, relationship concerns (traditional and non-traditional), and co-dependency.
My ideal client is insightful and ready for change, even if they feel stuck or overwhelmed. They may struggle with anxiety, identity, relationship issues, trauma, co-parenting issues, or life transitions. They want to understand themselves more deeply, break old patterns, and build a life that feels more authentic and aligned. They’re seeking both support and tools—someone who can meet them with compassion, flexibility, and real strategies for growth.
I help clients navigating anxiety, trauma, fertility, perinatal challenges, relationship concerns (traditional and non-traditional), and co-dependency.
My ideal client is insightful and ready for change, even if they feel stuck or overwhelmed. They may struggle with anxiety, identity, relationship issues, trauma, co-parenting issues, or life transitions. They want to understand themselves more deeply, break old patterns, and build a life that feels more authentic and aligned. They’re seeking both support and tools—someone who can meet them with compassion, flexibility, and real strategies for growth.
(414) 485-9158 View (414) 485-9158
Photo of Halie Ecker, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CSAC, PMH-C
Halie Ecker
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CSAC, PMH-C
Online Only
While I am licensed to treat any mental health or substance use disorder, I specialize in perinatal mental health - including the pregnancy and postpartum period, as well as fertility struggles, perinatal grief and loss, and identity and relationship changes.
Themes throughout the therapeutic techniques I utilize include managing stress and emotions, nurturing relationships and setting boundaries, treating yourself kindly and with respect, countering thinking which disrupts our wellbeing, and building the life you want by taking action in line with your values and goals.
While I am licensed to treat any mental health or substance use disorder, I specialize in perinatal mental health - including the pregnancy and postpartum period, as well as fertility struggles, perinatal grief and loss, and identity and relationship changes.
Themes throughout the therapeutic techniques I utilize include managing stress and emotions, nurturing relationships and setting boundaries, treating yourself kindly and with respect, countering thinking which disrupts our wellbeing, and building the life you want by taking action in line with your values and goals.
(262) 667-5163 View (262) 667-5163
Photo of Claire Whetter, Counselor, PhD, LPC, NCC
Claire Whetter
Counselor, PhD, LPC, NCC
Milwaukee, WI 53202
I am especially drawn to people experiencing mood disorders, life transitions, grief, trauma and prenatal and/or postpartum depression and anxiety.
As a professional counselor, I have experience with a wide range of ages, populations, and issues. I work with young adults, adults, couples and families. Each person is unique, so I use a variety of techniques including, but not limited to, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Narrative Therapy, Psychodynamic Therapy and Person-Centered Therapy.
I am especially drawn to people experiencing mood disorders, life transitions, grief, trauma and prenatal and/or postpartum depression and anxiety.
As a professional counselor, I have experience with a wide range of ages, populations, and issues. I work with young adults, adults, couples and families. Each person is unique, so I use a variety of techniques including, but not limited to, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Narrative Therapy, Psychodynamic Therapy and Person-Centered Therapy.
(414) 240-1163 View (414) 240-1163
Photo of Lisa Eimers, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Lisa Eimers
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
3 Endorsed
Milwaukee, WI 53211
As a therapist, I specialize in complex trauma, perinatal mental health, and addiction.
I’m trained in a variety of trauma-focused modalities, including somatic practices, Internal Family Systems (IFS), breathwork, and attunement-based interventions. These approaches help me honor both the nervous system and the internal protective strategies that often develop in response to overwhelming experiences.
As a therapist, I specialize in complex trauma, perinatal mental health, and addiction.
I’m trained in a variety of trauma-focused modalities, including somatic practices, Internal Family Systems (IFS), breathwork, and attunement-based interventions. These approaches help me honor both the nervous system and the internal protective strategies that often develop in response to overwhelming experiences.
(612) 682-1757 View (612) 682-1757
Photo of Abigail Lynch, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, LPC, PMH-C, MS
Abigail Lynch
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, LPC, PMH-C, MS
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I have my PMH-C, Perinatal Mental health Certificate, and specialize in treating individuals exploring expanding their families all the way through conception and postpartum.
100%Virtual appointments available for residents of IL and WI. I specialize in treating Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, Generalized Anxiety, Social Anxiety, Panic Disorder, and more. The treatment approaches I utilize are: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Behavior Activation, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and Exposure Response Prevention. While all of the approaches I use are empirically validated for the treatment of Anxiety disorders, I also adapt treatment to meet all clients where they are at. Your goals are my goals and it is possible to experience relief from the symptoms that are keeping you from what you value most in life.
I have my PMH-C, Perinatal Mental health Certificate, and specialize in treating individuals exploring expanding their families all the way through conception and postpartum.
100%Virtual appointments available for residents of IL and WI. I specialize in treating Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, Generalized Anxiety, Social Anxiety, Panic Disorder, and more. The treatment approaches I utilize are: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Behavior Activation, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and Exposure Response Prevention. While all of the approaches I use are empirically validated for the treatment of Anxiety disorders, I also adapt treatment to meet all clients where they are at. Your goals are my goals and it is possible to experience relief from the symptoms that are keeping you from what you value most in life.
(872) 201-3249 View (872) 201-3249
Photo of Sarah J McDowell, Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Sarah J McDowell
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
18 Endorsed
Milwaukee, WI 53210
My practice focuses on Womens’s Reproductive Mental Health: PMS/PMDD, perimenopause, perinatal mood & anxiety disorders, infertility, pregnancy loss, motherhood, women’s mid-life transitions, career & emotional wellness.
Now in-network with DEAN! I specialize in working with women & healthcare professionals. My clients often describe themselves as over-thinkers & high achievers who are feeling overwhelmed and burned out. I help my clients create better stress management, self-compassion and resilience skills- resulting in enhanced well-being in all of the roles they fill. Creating a life of greater contentment, connection, purpose and meaning is the ultimate goal of the work I do with my clients.
My practice focuses on Womens’s Reproductive Mental Health: PMS/PMDD, perimenopause, perinatal mood & anxiety disorders, infertility, pregnancy loss, motherhood, women’s mid-life transitions, career & emotional wellness.
Now in-network with DEAN! I specialize in working with women & healthcare professionals. My clients often describe themselves as over-thinkers & high achievers who are feeling overwhelmed and burned out. I help my clients create better stress management, self-compassion and resilience skills- resulting in enhanced well-being in all of the roles they fill. Creating a life of greater contentment, connection, purpose and meaning is the ultimate goal of the work I do with my clients.
(262) 477-4306 View (262) 477-4306
Photo of Dani Merriam, Counselor, LPC, LEC
Dani Merriam
Counselor, LPC, LEC
Online Only
Are you struggling with the changes you are experiencing during your pregnancy?
I use a combination of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Interpersonal Therapy and Dialectical Behavior Therapy to guide treatment. And don't worry, if this isn't motherhood related, you have still landed in the right place!
Are you struggling with the changes you are experiencing during your pregnancy?
I use a combination of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Interpersonal Therapy and Dialectical Behavior Therapy to guide treatment. And don't worry, if this isn't motherhood related, you have still landed in the right place!
(702) 749-4858 View (702) 749-4858
Photo of Emily Aleksy - ERA Wellness - Integrative Psychotherapy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PMH-C
ERA Wellness - Integrative Psychotherapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PMH-C
Serves Area
ERA specializes in perinatal mental health (pre-conception through postpartum, adoption, infertility), trauma, stress, anxiety, and OCD; but sees adults and couples with a variety of concerns.
You’re at your limit. No, you’re PAST your limit. You’re running on empty. You feel like you’re totally just breaking. You don't really have time for therapy, but things just aren't getting better. Maybe no one seems to understand how you feel. Things are really REALLY freaking hard right now. But they don’t have to stay that way any longer. Is therapy hard? YUP, for sure. But not as hard as continuing to live with the way things are now. You’re been suffering for too long. You deserve to heal and be well. You deserve to leave this behind you and enjoy your life. You deserve to feel like YOU.
ERA specializes in perinatal mental health (pre-conception through postpartum, adoption, infertility), trauma, stress, anxiety, and OCD; but sees adults and couples with a variety of concerns.
You’re at your limit. No, you’re PAST your limit. You’re running on empty. You feel like you’re totally just breaking. You don't really have time for therapy, but things just aren't getting better. Maybe no one seems to understand how you feel. Things are really REALLY freaking hard right now. But they don’t have to stay that way any longer. Is therapy hard? YUP, for sure. But not as hard as continuing to live with the way things are now. You’re been suffering for too long. You deserve to heal and be well. You deserve to leave this behind you and enjoy your life. You deserve to feel like YOU.
(262) 518-9050 View (262) 518-9050
Photo of Angela Bins - Infertility Pregnancy Postpartum Parenting, Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Angela Bins - Infertility Pregnancy Postpartum Parenting
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
Does your family story include infertility, pregnancy/infant loss, difficult pregnancy, birth trauma, NICU stay, and/or parenting a child with additional needs in areas such as autism, ADHD, learning, or their physical health?
My personal experience and therapy training includes infertility, loss, difficult pregnancy, postpartum anxiety, birth trauma, NICU parenting, and special needs parenting. I help you understand how life situations are connected to your emotions & help them to increase your overall confidence with your life stressors. We connect your mind & body for healing.
Does your family story include infertility, pregnancy/infant loss, difficult pregnancy, birth trauma, NICU stay, and/or parenting a child with additional needs in areas such as autism, ADHD, learning, or their physical health?
My personal experience and therapy training includes infertility, loss, difficult pregnancy, postpartum anxiety, birth trauma, NICU parenting, and special needs parenting. I help you understand how life situations are connected to your emotions & help them to increase your overall confidence with your life stressors. We connect your mind & body for healing.
(262) 684-1466 View (262) 684-1466
Photo of Jeni Everts Beier, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, PMH-C
Jeni Everts Beier
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, PMH-C
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Many of my clients are perinatal or fertility related.
Getting to this point takes a lot of courage. It can be a LOT to try to find the therapist that is right for you. I get it - I’ve been in that seat, too. It's scary to be vulnerable and try something new. But it’s also a lot to keep living and feeling the way you are right now. So let’s make some adjustments and start you on your way to feeling and living better. Spoiler alert: no therapist has all the answers. Instead, we'll find the answers together. Therapy is exactly that - working together. I'm here to guide you along your path and help you in the direction that you want, not tell you where to go.
Many of my clients are perinatal or fertility related.
Getting to this point takes a lot of courage. It can be a LOT to try to find the therapist that is right for you. I get it - I’ve been in that seat, too. It's scary to be vulnerable and try something new. But it’s also a lot to keep living and feeling the way you are right now. So let’s make some adjustments and start you on your way to feeling and living better. Spoiler alert: no therapist has all the answers. Instead, we'll find the answers together. Therapy is exactly that - working together. I'm here to guide you along your path and help you in the direction that you want, not tell you where to go.
(414) 877-8132 View (414) 877-8132
Photo of Naree Thao, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, PMH-C
Naree Thao
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, PMH-C
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
I am trained in Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders, learning how to identify signs, symptoms, available treatment, and facilitating evidenced-based interventions such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Trauma-Informed Care.
Currently accepting clients! At our practice, we deeply value mental health and are committed to fostering profound healing and personal growth within diverse communities. Our mission is to create an inclusive sanctuary where individuals can courageously embrace transformation and redefine their inner narratives. We are passionate about helping people live a better life through therapy and counseling. Whether it's learning to set boundaries, navigating a life transition, coping with loss, or breaking free from a pattern of behavior that keeps you stuck, we are here to support your journey emotional wellness.
I am trained in Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders, learning how to identify signs, symptoms, available treatment, and facilitating evidenced-based interventions such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Trauma-Informed Care.
Currently accepting clients! At our practice, we deeply value mental health and are committed to fostering profound healing and personal growth within diverse communities. Our mission is to create an inclusive sanctuary where individuals can courageously embrace transformation and redefine their inner narratives. We are passionate about helping people live a better life through therapy and counseling. Whether it's learning to set boundaries, navigating a life transition, coping with loss, or breaking free from a pattern of behavior that keeps you stuck, we are here to support your journey emotional wellness.
(920) 533-0863 View (920) 533-0863
Photo of Gabrielle Trecek, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Gabrielle Trecek
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I also see people with Body Focused Repetitive Behaviors (skin picking, hair pulling, tics, etc.), anxiety, stress, phobias, Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD), & PANDAS, and many perinatal clients.
How long has it been since you truly felt like yourself? Like anxiety didn’t influence everything that you say or do? Since you didn’t feel completely exhausted from constantly worrying about everyone else? You may have intrusive thoughts, have always considered yourself a perfectionist or a people pleaser, spend hours on WebMD, Google, or worrying that your child will get hurt, or avoid more and more until your world feels small and scary. The things that once brought you joy and fulfillment have vanished from most of your waking hours until you don't even recognize yourself or your life anymore.
I also see people with Body Focused Repetitive Behaviors (skin picking, hair pulling, tics, etc.), anxiety, stress, phobias, Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD), & PANDAS, and many perinatal clients.
How long has it been since you truly felt like yourself? Like anxiety didn’t influence everything that you say or do? Since you didn’t feel completely exhausted from constantly worrying about everyone else? You may have intrusive thoughts, have always considered yourself a perfectionist or a people pleaser, spend hours on WebMD, Google, or worrying that your child will get hurt, or avoid more and more until your world feels small and scary. The things that once brought you joy and fulfillment have vanished from most of your waking hours until you don't even recognize yourself or your life anymore.
(414) 501-2020 View (414) 501-2020
Hillary Counseling
Verified Verified
Milwaukee, WI 53202
We also provide highly specialized care for women in the perinatal period and men's issues.
Hillary Counseling is a boutique therapy practice nestled in the heart of Milwaukee’s Historic Third Ward. Our dedicated team of mental health therapists is passionate about providing personalized, high-quality care in a calming, restorative environment. We believe therapy should be modern, relatable, and holistic—empowering you to achieve a healthier, more fulfilling life.
We also provide highly specialized care for women in the perinatal period and men's issues.
Hillary Counseling is a boutique therapy practice nestled in the heart of Milwaukee’s Historic Third Ward. Our dedicated team of mental health therapists is passionate about providing personalized, high-quality care in a calming, restorative environment. We believe therapy should be modern, relatable, and holistic—empowering you to achieve a healthier, more fulfilling life.
(414) 404-5085 View (414) 404-5085
Photo of Angela Davis, Counselor, LPC-IT
Angela Davis
Counselor, LPC-IT
Milwaukee, WI 53207
Perinatal psychotherapy is another area of specialization, offering compassionate support for those navigating the emotional challenges of pregnancy, childbirth, and the postpartum period
As a bilingual therapist-in-training, the belief in the body's innate wisdom and its capacity for healing is central to my practice. Specializing in somatic-based and trauma-informed approaches, a nurturing environment is created for clients to explore and release the stress and trauma held within their bodies. With a background in yoga instruction, a unique understanding of movement, breath, and mindfulness is integrated into therapy. This empowers individuals to regulate their nervous systems, cultivate self-awareness, and restore a sense of wholeness, promoting resilience and helping clients rediscover their authentic selves.
Perinatal psychotherapy is another area of specialization, offering compassionate support for those navigating the emotional challenges of pregnancy, childbirth, and the postpartum period
As a bilingual therapist-in-training, the belief in the body's innate wisdom and its capacity for healing is central to my practice. Specializing in somatic-based and trauma-informed approaches, a nurturing environment is created for clients to explore and release the stress and trauma held within their bodies. With a background in yoga instruction, a unique understanding of movement, breath, and mindfulness is integrated into therapy. This empowers individuals to regulate their nervous systems, cultivate self-awareness, and restore a sense of wholeness, promoting resilience and helping clients rediscover their authentic selves.
(414) 895-6343 View (414) 895-6343
Photo of Hannah Christopherson, Counselor, LPC-IT
Hannah Christopherson
Counselor, LPC-IT
2 Endorsed
Milwaukee, WI 53207
Also, I provide therapy services for individuals experiencing infertility, miscarriage, post-partum, and other reproductive health difficulties.
“Perspective is the way we see things when we look at them from a certain distance, and it allows us to appreciate their true value.” -Rafael E. Pino. It takes courage to seek help when suffering and facing challenges in life. I strive to create a strong alliance with each person by fostering trust and open communication. Each individual’s journey is unique, and therapy can be a collaborative healing journey.
Also, I provide therapy services for individuals experiencing infertility, miscarriage, post-partum, and other reproductive health difficulties.
“Perspective is the way we see things when we look at them from a certain distance, and it allows us to appreciate their true value.” -Rafael E. Pino. It takes courage to seek help when suffering and facing challenges in life. I strive to create a strong alliance with each person by fostering trust and open communication. Each individual’s journey is unique, and therapy can be a collaborative healing journey.
(414) 441-2629 x53207 View (414) 441-2629 x53207
Photo of Madeleine Doelker Berlin, Pre-Licensed Professional, Lpc, IT
Madeleine Doelker Berlin
Pre-Licensed Professional, Lpc, IT
Milwaukee, WI 53202
I offer a holistic, collaborative, and socially conscious approach, specializing in liberation counseling for all genders, women’s mental health, immigrant mental health, perinatal counseling, and life transitions.
Hi, I’m really glad you’re here. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, exhausted, or questioning where life—or the world—is headed, I get it. The world is shifting, with political turmoil and uncertainty making everything feel unpredictable and scary. We’re managing mental health struggles, coping with stress, and trying to have meaningful connections that feel safe. The relentless uncertainty of these times makes it hard to find solid ground. Anxiety, fear, and relationship struggles mirror the chaos around us. You’re not alone. Together, we can untangle the mess and get the clarity you need to move forward—on your terms.
I offer a holistic, collaborative, and socially conscious approach, specializing in liberation counseling for all genders, women’s mental health, immigrant mental health, perinatal counseling, and life transitions.
Hi, I’m really glad you’re here. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, exhausted, or questioning where life—or the world—is headed, I get it. The world is shifting, with political turmoil and uncertainty making everything feel unpredictable and scary. We’re managing mental health struggles, coping with stress, and trying to have meaningful connections that feel safe. The relentless uncertainty of these times makes it hard to find solid ground. Anxiety, fear, and relationship struggles mirror the chaos around us. You’re not alone. Together, we can untangle the mess and get the clarity you need to move forward—on your terms.
(262) 600-2108 View (262) 600-2108
Photo of Ousia Moon, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, APSW
Ousia Moon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, APSW
2 Endorsed
Milwaukee, WI 53207
My approach to therapy is informed by queer intersectional feminism, my life experiences as a neurodivergent queer/trans person, and my work in pregnancy options/abortion counseling, community-based research, full-spectrum doula work, conflict mediation, and group facilitation.
Some of my areas of interest and clinical experience include queer, trans, and neurodivergent affirming therapy, anxiety and depression, blended and/or queer families, reproductive transitions ( pregnancy, abortion, postpartum, parenting, loss), consensual non-monogamy, relationship and sexuality issues, and supporting healthy communication.
My approach to therapy is informed by queer intersectional feminism, my life experiences as a neurodivergent queer/trans person, and my work in pregnancy options/abortion counseling, community-based research, full-spectrum doula work, conflict mediation, and group facilitation.
Some of my areas of interest and clinical experience include queer, trans, and neurodivergent affirming therapy, anxiety and depression, blended and/or queer families, reproductive transitions ( pregnancy, abortion, postpartum, parenting, loss), consensual non-monogamy, relationship and sexuality issues, and supporting healthy communication.
(414) 310-7932 View (414) 310-7932

See more therapy options for Milwaukee

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.