Pregnancy & Postpartum Therapy

Perinatal mental health refers to the emotional well-being of women during pregnancy, as well as the period immediately following childbirth. Postpartum mental health specifically refers to the emotional well-being of women in the weeks and months after giving birth.

During the perinatal and postpartum periods, many women may experience a range of emotional and psychological challenges. These can include:

1. Perinatal depression: Depression during pregnancy or in the first year postpartum.
2. Perinatal anxiety: Anxiety during pregnancy or in the first year postpartum.
3. Perinatal OCD: Obsessive-compulsive disorder during pregnancy or in the first year postpartum.
4. Perinatal PTSD: Post-traumatic stress disorder related to a traumatic childbirth experience.
5. Postpartum psychosis: A rare but serious condition that involves delusions, hallucinations, and disorganized behavior.

These conditions can have a significant impact on a woman’s emotional well-being and can also affect her ability to care for her newborn. Therapy can be a beneficial resource for women who are experiencing perinatal or postpartum mental health challenges. A therapist can provide emotional support and guidance for managing symptoms, as well as help women develop coping strategies and self-care techniques. Therapy can also provide a safe and non-judgmental space for women to express their feelings and concerns, and to work through any challenges they may be facing during this time.

The pathway to family planning and parenthood is not linear for most and can trigger feelings of anxiety, sadness, anger, and isolation. We understand the need and importance of mental health care through the process and provide evidence-based practices to support fertility struggles, pregnancy and postpartum related depression and anxiety, grief and loss, personal childhood trauma, individual and family dynamic shifts, and the immense pressure of navigating parenting with various family, cultural, and societal expectations. 

In addition to therapy, there are a range of other resources available to support perinatal and postpartum mental health. These can include support groups, medication, and lifestyle changes such as exercise and nutrition. It’s important for women to prioritize their mental health during this time and to seek out support as needed.