Pregnancy, Prenatal, Postpartum Therapists in Bay Point, CA
![Photo of Shannon Saltzman, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e7218699-eb1e-42b0-8f9b-03b4bc378670/1/320x400.jpeg)
Welcome! My name is Shannon Saltzman, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with more than 15 years of clinical social work experience and over 20 years in the field of social work, I specialize in treating adults and older adults. As a therapist, I provide a warm, supportive, empathetic, non-judgemental, safe space for healing and recovery. I help clients move through whatever it is they may be struggling with and help them develop coping tools that they can continue to use beyond our time together.
Welcome! My name is Shannon Saltzman, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with more than 15 years of clinical social work experience and over 20 years in the field of social work, I specialize in treating adults and older adults. As a therapist, I provide a warm, supportive, empathetic, non-judgemental, safe space for healing and recovery. I help clients move through whatever it is they may be struggling with and help them develop coping tools that they can continue to use beyond our time together.
![Photo of Jennifer Pelayo, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d47cf78e-e3f6-401b-889b-7e6f529ef840/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am an LCSW with over 10 years of experience treating adults and older adults. I specialize in Anxiety and Depression. I have a compassionate approach utilizing Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Solution Focused Therapy. I provide support, guidance, and skills to help you cope with life issues.
I am an LCSW with over 10 years of experience treating adults and older adults. I specialize in Anxiety and Depression. I have a compassionate approach utilizing Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Solution Focused Therapy. I provide support, guidance, and skills to help you cope with life issues.
![Photo of Chiwon Zdanovich, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d72549ae-3a9b-488e-a660-24486c5fa139/2/320x400.jpeg)
Chiwon Zdanovich
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Bay Point, CA 94565
Are you struggling with debilitating thoughts that make you anxious or depressed? Or finding yourself in a difficult life transition or crisis? I love to help people going through challenges to feel better, learn to cope better, and know that they are not alone. I value guiding and empowering clients dive deep into their experiences to gain insights that target and heal problems at their root. I may use EMDR, CBT, mindfulness, and a psychodynamic perspective (exploring the impact of your childhood and hidden aspects of yourself on current challenges), and will cater the therapy experience to your unique needs.
Are you struggling with debilitating thoughts that make you anxious or depressed? Or finding yourself in a difficult life transition or crisis? I love to help people going through challenges to feel better, learn to cope better, and know that they are not alone. I value guiding and empowering clients dive deep into their experiences to gain insights that target and heal problems at their root. I may use EMDR, CBT, mindfulness, and a psychodynamic perspective (exploring the impact of your childhood and hidden aspects of yourself on current challenges), and will cater the therapy experience to your unique needs.
![Photo of Macy Schoenthaler, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e615c307-4869-4bd8-ad49-56d95c608272/1/320x400.jpeg)
Macy Schoenthaler
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
Bay Point, CA 94565 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
When we have an experience that is traumatic or incredibly stressful, our brains have a hard time processing that memory. This can create symptoms such as, anxiety, depression, overwhelming emotions, difficult feelings, self-blame, or relationship problems, to name a few. If given the opportunity, our minds, like our bodies, have the innate ability to heal. The trouble with difficult experiences, however, is that these memories get tangled, leaving us feeling stuck or showing up in other destructive ways in our lives.
When we have an experience that is traumatic or incredibly stressful, our brains have a hard time processing that memory. This can create symptoms such as, anxiety, depression, overwhelming emotions, difficult feelings, self-blame, or relationship problems, to name a few. If given the opportunity, our minds, like our bodies, have the innate ability to heal. The trouble with difficult experiences, however, is that these memories get tangled, leaving us feeling stuck or showing up in other destructive ways in our lives.
More Therapists Nearby
![Photo of Meri Levy, MA, LMFT, PMH-C, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cbac135e-2fdd-45b4-bd0f-f51e8f95cc1c/1/320x400.jpeg)
Meri Levy
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, PMH-C
Verified Verified
12 Endorsed
Pleasant Hill, CA 94523
I am certified in perinatal mental health, including anxiety, depression, OCD, birth and NICU trauma, and pregnancy and infant loss.
My niche is with adults who particularly hard on themselves, especially parents and people experiencing chronic pain. Do you often feel like you "should" be doing more or better? Do you feel guilty taking time for yourself? Do you have mixed feelings about parenthood or your relationship? Learning how to treat ourselves with compassion, accepting our negative feelings as well as the positive ones, and balancing caretaking for others with caring for ourselves is something many of us have to learn as adults. These are areas I help my clients with daily. You don't need to struggle with these issues alone.
I am certified in perinatal mental health, including anxiety, depression, OCD, birth and NICU trauma, and pregnancy and infant loss.
My niche is with adults who particularly hard on themselves, especially parents and people experiencing chronic pain. Do you often feel like you "should" be doing more or better? Do you feel guilty taking time for yourself? Do you have mixed feelings about parenthood or your relationship? Learning how to treat ourselves with compassion, accepting our negative feelings as well as the positive ones, and balancing caretaking for others with caring for ourselves is something many of us have to learn as adults. These are areas I help my clients with daily. You don't need to struggle with these issues alone.
![Photo of Rachel Kane-Cooley, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9491f110-c59c-4fdd-9cb2-2e980927de7c/2/320x400.jpeg)
I specialize in Perinatal Mental Health and Anxiety.
Hi there. My name is Rachel Kane-Cooley and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor. I love connecting with and supporting others on their therapeutic journey. I consider this work a delight and a privilege. Over the years, I have met so many wonderful people looking to heal, grow, and evolve. It's a beautiful process and I feel blessed to be a part of it.
I specialize in Perinatal Mental Health and Anxiety.
Hi there. My name is Rachel Kane-Cooley and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor. I love connecting with and supporting others on their therapeutic journey. I consider this work a delight and a privilege. Over the years, I have met so many wonderful people looking to heal, grow, and evolve. It's a beautiful process and I feel blessed to be a part of it.
![Photo of Victoria Rutsch, MS, LMFT, PMH-C, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/11a7c889-924f-456a-8c1a-6f2624ef11fe/3/320x400.jpeg)
Victoria Rutsch
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, PMH-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Walnut Creek, CA 94598
Did everyone tell you how wonderful pregnancy would be? Or how beautiful childbirth is? And now you feel like they all lied to your face. Or worse, maybe it was amazing for them but it’s terrible for you. You don’t get it and you’re wondering, Did I do something wrong? You’re feeling alone and misunderstood. Or maybe you’re struggling with life transitions such as parenting, a job change, or recovering from a scary event. I’m here to tell you that you can feel better, moving forward in your season of life with feelings of being in control, hopeful, and confident.
Did everyone tell you how wonderful pregnancy would be? Or how beautiful childbirth is? And now you feel like they all lied to your face. Or worse, maybe it was amazing for them but it’s terrible for you. You don’t get it and you’re wondering, Did I do something wrong? You’re feeling alone and misunderstood. Or maybe you’re struggling with life transitions such as parenting, a job change, or recovering from a scary event. I’m here to tell you that you can feel better, moving forward in your season of life with feelings of being in control, hopeful, and confident.
![Photo of Samantha Schaefer, LCSW, PMH-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/16cb6a78-e5ec-401b-a9d4-949d85abda9d/3/320x400.jpeg)
Samantha Schaefer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PMH-C
Verified Verified
Walnut Creek, CA 94598
If you've ever felt like you should be happier, doing more or coping better, I can help. I work with adults and teens who are feeling stuck in depression and anxiety, but are ready to move forward and make sustainable changes. I have specialized training in perinatal mental health, including postpartum depression and anxiety, and practice trauma-informed treatment, including EMDR. We'll work together to rediscover your authentic sense of self, learn tools that help you navigate challenges, and live your life more fully. You don’t have to face hard things alone.
If you've ever felt like you should be happier, doing more or coping better, I can help. I work with adults and teens who are feeling stuck in depression and anxiety, but are ready to move forward and make sustainable changes. I have specialized training in perinatal mental health, including postpartum depression and anxiety, and practice trauma-informed treatment, including EMDR. We'll work together to rediscover your authentic sense of self, learn tools that help you navigate challenges, and live your life more fully. You don’t have to face hard things alone.
![Photo of Feyi Momoh, LCSW, PMH-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/40bfab89-052f-44d1-9a8d-c44a6c63bf8f/1/320x400.jpeg)
Feyi Momoh
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PMH-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Antioch, CA 94531 (Online Only)
I am a licensed therapist, certified in Perinatal Mental Health w/ a passion for helping women navigate mental health in all stages of their lives (i.
Hello There! Thank you for joining me in this space. I understand how difficult it can be to initiate first contact when seeking therapy. I believe that the first step is often the most challenging but your decision to show up today is half the battle. Whether you are struggling to adjust to life transitions, experiencing depression, anxiety, grief & loss, relationship conflict, or trauma, there is hope and things can improve. I aim to help you discover your true self and your strengths while adjusting to life’s challenges. Allow me to guide you as we undertake this process together.
I am a licensed therapist, certified in Perinatal Mental Health w/ a passion for helping women navigate mental health in all stages of their lives (i.
Hello There! Thank you for joining me in this space. I understand how difficult it can be to initiate first contact when seeking therapy. I believe that the first step is often the most challenging but your decision to show up today is half the battle. Whether you are struggling to adjust to life transitions, experiencing depression, anxiety, grief & loss, relationship conflict, or trauma, there is hope and things can improve. I aim to help you discover your true self and your strengths while adjusting to life’s challenges. Allow me to guide you as we undertake this process together.
![Photo of Kate Scimia: Teens Adults Postpartum, MA, LMFT, PMH-C, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/975b188c-0566-4d73-9598-a9aed1a442ab/2/320x400.jpeg)
Kate Scimia: Teens Adults Postpartum
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, PMH-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Walnut Creek, CA 94598
As a compassionate therapist certified in perinatal care (PMH-C), I understand the unique challenges and emotions that accompany the journey to parenthood. From the anticipation of pregnancy to the joys and uncertainties of childbirth and postpartum adjustment, I provide a safe and nurturing space for individuals to explore their feelings, fears, and hopes. My approach is holistic, recognizing the interconnectedness of physical, emotional, and relational health during the perinatal period. Through a collaborative and nonjudgmental therapeutic process, I empower clients to cultivate self-awareness and strengthen coping skills.
As a compassionate therapist certified in perinatal care (PMH-C), I understand the unique challenges and emotions that accompany the journey to parenthood. From the anticipation of pregnancy to the joys and uncertainties of childbirth and postpartum adjustment, I provide a safe and nurturing space for individuals to explore their feelings, fears, and hopes. My approach is holistic, recognizing the interconnectedness of physical, emotional, and relational health during the perinatal period. Through a collaborative and nonjudgmental therapeutic process, I empower clients to cultivate self-awareness and strengthen coping skills.
![Photo of Patricia Alice, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c1f07b00-6103-493b-9c74-442602237310/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hello, I am Patricia Alice, LCSW and I have provided outpatient psychotherapy services for over 42 years. I am a generalist and now work exclusively with tele-health. Therefore, my experience is a unique blend of breadth and depth. I have worked with a very wide range of issues. Most seek help for depression, anxiety, panic attacks, past/current trauma, family issues, bipolar diagnosis, relationship problems, work and career issues, postpartum depression, parenting and grief/loss as well as life transition issues like retirement and/or aging.
Hello, I am Patricia Alice, LCSW and I have provided outpatient psychotherapy services for over 42 years. I am a generalist and now work exclusively with tele-health. Therefore, my experience is a unique blend of breadth and depth. I have worked with a very wide range of issues. Most seek help for depression, anxiety, panic attacks, past/current trauma, family issues, bipolar diagnosis, relationship problems, work and career issues, postpartum depression, parenting and grief/loss as well as life transition issues like retirement and/or aging.
![Photo of Maria Holguin, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d690a4d7-39c8-46a7-a257-20474f5e778c/1/320x400.jpeg)
My name is Maria. I am a bilingual Spanish and English Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I have been practicing for over 8 years in a County outpatient mental health clinic that services a multicultural and diverse population. y experience includes but is not limited to conducting therapy for Pregnant and postpartum women, adults, older/mature adults, client’s suffering from emotional and crisis situations, mood conditions, depression, anxiety, panic attacks, psychosis, substance abuse, domestic violence, trauma’s, post-traumatic stress disorder, fear, tragedy, paranoia, adoption, grief, and loss.
My name is Maria. I am a bilingual Spanish and English Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I have been practicing for over 8 years in a County outpatient mental health clinic that services a multicultural and diverse population. y experience includes but is not limited to conducting therapy for Pregnant and postpartum women, adults, older/mature adults, client’s suffering from emotional and crisis situations, mood conditions, depression, anxiety, panic attacks, psychosis, substance abuse, domestic violence, trauma’s, post-traumatic stress disorder, fear, tragedy, paranoia, adoption, grief, and loss.
![Photo of Jillian Perry, MA, LMFT, PMH-C, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c71d32b-1bb1-46af-9754-84357f0a7a37/3/320x400.jpeg)
Jillian Perry
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, PMH-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pleasant Hill, CA 94523
Motherhood can bring levels of joy you never thought possible. It can also be overwhelming, lonely, or overstimulating. Living in the ups and downs seems to be a daily, even momentary, experience. Some of the emotions and thoughts you are navigating during pregnancy and postpartum were not in the books or articles about what to expect during this time. Your identity is shifting from who you once were to who you are now becoming. Every mama could use support while navigating this transformative and transitional season.
Motherhood can bring levels of joy you never thought possible. It can also be overwhelming, lonely, or overstimulating. Living in the ups and downs seems to be a daily, even momentary, experience. Some of the emotions and thoughts you are navigating during pregnancy and postpartum were not in the books or articles about what to expect during this time. Your identity is shifting from who you once were to who you are now becoming. Every mama could use support while navigating this transformative and transitional season.
![Photo of Audrey Silverman Foote, MA, MFT, SEP™, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/13b4cf00-04fa-4dc4-b1c0-b02feccde1fd/1/320x400.jpeg)
Audrey Silverman Foote
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT, SEP™
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Walnut Creek, CA 94598 (Online Only)
I have been a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in private practice in the East Bay for over 30 years, providing psychotherapy for adults, couples, families, adolescents, and groups. I work from a holistic perspective, creating a safe environment to encourage the therapeutic process. I specialize in working with: relationship issues, recovery from sexual, physical, and emotional abuse and other childhood traumas; depression; anxiety, low self esteem; codependency issues; parenting concerns; compulsive eating patterns; body image dissatisfaction, chronic illness, and perinatal loss. I integrate in-depth psychotherapy with EMDR, Expressive Arts Therapy, Somatic Experiencing, Jungian Sand Tray, and Dream Work.
I have been a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in private practice in the East Bay for over 30 years, providing psychotherapy for adults, couples, families, adolescents, and groups. I work from a holistic perspective, creating a safe environment to encourage the therapeutic process. I specialize in working with: relationship issues, recovery from sexual, physical, and emotional abuse and other childhood traumas; depression; anxiety, low self esteem; codependency issues; parenting concerns; compulsive eating patterns; body image dissatisfaction, chronic illness, and perinatal loss. I integrate in-depth psychotherapy with EMDR, Expressive Arts Therapy, Somatic Experiencing, Jungian Sand Tray, and Dream Work.
![Photo of Alexandra Turetzky, Marriage & Family Therapist Intern](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8802c421-66a7-4050-b437-00ca9a9affb4/1/320x400.jpeg)
Alexandra Turetzky
Marriage & Family Therapist Intern
Verified Verified
Walnut Creek, CA 94598 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I am a Marriage and Family Therapist Trainee under the clinical supervision of Melinda Haynes, MA, LMFT-S 102308. I work with couples primarily, as well as children & teens, and adult individuals. I am particularly passionate about working with first-time couples therapy-goers, including those who are proactively investing in their relationships. I also enjoy collaborating with couples who are becoming new parents or deciding whether to have children. I am an advocate of maternal mental health and am completing my Postpartum Doula certification.
I am a Marriage and Family Therapist Trainee under the clinical supervision of Melinda Haynes, MA, LMFT-S 102308. I work with couples primarily, as well as children & teens, and adult individuals. I am particularly passionate about working with first-time couples therapy-goers, including those who are proactively investing in their relationships. I also enjoy collaborating with couples who are becoming new parents or deciding whether to have children. I am an advocate of maternal mental health and am completing my Postpartum Doula certification.
![Photo of Kimberly Kerlin, MA, LMFT, C-PMH, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/35168346-4114-45b8-9c39-bae69f714cdb/1/320x400.jpeg)
Kimberly Kerlin
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, C-PMH
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pleasant Hill, CA 94523 (Online Only)
Our earliest experiences of life form the foundation for the rest of our life. I work with adults struggling to heal old wounds and reduce anxiety and conflict in their lives. Whether you're finding your own childhood experiences being triggered by your child's or partner's behavior today; a working parent attempting to balance competing needs of your workplace, partner, or child; feeling overwhelmed by life transitions (ie. divorce, loss of a loved one, new job, etc), suffering from perinatal anxiety or depression, or someone who has experienced a trauma or distressing memory and wants to be free of its grip, I welcome you.
Our earliest experiences of life form the foundation for the rest of our life. I work with adults struggling to heal old wounds and reduce anxiety and conflict in their lives. Whether you're finding your own childhood experiences being triggered by your child's or partner's behavior today; a working parent attempting to balance competing needs of your workplace, partner, or child; feeling overwhelmed by life transitions (ie. divorce, loss of a loved one, new job, etc), suffering from perinatal anxiety or depression, or someone who has experienced a trauma or distressing memory and wants to be free of its grip, I welcome you.
![Photo of Daniela Finnegan, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4310f3cb-59a0-4d5b-8e1d-94bf7fa1a3bc/1/320x400.jpeg)
Daniela Finnegan
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Walnut Creek, CA 94598
My hope is to help individuals (teens and adults) and families navigate the emotions that can impact their sense of self, their relationships, and their overall lives. With a compassionate and collaborative approach, we will work together to explore your unique strengths and empower you to take control of your own healing. I support individuals, couples, and families with an emphasis on caregivers in overcoming presenting challenges such as anxiety, depression, pregnancy/prenatal/postpartum, parenting, school/work difficulties, life transitions, and relationship conflicts.
My hope is to help individuals (teens and adults) and families navigate the emotions that can impact their sense of self, their relationships, and their overall lives. With a compassionate and collaborative approach, we will work together to explore your unique strengths and empower you to take control of your own healing. I support individuals, couples, and families with an emphasis on caregivers in overcoming presenting challenges such as anxiety, depression, pregnancy/prenatal/postpartum, parenting, school/work difficulties, life transitions, and relationship conflicts.
![Photo of Valerie Hodgskiss, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4f536017-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
It's all about relationships, starting with your relationship to yourself, your family of origin, your partner, children, friends. And then there's the relationship to your problems: things like depression, anxiety, ADHD, post-partum and parenting stress, body-image problems. How do you work with the set of challenges that life hands you? I work with clients to understand themselves and their own story, and then apply that understanding, in the form of coping and problem-solving skills, to their relationships, to get through life's pain and into a life worth living.
It's all about relationships, starting with your relationship to yourself, your family of origin, your partner, children, friends. And then there's the relationship to your problems: things like depression, anxiety, ADHD, post-partum and parenting stress, body-image problems. How do you work with the set of challenges that life hands you? I work with clients to understand themselves and their own story, and then apply that understanding, in the form of coping and problem-solving skills, to their relationships, to get through life's pain and into a life worth living.
![Photo of Geet Vij, LPCC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/13654faa-c421-4a76-90c6-44da77efb215/2/320x400.jpeg)
My hope is to create a supportive space for my clients to heal and grow. As a South Asian American, with extensive experience in compassionate care for diverse populations, I aim to foster an environment where you can explore both strengths and challenges. My ultimate objective is to empower you to navigate life's stress and complexities, facilitating lasting positive changes.
My hope is to create a supportive space for my clients to heal and grow. As a South Asian American, with extensive experience in compassionate care for diverse populations, I aim to foster an environment where you can explore both strengths and challenges. My ultimate objective is to empower you to navigate life's stress and complexities, facilitating lasting positive changes.
![Photo of Brooke Van Oosbree, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fe3b8d3b-6813-449a-b971-1811d95aaaef/2/320x400.jpeg)
Brooke Van Oosbree
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Pleasant Hill, CA 94523
Waitlist for new clients
I'm a licensed psychologist with a knack for helping folks embrace life's many uncertainties. Many of my clients are facing a crossroads when they begin therapy - embarking on parenthood, rethinking career choices; both craving and dreading a change. They are often struggling with anxiety in its many forms - panic, OCD, perfectionism, phobias, avoidance, etc. I see my role as that of a warm, authentic, and caring confidante. I also offer neurodiversity-affirming psychological assessments for adults exploring possible diagnoses or seeking better understanding of their emotional functioning and neurotype strengths and challenges.
I'm a licensed psychologist with a knack for helping folks embrace life's many uncertainties. Many of my clients are facing a crossroads when they begin therapy - embarking on parenthood, rethinking career choices; both craving and dreading a change. They are often struggling with anxiety in its many forms - panic, OCD, perfectionism, phobias, avoidance, etc. I see my role as that of a warm, authentic, and caring confidante. I also offer neurodiversity-affirming psychological assessments for adults exploring possible diagnoses or seeking better understanding of their emotional functioning and neurotype strengths and challenges.
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Nearby Pregnancy, Prenatal, Postpartum Therapists Searches for Bay Point
See More Pregnancy, Prenatal, Postpartum TherapistsPregnancy, 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.