Pregnancy, Prenatal, Postpartum Therapists in Los Angeles, CA

Photo of Gabriella Elise Giorgio, MS, AMFT, APCC, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Gabriella Elise Giorgio
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MS, AMFT, APCC
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90042
You want to be more compassionate with yourself but struggle with constant self-criticism. The more you try to be kind to yourself, the more your inner voice judges your imperfections and mistakes. You feel defeated at resolving this internal battle, so you disassociate or become hyper-focused on productivity. Whether as a woman experiencing increased pregnancy and postpartum anxieties, anger, and betrayal by their body in birth traumas or as a couple having trouble navigating a new life stage that has surfaced disconnection and loneliness, you're looking for a way out of this cycle.
You want to be more compassionate with yourself but struggle with constant self-criticism. The more you try to be kind to yourself, the more your inner voice judges your imperfections and mistakes. You feel defeated at resolving this internal battle, so you disassociate or become hyper-focused on productivity. Whether as a woman experiencing increased pregnancy and postpartum anxieties, anger, and betrayal by their body in birth traumas or as a couple having trouble navigating a new life stage that has surfaced disconnection and loneliness, you're looking for a way out of this cycle.
(213) 318-3125 View (213) 318-3125
Photo of Dr. Evangeline Bishop, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Evangeline Bishop
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90034
Hello and welcome. I specialize in working with individuals on their parenting journey. This includes the perinatal stage addressing perinatal mood and anxiety issues (also described as postpartum depression and/or anxiety), infant-parent bonding, role transitions in individuals and families, and parenting support and coaching. I have expertise in infant and early childhood mental health and child psychology. I am passionate about supporting the well-being of new and growing families by providing individual, couples, and family therapy. My approach to therapy emphasizes connection and promotes self-reflection.
Hello and welcome. I specialize in working with individuals on their parenting journey. This includes the perinatal stage addressing perinatal mood and anxiety issues (also described as postpartum depression and/or anxiety), infant-parent bonding, role transitions in individuals and families, and parenting support and coaching. I have expertise in infant and early childhood mental health and child psychology. I am passionate about supporting the well-being of new and growing families by providing individual, couples, and family therapy. My approach to therapy emphasizes connection and promotes self-reflection.
(424) 587-2194 View (424) 587-2194
Photo of Larissa House, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Larissa House
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90064  (Online Only)
Serving couples and individuals (including moms navigating prenatal, postpartum, parenting, career and personal growth). In your relationship, do you and your partner seem to be stuck in the same exhausting patterns? Maybe you're feeling stuck individually, too, caught in patterns of anxiety, trauma, and feeling like you're just not good enough. Do the painful memories of your past keep creeping up even though you’re desperately trying to move forward? I offer online individual and couples/marriage therapy for clients in Los Angeles, San Francisco and anywhere you are in CA, PA, and FL to help you heal, strengthen and grow.
Serving couples and individuals (including moms navigating prenatal, postpartum, parenting, career and personal growth). In your relationship, do you and your partner seem to be stuck in the same exhausting patterns? Maybe you're feeling stuck individually, too, caught in patterns of anxiety, trauma, and feeling like you're just not good enough. Do the painful memories of your past keep creeping up even though you’re desperately trying to move forward? I offer online individual and couples/marriage therapy for clients in Los Angeles, San Francisco and anywhere you are in CA, PA, and FL to help you heal, strengthen and grow.
(310) 593-9786 View (310) 593-9786
Photo of Casey Mouton, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Casey Mouton
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90026  (Online Only)
Additionally, I have advanced training in perinatal mood disorders from Post Partum Support International and also have experience working in-patient at a drug and alcohol rehabilitation center.
I help clients through life's biggest transitions. From starting a new job, to beginning a new relationship, or becoming a parent, I build a trusting relationship with my clients in order to help them heal, understand, & process these life experiences. I know how critical nonjudgemental support can be, & I aim to create an environment that makes vulnerability feel safe. I primarily work with adults and teens struggling with depression, anxiety, OCD, & perinatal mood disorders. I often utilize EMDR to help clients who feel "stuck". I meet the client where they are & collaborate on an individualized therapeutic care plan.
Additionally, I have advanced training in perinatal mood disorders from Post Partum Support International and also have experience working in-patient at a drug and alcohol rehabilitation center.
I help clients through life's biggest transitions. From starting a new job, to beginning a new relationship, or becoming a parent, I build a trusting relationship with my clients in order to help them heal, understand, & process these life experiences. I know how critical nonjudgemental support can be, & I aim to create an environment that makes vulnerability feel safe. I primarily work with adults and teens struggling with depression, anxiety, OCD, & perinatal mood disorders. I often utilize EMDR to help clients who feel "stuck". I meet the client where they are & collaborate on an individualized therapeutic care plan.
(818) 873-5612 View (818) 873-5612
Photo of Amancay Ledezma, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amancay Ledezma
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90066
She also completed her perinatal mental health advanced training.
Amancay Ledezma is an LCSW who provides therapy for adolescents, adults and couples. Amancay believes in life-long learning and recognizes that in absence of learning, growth cannot happen. She values this dynamic in a therapeutic relationship, as it creates accountability and a willingness to seek out that personal growth. Amancay embraces an individualized approach, focused on the needs and desired outcomes of each client.
She also completed her perinatal mental health advanced training.
Amancay Ledezma is an LCSW who provides therapy for adolescents, adults and couples. Amancay believes in life-long learning and recognizes that in absence of learning, growth cannot happen. She values this dynamic in a therapeutic relationship, as it creates accountability and a willingness to seek out that personal growth. Amancay embraces an individualized approach, focused on the needs and desired outcomes of each client.
(310) 742-1963 View (310) 742-1963
Photo of Diamond Lee, ACSW
Diamond Lee
Associate Clinical Social Worker, ACSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90016  (Online Only)
My name is Diamond and I am an associate therapist who specializes in helping Black women navigate issues related to relationships, perinatal mental health, self-esteem, career, race-based stress, depression, and anxiety. I am on a mission to guide my clients from repression to liberation and authenticity. Drawing inspiration from my own transformative journey, my goal is to create a comfortable, non-judgmental, empathetic environment where I collaborate with my clients to create the space for change through problem-solving, growth, and introspection.
My name is Diamond and I am an associate therapist who specializes in helping Black women navigate issues related to relationships, perinatal mental health, self-esteem, career, race-based stress, depression, and anxiety. I am on a mission to guide my clients from repression to liberation and authenticity. Drawing inspiration from my own transformative journey, my goal is to create a comfortable, non-judgmental, empathetic environment where I collaborate with my clients to create the space for change through problem-solving, growth, and introspection.
(424) 321-8437 View (424) 321-8437
Photo of Susan Hammoudeh, PsyD, Psychologist
Susan Hammoudeh
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90026  (Online Only)
As a clinical psychologist with over ten years of experience in the field, I believe in an individual's ability to overcome traumatic experiences. I specialize in reproductive trauma, as well as perinatal and postpartum mood disorders. I also work with those who have suffered other types of trauma and those who are struggling with life challenges. I take into consideration the importance of an individual's early childhood experiences, including those that are preverbal. I provide a safe space in which the most painful emotions are contained and processed in order for healing to transpire.
As a clinical psychologist with over ten years of experience in the field, I believe in an individual's ability to overcome traumatic experiences. I specialize in reproductive trauma, as well as perinatal and postpartum mood disorders. I also work with those who have suffered other types of trauma and those who are struggling with life challenges. I take into consideration the importance of an individual's early childhood experiences, including those that are preverbal. I provide a safe space in which the most painful emotions are contained and processed in order for healing to transpire.
(323) 794-1092 View (323) 794-1092
Photo of Elyse Springer, MA-CLPT, MFT, PMH-C, Marriage & Family Therapist
Elyse Springer
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA-CLPT, MFT, PMH-C
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90026
I'm a seasoned trauma therapist working with PTSD, depression, anxiety, OCD and perinatal mental health (preconception, pregnancy and postpartum). You have symptoms getting in the way of your success - we'll focus on reducing symptoms, clearing the emotional clutter that impacts your mood, relationships with partners, with friends, and work. I'm certified in EMDR, a certified EMDR Consultant, certified in Interpersonal Therapy, certified in Perinatal Mental Health and often train other clinicians around trauma, birth loss, pre and postpartum mental health, HIV/AIDS and 2SLGBTQI+.
I'm a seasoned trauma therapist working with PTSD, depression, anxiety, OCD and perinatal mental health (preconception, pregnancy and postpartum). You have symptoms getting in the way of your success - we'll focus on reducing symptoms, clearing the emotional clutter that impacts your mood, relationships with partners, with friends, and work. I'm certified in EMDR, a certified EMDR Consultant, certified in Interpersonal Therapy, certified in Perinatal Mental Health and often train other clinicians around trauma, birth loss, pre and postpartum mental health, HIV/AIDS and 2SLGBTQI+.
(213) 973-4715 View (213) 973-4715
Photo of Summer Loria, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Summer Loria
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90035  (Online Only)
Hello, I'm Summer! If you're here, you're likely considering therapy, and I want to commend you for taking this important step on your mental health journey. In my life and my therapeutic work, I value authenticity, compassion, and open-mindedness. These values are part of what creates a supportive and non-judgmental space for my clients. I also believe in the power of humor as both an effective intervention and a personal aspect of who I am. Some of the specialities I focus on are related to Life Transitions such as Grief & Loss, Perinatal Mental Health, Anxiety, Depression, and self esteem.
Hello, I'm Summer! If you're here, you're likely considering therapy, and I want to commend you for taking this important step on your mental health journey. In my life and my therapeutic work, I value authenticity, compassion, and open-mindedness. These values are part of what creates a supportive and non-judgmental space for my clients. I also believe in the power of humor as both an effective intervention and a personal aspect of who I am. Some of the specialities I focus on are related to Life Transitions such as Grief & Loss, Perinatal Mental Health, Anxiety, Depression, and self esteem.
(310) 561-1062 View (310) 561-1062
Photo of Dr. Michelle Jackson, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Michelle Jackson
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90025  (Online Only)
I view all of these as being inherently interconnected and am passionate about working with mothers throughout pregnancy, navigating the postpartum period, adjusting to motherhood, and parenting across all ages.
Whether you are struggling with relationships or dating, parenting, finding your purpose, or feeling anxious, stressed, or depressed, beginning therapy can be the first step to finding relief. My work is guided by the notion that therapy should be, above all, helpful. Some days, you may find that you want specific techniques and strategies. Other days, you may benefit from a patient, listening ear. Sometimes, you may wish to delve into earlier experiences to understand why you are feeling the way you do. I believe these are all important aspects of the therapeutic journey, and I am here to here to help you in the ways you need most.
I view all of these as being inherently interconnected and am passionate about working with mothers throughout pregnancy, navigating the postpartum period, adjusting to motherhood, and parenting across all ages.
Whether you are struggling with relationships or dating, parenting, finding your purpose, or feeling anxious, stressed, or depressed, beginning therapy can be the first step to finding relief. My work is guided by the notion that therapy should be, above all, helpful. Some days, you may find that you want specific techniques and strategies. Other days, you may benefit from a patient, listening ear. Sometimes, you may wish to delve into earlier experiences to understand why you are feeling the way you do. I believe these are all important aspects of the therapeutic journey, and I am here to here to help you in the ways you need most.
(818) 696-4843 View (818) 696-4843
Photo of Ivy Love Margulies, PsyD, Psychologist
Ivy Love Margulies
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90049
I am a specialist in grief, loss and trauma encompassing the entire spectrum of women's maternal mental health. I help women(and their partners) with healthy pregnancies, postpartum depression and anxiety, pregnancy loss, terminations and infertility - whether through stillbirth, miscarriage, late term loss, IVF/IUI failures, selective termination or pregnancy releases (aka abortion). Sadly, 1 in 4 pregnancies end in miscarriage and 1 in 8 will have trouble with conception. I blend psychology, ritual, spirituality, reiki, energy healing, guided meditations and more to help facilitate and support women, couples and families.
I am a specialist in grief, loss and trauma encompassing the entire spectrum of women's maternal mental health. I help women(and their partners) with healthy pregnancies, postpartum depression and anxiety, pregnancy loss, terminations and infertility - whether through stillbirth, miscarriage, late term loss, IVF/IUI failures, selective termination or pregnancy releases (aka abortion). Sadly, 1 in 4 pregnancies end in miscarriage and 1 in 8 will have trouble with conception. I blend psychology, ritual, spirituality, reiki, energy healing, guided meditations and more to help facilitate and support women, couples and families.
(424) 320-3249 View (424) 320-3249
Photo of Jeannemarie Leone, PsyD, PMH-C, Psychologist
Jeannemarie Leone
Psychologist, PsyD, PMH-C
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90025
Are you ready for fewer meltdowns, less conflict, and better coping? How about less problems at work, school, or daycare? Need help navigating pregnancy, postpartum, or parenting? If so, I can help! I'm a licensed clinical psychologist, certified perinatal mental health professional, and trained birth & postpartum doula.
Thanks so much for stopping by! Maybe you’re a new or expectant parent who is struggling? Or perhaps you’d like to get support for your child who is having a hard time? I support children and adults in managing overwhelming thoughts and feelings, difficult parent-child relationships, difficult births, traumatic events, etc., in finding relief.
Are you ready for fewer meltdowns, less conflict, and better coping? How about less problems at work, school, or daycare? Need help navigating pregnancy, postpartum, or parenting? If so, I can help! I'm a licensed clinical psychologist, certified perinatal mental health professional, and trained birth & postpartum doula.
Thanks so much for stopping by! Maybe you’re a new or expectant parent who is struggling? Or perhaps you’d like to get support for your child who is having a hard time? I support children and adults in managing overwhelming thoughts and feelings, difficult parent-child relationships, difficult births, traumatic events, etc., in finding relief.
(310) 361-2480 View (310) 361-2480
Photo of Hannah Hewes-Clark, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Hannah Hewes-Clark
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90026  (Online Only)
I specialize in perinatal mental health (issues around family planning, pregnancy, and postpartum) and LGBTQ+ issues.
My practice welcomes individuals and couples of all backgrounds, who are seeking to break intergenerational cycles of trauma, heal emotional and mental wounds, or navigate challenging life transitions. If you are struggling with feelings of shame and finding it hard to express yourself in meaningful ways, I might be a great fit for you. My practice is a safe space for queer and trans folks who are processing today's social climate, making family planning decisions, or simply reaching out for support and guidance.
I specialize in perinatal mental health (issues around family planning, pregnancy, and postpartum) and LGBTQ+ issues.
My practice welcomes individuals and couples of all backgrounds, who are seeking to break intergenerational cycles of trauma, heal emotional and mental wounds, or navigate challenging life transitions. If you are struggling with feelings of shame and finding it hard to express yourself in meaningful ways, I might be a great fit for you. My practice is a safe space for queer and trans folks who are processing today's social climate, making family planning decisions, or simply reaching out for support and guidance.
(213) 354-8285 View (213) 354-8285
Photo of Sheila Salamat, JD, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Sheila Salamat
Marriage & Family Therapist, JD, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90025
I am a licensed marriage and family therapist specializing in women's mental health. I have extensive training in reproductive & maternal metal health. Nurturing new moms, moms to be, and women trying to conceive is the heart of my psychotherapy practice. As a mom of 2, I understand firsthand how crucial it is to have emotional support during pregnancy, postpartum and motherhood. It is my priority and passion to help you receive the support you need. I will work with you to create a plan that targets your specific symptoms, reduces stress, builds coping skills, restores self-esteem and hope, and improves overall well-being.
I am a licensed marriage and family therapist specializing in women's mental health. I have extensive training in reproductive & maternal metal health. Nurturing new moms, moms to be, and women trying to conceive is the heart of my psychotherapy practice. As a mom of 2, I understand firsthand how crucial it is to have emotional support during pregnancy, postpartum and motherhood. It is my priority and passion to help you receive the support you need. I will work with you to create a plan that targets your specific symptoms, reduces stress, builds coping skills, restores self-esteem and hope, and improves overall well-being.
(310) 919-0552 View (310) 919-0552
Photo of Zoë Kahn, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Zoë Kahn
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90027  (Online Only)
I have experience in: relationship issues, self esteem, perinatal mental health, parenting, life transitions, depression, anxiety, career changes, and creative blocks.
Hi, I'm Zoë. I'm a licensed psychotherapist with over ten years of experience in mental health. I work with individuals and couples who are seeking a deeper relationship with themselves and with each other. I find that with acceptance of your true self, the more confident you will feel in communicating openly, making hard decisions, setting boundaries and making desired changes in your life. This holds true in our relationships as well. When we learn to accept truths about ourselves, we can then learn how to communicate these truths to a partner. I would love to help you find deeper connection with yourself and your loved ones.
I have experience in: relationship issues, self esteem, perinatal mental health, parenting, life transitions, depression, anxiety, career changes, and creative blocks.
Hi, I'm Zoë. I'm a licensed psychotherapist with over ten years of experience in mental health. I work with individuals and couples who are seeking a deeper relationship with themselves and with each other. I find that with acceptance of your true self, the more confident you will feel in communicating openly, making hard decisions, setting boundaries and making desired changes in your life. This holds true in our relationships as well. When we learn to accept truths about ourselves, we can then learn how to communicate these truths to a partner. I would love to help you find deeper connection with yourself and your loved ones.
(323) 645-5972 View (323) 645-5972
Photo of Norina Murphy - Norina Verduzco-Murphy MSW, LCSW & Associates, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Norina Verduzco-Murphy MSW, LCSW & Associates
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90048
Art therapy, Play therapy, Sand therapy, EMDR, Trauma Focused CBT, PPD, infertility, miscarriage and infant loss, Immigration Evals.
Immediate openings in Los Angeles! We strive to make therapy accessible to everyone. We accept insurance, and have weekend and evening availability, with appts offered as late as 7 pm! You will find that my associates and I offer compassion, empathy, and support as you work to heal and grow. We love children and families. Our goal is to help kids have emotional healthy childhoods and support parents in peaceful family interactions. Please see our website to read more about the qualified and amazing therapists available to help you reach your goals. We thank you for considering us in this important investment in yourself.
Art therapy, Play therapy, Sand therapy, EMDR, Trauma Focused CBT, PPD, infertility, miscarriage and infant loss, Immigration Evals.
Immediate openings in Los Angeles! We strive to make therapy accessible to everyone. We accept insurance, and have weekend and evening availability, with appts offered as late as 7 pm! You will find that my associates and I offer compassion, empathy, and support as you work to heal and grow. We love children and families. Our goal is to help kids have emotional healthy childhoods and support parents in peaceful family interactions. Please see our website to read more about the qualified and amazing therapists available to help you reach your goals. We thank you for considering us in this important investment in yourself.
(909) 317-3360 View (909) 317-3360
Photo of Shana Bacal Lutsky, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Shana Bacal Lutsky
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90064
My other area of focus and a passion of mine, is working with intended parents who are struggling with fertility as well as those who are experiencing difficulties as it relates to pregnancy issues.
I have worked as a therapist in Los Angeles for over 26 years with various populations. For the past 15 years I have worked in the educational school system. Through my professional experience and training, I have a lot of expertise working with older adolescents and adults. My current focus is young adults, as this is a period in one's life that can be especially challenging given all the social, emotional and physical changes that transpire. I work to help my clients navigate these transitions to better be able to cope.
My other area of focus and a passion of mine, is working with intended parents who are struggling with fertility as well as those who are experiencing difficulties as it relates to pregnancy issues.
I have worked as a therapist in Los Angeles for over 26 years with various populations. For the past 15 years I have worked in the educational school system. Through my professional experience and training, I have a lot of expertise working with older adolescents and adults. My current focus is young adults, as this is a period in one's life that can be especially challenging given all the social, emotional and physical changes that transpire. I work to help my clients navigate these transitions to better be able to cope.
(424) 290-8263 View (424) 290-8263
Photo of Casey Mouton - Mavida Health, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Mavida Health
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90049  (Online Only)
Mavida Health is a deeply specialized, comprehensive mental health platform for the path to parenthood - including those trying to conceive, pregnant - including adoption and surrogacy, experiencing pregnancy loss, or in the postpartum. We offer 1:1 therapy, couples/family therapy, group therapy, prescribing, and medication management.
Mavida Health is a deeply specialized, comprehensive mental health platform for the path to parenthood - including those trying to conceive, pregnant - including adoption and surrogacy, experiencing pregnancy loss, or in the postpartum. We offer 1:1 therapy, couples/family therapy, group therapy, prescribing, and medication management.
(424) 404-5875 View (424) 404-5875
Photo of Dahlia Seroussi, MFT-A, MFA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Dahlia Seroussi
Pre-Licensed Professional, MFT-A, MFA
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90027  (Online Only)
I especially enjoy working with families and individuals navigating creative blocks, pregnancy/postpartum, multicultural issues, and academic concerns.
I combine a warm and direct approach with evidence-based practices (and a splash of humor) to help you unpack, examine, and rewrite the narratives in your life. Drawing from modalities such as Narrative Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and Internal Family Systems, we will work to align your thoughts and actions with your values so that you can lead the life you want. I view relationships and identity development through the lens of attachment theory with the goal of helping you draw clear connections from the past to the present and into an expansive and joyful future.
I especially enjoy working with families and individuals navigating creative blocks, pregnancy/postpartum, multicultural issues, and academic concerns.
I combine a warm and direct approach with evidence-based practices (and a splash of humor) to help you unpack, examine, and rewrite the narratives in your life. Drawing from modalities such as Narrative Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and Internal Family Systems, we will work to align your thoughts and actions with your values so that you can lead the life you want. I view relationships and identity development through the lens of attachment theory with the goal of helping you draw clear connections from the past to the present and into an expansive and joyful future.
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Photo of Kim VanKirk, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kim VanKirk
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90027  (Online Only)
I specialize in treating adults with anxiety disorders, trauma and stress related disorders and perinatal mood disorders. My approach is client centered, trauma informed and evidenced based, drawing from modalities such as EMDR, CBT, somatic experiencing and mindfulness based practices. My goal is to empower my clients by helping them regain a healthy sense of self worth, improve relationships and develop a greater sense of hope and purpose in their lives.
I specialize in treating adults with anxiety disorders, trauma and stress related disorders and perinatal mood disorders. My approach is client centered, trauma informed and evidenced based, drawing from modalities such as EMDR, CBT, somatic experiencing and mindfulness based practices. My goal is to empower my clients by helping them regain a healthy sense of self worth, improve relationships and develop a greater sense of hope and purpose in their lives.
(213) 698-4907 View (213) 698-4907

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.