Pregnancy, Prenatal, Postpartum Therapists in Los Angeles, CA

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 Alexis Hershfield, EdM, PhD, Psychologist
Alexis Hershfield
Psychologist, EdM, PhD
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90024
I am a clinical psychologist in Los Angeles, CA with expertise in evidence-based interventions for children, adolescents, young adults, pregnant/ postpartum women and their families. I primarily specialize in treating anxiety and related disorders including Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), Perinatal OCD, Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorder (PMAD), Social Phobia, Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD), Separation Anxiety Disorder (SAD), school refusal and school avoidance, Specific Phobia, Body-Focused Behaviors (BFRBs), depression, and parent-child stressors.
I am a clinical psychologist in Los Angeles, CA with expertise in evidence-based interventions for children, adolescents, young adults, pregnant/ postpartum women and their families. I primarily specialize in treating anxiety and related disorders including Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), Perinatal OCD, Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorder (PMAD), Social Phobia, Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD), Separation Anxiety Disorder (SAD), school refusal and school avoidance, Specific Phobia, Body-Focused Behaviors (BFRBs), depression, and parent-child stressors.
(310) 496-8671 View (310) 496-8671
Photo of Angelica Quezada, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Angelica Quezada
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90071  (Online Only)
Hello! I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in California, with 9 years of experience. I specialize in supporting women through various life stages, including pre-conception, perinatal, postpartum, parenting, first generation, and other major life transitions. My expertise lies in mood disorders like depression, anxiety, and PMADs, as well as reproductive grief (infertility, miscarriage, stillbirth, neonatal loss). I also assist with parenting children facing behavioral challenges and offer guidance on relationship issues and communication. I provide telehealth visits and nature therapy sessions.
Hello! I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in California, with 9 years of experience. I specialize in supporting women through various life stages, including pre-conception, perinatal, postpartum, parenting, first generation, and other major life transitions. My expertise lies in mood disorders like depression, anxiety, and PMADs, as well as reproductive grief (infertility, miscarriage, stillbirth, neonatal loss). I also assist with parenting children facing behavioral challenges and offer guidance on relationship issues and communication. I provide telehealth visits and nature therapy sessions.
(562) 573-7770 View (562) 573-7770
Photo of Shannon Docherty, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Shannon Docherty
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90004
If you are feeling overwhelmed due to life transitions, depression, anxiety, or relationship issues, therapy can be a helpful place to feel understood and supported. I create a nonjudgemental space where together we can explore your needs, hopes, and fears while tapping into your unique strengths. I specialize in working with queer adults and families and am passionate about providing support to folks during the prenatal and postpartum period.
If you are feeling overwhelmed due to life transitions, depression, anxiety, or relationship issues, therapy can be a helpful place to feel understood and supported. I create a nonjudgemental space where together we can explore your needs, hopes, and fears while tapping into your unique strengths. I specialize in working with queer adults and families and am passionate about providing support to folks during the prenatal and postpartum period.
(323) 310-1705 View (323) 310-1705
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 Dr. Traci Bank Cohen, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Traci Bank Cohen
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90064
My areas of specialty include anxiety, relationship issues, maternal mental health ( perinatal/ postpartum), self-esteem, perfectionism, life transitions, and challenges working in the entertainment industry.
If you are feeling anxious, overwhelmed, or inadequate, I can help you. If you find yourself making the same choices despite wanting different outcomes, I can help you. I provide a safe, nonjudgmental space so that you can better understand yourself, your relationships, and your patterns of behavior. Together, we will discover root causes to current problems and directly address the underlying source of distress, so that change is effective and long-lasting.
My areas of specialty include anxiety, relationship issues, maternal mental health ( perinatal/ postpartum), self-esteem, perfectionism, life transitions, and challenges working in the entertainment industry.
If you are feeling anxious, overwhelmed, or inadequate, I can help you. If you find yourself making the same choices despite wanting different outcomes, I can help you. I provide a safe, nonjudgmental space so that you can better understand yourself, your relationships, and your patterns of behavior. Together, we will discover root causes to current problems and directly address the underlying source of distress, so that change is effective and long-lasting.
(424) 393-2904 View (424) 393-2904
Photo of Rebecca Kahn - Saguaro Family Counseling, Inc., LMFT, PMH-C, Marriage & Family Therapist
Saguaro Family Counseling, Inc.
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, PMH-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90064  (Online Only)
Specialities include: pregnancy loss, infertility, anxiety, bereavement, trauma, depression, family conflict, relational issues, adjustment, cultural issues.
Adulting is already hard enough; throw in infertility, postpartum depression/anxiety, pregnancy following loss (heIlo, anxiety!), loss/grief/bereavement, trauma, relationship/communication issues, boundaries and family conflict and now you've got discomfort, unpleasant feelings, disconnection and stress. While we may not be able to change all of the obstacles in your life, we can work collaboratively to adjust expectations, reinforce coping skills, strengthen resilience, improve communication skills, set boundaries, process trauma and elicit clarity and direction. (We are a boutique group Telehealth practice- warm & fuzzy).
Specialities include: pregnancy loss, infertility, anxiety, bereavement, trauma, depression, family conflict, relational issues, adjustment, cultural issues.
Adulting is already hard enough; throw in infertility, postpartum depression/anxiety, pregnancy following loss (heIlo, anxiety!), loss/grief/bereavement, trauma, relationship/communication issues, boundaries and family conflict and now you've got discomfort, unpleasant feelings, disconnection and stress. While we may not be able to change all of the obstacles in your life, we can work collaboratively to adjust expectations, reinforce coping skills, strengthen resilience, improve communication skills, set boundaries, process trauma and elicit clarity and direction. (We are a boutique group Telehealth practice- warm & fuzzy).
(323) 366-4404 View (323) 366-4404
Photo of Jill Danielle Weiss, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jill Danielle Weiss
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90004
I am a licensed psychotherapist with over 20 years experience working with adolescents, college students, adults of all ages and couples. My areas of specialization are: trauma, anxiety, depression, grief and loss, relationships/dating, prenatal- postpartum (infants and mothers), ADHD, executive coaching, breakups and divorce, woman’s issues, addiction, LGBTIQ +, building self esteem and life transitions. I focus on helping people find relief from emotional distress to live healthy and fulfilling lives by developing coping tools and wisdom to address future challenges.
I am a licensed psychotherapist with over 20 years experience working with adolescents, college students, adults of all ages and couples. My areas of specialization are: trauma, anxiety, depression, grief and loss, relationships/dating, prenatal- postpartum (infants and mothers), ADHD, executive coaching, breakups and divorce, woman’s issues, addiction, LGBTIQ +, building self esteem and life transitions. I focus on helping people find relief from emotional distress to live healthy and fulfilling lives by developing coping tools and wisdom to address future challenges.
(424) 252-8705 View (424) 252-8705
Photo of Kelly Aguirre, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kelly Aguirre
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90041
Are you finding the transition into motherhood challenging or overwhelming? Whether it be infertility, miscarriage, peri-natal/ postpartum depression and anxiety, or simply the challenges of maintaining a sense of self as you care for your family, the most important thing you can do is seek support through this transitional time of your life. I consider it a privilege to walk alongside my clients through each stage of transition. Whether it be a new job, a child, a relationship, or the loss associated with life transitions, I provide a safe space to explore one's feelings and get unstuck.
Are you finding the transition into motherhood challenging or overwhelming? Whether it be infertility, miscarriage, peri-natal/ postpartum depression and anxiety, or simply the challenges of maintaining a sense of self as you care for your family, the most important thing you can do is seek support through this transitional time of your life. I consider it a privilege to walk alongside my clients through each stage of transition. Whether it be a new job, a child, a relationship, or the loss associated with life transitions, I provide a safe space to explore one's feelings and get unstuck.
(626) 275-2872 View (626) 275-2872
Photo of Stacey Lurie, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Stacey Lurie
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90025  (Online Only)
I have many years of experience working with kids and families. I have worked in a variety of treatment settings from in-patient units to private practice. I am dedicated to improving the mental health services offered to women and new moms. I have worked extensively in the field of postpartum depression and anxiety treatment as well as with women facing pregnancy loss and issues of infertility.
I have many years of experience working with kids and families. I have worked in a variety of treatment settings from in-patient units to private practice. I am dedicated to improving the mental health services offered to women and new moms. I have worked extensively in the field of postpartum depression and anxiety treatment as well as with women facing pregnancy loss and issues of infertility.
(310) 341-7223 View (310) 341-7223
Photo of Evelyn Nankanja, LCSW , PMH-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Evelyn Nankanja
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW , PMH-C
Verified Verified
14 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90006  (Online Only)
I am trained, certified and specialize in Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders.
Thoughts of fear and worry keep you up at night. Something has changed to the point that you don’t recognize yourself. What happened to the happy person that you used to be? The sadness does not seem to go away. You’re so worried about the future that you’re unable to concentrate or enjoy the things you used to enjoy. You have tried to make yourself happy but feel stuck. Your life feels empty; there is nothing that brings happiness. It feels like you do not have a purpose for living, and nobody seems to understand what you are going through.
I am trained, certified and specialize in Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders.
Thoughts of fear and worry keep you up at night. Something has changed to the point that you don’t recognize yourself. What happened to the happy person that you used to be? The sadness does not seem to go away. You’re so worried about the future that you’re unable to concentrate or enjoy the things you used to enjoy. You have tried to make yourself happy but feel stuck. Your life feels empty; there is nothing that brings happiness. It feels like you do not have a purpose for living, and nobody seems to understand what you are going through.
(310) 928-9067 View (310) 928-9067
Photo of Jamie Elizabeth Weiss, LCSW, RYT-500, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jamie Elizabeth Weiss
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, RYT-500
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90048
I specialize in relationship dynamics & all things related to the journey of motherhood; fertility, IVF, miscarriage, adoption, postpartum, & traumatic birth.
Meaningful change happens when we feel supported, confident, & ready. My process helps people clearly define what they really want in their lives & then supports them on that journey. Old limiting beliefs, often born out of trauma, can keep us stuck in a cycle of unhappiness. Together we will build a safe relationship so you can explore what no longer serves you. Doing this in a safe relationship allows your brain to create new neuropathways & your body to release trauma. Through mindfulness, body awareness, & compassionate analysis we will deepen the mind-body connection so you can find the inner space you need to make real change.
I specialize in relationship dynamics & all things related to the journey of motherhood; fertility, IVF, miscarriage, adoption, postpartum, & traumatic birth.
Meaningful change happens when we feel supported, confident, & ready. My process helps people clearly define what they really want in their lives & then supports them on that journey. Old limiting beliefs, often born out of trauma, can keep us stuck in a cycle of unhappiness. Together we will build a safe relationship so you can explore what no longer serves you. Doing this in a safe relationship allows your brain to create new neuropathways & your body to release trauma. Through mindfulness, body awareness, & compassionate analysis we will deepen the mind-body connection so you can find the inner space you need to make real change.
(323) 615-3516 View (323) 615-3516
Photo of Terry Wohlberg, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Terry Wohlberg
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90025
I serve as a West Los Angeles/Santa Monica Support Coordinator for Postpartum Support International.
I believe in the resilience and tenacity of the human spirit, even in situations that seem overwhelming. My approach is collaborative, compassionate, strength-based, and tailored to meet your unique needs and goals. I specialize in women's mental health and reproductive mental health (depression and anxiety during pregnancy and the postpartum period, traumatic birth, perinatal loss and infertility). In addition, I have a special interest and experience in helping adults with anxiety (Generalized Anxiety, OCD, Panic, Social Anxiety, Specific Phobias), depression, past trauma, loss and grief, and insomnia.
I serve as a West Los Angeles/Santa Monica Support Coordinator for Postpartum Support International.
I believe in the resilience and tenacity of the human spirit, even in situations that seem overwhelming. My approach is collaborative, compassionate, strength-based, and tailored to meet your unique needs and goals. I specialize in women's mental health and reproductive mental health (depression and anxiety during pregnancy and the postpartum period, traumatic birth, perinatal loss and infertility). In addition, I have a special interest and experience in helping adults with anxiety (Generalized Anxiety, OCD, Panic, Social Anxiety, Specific Phobias), depression, past trauma, loss and grief, and insomnia.
(310) 929-6376 View (310) 929-6376
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 Ivy Love Margulies, PsyD, Psychologist
Ivy Love Margulies
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90049
I also specialize in pregnancy after a loss - subsequent pregnancies can be frought with a multitude of emotional anxieties and guilt.
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 also specialize in pregnancy after a loss - subsequent pregnancies can be frought with a multitude of emotional anxieties and guilt.
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 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 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 Heather Kagan Ward, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Heather Kagan Ward
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90066  (Online Only)
In addition, I am a certified in perinatal mental health and offer parenting tips and consults.
Thank you for taking the time to view my profile. I hope that that we have a chance to connect. I love helping people realize their strengths and reflect on their feelings and experiences in a non judgmental environment. I am happy to chat to see if I am a good fit for what you currently need.
In addition, I am a certified in perinatal mental health and offer parenting tips and consults.
Thank you for taking the time to view my profile. I hope that that we have a chance to connect. I love helping people realize their strengths and reflect on their feelings and experiences in a non judgmental environment. I am happy to chat to see if I am a good fit for what you currently need.
(310) 362-5871 View (310) 362-5871
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.
Just as it takes a village to raise a child, we believe that it takes a village to raise a mama. Let Mavida be your village.
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.
Just as it takes a village to raise a child, we believe that it takes a village to raise a mama. Let Mavida be your village.
(424) 404-5875 View (424) 404-5875
Photo of Yumi Terajima, PsyD, Psychologist
Yumi Terajima
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90066  (Online Only)
Sometimes all it takes is an outside perspective to be the catalyst for change. But let’s be real, change can be hard, especially when we feel we “should” be able to do it on our own. If there’s one take away message here, it’s that you do not have to do the hard work alone. I hope to be the one by your side on this journey. I aim to treat adult individuals and couples who struggle with a variety of concerns including, but not limited to, depression, mood and anxiety disorders, perinatal mental health struggles, identity development, LGBTQIA+ and other minority group stressors, and life transitions.
Sometimes all it takes is an outside perspective to be the catalyst for change. But let’s be real, change can be hard, especially when we feel we “should” be able to do it on our own. If there’s one take away message here, it’s that you do not have to do the hard work alone. I hope to be the one by your side on this journey. I aim to treat adult individuals and couples who struggle with a variety of concerns including, but not limited to, depression, mood and anxiety disorders, perinatal mental health struggles, identity development, LGBTQIA+ and other minority group stressors, and life transitions.
(310) 620-1503 View (310) 620-1503
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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.