Pregnancy, Prenatal, Postpartum Therapists in Torrance, CA

Photo of Chelsy Duffer-Dunbar, LCSW, PPSC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Chelsy Duffer-Dunbar
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PPSC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Torrance, CA 90501  (Online Only)
I offer therapy for women, individuals who are pregnant, postpartum, and those experiencing perinatal loss.
Hi there! I'm Chelsy. As a Licensed Therapist, I strive to build the confidence and sense of empowerment in the women I work with. Also as a mother of two, I know that navigating life during pregnancy, times of loss, and as a new parent can be challenging and leave you feeling overwhelmed. I am here to support and guide you through this time of transition and will help you adjust to your new normal. Together, we will celebrate the joy you experience and honor the hardship of your parenthood and womanhood journey.
I offer therapy for women, individuals who are pregnant, postpartum, and those experiencing perinatal loss.
Hi there! I'm Chelsy. As a Licensed Therapist, I strive to build the confidence and sense of empowerment in the women I work with. Also as a mother of two, I know that navigating life during pregnancy, times of loss, and as a new parent can be challenging and leave you feeling overwhelmed. I am here to support and guide you through this time of transition and will help you adjust to your new normal. Together, we will celebrate the joy you experience and honor the hardship of your parenthood and womanhood journey.
(424) 304-1812 View (424) 304-1812
Photo of Kristy Crownover, MA, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kristy Crownover
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Torrance, CA 90505
The prenatal/postpartum period in a woman's life is wonderful & challenging! Support is the number one factor that protects new mothers & babies during this precious time.
I am passionate about helping couples reconnect. Sometimes couples can become disconnected and that can be very painful. Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy is a scientifically proven method that brings couples together in new ways that lead to long-lasting secure attachment. In a safe space, partners can explore their feelings and behaviors in order to understand themselves and each other at a much deeper level. You can escape your negative interactive cycle and create a new beautiful dance with your partner. I would like to help you get there! Please call me for a free consultation in Beverly Hills, Downey or Torrance.
The prenatal/postpartum period in a woman's life is wonderful & challenging! Support is the number one factor that protects new mothers & babies during this precious time.
I am passionate about helping couples reconnect. Sometimes couples can become disconnected and that can be very painful. Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy is a scientifically proven method that brings couples together in new ways that lead to long-lasting secure attachment. In a safe space, partners can explore their feelings and behaviors in order to understand themselves and each other at a much deeper level. You can escape your negative interactive cycle and create a new beautiful dance with your partner. I would like to help you get there! Please call me for a free consultation in Beverly Hills, Downey or Torrance.
(310) 746-5832 View (310) 746-5832
Photo of Abby T Withee, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Abby T Withee
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Torrance, CA 90501
I am certified in perinatal mental health and the love work.
I am here for you, for the person who is struggling to get out from under the cloud of anxiety, depression, or that feeling that you just aren't "good enough". I am here for the parent who is struggling with how to manage, and for the child who has trouble regulating their emotions. We have all been there, even therapists. I come from a place of compassion and understanding, ready to meet you where you're at and find out what works for you to heal and grow.
I am certified in perinatal mental health and the love work.
I am here for you, for the person who is struggling to get out from under the cloud of anxiety, depression, or that feeling that you just aren't "good enough". I am here for the parent who is struggling with how to manage, and for the child who has trouble regulating their emotions. We have all been there, even therapists. I come from a place of compassion and understanding, ready to meet you where you're at and find out what works for you to heal and grow.
(310) 620-1321 View (310) 620-1321
Photo of Michelle Tangeman, LMFT, BCBA, Marriage & Family Therapist
Michelle Tangeman
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, BCBA
Verified Verified
Torrance, CA 90501
As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with focused training in perinatal mental health, and as a Board Certified Behavior Analyst, offering a compassionate approach, incorporating neuro-affirming ABA techniques.
I am currently accepting clients who are seeking a therapist that: 1. Offers education and intervention support for parents with anxious, ADHD, or autistic children. 2. Assists mothers in the early postpartum period grappling with symptoms of anxiety and depression. With a unique specialization in working with children and families, I provide tailored support, helping you harness your strengths and equipping you with the necessary tools to flourish.
As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with focused training in perinatal mental health, and as a Board Certified Behavior Analyst, offering a compassionate approach, incorporating neuro-affirming ABA techniques.
I am currently accepting clients who are seeking a therapist that: 1. Offers education and intervention support for parents with anxious, ADHD, or autistic children. 2. Assists mothers in the early postpartum period grappling with symptoms of anxiety and depression. With a unique specialization in working with children and families, I provide tailored support, helping you harness your strengths and equipping you with the necessary tools to flourish.
(213) 463-5918 View (213) 463-5918
Photo of Ebony Vaporean-Bussey-Payne, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Ebony Vaporean-Bussey-Payne
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Torrance, CA 90505
Hello! I’m Ebony Vaporean-Bussey-Payne, and I’m a licensed Marriage and Family therapist. I’ve been licensed since 2016 and began seeing individuals in 2013. In my ten years of practice, I have worked with children, teens, and adults. I also have experience working with new mothers and first responders. My focus at this time is anxiety, depression, job stress, and family stress. I enjoy working with new mothers/postpartum, depression, anxiety, and first responders. At this time, I'm only seeing adults.
Hello! I’m Ebony Vaporean-Bussey-Payne, and I’m a licensed Marriage and Family therapist. I’ve been licensed since 2016 and began seeing individuals in 2013. In my ten years of practice, I have worked with children, teens, and adults. I also have experience working with new mothers and first responders. My focus at this time is anxiety, depression, job stress, and family stress. I enjoy working with new mothers/postpartum, depression, anxiety, and first responders. At this time, I'm only seeing adults.
(714) 798-2969 View (714) 798-2969
Photo of Char'lee Stewart, MS, LMFT, PMH-C, Marriage & Family Therapist
Char'lee Stewart
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, PMH-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Torrance, CA 90505  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California, Oregon, and Washington. I am certified in Perinatal Mental Health, Child Parent Psychotherapy and Trauma-Focused CBT, and I have completed specialized training in ERP. I am offering in-person services in the state of California and telehealth services in California, Oregon, and Washington.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California, Oregon, and Washington. I am certified in Perinatal Mental Health, Child Parent Psychotherapy and Trauma-Focused CBT, and I have completed specialized training in ERP. I am offering in-person services in the state of California and telehealth services in California, Oregon, and Washington.
(424) 369-7377 View (424) 369-7377
Photo of Maika Shaku Lcsw, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Maika Shaku Lcsw
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Torrance, CA 90505  (Online Only)
My specialty includes anxiety, prenatal/perinatal/postpartum issues, immigration/acculturation issues (especially Asians/Asian Americans), cross-cultural couples, OCD, depression, trauma, and grieving issues.
Are you a high achiever? A perfectionist? A people pleaser? Are you unsatisfied and anxious, but you don't know what to do? Maybe you’re constantly stressing about problems that never even arise. Maybe you are struggling with moving forward because of the disturbing experience you've had in the past. Maybe negative and traumatic experiences caused emotional pain, changed who you really are, and damaged your relationships. It's not too late to seek help because healing is possible. I will work with you so you can achieve your goal, and I can assist you in feeling like yourself again. I'm really patient. Trust me, I will be with you.
My specialty includes anxiety, prenatal/perinatal/postpartum issues, immigration/acculturation issues (especially Asians/Asian Americans), cross-cultural couples, OCD, depression, trauma, and grieving issues.
Are you a high achiever? A perfectionist? A people pleaser? Are you unsatisfied and anxious, but you don't know what to do? Maybe you’re constantly stressing about problems that never even arise. Maybe you are struggling with moving forward because of the disturbing experience you've had in the past. Maybe negative and traumatic experiences caused emotional pain, changed who you really are, and damaged your relationships. It's not too late to seek help because healing is possible. I will work with you so you can achieve your goal, and I can assist you in feeling like yourself again. I'm really patient. Trust me, I will be with you.
(916) 827-4528 View (916) 827-4528
Photo of Cheryl J Santiago-Venture, PsyD, SEP, Psychologist
Cheryl J Santiago-Venture
Psychologist, PsyD, SEP
Verified Verified
Torrance, CA 90505
I have additional training in perinatal mental health and enjoy supporting new parents.
You are taking the first steps in creating change in your life. The pursuit of health, happiness, and healing are aspects that we all strive for, and that can be accelerated with additional support and insight oriented therapy. In addition to traditional approaches, such as psychodynamic approaches and cognitive behavioral interventions, I utilize mindfulness techniques, Somatic Experiencing, and EMDR. I have experience in treating a variety of condition, such as depression, anxiety, and trauma. Therapy can assist with stress and change of life issues, such as divorce, new parents, health issues, bereavement, or work/peer conflict.
I have additional training in perinatal mental health and enjoy supporting new parents.
You are taking the first steps in creating change in your life. The pursuit of health, happiness, and healing are aspects that we all strive for, and that can be accelerated with additional support and insight oriented therapy. In addition to traditional approaches, such as psychodynamic approaches and cognitive behavioral interventions, I utilize mindfulness techniques, Somatic Experiencing, and EMDR. I have experience in treating a variety of condition, such as depression, anxiety, and trauma. Therapy can assist with stress and change of life issues, such as divorce, new parents, health issues, bereavement, or work/peer conflict.
(310) 299-7410 View (310) 299-7410
Photo of Jamie Suard, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jamie Suard
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Torrance, CA 90505
I understand how your prenatal/perinatal, childhood and especially traumatic experiences can form debilitating beliefs and relating patterns which are stored unconsciously in your brain and body therefore making talk therapy alone ineffective.
First, you probably need to know this right now... that you were created to be loved! Next, in therapy, real growth and change is influenced significantly by what you feel and think about your therapist. You need to feel safe, understood, validated, cared for, and able to trust the competency and selflessness of your therapist. Please feel free to come for a free introductory meeting with me. With deep care, compassion, understanding, and respect, I help you transition from surviving to thriving in relationships and life. I specialize in broken relationships or those struggling with past trauma or abuse.
I understand how your prenatal/perinatal, childhood and especially traumatic experiences can form debilitating beliefs and relating patterns which are stored unconsciously in your brain and body therefore making talk therapy alone ineffective.
First, you probably need to know this right now... that you were created to be loved! Next, in therapy, real growth and change is influenced significantly by what you feel and think about your therapist. You need to feel safe, understood, validated, cared for, and able to trust the competency and selflessness of your therapist. Please feel free to come for a free introductory meeting with me. With deep care, compassion, understanding, and respect, I help you transition from surviving to thriving in relationships and life. I specialize in broken relationships or those struggling with past trauma or abuse.
(310) 844-6543 View (310) 844-6543
Photo of Heidy Salguero, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Heidy Salguero
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Torrance, CA 90503  (Online Only)
Welcome to your therapeutic journey! By seeking help, you've already demonstrated remarkable courage. Now, let's partner together to build on your resilience and tackle any obstacles that may be hindering your well-being, whether related to depression, anxiety, grief, or significant life transitions such as: postpartum, career changes, relationship conflicts, etc. I'm here to offer compassionate support, help you identify areas of stress, and develop personalized coping strategies to achieve lasting emotional and behavioral wellness.
Welcome to your therapeutic journey! By seeking help, you've already demonstrated remarkable courage. Now, let's partner together to build on your resilience and tackle any obstacles that may be hindering your well-being, whether related to depression, anxiety, grief, or significant life transitions such as: postpartum, career changes, relationship conflicts, etc. I'm here to offer compassionate support, help you identify areas of stress, and develop personalized coping strategies to achieve lasting emotional and behavioral wellness.
(310) 361-3201 View (310) 361-3201
Photo of Lauren Dollarhide, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Lauren Dollarhide
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Torrance, CA 90503  (Online Only)
My experience within the field has allowed me to work with individuals who experience depressed mood, anxiety, perinatal/postpartum mood disorders, grief and loss, relational struggles, trauma, domestic violence, racial trauma, and life adjustments and transitions.
I believe that to become better versions of ourselves, we must first work towards healing and processing our past wounds. Sometimes our wounds and past traumas can hold us back from being better partners, parents, and individuals. I need to provide you with a safe and nurturing environment to heal and grow. My focus throughout the past years has been providing culturally responsive care as well as LGBTQ+ affirming care while working with clients toward their goals, building upon their strengths, and facilitating an environment for growth toward self-acceptance and self-empowerment.
My experience within the field has allowed me to work with individuals who experience depressed mood, anxiety, perinatal/postpartum mood disorders, grief and loss, relational struggles, trauma, domestic violence, racial trauma, and life adjustments and transitions.
I believe that to become better versions of ourselves, we must first work towards healing and processing our past wounds. Sometimes our wounds and past traumas can hold us back from being better partners, parents, and individuals. I need to provide you with a safe and nurturing environment to heal and grow. My focus throughout the past years has been providing culturally responsive care as well as LGBTQ+ affirming care while working with clients toward their goals, building upon their strengths, and facilitating an environment for growth toward self-acceptance and self-empowerment.
(310) 775-2731 View (310) 775-2731
Photo of Kailee Marin, DO
Kailee Marin
DO
Verified Verified
Torrance, CA 90503  (Online Only)
Exclusively focused on mental health issues, Bonmente treats a myriad of psychiatric conditions, including anxiety, depression, ADHD, sleep disorders, postpartum depression, PTSD, bipolar disorder, panic attacks, OCD, and gender dysphoria.
We know asking for help is a challenging thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here, and we're doing things differently. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, an online patient portal that lets you communicate directly with your provider, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as it should be. Now, welcoming new patients!
Exclusively focused on mental health issues, Bonmente treats a myriad of psychiatric conditions, including anxiety, depression, ADHD, sleep disorders, postpartum depression, PTSD, bipolar disorder, panic attacks, OCD, and gender dysphoria.
We know asking for help is a challenging thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here, and we're doing things differently. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, an online patient portal that lets you communicate directly with your provider, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as it should be. Now, welcoming new patients!
(424) 344-5845 View (424) 344-5845
Photo of Erisa M. Preston, PsyD, Psychologist
Erisa M. Preston
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Torrance, CA 90503
My treatment specialties include pregnancy loss and infertility, chronic pain/illnesses, sexual abuse and trauma, women's issues, and anxiety/depression.
My personal philosophy is that a primary purpose of therapy is to help people to become more complete and authentic versions of themselves. In each of us lies pieces of ourselves which require healing in order to become cohesive and integrated. Some pieces have been internally bruised by the pain of depression or anxiety. Other pieces have been hidden in the shadows of fear or trauma. These pieces will continue to impair daily life and self-actualization, true growth, and progress, until they are addressed and treated. Luckily, therapy can help to heal and integrate all parts of the self.
My treatment specialties include pregnancy loss and infertility, chronic pain/illnesses, sexual abuse and trauma, women's issues, and anxiety/depression.
My personal philosophy is that a primary purpose of therapy is to help people to become more complete and authentic versions of themselves. In each of us lies pieces of ourselves which require healing in order to become cohesive and integrated. Some pieces have been internally bruised by the pain of depression or anxiety. Other pieces have been hidden in the shadows of fear or trauma. These pieces will continue to impair daily life and self-actualization, true growth, and progress, until they are addressed and treated. Luckily, therapy can help to heal and integrate all parts of the self.
(310) 736-1424 View (310) 736-1424
Photo of Kate Mosier, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kate Mosier
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Torrance, CA 90505
Getting support after childbirth can be helpful in learning how to cope with postpartum issues and feeling overwhelmed with all the changes that come with becoming a parent.
Does your child have frequent angry outbursts, problems getting along with peers, anxiety and worry, or difficulty focusing in school? Are you feeling overwhelmed with family problems and do not know how to fix what is wrong? Have you recently had baby and are struggling with depression, anxiety or just having difficulty adjusting to parenthood?
Getting support after childbirth can be helpful in learning how to cope with postpartum issues and feeling overwhelmed with all the changes that come with becoming a parent.
Does your child have frequent angry outbursts, problems getting along with peers, anxiety and worry, or difficulty focusing in school? Are you feeling overwhelmed with family problems and do not know how to fix what is wrong? Have you recently had baby and are struggling with depression, anxiety or just having difficulty adjusting to parenthood?
(310) 784-5566 View (310) 784-5566
Photo of Yulia Koba, MA, PsyD, SEP, Psychologist
Yulia Koba
Psychologist, MA, PsyD, SEP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Torrance, CA 90505
I also work with pregnant and postpartum women as well as women who struggle with parenting issues and work/life/career.
Hi, I am Dr.Yula Koba, a licensed clinical psychologist. I specialize in working with individuals and couples. I have almost 20 years of experience providing psychotherapy and counseling in different settings. I am highly experienced and trained in working with trauma, depression, anxiety, OCD, and relational issues. I have a lot of experience working with couples and families. My style is warm, non-judgmental, and direct. I believe that together we can change the way you think, interact, and relate to others and yourself. I use different modalities that are always tailored to your needs and goals.
I also work with pregnant and postpartum women as well as women who struggle with parenting issues and work/life/career.
Hi, I am Dr.Yula Koba, a licensed clinical psychologist. I specialize in working with individuals and couples. I have almost 20 years of experience providing psychotherapy and counseling in different settings. I am highly experienced and trained in working with trauma, depression, anxiety, OCD, and relational issues. I have a lot of experience working with couples and families. My style is warm, non-judgmental, and direct. I believe that together we can change the way you think, interact, and relate to others and yourself. I use different modalities that are always tailored to your needs and goals.
(424) 217-3320 View (424) 217-3320
Photo of Jessica Zucker, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Jessica Zucker
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Torrance, CA 90505  (Online Only)
In the age of social media you might be wondering "What can I get from therapy that I can't learn from TikTok, Instagram, or even Google?" While the internet can be a great place to gain additional knowledge, we often don't get the whole picture or the full experience. The essence of therapy is cultivating a trusting relationship and having a safe space to process feelings, develop awareness, and also learn to navigate the struggles. I consider each client's unique blend of beliefs, perspectives and values, and offer a space without judgement. Therapy is an opportunity for us to work together to find a way forward.
In the age of social media you might be wondering "What can I get from therapy that I can't learn from TikTok, Instagram, or even Google?" While the internet can be a great place to gain additional knowledge, we often don't get the whole picture or the full experience. The essence of therapy is cultivating a trusting relationship and having a safe space to process feelings, develop awareness, and also learn to navigate the struggles. I consider each client's unique blend of beliefs, perspectives and values, and offer a space without judgement. Therapy is an opportunity for us to work together to find a way forward.
(818) 217-8703 View (818) 217-8703
Photo of Janice Snyder, PhD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Janice Snyder
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Torrance, CA 90505  (Online Only)
I work with a broad spectrum of individuals. As a therapist with a doctorate degree from the University of Southern California (USC), I create an environment which is safe, kind, and non-judgmental. My practice is goal oriented. I take most insurances and do the billing.
I work with a broad spectrum of individuals. As a therapist with a doctorate degree from the University of Southern California (USC), I create an environment which is safe, kind, and non-judgmental. My practice is goal oriented. I take most insurances and do the billing.
(424) 379-3948 View (424) 379-3948
Photo of Linda Meier Abdelsayed, MA, LMFT, PMH-C, Marriage & Family Therapist
Linda Meier Abdelsayed
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, PMH-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Torrance, CA 90505
So being a parent has turned out to be a lot harder than you anticipated. The delivery didn't go as planned, the baby isn't eating enough, and don't get me started on the journey that is breastfeeding. No matter where you turn, people have ideas on how you should do things differently. Everyone has opinions but at the end of the day, it's just you, your baby, and your thoughts of inadequacies in the middle of the night.
So being a parent has turned out to be a lot harder than you anticipated. The delivery didn't go as planned, the baby isn't eating enough, and don't get me started on the journey that is breastfeeding. No matter where you turn, people have ideas on how you should do things differently. Everyone has opinions but at the end of the day, it's just you, your baby, and your thoughts of inadequacies in the middle of the night.
(949) 264-5963 View (949) 264-5963
Photo of Danielle Torres, MA, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Danielle Torres
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Torrance, CA 90505
Have you been hit with unimaginable life circumstances that make it difficult to move forward? Are you struggling with Low self esteem or negative self talk? Do you feel overwhelmed, avoid uncomfortable feelings, or have low motivation for change? Perhaps you want to change but don’t know where to start? I specialize in work with teens/adults dealing with grief and loss, and LGBTQIA and trans hurdles of coming, out and transitioning, anxiety and depression. I also work with 1st generation college students, professionals, and student athletes managing work life balance, cultural pressures, and performance issues.
Have you been hit with unimaginable life circumstances that make it difficult to move forward? Are you struggling with Low self esteem or negative self talk? Do you feel overwhelmed, avoid uncomfortable feelings, or have low motivation for change? Perhaps you want to change but don’t know where to start? I specialize in work with teens/adults dealing with grief and loss, and LGBTQIA and trans hurdles of coming, out and transitioning, anxiety and depression. I also work with 1st generation college students, professionals, and student athletes managing work life balance, cultural pressures, and performance issues.
(310) 564-7178 View (310) 564-7178
Photo of Jasmynn Abernathy, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jasmynn Abernathy
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Torrance, CA 90505
Navigating the challenges of parenthood can strain even the strongest relationships. Whether you’re welcoming your first baby or additional little ones to your family, chances are you may be looking to strengthen your bond, improve communication, and get out of what feels like the roommate stage. I’m here to help you and your spouse reconnect and create a loving and supportive partnership that thrives alongside your growing family.
Navigating the challenges of parenthood can strain even the strongest relationships. Whether you’re welcoming your first baby or additional little ones to your family, chances are you may be looking to strengthen your bond, improve communication, and get out of what feels like the roommate stage. I’m here to help you and your spouse reconnect and create a loving and supportive partnership that thrives alongside your growing family.
(310) 905-8054 View (310) 905-8054
1
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.