Pregnancy, Prenatal, Postpartum Therapists in Walnut Creek, CA

Photo of Kate Scimia: Teens Adults Postpartum, MA, LMFT, PMH-C, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kate Scimia: Teens Adults Postpartum
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, PMH-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Walnut Creek, CA 94598
As a compassionate therapist certified in perinatal care (PMH-C), I understand the unique challenges and emotions that accompany the journey to parenthood. From the anticipation of pregnancy to the joys and uncertainties of childbirth and postpartum adjustment, I provide a safe and nurturing space for individuals to explore their feelings, fears, and hopes. My approach is holistic, recognizing the interconnectedness of physical, emotional, and relational health during the perinatal period. Through a collaborative and nonjudgmental therapeutic process, I empower clients to cultivate self-awareness and strengthen coping skills.
As a compassionate therapist certified in perinatal care (PMH-C), I understand the unique challenges and emotions that accompany the journey to parenthood. From the anticipation of pregnancy to the joys and uncertainties of childbirth and postpartum adjustment, I provide a safe and nurturing space for individuals to explore their feelings, fears, and hopes. My approach is holistic, recognizing the interconnectedness of physical, emotional, and relational health during the perinatal period. Through a collaborative and nonjudgmental therapeutic process, I empower clients to cultivate self-awareness and strengthen coping skills.
(925) 267-6402 View (925) 267-6402
Photo of Samantha Schaefer, LCSW, PMH-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Samantha Schaefer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PMH-C
Verified Verified
Walnut Creek, CA 94598
If you've ever felt like you should be happier, doing more or coping better, I can help. I work with adults and teens who are feeling stuck in depression and anxiety, but are ready to move forward and make sustainable changes. I have specialized training in perinatal mental health, including postpartum depression and anxiety, and practice trauma-informed treatment, including EMDR. We'll work together to rediscover your authentic sense of self, learn tools that help you navigate challenges, and live your life more fully. You don’t have to face hard things alone.
If you've ever felt like you should be happier, doing more or coping better, I can help. I work with adults and teens who are feeling stuck in depression and anxiety, but are ready to move forward and make sustainable changes. I have specialized training in perinatal mental health, including postpartum depression and anxiety, and practice trauma-informed treatment, including EMDR. We'll work together to rediscover your authentic sense of self, learn tools that help you navigate challenges, and live your life more fully. You don’t have to face hard things alone.
(925) 633-4084 View (925) 633-4084
Photo of Melissa Montblanc - Mind Matters Psychotherapy Coaching & EMDR, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mind Matters Psychotherapy Coaching & EMDR
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Walnut Creek, CA 94596  (Online Only)
We are a group of clinicians committed to providing skilled, supportive therapy and coaching to our clients. Our therapists use a strength-based approach to building relationships with clients that provide the trust needed to make big change. We specialize in seeing women in transitional stages of life, including but not limited to; pre-and postpartum struggles, anxiety, eating disorders, addictive behaviors, depression, role confusion, relationship stress, parenting dynamics and trauma. We love to see couples, children and individual adults ready to move past barriers and experience more joy in relationships and life.
We are a group of clinicians committed to providing skilled, supportive therapy and coaching to our clients. Our therapists use a strength-based approach to building relationships with clients that provide the trust needed to make big change. We specialize in seeing women in transitional stages of life, including but not limited to; pre-and postpartum struggles, anxiety, eating disorders, addictive behaviors, depression, role confusion, relationship stress, parenting dynamics and trauma. We love to see couples, children and individual adults ready to move past barriers and experience more joy in relationships and life.
(925) 378-4684 View (925) 378-4684
Photo of Daniella K Bermudez, MA, LMFT, PMH-C, Marriage & Family Therapist
Daniella K Bermudez
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, PMH-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Walnut Creek, CA 94598
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in the State of California, with an office in Walnut Creek, CA. I am a trained psychotherapist certified in Perinatal Mental Health and offer professional therapeutic services covering a variety of issues and concerns. I have clinical experience in the areas of grief and loss, depression, anxiety, trauma, crisis management, suicide prevention, life transitions, parenting stress, and reproductive and maternal mental health. I have experience working in various settings, including community health, prenatal clinic, non-profit organizations, schools and in-home counseling.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in the State of California, with an office in Walnut Creek, CA. I am a trained psychotherapist certified in Perinatal Mental Health and offer professional therapeutic services covering a variety of issues and concerns. I have clinical experience in the areas of grief and loss, depression, anxiety, trauma, crisis management, suicide prevention, life transitions, parenting stress, and reproductive and maternal mental health. I have experience working in various settings, including community health, prenatal clinic, non-profit organizations, schools and in-home counseling.
(925) 515-4150 View (925) 515-4150
Photo of Julianne Fox, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Julianne Fox
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Walnut Creek, CA 94596
I specialize in working with couples who are planning to have children, postpartum parents, and families to help promote healing and growth. Having and raising children is one of the hardest and longest-term projects anyone will ever take on. I want to help parents engage in this process with self-awareness, intention, and love to help improve their own well-being, as well as the child or children's. I believe wellness starts in the home and each member of a family unit can help contribute to positive connections through taking time to work on themselves and then care for others.
I specialize in working with couples who are planning to have children, postpartum parents, and families to help promote healing and growth. Having and raising children is one of the hardest and longest-term projects anyone will ever take on. I want to help parents engage in this process with self-awareness, intention, and love to help improve their own well-being, as well as the child or children's. I believe wellness starts in the home and each member of a family unit can help contribute to positive connections through taking time to work on themselves and then care for others.
(510) 405-6802 View (510) 405-6802
Photo of Rupa Puri Zimmermann, PhD, Psychologist
Rupa Puri Zimmermann
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Walnut Creek, CA 94596
I have specialized training to treat individuals coping with mental health complications during and after pregnancy.
When people enter a time in their life or a situation where they may feel down, worried, overwhelmed, or without many options, I believe therapy can shed light on new paths. Using Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), I help people gain a sense of control by teaching them effective ways to communicate, regulate their emotions, and improve interpersonal relationships to bring about needed change. I work collaboratively with my clients and their families so they can improve their quality of life and thrive.
I have specialized training to treat individuals coping with mental health complications during and after pregnancy.
When people enter a time in their life or a situation where they may feel down, worried, overwhelmed, or without many options, I believe therapy can shed light on new paths. Using Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), I help people gain a sense of control by teaching them effective ways to communicate, regulate their emotions, and improve interpersonal relationships to bring about needed change. I work collaboratively with my clients and their families so they can improve their quality of life and thrive.
(925) 961-5340 View (925) 961-5340
Photo of Victoria Rutsch, MS, LMFT, PMH-C, Marriage & Family Therapist
Victoria Rutsch
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, PMH-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Walnut Creek, CA 94598
For the last 10 yrs, I’ve helped women, moms,& moms-to-be who were navigating big life changes including perinatal, pregnancy & postpartum, motherhood, & the aftermath of trauma.
Did everyone tell you how wonderful pregnancy would be? Or how beautiful childbirth is? And now you feel like they all lied to your face. Or worse, maybe it was amazing for them but it’s terrible for you. You don’t get it and you’re wondering, Did I do something wrong? You’re feeling alone and misunderstood. Or maybe you’re struggling with life transitions such as parenting, a job change, or recovering from a scary event. I’m here to tell you that you can feel better, moving forward in your season of life with feelings of being in control, hopeful, and confident.
For the last 10 yrs, I’ve helped women, moms,& moms-to-be who were navigating big life changes including perinatal, pregnancy & postpartum, motherhood, & the aftermath of trauma.
Did everyone tell you how wonderful pregnancy would be? Or how beautiful childbirth is? And now you feel like they all lied to your face. Or worse, maybe it was amazing for them but it’s terrible for you. You don’t get it and you’re wondering, Did I do something wrong? You’re feeling alone and misunderstood. Or maybe you’re struggling with life transitions such as parenting, a job change, or recovering from a scary event. I’m here to tell you that you can feel better, moving forward in your season of life with feelings of being in control, hopeful, and confident.
(925) 291-4026 View (925) 291-4026
Photo of Kayla Haberern, MA, LPCC, R-DMT
Kayla Haberern
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, LPCC, R-DMT
Verified Verified
Walnut Creek, CA 94597
Welcome to Feet in the Sand Holistic Therapy! Whether you are seeking therapy for yourself, a child, or your family, this can be a very difficult process, so I honor your wisdom and your steps in your healing journey. With many years of experience, I specialize in working with infants and children, families, and pregnant and postpartum women. I deeply care about you as a client and my heart is truly in this work. Providing psychotherapy, therapeutic groups, workshops, and trainings, and clinical supervision.
Welcome to Feet in the Sand Holistic Therapy! Whether you are seeking therapy for yourself, a child, or your family, this can be a very difficult process, so I honor your wisdom and your steps in your healing journey. With many years of experience, I specialize in working with infants and children, families, and pregnant and postpartum women. I deeply care about you as a client and my heart is truly in this work. Providing psychotherapy, therapeutic groups, workshops, and trainings, and clinical supervision.
(628) 257-8438 View (628) 257-8438
Photo of Allison Gans, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Allison Gans
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Walnut Creek, CA 94598
I also just recently completed the PSI Perinatal 2-day training as I prepare to become a certified Perinatal therapist.
As a dedicated Marriage and Family Therapist based in Orinda, I am passionate about supporting individuals, children, couples and families through life’s challenges. I believe in creating a safe, nurturing space where clients can explore their feelings, develop healthier relationships, and achieve personal growth. I have a special affinity for working with women, particularly mothers and perinatal individuals, as they navigate the unique joys and struggles of motherhood. Whether you’re dealing with the challenges of parenting, facing family conflicts, or seeking support through significant life transitions, I am here to help you.
I also just recently completed the PSI Perinatal 2-day training as I prepare to become a certified Perinatal therapist.
As a dedicated Marriage and Family Therapist based in Orinda, I am passionate about supporting individuals, children, couples and families through life’s challenges. I believe in creating a safe, nurturing space where clients can explore their feelings, develop healthier relationships, and achieve personal growth. I have a special affinity for working with women, particularly mothers and perinatal individuals, as they navigate the unique joys and struggles of motherhood. Whether you’re dealing with the challenges of parenting, facing family conflicts, or seeking support through significant life transitions, I am here to help you.
(510) 730-2965 View (510) 730-2965
Photo of Robyn Broadus, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Robyn Broadus
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Walnut Creek, CA 94596
I work primarily with girls and women with issues related to trauma, perfectionism, people-pleasing, disordered eating, or perinatal wellness.
Hello there! I am a EMDR- and TRM-trained therapist and I greet you with gentleness and a smile. Perhaps you feel overwhelmed, crippled (or annoyed) by your anxiety, self-criticalness, people-pleasing or perfectionistic behaviors? Perhaps you've experienced trauma and now want/need to make a change? Whatever you are noticing right now, you are welcomed here and I would love to partner with you on this journey toward healing. My deep hope is that you can experience healing from distress, build your self-care and boundary muscles, and engage life with freedom, peace, empowerment, and authenticity.
I work primarily with girls and women with issues related to trauma, perfectionism, people-pleasing, disordered eating, or perinatal wellness.
Hello there! I am a EMDR- and TRM-trained therapist and I greet you with gentleness and a smile. Perhaps you feel overwhelmed, crippled (or annoyed) by your anxiety, self-criticalness, people-pleasing or perfectionistic behaviors? Perhaps you've experienced trauma and now want/need to make a change? Whatever you are noticing right now, you are welcomed here and I would love to partner with you on this journey toward healing. My deep hope is that you can experience healing from distress, build your self-care and boundary muscles, and engage life with freedom, peace, empowerment, and authenticity.
(626) 499-5781 View (626) 499-5781
Photo of Michelle Nelson, MS, LMFT, PMH-C, Marriage & Family Therapist
Michelle Nelson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, PMH-C
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Walnut Creek, CA 94596
As a Certified Perinatal Mental Health clinician (PMH-C), I provide specialized support that honors your unique journey.
Are you feeling anxious, isolated, sad, irritable, or overwhelmed in the months or years following the birth of your child? Perhaps you’re coping with the loss of your pregnancy or infant, or navigating a pregnancy with circumstances that feel uncertain? Are you a parent who is struggling to find time and space for self-care as you juggle the many demands of raising children? I am here to support you during this time. I offer counseling services to California residents in the perinatal/ postpartum periods who are struggling with depression, anxiety, grief/loss, birth trauma/PTSD, and managing the challenges of parenthood.
As a Certified Perinatal Mental Health clinician (PMH-C), I provide specialized support that honors your unique journey.
Are you feeling anxious, isolated, sad, irritable, or overwhelmed in the months or years following the birth of your child? Perhaps you’re coping with the loss of your pregnancy or infant, or navigating a pregnancy with circumstances that feel uncertain? Are you a parent who is struggling to find time and space for self-care as you juggle the many demands of raising children? I am here to support you during this time. I offer counseling services to California residents in the perinatal/ postpartum periods who are struggling with depression, anxiety, grief/loss, birth trauma/PTSD, and managing the challenges of parenthood.
(209) 439-5269 View (209) 439-5269
Photo of Jillian Perry, MA, LMFT, PMH-C, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jillian Perry
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, PMH-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Walnut Creek, CA 94595
Motherhood can bring levels of joy you never thought possible. It can also be overwhelming, lonely, or overstimulating. Living in the ups and downs seems to be a daily, even momentary, experience. Some of the emotions and thoughts you are navigating during pregnancy and postpartum were not in the books or articles about what to expect during this time. Your identity is shifting from who you once were to who you are now becoming. Every mama could use support while navigating this transformative and transitional season.
Motherhood can bring levels of joy you never thought possible. It can also be overwhelming, lonely, or overstimulating. Living in the ups and downs seems to be a daily, even momentary, experience. Some of the emotions and thoughts you are navigating during pregnancy and postpartum were not in the books or articles about what to expect during this time. Your identity is shifting from who you once were to who you are now becoming. Every mama could use support while navigating this transformative and transitional season.
(925) 261-7865 View (925) 261-7865
Photo of Tali Korati Biale, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Tali Korati Biale
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
Walnut Creek, CA 94596
Are you pregnant or postpartum and trying to figure out how to make sense of your new identity as a mom? Did you recently become a new parent only to find your own childhood issues (that you thought you had totally dealt with!) have popped back up? Are you a couple struggling to communicate about the hard stuff? Do you feel like you and your partner just don't see eye to eye on decisions about parenting? Are you a twenty-something wondering what this whole "being an adult" thing really means? Therapy might be a tool that can help you through this tough moment.
Are you pregnant or postpartum and trying to figure out how to make sense of your new identity as a mom? Did you recently become a new parent only to find your own childhood issues (that you thought you had totally dealt with!) have popped back up? Are you a couple struggling to communicate about the hard stuff? Do you feel like you and your partner just don't see eye to eye on decisions about parenting? Are you a twenty-something wondering what this whole "being an adult" thing really means? Therapy might be a tool that can help you through this tough moment.
(925) 966-3457 View (925) 966-3457
Photo of Aileen Cunanan Dwight, LCSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Aileen Cunanan Dwight
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Walnut Creek, CA 94596  (Online Only)
I have specialties treating Men's Issues, Early Psychosis, & Postpartum Depression.
You can feel better, reconnect with others and create the life & relationships you desire. One of the most caring actions you can make for yourself and for your loved ones is seeking help. www.CaliforniaTherapy.Care
I have specialties treating Men's Issues, Early Psychosis, & Postpartum Depression.
You can feel better, reconnect with others and create the life & relationships you desire. One of the most caring actions you can make for yourself and for your loved ones is seeking help. www.CaliforniaTherapy.Care
(925) 476-0804 View (925) 476-0804
Photo of Daniela (Dani) Pallafacchina, PsyD, MAMFT, Pre-Licensed Professional
Daniela (Dani) Pallafacchina
Pre-Licensed Professional, PsyD, MAMFT
Verified Verified
Walnut Creek, CA 94596
My specialties include relationships, attachment trauma, gender identity, eating disorders, addictions, adolescence, infertility, postpartum depression, and aging.
Hello! I'm a postdoctoral level therapist with experience working with a variety of clients who have different backgrounds, interests, and concerns. I work with individuals, both adults and adolescents, in a safe, understanding, accepting, non-judgmental environment. My intent is to focus on you as an individual, honor your experience, and genuinely hear your truth. I foster an inclusive environment for everyone, honoring your sexuality and gender.
My specialties include relationships, attachment trauma, gender identity, eating disorders, addictions, adolescence, infertility, postpartum depression, and aging.
Hello! I'm a postdoctoral level therapist with experience working with a variety of clients who have different backgrounds, interests, and concerns. I work with individuals, both adults and adolescents, in a safe, understanding, accepting, non-judgmental environment. My intent is to focus on you as an individual, honor your experience, and genuinely hear your truth. I foster an inclusive environment for everyone, honoring your sexuality and gender.
(707) 209-7037 View (707) 209-7037
Photo of Tanya M Dughman-Chala - Tanya Dughman-Chala Psy.D, PsyD, Psychologist
Tanya Dughman-Chala Psy.D
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Walnut Creek, CA 94596
My strengths and passions include working with individuals navigating relationship challenges, issues of young adulthood, new parenthood, peripartum and postpartum mood disorders, survivors of sexual abuse, eating disorders and issues of grief and loss.
I am a strength-based therapist with a warm, nonjudgmental and direct approach. Championing evidence based practices such as ACT, cognitive behavioral and interpersonal therapy, I utilize these modalities to help you evaluate and work through maladaptive thought patterns and behaviors that are keeping you "stuck" in your present situation. I will work collaboratively with you to create a culturally sensitive and uniquely tailored treatment plan. Holding a strong belief that therapeutic relationship is a privilege, I approach all my clients with curiosity, compassion and empathy.
My strengths and passions include working with individuals navigating relationship challenges, issues of young adulthood, new parenthood, peripartum and postpartum mood disorders, survivors of sexual abuse, eating disorders and issues of grief and loss.
I am a strength-based therapist with a warm, nonjudgmental and direct approach. Championing evidence based practices such as ACT, cognitive behavioral and interpersonal therapy, I utilize these modalities to help you evaluate and work through maladaptive thought patterns and behaviors that are keeping you "stuck" in your present situation. I will work collaboratively with you to create a culturally sensitive and uniquely tailored treatment plan. Holding a strong belief that therapeutic relationship is a privilege, I approach all my clients with curiosity, compassion and empathy.
(925) 962-5316 View (925) 962-5316
Photo of Daniela Finnegan, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Daniela Finnegan
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Walnut Creek, CA 94598
My hope is to help individuals (teens and adults) and families navigate the emotions that can impact their sense of self, their relationships, and their overall lives. With a compassionate and collaborative approach, we will work together to explore your unique strengths and empower you to take control of your own healing. I support individuals, couples, and families with an emphasis on caregivers in overcoming presenting challenges such as anxiety, depression, pregnancy/ prenatal/ postpartum, parenting, school/work difficulties, life transitions, and relationship conflicts.
My hope is to help individuals (teens and adults) and families navigate the emotions that can impact their sense of self, their relationships, and their overall lives. With a compassionate and collaborative approach, we will work together to explore your unique strengths and empower you to take control of your own healing. I support individuals, couples, and families with an emphasis on caregivers in overcoming presenting challenges such as anxiety, depression, pregnancy/ prenatal/ postpartum, parenting, school/work difficulties, life transitions, and relationship conflicts.
(925) 886-0870 View (925) 886-0870
Photo of Melissa Friedman, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Melissa Friedman
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Walnut Creek, CA 94598
I am a Licensed MFT with extensive experience providing individual psychotherapy to teens and adults. I am trained and skilled in working with clients challenged with depression, anxiety, trauma, chronic suicidality, grief, substance use, relational and life transitions. My experience includes providing care to folks identifying as LGBTQIA+ and people living with HIV. My work and training also focuses on caring for cisgender and transgender women in all stages of the life span. I am currently working towards a specialization in prenatal and perinatal mental health.
I am a Licensed MFT with extensive experience providing individual psychotherapy to teens and adults. I am trained and skilled in working with clients challenged with depression, anxiety, trauma, chronic suicidality, grief, substance use, relational and life transitions. My experience includes providing care to folks identifying as LGBTQIA+ and people living with HIV. My work and training also focuses on caring for cisgender and transgender women in all stages of the life span. I am currently working towards a specialization in prenatal and perinatal mental health.
(925) 268-7806 View (925) 268-7806
Photo of Audrey Silverman Foote, MA, MFT, SEP™, Marriage & Family Therapist
Audrey Silverman Foote
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT, SEP™
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Walnut Creek, CA 94598  (Online Only)
I have been a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in private practice in the East Bay for over 30 years, providing psychotherapy for adults, couples, families, adolescents, and groups. I work from a holistic perspective, creating a safe environment to encourage the therapeutic process. I specialize in working with: relationship issues, recovery from sexual, physical, and emotional abuse and other childhood traumas; depression; anxiety, low self esteem; codependency issues; parenting concerns; compulsive eating patterns; body image dissatisfaction, chronic illness, and perinatal loss. I integrate in-depth psychotherapy with EMDR, Expressive Arts Therapy, Somatic Experiencing, Jungian Sand Tray, and Dream Work.
I have been a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in private practice in the East Bay for over 30 years, providing psychotherapy for adults, couples, families, adolescents, and groups. I work from a holistic perspective, creating a safe environment to encourage the therapeutic process. I specialize in working with: relationship issues, recovery from sexual, physical, and emotional abuse and other childhood traumas; depression; anxiety, low self esteem; codependency issues; parenting concerns; compulsive eating patterns; body image dissatisfaction, chronic illness, and perinatal loss. I integrate in-depth psychotherapy with EMDR, Expressive Arts Therapy, Somatic Experiencing, Jungian Sand Tray, and Dream Work.
(925) 892-3864 View (925) 892-3864
Photo of Roya Taghehchian, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Roya Taghehchian
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Walnut Creek, CA 94595  (Online Only)
I am a licensed marriage and family therapist working primarily with individuals and couples dealing with anxiety/depression, trauma, and major life events including grief, peri/ postpartum, and the aftereffects of infidelity. I have completed my Attachment-Focused EMDR Basic Training through the Parnell Institute.
I am a licensed marriage and family therapist working primarily with individuals and couples dealing with anxiety/depression, trauma, and major life events including grief, peri/ postpartum, and the aftereffects of infidelity. I have completed my Attachment-Focused EMDR Basic Training through the Parnell Institute.
(925) 378-4666 View (925) 378-4666

See more therapy options for Walnut Creek

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.