Photo of Jenifer Gold, MS, LMHC, Counselor
Jenifer Gold
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tampa, FL 33612
I am very passionate about helping women who have been diagnosed with a Perinatal mood disorder or are struggling with post-partum anxiety/OCD.
I am a licensed mental health counselor committed to helping individuals reclaim their lives after being diagnosed with a mental health condition. My work focuses on addressing behaviors and symptoms that are standing in the way of the life you want to live. I believe everyone, regardless of the obstacle, has the ability and internal fortitude to overcome adversity and reach their goals.
I am very passionate about helping women who have been diagnosed with a Perinatal mood disorder or are struggling with post-partum anxiety/OCD.
I am a licensed mental health counselor committed to helping individuals reclaim their lives after being diagnosed with a mental health condition. My work focuses on addressing behaviors and symptoms that are standing in the way of the life you want to live. I believe everyone, regardless of the obstacle, has the ability and internal fortitude to overcome adversity and reach their goals.
(813) 592-5225 View (813) 592-5225
Photo of Kaitlin Lowey, LMHCI, Pre-Licensed Professional
Kaitlin Lowey
Pre-Licensed Professional, LMHCI
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Tampa, FL 33606
Not accepting new clients
I specialize in helping individuals suffering from anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder, life transitions, relationship issues, fertility and postpartum, grief and loss, athletic and career performance, perfectionism, identity, and self-worth.
I am honored to provide a safe space and walk alongside my clients as they find relief, healing, hope, clarity, and transformation. As an integrative therapist, I collaborate with my clients to identify their goals and choose research-supported therapeutic approaches that fit best. We will combine the healing nature of the intuitive, empathetic therapeutic relationship with neuroscience-backed tools to help you feel better and build new, helpful neural pathways. Through our work together, you will come to know yourself deeply and use that inner knowledge to make powerful shifts in your self, in your relationships, and in your life.
I specialize in helping individuals suffering from anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder, life transitions, relationship issues, fertility and postpartum, grief and loss, athletic and career performance, perfectionism, identity, and self-worth.
I am honored to provide a safe space and walk alongside my clients as they find relief, healing, hope, clarity, and transformation. As an integrative therapist, I collaborate with my clients to identify their goals and choose research-supported therapeutic approaches that fit best. We will combine the healing nature of the intuitive, empathetic therapeutic relationship with neuroscience-backed tools to help you feel better and build new, helpful neural pathways. Through our work together, you will come to know yourself deeply and use that inner knowledge to make powerful shifts in your self, in your relationships, and in your life.
(813) 773-0493 View (813) 773-0493
Photo of Robin Leigh Maier, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Robin Leigh Maier
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Tampa, FL 33624  (Online Only)
Hi! I’m Robin Maier—mother, friend, therapist. My practice centers on women’s mental health. I provide integrated therapies for ADHD, depression and all aspects of pregnancy and motherhood, including prenatal anxiety, postpartum depression, infant care, miscarriage and loss. I also provide life-coaching on healthy living, parenting, relationships and weight issues. The challenges we face in various stages of life change along the way. Speaking with an objective, caring person is a gift we give ourselves.
Hi! I’m Robin Maier—mother, friend, therapist. My practice centers on women’s mental health. I provide integrated therapies for ADHD, depression and all aspects of pregnancy and motherhood, including prenatal anxiety, postpartum depression, infant care, miscarriage and loss. I also provide life-coaching on healthy living, parenting, relationships and weight issues. The challenges we face in various stages of life change along the way. Speaking with an objective, caring person is a gift we give ourselves.
(813) 438-3428 View (813) 438-3428
Photo of Brandi Askin, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Brandi Askin
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tampa, FL 33625
Not accepting new clients
I'm down to earth and approach therapy collaboratively. As an experienced therapist with 10+ years in private practice, I believe healing is an organic process that is different for each person. My therapeutic style includes providing a space to explore what’s in your heart. I also offer feedback, ideas, and problem solving. Specialties include postpartum mood disorders (depression, anxiety, etc.), grief and loss, understanding dysfunctional family dynamics, healing from a breakup, and working with creative people. I also provide Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART).
I'm down to earth and approach therapy collaboratively. As an experienced therapist with 10+ years in private practice, I believe healing is an organic process that is different for each person. My therapeutic style includes providing a space to explore what’s in your heart. I also offer feedback, ideas, and problem solving. Specialties include postpartum mood disorders (depression, anxiety, etc.), grief and loss, understanding dysfunctional family dynamics, healing from a breakup, and working with creative people. I also provide Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART).
(727) 597-5442 View (727) 597-5442
Photo of Kirsten Ellingsen - Kirsten Ellingsen Phd PLLC, PhD, PMH-C, Psychologist
Kirsten Ellingsen Phd PLLC
Psychologist, PhD, PMH-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tampa, FL 33609
I am dedicated to enhancing the health, development, and positive functioning of children, adolescents, and young adults. I am also passionate about supporting pregnant & postpartum mothers. My goal is to provide informed, strengths-based, research supported, compassionate treatment. I work with children and parents to improve wellbeing and functioning, strengthen relationships, and build skills to better manage stress, anxiety, behavior, and emotions. Participation in therapy is collaborative with a focus on strengths, reducing challenges, and increasing effective coping strategies to allow for optimal engagement in daily life.
I am dedicated to enhancing the health, development, and positive functioning of children, adolescents, and young adults. I am also passionate about supporting pregnant & postpartum mothers. My goal is to provide informed, strengths-based, research supported, compassionate treatment. I work with children and parents to improve wellbeing and functioning, strengthen relationships, and build skills to better manage stress, anxiety, behavior, and emotions. Participation in therapy is collaborative with a focus on strengths, reducing challenges, and increasing effective coping strategies to allow for optimal engagement in daily life.
(941) 304-4187 View (941) 304-4187
Photo of Lisa Martin, PhD, Psychologist
Lisa Martin
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Tampa, FL 33607  (Online Only)
I am a licensed clinical psychologist and for 14 years I have helped women of all ages and backgrounds to heal and live full, empowered, and authentic lives. I have worked with women who have a range of challenges including anxiety, depression, trauma, postpartum struggles, grief, chronic illness, work stress, relationship conflict, and issues related to identity. I am trained in several evidence-based approaches including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Skills Training in Affective and Interpersonal Regulation - Narrative Therapy (STAIR-NST) and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT).
I am a licensed clinical psychologist and for 14 years I have helped women of all ages and backgrounds to heal and live full, empowered, and authentic lives. I have worked with women who have a range of challenges including anxiety, depression, trauma, postpartum struggles, grief, chronic illness, work stress, relationship conflict, and issues related to identity. I am trained in several evidence-based approaches including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Skills Training in Affective and Interpersonal Regulation - Narrative Therapy (STAIR-NST) and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT).
(941) 241-0275 View (941) 241-0275
Photo of Dr. Kirsten Vadelund, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Kirsten Vadelund
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Tampa, FL 33606  (Online Only)
I work with individuals through their entire perinatal journey. From trying to conceive to throughout the pregnancy and into the postpartum period. Between all the physical and hormonal changes, unsolicited advice, and all the new responsibilities that comes with caring for a tiny human, transitioning into parenthood can be overwhelming to say the least. And that's not including past traumas and/or old narratives that might be rearing their ugly head during this time and potentially interfering with who you want to be as a parent. I'm here to help you navigate this challenging time so you can feel confident in this new identity.
I work with individuals through their entire perinatal journey. From trying to conceive to throughout the pregnancy and into the postpartum period. Between all the physical and hormonal changes, unsolicited advice, and all the new responsibilities that comes with caring for a tiny human, transitioning into parenthood can be overwhelming to say the least. And that's not including past traumas and/or old narratives that might be rearing their ugly head during this time and potentially interfering with who you want to be as a parent. I'm here to help you navigate this challenging time so you can feel confident in this new identity.
(727) 732-2589 View (727) 732-2589
Photo of Andrea Hartman, LCSW, PMH-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Andrea Hartman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PMH-C
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Tampa, FL 33624
Waitlist for new clients
You might be feeling the pressure to be a Super Woman, maybe a Super Mom, definitely a Super Everything. Maybe you are pregnant or postpartum and trying to cope with all the feelings and transitions. You rarely stop to take care of yourself before you take of others because you just don’t have time or you’re too tired. The stress can feel overwhelming, but you don’t know what to do from here because it feels like you’re caught in an endless loop. You might have a history of anxiety, depression, or difficult life events that seem to pop up at the worst possible moments and make it that much harder to manage all these demands.
You might be feeling the pressure to be a Super Woman, maybe a Super Mom, definitely a Super Everything. Maybe you are pregnant or postpartum and trying to cope with all the feelings and transitions. You rarely stop to take care of yourself before you take of others because you just don’t have time or you’re too tired. The stress can feel overwhelming, but you don’t know what to do from here because it feels like you’re caught in an endless loop. You might have a history of anxiety, depression, or difficult life events that seem to pop up at the worst possible moments and make it that much harder to manage all these demands.
(813) 563-1704 View (813) 563-1704
Photo of Hope Carter, LMHC, LPC, Counselor
Hope Carter
Counselor, LMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tampa, FL 33615  (Online Only)
I have advanced training in perinatal mental health, perinatal mood and anxiety disorders, and perinatal loss and grief.
Your voice and your story matter. Your journey in life is unique to you. I believe effective treatment involves engaged, empathetic listening where we work together to develop treatment based on your needs. Our work together will focus on your strengths to help reduce distressing symptoms and increase coping strategies to improve your daily life. I specialize in maternal mental health and concerns during the perinatal period (pregnancy and postpartum) in areas such as life adjustments, anxiety, depression, grief and loss (miscarriage/neonatal loss), infertility, relationship issues, and parenting.
I have advanced training in perinatal mental health, perinatal mood and anxiety disorders, and perinatal loss and grief.
Your voice and your story matter. Your journey in life is unique to you. I believe effective treatment involves engaged, empathetic listening where we work together to develop treatment based on your needs. Our work together will focus on your strengths to help reduce distressing symptoms and increase coping strategies to improve your daily life. I specialize in maternal mental health and concerns during the perinatal period (pregnancy and postpartum) in areas such as life adjustments, anxiety, depression, grief and loss (miscarriage/neonatal loss), infertility, relationship issues, and parenting.
(813) 750-0506 View (813) 750-0506
Photo of Jennifer Correa, LMHC, Counselor
Jennifer Correa
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Tampa, FL 33609  (Online Only)
I have worked professionally in the counseling field for over 15 years and have worked in both clinical and educational settings in New York and Florida. I am trained in understanding the complexities of maternal mental health, family systems, and licensed to diagnose and treat mental and emotional disorders. My approach is collaborative and meet each client where they are. I am also a mom and I'm aware of some of the most exciting moments motherhood brings as well as the challenges parents face daily: including perinatal mood disorders, parenting challenges, parenting a special needs child, and change of life issues.
I have worked professionally in the counseling field for over 15 years and have worked in both clinical and educational settings in New York and Florida. I am trained in understanding the complexities of maternal mental health, family systems, and licensed to diagnose and treat mental and emotional disorders. My approach is collaborative and meet each client where they are. I am also a mom and I'm aware of some of the most exciting moments motherhood brings as well as the challenges parents face daily: including perinatal mood disorders, parenting challenges, parenting a special needs child, and change of life issues.
(813) 669-7434 View (813) 669-7434
Photo of Kelly Mayor, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kelly Mayor
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Tampa, FL 33602  (Online Only)
If you are experiencing anxiety, obsessive thinking, panic attacks, intrusive thoughts, difficulty coping, or uncontrollable compulsions, there is hope. I have advanced training in treating OCD and anxiety disorders. I really enjoy helping my clients to challenge their anxious thoughts and overcome any compulsions that they may have. I have experience working with many different OCD subtypes, such as contamination, sexual, aggressive, intrusive thoughts, postpartum, religious/scrupulosity, sensiormotor, "just right", and checking obsessions. I love helping this population to reduce suffering and overcome their OCD.
If you are experiencing anxiety, obsessive thinking, panic attacks, intrusive thoughts, difficulty coping, or uncontrollable compulsions, there is hope. I have advanced training in treating OCD and anxiety disorders. I really enjoy helping my clients to challenge their anxious thoughts and overcome any compulsions that they may have. I have experience working with many different OCD subtypes, such as contamination, sexual, aggressive, intrusive thoughts, postpartum, religious/scrupulosity, sensiormotor, "just right", and checking obsessions. I love helping this population to reduce suffering and overcome their OCD.
(850) 367-7453 View (850) 367-7453
Photo of Ashley Hebert, LMFT, CCATP, MS, Marriage & Family Therapist
Ashley Hebert
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CCATP, MS
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Tampa, FL 33606  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and Certified Anxiety Treatment Professional, I am clinically trained and enjoy helping women who deal with anxiety, panic attacks, OCD, depression, pregnancy-related issues and relationships.
Providing telehealth sessions for females only. Please EMAIL me for quickest response. Have you ever struggled with something in life that you never thought you would have to deal with? And the fact that you’re facing it is overwhelming in itself?... "I wish I wasn’t so anxious all the time. I wish I could get pregnant. I wish I could trust my partner. I wish I could stay home with my kids and not feel so alone everyday. I wish my brain would let go of that intrusive thought. I wish I wasn’t single. I wish we hadn’t lost the baby." I wish "this thing" in my life wasn’t happening.
As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and Certified Anxiety Treatment Professional, I am clinically trained and enjoy helping women who deal with anxiety, panic attacks, OCD, depression, pregnancy-related issues and relationships.
Providing telehealth sessions for females only. Please EMAIL me for quickest response. Have you ever struggled with something in life that you never thought you would have to deal with? And the fact that you’re facing it is overwhelming in itself?... "I wish I wasn’t so anxious all the time. I wish I could get pregnant. I wish I could trust my partner. I wish I could stay home with my kids and not feel so alone everyday. I wish my brain would let go of that intrusive thought. I wish I wasn’t single. I wish we hadn’t lost the baby." I wish "this thing" in my life wasn’t happening.
(863) 485-6417 View (863) 485-6417
Photo of Dr. Ebony S. Vinson, PhD, Psychologist
Dr. Ebony S. Vinson
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tampa, FL 33601  (Online Only)
After becoming a mother and researching the specific needs of the perinatal population, I integrated my interests in health psychology and women’s health.
Greetings! I am Dr. Ebony S. Vinson, a licensed clinical psychologist in Florida and Virginia. I earned my Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology from the University of Kentucky. To bolster my experience with interventions that could benefit mental and physical health, I completed a Clinical Health Psychology Postdoctoral Fellowship at Virginia Commonwealth University. I have worked in a wide range of clinical settings including community mental health clinics, women’s federal prisons, an academic health center, a VA outpatient clinic, and a group practice co-located in a large Ob-Gyn clinic.
After becoming a mother and researching the specific needs of the perinatal population, I integrated my interests in health psychology and women’s health.
Greetings! I am Dr. Ebony S. Vinson, a licensed clinical psychologist in Florida and Virginia. I earned my Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology from the University of Kentucky. To bolster my experience with interventions that could benefit mental and physical health, I completed a Clinical Health Psychology Postdoctoral Fellowship at Virginia Commonwealth University. I have worked in a wide range of clinical settings including community mental health clinics, women’s federal prisons, an academic health center, a VA outpatient clinic, and a group practice co-located in a large Ob-Gyn clinic.
(813) 491-8464 View (813) 491-8464
Photo of Brittany Flositz, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Brittany Flositz
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tampa, FL 33603  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Family building can be an incredibly difficult time for those struggling with fertility. The emotional rollercoaster of months and years of trying, countless exams, tests, injections, and procedures can be daunting. Many individuals can even experience trauma from all the physically invasive procedures that occur with fertility treatment. Each month a pregnancy attempt fails you can experience grief, isolation, anger and fear that the dream of building a family won't be attainable. Those able to conceive also struggle with intense emotions during pregnancy and postpartum that can be overwhelming and hard for others to understand.
Family building can be an incredibly difficult time for those struggling with fertility. The emotional rollercoaster of months and years of trying, countless exams, tests, injections, and procedures can be daunting. Many individuals can even experience trauma from all the physically invasive procedures that occur with fertility treatment. Each month a pregnancy attempt fails you can experience grief, isolation, anger and fear that the dream of building a family won't be attainable. Those able to conceive also struggle with intense emotions during pregnancy and postpartum that can be overwhelming and hard for others to understand.
(321) 218-5133 View (321) 218-5133
Photo of Michelle Friedman: Grace Street Counseling, LCSW, PMH-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Michelle Friedman: Grace Street Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PMH-C
Verified Verified
Tampa, FL 33635  (Online Only)
My training is in cognitive behavioral therapy and I have specialized training in maternal mental health as well as perinatal mood and anxiety disorders.
It takes a great deal of courage to reach out for help and start the personal journey towards healing. You may be going through a difficult time and feel as if grace is not present in your life. You may feel lost and in need of some guidance and understanding as you ask yourself: When will life feel familiar again? Why is it so hard to make decisions? How can I be my best self? When will this sadness go away? Why is it so hard for me to sleep or keep a healthy lifestyle? Will these feelings of nervousness and worry ever go away? Grace Street Counseling is here to provide support. You don't have to figure it all out on your own.
My training is in cognitive behavioral therapy and I have specialized training in maternal mental health as well as perinatal mood and anxiety disorders.
It takes a great deal of courage to reach out for help and start the personal journey towards healing. You may be going through a difficult time and feel as if grace is not present in your life. You may feel lost and in need of some guidance and understanding as you ask yourself: When will life feel familiar again? Why is it so hard to make decisions? How can I be my best self? When will this sadness go away? Why is it so hard for me to sleep or keep a healthy lifestyle? Will these feelings of nervousness and worry ever go away? Grace Street Counseling is here to provide support. You don't have to figure it all out on your own.
(631) 450-3794 View (631) 450-3794
Photo of Sara McClelland, MS, LMHC, LPC, Counselor
Sara McClelland
Counselor, MS, LMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tampa, FL 33605  (Online Only)
My specialties include pregnancy stress, postpartum depression and anxiety, as well as parenting.
As a mom of two littles, I recognize the struggle of modern parenthood, and the solitude in which many parents find themselves. It is difficult to be the whole village raising children. There is also a sense of putting the needs of children and family before yourself, losing your identity in the process. I aim to help parents balance their identity and needs with the needs of their families.
My specialties include pregnancy stress, postpartum depression and anxiety, as well as parenting.
As a mom of two littles, I recognize the struggle of modern parenthood, and the solitude in which many parents find themselves. It is difficult to be the whole village raising children. There is also a sense of putting the needs of children and family before yourself, losing your identity in the process. I aim to help parents balance their identity and needs with the needs of their families.
(954) 466-0864 View (954) 466-0864
Photo of Gabby Rascati, LCSW, RYT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Gabby Rascati
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, RYT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tampa, FL 33602  (Online Only)
I support clients who want to better connect to themselves, their emotions, their values, and their body. Because this type of identity work typically happens in early adulthood, I tend to work with folks 18-40. Often, but not always, my work involves understanding and managing anxiety, depression, the impact of trauma, stress, relationships, pregnancy/parenting transitions, and sexuality & gender identity.
I support clients who want to better connect to themselves, their emotions, their values, and their body. Because this type of identity work typically happens in early adulthood, I tend to work with folks 18-40. Often, but not always, my work involves understanding and managing anxiety, depression, the impact of trauma, stress, relationships, pregnancy/parenting transitions, and sexuality & gender identity.
(727) 955-2287 View (727) 955-2287
Photo of Nasseam M. James, MBA, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nasseam M. James
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MBA, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tampa, FL 33620
Your Therapy Doula here and I nurture the nurtures, Yes that's you! Are you pregnant or in your postpartum? Experiencing the baby blues? Are you an experienced parent struggling with a new transition in parenthood or a couple struggling to conceive? Don't take this journey alone. You can get through this and feel fulfilled with all of your roles. I provide client specific, affirming care, where you are free to express yourself and never be judged. Allow me, The Therapy Doula, to support you before, during, and after.
Your Therapy Doula here and I nurture the nurtures, Yes that's you! Are you pregnant or in your postpartum? Experiencing the baby blues? Are you an experienced parent struggling with a new transition in parenthood or a couple struggling to conceive? Don't take this journey alone. You can get through this and feel fulfilled with all of your roles. I provide client specific, affirming care, where you are free to express yourself and never be judged. Allow me, The Therapy Doula, to support you before, during, and after.
(407) 305-2371 View (407) 305-2371
Photo of Annie Bendgen, MS, LMHC, Counselor
Annie Bendgen
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
Tampa, FL 33634
Hello, my name is Annie Bendgen. I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Florida and Iowa specializing in trauma, addiction, prenatal & postpartum, and codependency. Over the years I have worked with teens and adults in all levels of care including residential, PHP, IOP, and outpatient. I am passionate about the work I do and love coming alongside my clients to help them break free of the beliefs, toxic shame, and other obstacles that are preventing them from moving forward and being the people they are capable of being.
Hello, my name is Annie Bendgen. I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Florida and Iowa specializing in trauma, addiction, prenatal & postpartum, and codependency. Over the years I have worked with teens and adults in all levels of care including residential, PHP, IOP, and outpatient. I am passionate about the work I do and love coming alongside my clients to help them break free of the beliefs, toxic shame, and other obstacles that are preventing them from moving forward and being the people they are capable of being.
(561) 782-8076 View (561) 782-8076
Photo of Tisheila Justice, LCSW, QS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tisheila Justice
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, QS
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Tampa, FL 33606  (Online Only)
Does it seem like you just can’t escape overthinking, shame, guilt, intrusive thoughts, and anxiety? You’ve tried everything, but you are feeling stuck. It is important to have a therapist that is able to understand your struggles and has additional training to help you heal. You want to improve your relationship with yourself and others. I am trained in EMDR, Hypnotherapy, Biofeedback, and specialize in maternal mental health and trauma. I am passionate about working with women, people struggling with infertility, adult adoption trauma, and perinatal/ maternal health issues.
Does it seem like you just can’t escape overthinking, shame, guilt, intrusive thoughts, and anxiety? You’ve tried everything, but you are feeling stuck. It is important to have a therapist that is able to understand your struggles and has additional training to help you heal. You want to improve your relationship with yourself and others. I am trained in EMDR, Hypnotherapy, Biofeedback, and specialize in maternal mental health and trauma. I am passionate about working with women, people struggling with infertility, adult adoption trauma, and perinatal/ maternal health issues.
(813) 497-7947 View (813) 497-7947
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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.