Pregnancy, Prenatal, Postpartum Therapists in Carpentersville, IL

Photo of Shari Matthews Huizar (Bilingue Español E Ingles), LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Shari Matthews Huizar (Bilingue Español E Ingles)
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Carpentersville, IL 60110
Do you feel that the path you are on is not leading you to where you want to go? Do you feel misunderstood in your relationship? Is it difficult to explain why you feel the way you do? Do you struggle with the loss of a loved one due to immigration difficulties? Do you feel your children don't understand their roots? Living in a new and different culture and community can be very difficult for families, especially children living in both worlds. I would be honored to join you on your journey to understanding and definition.
Do you feel that the path you are on is not leading you to where you want to go? Do you feel misunderstood in your relationship? Is it difficult to explain why you feel the way you do? Do you struggle with the loss of a loved one due to immigration difficulties? Do you feel your children don't understand their roots? Living in a new and different culture and community can be very difficult for families, especially children living in both worlds. I would be honored to join you on your journey to understanding and definition.
(847) 807-4085 View (847) 807-4085
Photo of Megan Rosecrans, PsyD, LCP, Psychologist
Megan Rosecrans
Psychologist, PsyD, LCP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Carpentersville, IL 60110
Depression, anxiety, grief/loss, ADHD, and relationship problems are just some of the many reasons people seek out therapy. You may want to learn ways to feel better and reduce uncomfortable emotions, or you may want to just talk through difficult times. I strive to create a safe place and work collaboratively towards your goals. I focus on creating goals, solutions, process one's past and life circumstances, and teach skills and strategies that will reduce uncomfortable and unpleasant emotions. I provide hypnotherapy and biofeedback for pain management and anxiety/panic as added tools to reduce physcial and emotional discomfort.
Depression, anxiety, grief/loss, ADHD, and relationship problems are just some of the many reasons people seek out therapy. You may want to learn ways to feel better and reduce uncomfortable emotions, or you may want to just talk through difficult times. I strive to create a safe place and work collaboratively towards your goals. I focus on creating goals, solutions, process one's past and life circumstances, and teach skills and strategies that will reduce uncomfortable and unpleasant emotions. I provide hypnotherapy and biofeedback for pain management and anxiety/panic as added tools to reduce physcial and emotional discomfort.
(331) 256-1835 View (331) 256-1835

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Brandi Janisch, MA, LCPC, Counselor
Brandi Janisch
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
West Dundee, IL 60118
I specialize in individual and family counseling for all ages- this includes: anxiety and depressive disorders, women's issues, perinatal mood disorders ( postpartum depression/anxiety), Marriage and Family Counseling, and counseling for children/teens struggling with peer relationships, self-esteem, anxiety, body image, academics and family issues.
I believe we all need someone to talk to who will listen and accept us. I provide clients with a warm, non-judgmental environment- a safe place to explore real life issues. If you're ready to commit to making positive changes, I encourage you to take the first step. I work with individuals, couples and families of all ages to manage and reduce anxiety, depression, stress and trauma that is interfering with everyday life and relationships.
I specialize in individual and family counseling for all ages- this includes: anxiety and depressive disorders, women's issues, perinatal mood disorders ( postpartum depression/anxiety), Marriage and Family Counseling, and counseling for children/teens struggling with peer relationships, self-esteem, anxiety, body image, academics and family issues.
I believe we all need someone to talk to who will listen and accept us. I provide clients with a warm, non-judgmental environment- a safe place to explore real life issues. If you're ready to commit to making positive changes, I encourage you to take the first step. I work with individuals, couples and families of all ages to manage and reduce anxiety, depression, stress and trauma that is interfering with everyday life and relationships.
(773) 716-3592 View (773) 716-3592
Photo of Erica Veach, PsyD, LCP, Psychologist
Erica Veach
Psychologist, PsyD, LCP
Verified Verified
Algonquin, IL 60102
Empathy, acceptance, and genuineness are three qualities that I believe are the foundation for building a trusting and supportive therapeutic relationship. My areas of specialty are in the treatment of Couples, Women's Health Issues ( perinatal mood and anxiety disorders, postpartum, pregnancy loss and infertility), Eating Disorders, Depression, Relationships, Pre-Marital counseling, and Emotional Regulation. In working with complex trauma, the emotional processing, exploration of self-related difficulties (e.g., fear and shame), and acceptance or resolution of past interpersonal issues are an important part of therapy. With complex trauma, I utilize an emotion-focused therapy approach, bringing emotion to the clinical forefront of therapy.
Empathy, acceptance, and genuineness are three qualities that I believe are the foundation for building a trusting and supportive therapeutic relationship. My areas of specialty are in the treatment of Couples, Women's Health Issues ( perinatal mood and anxiety disorders, postpartum, pregnancy loss and infertility), Eating Disorders, Depression, Relationships, Pre-Marital counseling, and Emotional Regulation. In working with complex trauma, the emotional processing, exploration of self-related difficulties (e.g., fear and shame), and acceptance or resolution of past interpersonal issues are an important part of therapy. With complex trauma, I utilize an emotion-focused therapy approach, bringing emotion to the clinical forefront of therapy.
(224) 509-8255 View (224) 509-8255
Photo of Morgan Pappas, PsyD, Pre-Licensed Professional
Morgan Pappas
Pre-Licensed Professional, PsyD
Verified Verified
Elgin, IL 60120
I completed my doctorate in clinical psychology from the Illinois School of Professional Psychology at Argosy University, Schaumburg. I am passionate about women's issues and I developed a therapy program for reducing postpartum depression while increasing the mother-infant bond for my clinical research project. I obtained an emphasis in Health Psychology that included training in hypnosis, relaxation techniques, pain management, and stress reduction. Additionally, I have an extensive background in domestic violence ad sexual assault. My therapeutic approach is eclectic utilizing interpersonal psychotherapy, CBT, feminist theory, solutions focused therapy, and client centered therapy.
I completed my doctorate in clinical psychology from the Illinois School of Professional Psychology at Argosy University, Schaumburg. I am passionate about women's issues and I developed a therapy program for reducing postpartum depression while increasing the mother-infant bond for my clinical research project. I obtained an emphasis in Health Psychology that included training in hypnosis, relaxation techniques, pain management, and stress reduction. Additionally, I have an extensive background in domestic violence ad sexual assault. My therapeutic approach is eclectic utilizing interpersonal psychotherapy, CBT, feminist theory, solutions focused therapy, and client centered therapy.
(630) 360-8913 View (630) 360-8913
Photo of Rachel M. Menge, MSW, LCSW, PMH-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rachel M. Menge
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, PMH-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Barrington, IL 60010
I specialize in women's mental health. I work primarily with women who trying to conceive, expecting, or in the early years of parenting on a wide range of issues including perinatal mood and anxiety disorders, processing traumatic birthing experiences, and general adjustment to being a parent. I also work quite often with young adults who are transitioning to life on their own, persons recovering from psychological trauma, and persons experiencing more general anxiety, depression, or OCD symptoms.
I specialize in women's mental health. I work primarily with women who trying to conceive, expecting, or in the early years of parenting on a wide range of issues including perinatal mood and anxiety disorders, processing traumatic birthing experiences, and general adjustment to being a parent. I also work quite often with young adults who are transitioning to life on their own, persons recovering from psychological trauma, and persons experiencing more general anxiety, depression, or OCD symptoms.
(224) 427-6196 View (224) 427-6196
Photo of Kellie Stryker, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kellie Stryker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
16 Endorsed
Crystal Lake, IL 60014  (Online Only)
Are you struggling with conception, dealing with a miscarriage, or feeling uncertain about the fertility process? Do you feel unsupported or misunderstood by those around you? You are not alone. While starting a family is meant to be a joyous time, 1 in 8 couples face emotional, physical, and financial difficulties during this process, often leading to feelings of isolation and frustration.
Are you struggling with conception, dealing with a miscarriage, or feeling uncertain about the fertility process? Do you feel unsupported or misunderstood by those around you? You are not alone. While starting a family is meant to be a joyous time, 1 in 8 couples face emotional, physical, and financial difficulties during this process, often leading to feelings of isolation and frustration.
(815) 569-6579 View (815) 569-6579
Photo of Brianna 'brie' Davis, LCSW, PMH-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Brianna 'brie' Davis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PMH-C
Verified Verified
Deer Park, IL 60010  (Online Only)
I am perinatal mental health certified (PMH-C) by Postpartum Support International.
My name is Brie Davis I am an LCSW (Licensed in FL, IL & CT) with specialty training in perinatal mental health. I am a mom to children on earth and in the stars. I love supporting mothers adjusting to parenthood, those experiencing postpartum mood disorders and those with current or past history of any pregnancy or infant loss.
I am perinatal mental health certified (PMH-C) by Postpartum Support International.
My name is Brie Davis I am an LCSW (Licensed in FL, IL & CT) with specialty training in perinatal mental health. I am a mom to children on earth and in the stars. I love supporting mothers adjusting to parenthood, those experiencing postpartum mood disorders and those with current or past history of any pregnancy or infant loss.
(224) 295-0093 View (224) 295-0093
Photo of Katie Higgins, MA, LCPC, PMH-C, Counselor
Katie Higgins
Counselor, MA, LCPC, PMH-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lake In The Hills, IL 60156
I'm a perinatal mental health certified, LGBTQIA+ ally who works with adults to break down the patterns governed by worry and intrusive thoughts and reconnect you with empowerment.
At best, your uninvited thoughts are uncomfortable. At worst, they totally disturb you and make you question yourself. You worry constantly and your brain is always getting you to follow its rule book, never relaxing, always avoiding. You would never call yourself perfect, but yet you strive for perfection in every move you make. To prevent your biggest fears, you do things that logically you know don’t even make sense, but you can’t stop because the risk feels too big. Everyday, you wish anxiety had less of a hold on you and you could just enjoy the moment.
I'm a perinatal mental health certified, LGBTQIA+ ally who works with adults to break down the patterns governed by worry and intrusive thoughts and reconnect you with empowerment.
At best, your uninvited thoughts are uncomfortable. At worst, they totally disturb you and make you question yourself. You worry constantly and your brain is always getting you to follow its rule book, never relaxing, always avoiding. You would never call yourself perfect, but yet you strive for perfection in every move you make. To prevent your biggest fears, you do things that logically you know don’t even make sense, but you can’t stop because the risk feels too big. Everyday, you wish anxiety had less of a hold on you and you could just enjoy the moment.
(847) 925-7561 View (847) 925-7561
Photo of Marie Gorman, LCSW, PMH-C, RYT200, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Marie Gorman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PMH-C, RYT200
Verified Verified
Barrington, IL 60010
I am a perinatal mental health specialist.
My name is Marie. I consider it a privilege to come alongside individuals and their families as they courageously navigate the challenges in their lives. As a trauma-informed yoga instructor and mental health clinician, I consider the needs of the whole person: mind, body and spirit. My approach to therapy focuses on building on the client's individual strengths as we work together to achieve treatment goals. I create a safe, nonjudgemental space that encourages emotional exploration, curiosity and healing.
I am a perinatal mental health specialist.
My name is Marie. I consider it a privilege to come alongside individuals and their families as they courageously navigate the challenges in their lives. As a trauma-informed yoga instructor and mental health clinician, I consider the needs of the whole person: mind, body and spirit. My approach to therapy focuses on building on the client's individual strengths as we work together to achieve treatment goals. I create a safe, nonjudgemental space that encourages emotional exploration, curiosity and healing.
(773) 825-3970 View (773) 825-3970
Photo of Sara Ryerson, LCSW, PMH-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sara Ryerson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PMH-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Algonquin, IL 60102
Waitlist for new clients
I'm a certified Perinatal Mental Health professional, experienced in infertility, pregnancy and infant loss and postpartum adjustment and mood disorders.
It is stressful to sit down with a stranger and work on solving your biggest problems, but a relaxed and non-hurried atmosphere helps. I'm a warm, engaging and compassionate therapist. I absolutely love my work, as I've been privileged to support so many people in their efforts to feel good again. I believe strongly in the resiliency of the human spirit; however, it is important that my clients take away real tools to manage life's stressors. I'm trained in the Brainspotting treatment method, a powerful and efficient therapy that helps improve symptoms of trauma and/or other neurophysiological challenges.
I'm a certified Perinatal Mental Health professional, experienced in infertility, pregnancy and infant loss and postpartum adjustment and mood disorders.
It is stressful to sit down with a stranger and work on solving your biggest problems, but a relaxed and non-hurried atmosphere helps. I'm a warm, engaging and compassionate therapist. I absolutely love my work, as I've been privileged to support so many people in their efforts to feel good again. I believe strongly in the resiliency of the human spirit; however, it is important that my clients take away real tools to manage life's stressors. I'm trained in the Brainspotting treatment method, a powerful and efficient therapy that helps improve symptoms of trauma and/or other neurophysiological challenges.
(815) 683-6936 View (815) 683-6936
Photo of Jenean Poley, MA, LPC, LCPC, Counselor
Jenean Poley
Counselor, MA, LPC, LCPC
Verified Verified
Cary, IL 60013  (Online Only)
Holland Therapy Group offers teletherapy in Illinois and South Carolina. We provide therapy for adults, couples, parents of a child with special needs, and perinatal mood disorders. Our goal is to enhance skills for overcoming common emotional challenges, such as anxiety, depression, perinatal mental health concerns, and relationship conflicts. In addition, we help parents navigate through a special needs and/or genetic diagnosis by answering questions, assisting with resources, and managing the rollercoaster of emotions.
Holland Therapy Group offers teletherapy in Illinois and South Carolina. We provide therapy for adults, couples, parents of a child with special needs, and perinatal mood disorders. Our goal is to enhance skills for overcoming common emotional challenges, such as anxiety, depression, perinatal mental health concerns, and relationship conflicts. In addition, we help parents navigate through a special needs and/or genetic diagnosis by answering questions, assisting with resources, and managing the rollercoaster of emotions.
(224) 487-7884 View (224) 487-7884
Photo of Samantha Ruda, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Samantha Ruda
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Barrington, IL 60010
I am also trained in the psychotherapeutic treatment of perinatal mental health issues and feel strongly that everyone should have access to screening and support.
Are you struggling with symptoms of depression or anxiety? Maybe you are going through major life changes like pregnancy, birth, new motherhood, relationship struggles, divorce, or just looking to reconnect with yourself. Reaching out for help is a positive first step toward change. I will provide a safe space where you are validated and seen. The therapeutic relationship is the most significant predictor of healing and growth. I strive to build a warm and authentic rapport with every client so you feel safe enough to be vulnerable and connect with your inner self and story and effect positive change in your life.
I am also trained in the psychotherapeutic treatment of perinatal mental health issues and feel strongly that everyone should have access to screening and support.
Are you struggling with symptoms of depression or anxiety? Maybe you are going through major life changes like pregnancy, birth, new motherhood, relationship struggles, divorce, or just looking to reconnect with yourself. Reaching out for help is a positive first step toward change. I will provide a safe space where you are validated and seen. The therapeutic relationship is the most significant predictor of healing and growth. I strive to build a warm and authentic rapport with every client so you feel safe enough to be vulnerable and connect with your inner self and story and effect positive change in your life.
(224) 337-4504 View (224) 337-4504
Photo of Tracy Soos, LCPC, CADC, ERYT, Counselor
Tracy Soos
Counselor, LCPC, CADC, ERYT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Crystal Lake, IL 60014
I am also committed to helping individuals diagnosed with Borderline Personality Disorder, trauma & acute stress disorders and have specific training working with individuals diagnosed with severe health conditions including heart disease, obesity, stroke, perinatal bereavement, compulsive over-eating and pre/post-op weight loss surgery patients.
I have been helping clients for the past 24 years working through their mental health and substance use challenges. I am committed to helping you reducing your stress and better manage/change your overall mood through a variety of counseling & stress management techniques. I can help you increase your self-esteem, self worth and work through any body image and acceptance issues that may be challenging your patience. I truly understand anxiety disorders, codependency, health issues, relationship issues, women specific issues, depression and post-partum depressive disorders. I would love to help you make lasting lifestyle changes.
I am also committed to helping individuals diagnosed with Borderline Personality Disorder, trauma & acute stress disorders and have specific training working with individuals diagnosed with severe health conditions including heart disease, obesity, stroke, perinatal bereavement, compulsive over-eating and pre/post-op weight loss surgery patients.
I have been helping clients for the past 24 years working through their mental health and substance use challenges. I am committed to helping you reducing your stress and better manage/change your overall mood through a variety of counseling & stress management techniques. I can help you increase your self-esteem, self worth and work through any body image and acceptance issues that may be challenging your patience. I truly understand anxiety disorders, codependency, health issues, relationship issues, women specific issues, depression and post-partum depressive disorders. I would love to help you make lasting lifestyle changes.
(815) 584-0108 View (815) 584-0108
Photo of Jennifer Allen, MEd, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jennifer Allen
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Barrington, IL 60010
She is also a Certified Birth, Postpartum and Bereavement Doula who has supported families during pregnancy, birth, and comforted those who experienced trauma & loss.
Are you looking to bloom in your current season of life? Do you feel stuck, confused, or disconnected and can’t figure out how to take the next step? Jennifer would love to support you and nurture your growth! Jennifer is a mother to four children, and is a Marine Spouse. As a military spouse and mother, she understands life has many transitions; some unpredictable. Jennifer embraces a growth mindset and uses a whole person approach when establishing relationships with her clients. She believes by validating our experiences and understanding our environment, we can seek out our best self.
She is also a Certified Birth, Postpartum and Bereavement Doula who has supported families during pregnancy, birth, and comforted those who experienced trauma & loss.
Are you looking to bloom in your current season of life? Do you feel stuck, confused, or disconnected and can’t figure out how to take the next step? Jennifer would love to support you and nurture your growth! Jennifer is a mother to four children, and is a Marine Spouse. As a military spouse and mother, she understands life has many transitions; some unpredictable. Jennifer embraces a growth mindset and uses a whole person approach when establishing relationships with her clients. She believes by validating our experiences and understanding our environment, we can seek out our best self.
(847) 693-3120 View (847) 693-3120
Photo of Elizabeth Stasik, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Elizabeth Stasik
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Barrington, IL 60010  (Online Only)
I am passionate about working with women on their journeys to pregnancy, during their adjustment to motherhood, and focusing on perinatal counseling & mental health overall. As a mother myself, I experienced firsthand what a wild ride this time in life can be. It can be both an incredibly beautiful and special season and one of the most challenging and confusing times in life. It is often accompanied by many complex feelings that can be difficult to process and express.
I am passionate about working with women on their journeys to pregnancy, during their adjustment to motherhood, and focusing on perinatal counseling & mental health overall. As a mother myself, I experienced firsthand what a wild ride this time in life can be. It can be both an incredibly beautiful and special season and one of the most challenging and confusing times in life. It is often accompanied by many complex feelings that can be difficult to process and express.
(224) 490-1692 View (224) 490-1692
Photo of Nichole Dabrowski, MA, LPC, RN, RYT200, Licensed Professional Counselor
Nichole Dabrowski
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, RN, RYT200
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Crystal Lake, IL 60014
My ideal clients are not perfect. My ideal clients are humans with challenges and strengths of all kinds. My ideal clients are those in need of softness and compassion as well as tough love and confrontation. I can best support adolescent and adult clients that live with depression, anxiety, PTSD, postpartum issues, identity/purpose challenges, and grief. My clients want to feel freedom from suffering. My clients want to learn how to navigate communication and relationships. My clients want to feel joy, to have hope, and to appreciate and love themselves.
My ideal clients are not perfect. My ideal clients are humans with challenges and strengths of all kinds. My ideal clients are those in need of softness and compassion as well as tough love and confrontation. I can best support adolescent and adult clients that live with depression, anxiety, PTSD, postpartum issues, identity/purpose challenges, and grief. My clients want to feel freedom from suffering. My clients want to learn how to navigate communication and relationships. My clients want to feel joy, to have hope, and to appreciate and love themselves.
(847) 860-6537 View (847) 860-6537
Photo of Brandy Kenworthy, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Brandy Kenworthy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Schaumburg, IL 60194
I specialize in EMDR, maternal mental health issues such as postpartum depression and postpartum anxiety, grief and loss, mood and anxiety disorders, relationship/marital conflict, self-esteem, and general life transitional difficulties.
You deserve a life that is worthy of you! And I'm glad you're here and ready to begin your journey of healing and growth. As your therapist, I will offer you a safe and non-judgmental space to explore your concerns, experiences, hopes, fears and goals. I have an empathetic and interactive approach that highlights the importance of the therapeutic relationship in facilitating personal growth through self understanding. I have a supportive and goal oriented style in which I utilize psychodynamic, cognitive behavioral, and mindfulness orientations to help you decrease your negative feelings and improve your functioning and well-being.
I specialize in EMDR, maternal mental health issues such as postpartum depression and postpartum anxiety, grief and loss, mood and anxiety disorders, relationship/marital conflict, self-esteem, and general life transitional difficulties.
You deserve a life that is worthy of you! And I'm glad you're here and ready to begin your journey of healing and growth. As your therapist, I will offer you a safe and non-judgmental space to explore your concerns, experiences, hopes, fears and goals. I have an empathetic and interactive approach that highlights the importance of the therapeutic relationship in facilitating personal growth through self understanding. I have a supportive and goal oriented style in which I utilize psychodynamic, cognitive behavioral, and mindfulness orientations to help you decrease your negative feelings and improve your functioning and well-being.
(773) 672-3323 View (773) 672-3323
Photo of Alexandra Smith - Alexandra Smith, LMFT, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Alexandra Smith, LMFT
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Algonquin, IL 60102  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist in the states of IL & CA who specializes in working with individuals and couples throughout pre-conception and pregnancy, postpartum parents and toddler parents, and autistic and highly sensitive parents. Whether you're adjusting to new parenthood, embracing your neurodivergent identity, or combating overwhelm as a neurodivergent parent, I provide a compassionate space for exploration, healing, growth, and self-discovery.
I am a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist in the states of IL & CA who specializes in working with individuals and couples throughout pre-conception and pregnancy, postpartum parents and toddler parents, and autistic and highly sensitive parents. Whether you're adjusting to new parenthood, embracing your neurodivergent identity, or combating overwhelm as a neurodivergent parent, I provide a compassionate space for exploration, healing, growth, and self-discovery.
(657) 232-7627 View (657) 232-7627
Photo of Theresa Ewing, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Theresa Ewing
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Hoffman Estates, IL 60169
When in the midst of the storm; anxiety, relationship challenges, parenting struggles, perinatal mental health, or medical concerns, connecting with a counselor could be the tool that you need to find hope and skills to get through it. My passion is to get to know you, your thoughts and stress in order to partner with you so you are not alone and establish coping skills, goals and work toward what you long for.
When in the midst of the storm; anxiety, relationship challenges, parenting struggles, perinatal mental health, or medical concerns, connecting with a counselor could be the tool that you need to find hope and skills to get through it. My passion is to get to know you, your thoughts and stress in order to partner with you so you are not alone and establish coping skills, goals and work toward what you long for.
(815) 355-6490 View (815) 355-6490

See more therapy options for Carpentersville

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.