Pregnancy, Prenatal, Postpartum Therapists in Boston, MA

Photo of Jessica Buckley, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jessica Buckley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02129  (Online Only)
I specialize in supporting and treating women through many transitions that come along throughout life - everything from school/college issues, general life stress, relationship struggles, anxiety, parenting, emotional pain secondary to reproductive challenges to postpartum anxiety and depression. I have expertise with new and veteran moms around the complexities of motherhood and the ongoing need for support.
I specialize in supporting and treating women through many transitions that come along throughout life - everything from school/college issues, general life stress, relationship struggles, anxiety, parenting, emotional pain secondary to reproductive challenges to postpartum anxiety and depression. I have expertise with new and veteran moms around the complexities of motherhood and the ongoing need for support.
(857) 227-9305 View (857) 227-9305
Photo of Evening Shinerock, LICSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Evening Shinerock
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02114  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I work with clients as they navigate pregnancy and new parenthood, maternal mental health, life transitions, and relationship or interpersonal challenges.
A supportive therapeutic relationship can have a deeply positive impact on individuals experiencing life changes or interpersonal challenges. I aim to create a space for clients to process what they are experiencing in a way that centers them and allows them to be vulnerable and honest, leading to healing and growth. My approach is eclectic, collaborative, supportive, and focuses on the client's goals and strengths. My style is direct, warm, and solution-focused. My work is rooted in cognitive behavioral therapy, relational dynamics and psychodynamic exploration.
I work with clients as they navigate pregnancy and new parenthood, maternal mental health, life transitions, and relationship or interpersonal challenges.
A supportive therapeutic relationship can have a deeply positive impact on individuals experiencing life changes or interpersonal challenges. I aim to create a space for clients to process what they are experiencing in a way that centers them and allows them to be vulnerable and honest, leading to healing and growth. My approach is eclectic, collaborative, supportive, and focuses on the client's goals and strengths. My style is direct, warm, and solution-focused. My work is rooted in cognitive behavioral therapy, relational dynamics and psychodynamic exploration.
(617) 663-0486 View (617) 663-0486
Photo of Jessica Ann Chmielewski, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jessica Ann Chmielewski
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02127
Waitlist for new clients
My practice provides women practical management around mood needs, quarter life crisis, body image, relationships, pregnancy, and postpartum.
I am passionate and dedicated to working with females navigating the complexities and the growing pains of adulthood. As a female in modern day society, we consistently face the external pressures of life transitions, mood management, social relationships, family, career, health, comparison, body image and self-esteem. We will work together to create a care plan that highlights and supports your individual needs and goals when it comes to mental health and symptom management.
My practice provides women practical management around mood needs, quarter life crisis, body image, relationships, pregnancy, and postpartum.
I am passionate and dedicated to working with females navigating the complexities and the growing pains of adulthood. As a female in modern day society, we consistently face the external pressures of life transitions, mood management, social relationships, family, career, health, comparison, body image and self-esteem. We will work together to create a care plan that highlights and supports your individual needs and goals when it comes to mental health and symptom management.
(857) 227-9208 View (857) 227-9208
Photo of Alexis Chirban, PsyD, Psychologist
Alexis Chirban
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02116  (Online Only)
Perinatal Mental Health: Bringing new life into the world is a profound experience, but it can also be accompanied by a range of emotional challenges and adjustments.
Welcome! I'm Dr. Alexis Chirban, and I'm here to guide you through the intricate pathways of the human mind, empowering you to unlock your full potential and thrive in every aspect of your life. My passion lies in three key areas: enhancing well-being, sports psychology and perinatal mental health. Enhancing Well-being: True well-being encompasses the integration of mind, body, and spirit. I use a holistic approach to treatment that goes beyond addressing current mental health symptoms (anxiety, depression, etc.) and cultivates a deep sense of purpose and fulfillment.
Perinatal Mental Health: Bringing new life into the world is a profound experience, but it can also be accompanied by a range of emotional challenges and adjustments.
Welcome! I'm Dr. Alexis Chirban, and I'm here to guide you through the intricate pathways of the human mind, empowering you to unlock your full potential and thrive in every aspect of your life. My passion lies in three key areas: enhancing well-being, sports psychology and perinatal mental health. Enhancing Well-being: True well-being encompasses the integration of mind, body, and spirit. I use a holistic approach to treatment that goes beyond addressing current mental health symptoms (anxiety, depression, etc.) and cultivates a deep sense of purpose and fulfillment.
(508) 500-8591 View (508) 500-8591
Photo of Emily Russo, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Emily Russo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02116
I specialize in working with adult individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, adjustment/transition issues and postpartum related disorders.
"You can’t go back and change the beginning, but you can start where you are and change the ending.” – C.S. Lewis. Therapy provides an opportunity to focus on oneself to work through difficult, sometimes uncomfortable, periods in life. Therapy also encourages self-reflection as a means of improving various aspects of life, such as self-confidence and personal relationships. I utilize a motivational, individual-centered therapeutic approach to help my clients discover their own resiliency and internal strength. By working together in a safe, supportive environment, we are able to achieve positive change and strengthen coping skills.
I specialize in working with adult individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, adjustment/transition issues and postpartum related disorders.
"You can’t go back and change the beginning, but you can start where you are and change the ending.” – C.S. Lewis. Therapy provides an opportunity to focus on oneself to work through difficult, sometimes uncomfortable, periods in life. Therapy also encourages self-reflection as a means of improving various aspects of life, such as self-confidence and personal relationships. I utilize a motivational, individual-centered therapeutic approach to help my clients discover their own resiliency and internal strength. By working together in a safe, supportive environment, we are able to achieve positive change and strengthen coping skills.
(857) 477-7693 View (857) 477-7693
Photo of Sarah Nielsen, LICSW, PMH-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sarah Nielsen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, PMH-C
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02116
In particular, I have focused on the perinatal experience and how to support women, and other caregivers, through the challenges of postpartum depression/anxiety, partner issues and other barriers to attachment and connection.
For all of us, life brings transitions and challenges. We may struggle with current experiences, as well as the way we are carrying the past with us. Transitions in life are often filled with overwhelming emotions and a therapeutic relationship can provide space and a place to navigate these moments. We all possess strengths and, in our work together, we will uncover those and provide opportunities to manage challenges. My approach is trauma-informed, strengths-based and client-centered. I believe that we all benefit from a place to explore and understand our own story.
In particular, I have focused on the perinatal experience and how to support women, and other caregivers, through the challenges of postpartum depression/anxiety, partner issues and other barriers to attachment and connection.
For all of us, life brings transitions and challenges. We may struggle with current experiences, as well as the way we are carrying the past with us. Transitions in life are often filled with overwhelming emotions and a therapeutic relationship can provide space and a place to navigate these moments. We all possess strengths and, in our work together, we will uncover those and provide opportunities to manage challenges. My approach is trauma-informed, strengths-based and client-centered. I believe that we all benefit from a place to explore and understand our own story.
(617) 741-5740 View (617) 741-5740
Photo of Sarah Coppenrath, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sarah Coppenrath
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02127  (Online Only)
As humans, we all experience seasons of change; these seasons can feel empowering and exciting however they can also feel disorganized or unexpected. If you are experiencing symptoms of anxiety, depression, pregnancy related concerns, or other life stressors and/or transitions; I am here to help. Our time together can be a space to not only identify root causes of negative thought patterns, self-doubt, and low self-confidence but to then work towards independently navigating these experiences. My goal is to provide therapeutic, non-judgmental support and guidance as we explore both vulnerability and strength.
As humans, we all experience seasons of change; these seasons can feel empowering and exciting however they can also feel disorganized or unexpected. If you are experiencing symptoms of anxiety, depression, pregnancy related concerns, or other life stressors and/or transitions; I am here to help. Our time together can be a space to not only identify root causes of negative thought patterns, self-doubt, and low self-confidence but to then work towards independently navigating these experiences. My goal is to provide therapeutic, non-judgmental support and guidance as we explore both vulnerability and strength.
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Photo of Lucy Hanbury, LMHC, PMH-C, Counselor
Lucy Hanbury
Counselor, LMHC, PMH-C
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02199  (Online Only)
Hi! My name is Lucy and I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) as well as a certified perinatal mental health counselor (PMH-C). I am committed to supporting woman of all ages through all of life's struggles, conflicts, or transitions as well as the unique challenges of the perinatal period. When life events bring up a lot of emotions and reactions such as anxiety, sadness, anger, and trauma, I believe that these issues cannot be processed alone. My approach is rooted in creating a safe and inclusive space where my clients can explore their experiences, emotions, and identities with compassion and understanding.
Hi! My name is Lucy and I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) as well as a certified perinatal mental health counselor (PMH-C). I am committed to supporting woman of all ages through all of life's struggles, conflicts, or transitions as well as the unique challenges of the perinatal period. When life events bring up a lot of emotions and reactions such as anxiety, sadness, anger, and trauma, I believe that these issues cannot be processed alone. My approach is rooted in creating a safe and inclusive space where my clients can explore their experiences, emotions, and identities with compassion and understanding.
(508) 682-4304 View (508) 682-4304
Photo of Lucienne Cohen, PsyD, Psychologist
Lucienne Cohen
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02116  (Online Only)
My specialties include perinatal mental health, disordered eating, body image concerns, perfectionistic tendencies, anxiety, trauma, life transitions, self-esteem issues, and relationship difficulties.
My primary goal is to listen to my client's needs and walk alongside them through their life journey. Utilizing my strengths of authenticity, empathy, and humor, I strive to create a trusting and open space where clients feel encouraged to engage in self-exploration and empowered to make meaningful change in their lives. I believe therapy is a collaborative process that can promote self-acceptance and help navigate life's stressors. We'll work together to develop insight and awareness, challenge unhelpful patterns, and implement strategies that allow you to be the person you want to be.
My specialties include perinatal mental health, disordered eating, body image concerns, perfectionistic tendencies, anxiety, trauma, life transitions, self-esteem issues, and relationship difficulties.
My primary goal is to listen to my client's needs and walk alongside them through their life journey. Utilizing my strengths of authenticity, empathy, and humor, I strive to create a trusting and open space where clients feel encouraged to engage in self-exploration and empowered to make meaningful change in their lives. I believe therapy is a collaborative process that can promote self-acceptance and help navigate life's stressors. We'll work together to develop insight and awareness, challenge unhelpful patterns, and implement strategies that allow you to be the person you want to be.
(617) 517-6471 View (617) 517-6471
Photo of Carmel Higgins, LCSW, MEd, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Carmel Higgins
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MEd
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02110  (Online Only)
Hi and welcome! I’m so glad you’re seeking support. I specialize in helping clients navigate the stressors of life, including life transitions, anxiety, relational issues, trauma, and grief. Additionally, I have extensive experience working with perinatal mental health concerns, and am particularly passionate about supporting those experiencing infertility, pregnancy loss or termination, and birth trauma. Through our work together, you'll be better able to access your inner strengths to create a calmer, happier, and more fulfilling life. I welcome your inquiry to explore working together as I am accepting new clients.
Hi and welcome! I’m so glad you’re seeking support. I specialize in helping clients navigate the stressors of life, including life transitions, anxiety, relational issues, trauma, and grief. Additionally, I have extensive experience working with perinatal mental health concerns, and am particularly passionate about supporting those experiencing infertility, pregnancy loss or termination, and birth trauma. Through our work together, you'll be better able to access your inner strengths to create a calmer, happier, and more fulfilling life. I welcome your inquiry to explore working together as I am accepting new clients.
(857) 597-8134 x1 View (857) 597-8134 x1
Photo of Kara Llewellyn, LICSW, PMH-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kara Llewellyn
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, PMH-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02127  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
If you are experiencing symptoms of anxiety, depression, pregnancy related concerns (i.e. pre/postpartum depression or anxiety, high risk pregnancy, fetal diagnosis), or other life stressors and/or transitions, I am here to help. My goal is to provide therapeutic, non judgmental support and guidance in your time of need.
If you are experiencing symptoms of anxiety, depression, pregnancy related concerns (i.e. pre/postpartum depression or anxiety, high risk pregnancy, fetal diagnosis), or other life stressors and/or transitions, I am here to help. My goal is to provide therapeutic, non judgmental support and guidance in your time of need.
(781) 423-1367 View (781) 423-1367
Photo of Maria Minkova, PsyD, LMHC, Psychologist
Maria Minkova
Psychologist, PsyD, LMHC
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02109
My specialized training includes treating perinatal mental health problems, young adults, and women victims of violence.
I believe that psychotherapy is a joint endeavor between a therapist and a client. It is based on science and practiced like art - with love, care, and creativity. I hold a doctorate degree in psychology and am a licensed Psychologist in Massachusetts. I am most experienced in assisting clients who struggle with depressed or anxious mood, have self-esteem issues, or face relationship difficulties. I have years of experience working with adults and couples with a wide range of problems, as well as parents of young children.
My specialized training includes treating perinatal mental health problems, young adults, and women victims of violence.
I believe that psychotherapy is a joint endeavor between a therapist and a client. It is based on science and practiced like art - with love, care, and creativity. I hold a doctorate degree in psychology and am a licensed Psychologist in Massachusetts. I am most experienced in assisting clients who struggle with depressed or anxious mood, have self-esteem issues, or face relationship difficulties. I have years of experience working with adults and couples with a wide range of problems, as well as parents of young children.
(617) 744-4405 View (617) 744-4405
Photo of Elizabeth Renzella, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Elizabeth Renzella
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02199  (Online Only)
There are times in life when we all need extra support and it can be difficult to ask for help. By reading this, you have already taken the first step. Whether you are struggling with anxiety, depression, parenting, pregnancy/postpartum, relationships, or any other emotional concerns, let’s work together to improve your mental health. I am here to guide you in your journey toward letting go of the things causing you distress while empowering you to live a more balanced and fulfilling life.
There are times in life when we all need extra support and it can be difficult to ask for help. By reading this, you have already taken the first step. Whether you are struggling with anxiety, depression, parenting, pregnancy/postpartum, relationships, or any other emotional concerns, let’s work together to improve your mental health. I am here to guide you in your journey toward letting go of the things causing you distress while empowering you to live a more balanced and fulfilling life.
(508) 529-1376 View (508) 529-1376
Photo of Madelyn Brunvand, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Madelyn Brunvand
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02110
I have specific experience and interest in working with pregnant and postpartum clients, and I incorporate important concepts such as coping with life transitions, communication, and boundary-setting in my work with every client.
Spring 2024 - Accepting New Clients! Contending with life's daily pressures can often make it difficult to feel confident in your ability to thrive - and not just barely survive. Whether you are struggling with anxiety, depression, life transitions, relationship issues, or other concerns, therapy is a safe space where you can engage your existing coping skills and support systems while also discovering and implementing additional strategies and resources. I genuinely believe we have the resilience necessary to make meaningful, lasting changes in our lives.
I have specific experience and interest in working with pregnant and postpartum clients, and I incorporate important concepts such as coping with life transitions, communication, and boundary-setting in my work with every client.
Spring 2024 - Accepting New Clients! Contending with life's daily pressures can often make it difficult to feel confident in your ability to thrive - and not just barely survive. Whether you are struggling with anxiety, depression, life transitions, relationship issues, or other concerns, therapy is a safe space where you can engage your existing coping skills and support systems while also discovering and implementing additional strategies and resources. I genuinely believe we have the resilience necessary to make meaningful, lasting changes in our lives.
(617) 812-9565 View (617) 812-9565
Photo of Julia Perault Fletcher, LCSW-R, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Julia Perault Fletcher
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02116  (Online Only)
I am a psychotherapist, licensed in New York, Massachusetts and Texas. I specialize in the experiences of young adulthood. My areas of expertise include anxiety, family and relationship issues, sexuality and gender identity concerns, life transitions, and grief. I also work with people looking for love and navigating the dating process. Lastly, I support clients going through the fertility, pregnancy or postpartum experience.
I am a psychotherapist, licensed in New York, Massachusetts and Texas. I specialize in the experiences of young adulthood. My areas of expertise include anxiety, family and relationship issues, sexuality and gender identity concerns, life transitions, and grief. I also work with people looking for love and navigating the dating process. Lastly, I support clients going through the fertility, pregnancy or postpartum experience.
(929) 533-1613 View (929) 533-1613
Photo of Alexandra Casamassima, LICSW, PMH-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Alexandra Casamassima
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, PMH-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02129  (Online Only)
Women face unique challenges throughout the lifespan, and I specialize in supporting them as they grow through these tough transitions - whether it be college stress, a "quarter life crisis", or pregnancy and parenting. I have a holistic approach that aims to empower women facing a wide range of issues or symptoms, including anxiety and stress management, depression, "burnout", OCD, and pregnancy/postpartum mental health. Please see my website for additional details about my practice.
Women face unique challenges throughout the lifespan, and I specialize in supporting them as they grow through these tough transitions - whether it be college stress, a "quarter life crisis", or pregnancy and parenting. I have a holistic approach that aims to empower women facing a wide range of issues or symptoms, including anxiety and stress management, depression, "burnout", OCD, and pregnancy/postpartum mental health. Please see my website for additional details about my practice.
(617) 433-5403 View (617) 433-5403
Photo of Danielle Marie Bailey - Danielle Bailey LICSW, PMH-C, LICSW, PMH-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Danielle Bailey LICSW, PMH-C
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, PMH-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02127  (Online Only)
I am currently licensed in the states of California, Massachusetts, Colorado, New York, New Jersey, and Florida. I am passionate about building meaningful relationships with my clients as they heal and find freedom from past wounds, build deep connections and intimacy with others and discover their true gifts and talents. I work with adults and college students experiencing depression, anxiety, substance abuse, post-traumatic stress, family and personal relationship difficulties, and academic or occupational stress. I have been trained in brainspotting and am a certified perinatal mental health professional
I am currently licensed in the states of California, Massachusetts, Colorado, New York, New Jersey, and Florida. I am passionate about building meaningful relationships with my clients as they heal and find freedom from past wounds, build deep connections and intimacy with others and discover their true gifts and talents. I work with adults and college students experiencing depression, anxiety, substance abuse, post-traumatic stress, family and personal relationship difficulties, and academic or occupational stress. I have been trained in brainspotting and am a certified perinatal mental health professional
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Photo of Shannon Erisman, PhD, PsyPact, Psychologist
Shannon Erisman
Psychologist, PhD, PsyPact
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02116
I have a specialty in both perinatal mental health (pregnancy and postpartum) and dialectical behavior therapy.
Women (including trans and nonbinary individuals) face unique challenges across the lifespan, particularly during times of transition. Overwhelming emotions, irritability, anxiety, or low mood are all signs that a change is needed, quite possibly in the form of a skilled, compassionate therapist to help you navigate these experiences. I specialize in the treatment of anxiety, borderline personality disorder, and perinatal mental health. I love working with college-aged folks (particularly the Brown University community) and couples as well.
I have a specialty in both perinatal mental health (pregnancy and postpartum) and dialectical behavior therapy.
Women (including trans and nonbinary individuals) face unique challenges across the lifespan, particularly during times of transition. Overwhelming emotions, irritability, anxiety, or low mood are all signs that a change is needed, quite possibly in the form of a skilled, compassionate therapist to help you navigate these experiences. I specialize in the treatment of anxiety, borderline personality disorder, and perinatal mental health. I love working with college-aged folks (particularly the Brown University community) and couples as well.
(401) 593-4121 View (401) 593-4121
Photo of Rachel Benson, LCSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rachel Benson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02101
I specialize in the following areas: Anxiety, Depression, Abuse History, Prenatal/Postpartum Issues, Grief/Loss and other Life Changes (including from death, divorce, relationship loss, job loss, moving, health changes, financial changes, graduation, pregnancy, birth, retirement, etc.
Do you often feel anxious, depressed, or "stuck" and want to feel happier and more fulfilled, but are unsure how? Perhaps your relationships are suffering, or you are underperforming at work. Maybe you just had a major life change, like a new baby or a divorce, and you need help adjusting to your new life. Perhaps you suffered a loss or another traumatic experience currently, or in your past, that you haven't yet worked through. This is where I come in. I create a judgement-free, safe space to work on these issues and help you move past them.
I specialize in the following areas: Anxiety, Depression, Abuse History, Prenatal/Postpartum Issues, Grief/Loss and other Life Changes (including from death, divorce, relationship loss, job loss, moving, health changes, financial changes, graduation, pregnancy, birth, retirement, etc.
Do you often feel anxious, depressed, or "stuck" and want to feel happier and more fulfilled, but are unsure how? Perhaps your relationships are suffering, or you are underperforming at work. Maybe you just had a major life change, like a new baby or a divorce, and you need help adjusting to your new life. Perhaps you suffered a loss or another traumatic experience currently, or in your past, that you haven't yet worked through. This is where I come in. I create a judgement-free, safe space to work on these issues and help you move past them.
(714) 930-2536 View (714) 930-2536
Photo of Chelsea Cotnoir, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Chelsea Cotnoir
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02115  (Online Only)
My particular areas of focus are congenital heart disease, grief/bereavement, and care across the perinatal continuum.
What I enjoy most about my work is the variety of people I am able to meet and help to achieve their personal goals, whatever they may be. Whether you are digesting a new chapter in your life, coping with a loss, getting to know yourself again, or anything in between, it can be so hard to ask for and accept help. I aim to cultivate a space where you feel heard, understood, and validated. If you are ready to do the work, I am here to help. Outside of therapeutic counseling, I also offer clinical supervision to other social workers in the field.
My particular areas of focus are congenital heart disease, grief/bereavement, and care across the perinatal continuum.
What I enjoy most about my work is the variety of people I am able to meet and help to achieve their personal goals, whatever they may be. Whether you are digesting a new chapter in your life, coping with a loss, getting to know yourself again, or anything in between, it can be so hard to ask for and accept help. I aim to cultivate a space where you feel heard, understood, and validated. If you are ready to do the work, I am here to help. Outside of therapeutic counseling, I also offer clinical supervision to other social workers in the field.
(857) 877-6254 View (857) 877-6254
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.