Pregnancy, Prenatal, Postpartum Therapists in Chesapeake, VA

Photo of Catina Williams, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Catina Williams
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chesapeake, VA 23320  (Online Only)
I specialize in treating women with depression and anxiety related to life altering conditions such as: Infertility, Perinatal Mood Disorders, Loss, Life transitions and Medical challenges.
Becoming a mother is expected to be one of the best times of a woman's life, so when we have difficulty conceiving or feel down when we are pregnant or postpartum, we feel alone and guilty. Know that you are not alone and you can get through Infertility and recover from maternal mental health issues. Dealing with chronic medical challenges, Infertility or pregnancy loss can leave you feeling drained emotionally, physically and financially. My goal at Bloom Psychotherapy Center is to help women grow through these difficult periods, develop the tools to heal and bloom into the Best version of themselves!
I specialize in treating women with depression and anxiety related to life altering conditions such as: Infertility, Perinatal Mood Disorders, Loss, Life transitions and Medical challenges.
Becoming a mother is expected to be one of the best times of a woman's life, so when we have difficulty conceiving or feel down when we are pregnant or postpartum, we feel alone and guilty. Know that you are not alone and you can get through Infertility and recover from maternal mental health issues. Dealing with chronic medical challenges, Infertility or pregnancy loss can leave you feeling drained emotionally, physically and financially. My goal at Bloom Psychotherapy Center is to help women grow through these difficult periods, develop the tools to heal and bloom into the Best version of themselves!
(757) 384-1329 View (757) 384-1329
Photo of Amanda Park, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Amanda Park
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Chesapeake, VA 23322  (Online Only)
I have specific training in perinatal mental health and I am also a mother of 2 little ones myself.
Hey there! I am Amanda Park and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor. I am passionate about helping women and mothers navigate life's transition, whether that be individually or within their relationships. I work with clients who are navigating the unique challenges of motherhood; from trying to conceive, through pregnancy, to the postpartum period and beyond. My goal is to create a safe, supportive and RELAXED environment where women come just as they are (messy buns and all) and feel heard, validated, and empowered. This is a judgement free zone, ladies!
I have specific training in perinatal mental health and I am also a mother of 2 little ones myself.
Hey there! I am Amanda Park and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor. I am passionate about helping women and mothers navigate life's transition, whether that be individually or within their relationships. I work with clients who are navigating the unique challenges of motherhood; from trying to conceive, through pregnancy, to the postpartum period and beyond. My goal is to create a safe, supportive and RELAXED environment where women come just as they are (messy buns and all) and feel heard, validated, and empowered. This is a judgement free zone, ladies!
(757) 568-7060 View (757) 568-7060
Photo of Danielle Bryant, MSW, Pre-Licensed Professional
Danielle Bryant
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chesapeake, VA 23320
My non-judgmental approach enables me to address issues related to LGBTQ, spirituality, relationships, transitional phases of life such as college and career, postpartum, and grief.
Whether your goal is to increase your levels of joy, peace, and order, reduce and better manage stress, or generally improve your outlook on life, if you desire to be more involved in the outcomes of your life, I'm here to help. Taking the first step of being a willing participant and being open to establishing new "life rules" can improve your ability to cope, increase your chances at achieving your goals, and improve outcomes that are important to you.
My non-judgmental approach enables me to address issues related to LGBTQ, spirituality, relationships, transitional phases of life such as college and career, postpartum, and grief.
Whether your goal is to increase your levels of joy, peace, and order, reduce and better manage stress, or generally improve your outlook on life, if you desire to be more involved in the outcomes of your life, I'm here to help. Taking the first step of being a willing participant and being open to establishing new "life rules" can improve your ability to cope, increase your chances at achieving your goals, and improve outcomes that are important to you.
(757) 781-0877 View (757) 781-0877
Photo of Nerissa F. Jones, MEd, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Nerissa F. Jones
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chesapeake, VA 23320
I am passionate about women's issues related to mental health, postpartum/infertility, social roles, family dynamics, self-care/love, body issues, sexuality, trauma, marriage/dating, values, finding purpose and career.
Relationships and connections with others are the essence of life so what happens when YOU struggle in you relationships with others? Are you doomed to have a difficult and unhappy existence? Are you stuck in the role of fixer, people pleaser, scapegoat, martyr, the one that “never gets any help”? What about perfectionist, doer, the angry one, the strong one, or the one who always has to sacrifice for others to be happy? Whether you are married, dating, unemployed, single, parenting, an employee, a sibling - the quality of your relationships determine the quality of your life and this cannot be ignored.
I am passionate about women's issues related to mental health, postpartum/infertility, social roles, family dynamics, self-care/love, body issues, sexuality, trauma, marriage/dating, values, finding purpose and career.
Relationships and connections with others are the essence of life so what happens when YOU struggle in you relationships with others? Are you doomed to have a difficult and unhappy existence? Are you stuck in the role of fixer, people pleaser, scapegoat, martyr, the one that “never gets any help”? What about perfectionist, doer, the angry one, the strong one, or the one who always has to sacrifice for others to be happy? Whether you are married, dating, unemployed, single, parenting, an employee, a sibling - the quality of your relationships determine the quality of your life and this cannot be ignored.
(757) 356-6159 View (757) 356-6159
Photo of Laura Bolt, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Laura Bolt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chesapeake, VA 23320  (Online Only)
I have trained extensively in perinatal/maternal mental health and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), as well as working with youth, parents, and within complex systems.
Currently accepting new clients. As a licensed therapist for over 11 years, I help clients who are facing issues including: perinatal/maternal mental health depression, anxiety, adjustment difficulties, daily life stressors, relationship/interpersonal conflict, self-esteem issues, and parenting challenges.
I have trained extensively in perinatal/maternal mental health and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), as well as working with youth, parents, and within complex systems.
Currently accepting new clients. As a licensed therapist for over 11 years, I help clients who are facing issues including: perinatal/maternal mental health depression, anxiety, adjustment difficulties, daily life stressors, relationship/interpersonal conflict, self-esteem issues, and parenting challenges.
(757) 231-3595 View (757) 231-3595
Photo of Cecilia Graves
Cecilia Graves
Resident in Counseling
Verified Verified
Chesapeake, VA 23320  (Online Only)
Maternal mental health has become my expertise, particularly in addressing the complexities of postpartum anxiety, depression, and relationship changes that happen postpartum. I have a strong passion for equipping parents with the vital skills required to cultivate a wholesome and nurturing environment for their children while also juggling the realitys of modern day living.
Maternal mental health has become my expertise, particularly in addressing the complexities of postpartum anxiety, depression, and relationship changes that happen postpartum. I have a strong passion for equipping parents with the vital skills required to cultivate a wholesome and nurturing environment for their children while also juggling the realitys of modern day living.
(571) 496-8156 View (571) 496-8156
Photo of Ann-Marie Johnson, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ann-Marie Johnson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chesapeake, VA 23322
In addition, I offer group counseling for moms and dads dealing with perinatal concerns, as well as family and couple’s counseling.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by the darkness that overshadows your life? Maybe it is due to negative experiences or a past you cannot let go. Owning your story can be challenging but running from it can lead to results that are even more devastating. Mental health, varying crisis and substance abuse are common in today’s society, and many people benefit from talking with a mental health therapist. Often, our negative thoughts, patterns and persistent habits are what causes anxiety, depression, increased stress and other issues. As your therapist, I would work with you to develop goals that fit your needs and provide support.
In addition, I offer group counseling for moms and dads dealing with perinatal concerns, as well as family and couple’s counseling.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by the darkness that overshadows your life? Maybe it is due to negative experiences or a past you cannot let go. Owning your story can be challenging but running from it can lead to results that are even more devastating. Mental health, varying crisis and substance abuse are common in today’s society, and many people benefit from talking with a mental health therapist. Often, our negative thoughts, patterns and persistent habits are what causes anxiety, depression, increased stress and other issues. As your therapist, I would work with you to develop goals that fit your needs and provide support.
(757) 231-3445 View (757) 231-3445
Photo of Dr. Jamitta Covington, DSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dr. Jamitta Covington
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chesapeake, VA 23320
Accepting new clients. Are you struggling with post-partum anxiety or depression? Have you experienced a pregnancy loss or infertility challenges? Are you learning to move forward after experience of grief & loss? Do you feel alone and having a hard time adjusting to life transitions? I am here to help you learn how to navigate your journey of moving forward. Life challenges will often create a harsh new reality for us, but you don't have to figure it out alone. With over 10 years of experience, I been able to support many individuals on achieving their fullest potential.
Accepting new clients. Are you struggling with post-partum anxiety or depression? Have you experienced a pregnancy loss or infertility challenges? Are you learning to move forward after experience of grief & loss? Do you feel alone and having a hard time adjusting to life transitions? I am here to help you learn how to navigate your journey of moving forward. Life challenges will often create a harsh new reality for us, but you don't have to figure it out alone. With over 10 years of experience, I been able to support many individuals on achieving their fullest potential.
(757) 324-3099 View (757) 324-3099
Photo of Patricia Colby, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Patricia Colby
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Chesapeake, VA 23321
I am Dr. Patricia Colby, a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) with over 37 years of experience working as a mental health professional. I specialize in treating adults and seniors who are suffering from concerns or conditions related to addiction, anxiety, depression, career issues, divorce, eating disorders, stress, pregnancy, prenatal and postpartum-related issues, low self-esteem, sexual abuse, substance use, trauma, and PTSD.
I am Dr. Patricia Colby, a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) with over 37 years of experience working as a mental health professional. I specialize in treating adults and seniors who are suffering from concerns or conditions related to addiction, anxiety, depression, career issues, divorce, eating disorders, stress, pregnancy, prenatal and postpartum-related issues, low self-esteem, sexual abuse, substance use, trauma, and PTSD.
(757) 280-1978 View (757) 280-1978
Photo of Kriston Nixon, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kriston Nixon
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chesapeake, VA 23322
I have specialized training in relationship counseling (including non-traditional relationships/ENM), LGBTQIA+ issues, gender identity, parent coaching, ADHD/neurodivergence, and perinatal mental health.
I use a collaborative approach with my clients to develop and work toward their personal goals. I offer a safe and inclusive space for my clients to explore their identities, relationships, needs, and desires. I have experiences working with adults, adolescents, children, couples, and families.
I have specialized training in relationship counseling (including non-traditional relationships/ENM), LGBTQIA+ issues, gender identity, parent coaching, ADHD/neurodivergence, and perinatal mental health.
I use a collaborative approach with my clients to develop and work toward their personal goals. I offer a safe and inclusive space for my clients to explore their identities, relationships, needs, and desires. I have experiences working with adults, adolescents, children, couples, and families.
(757) 267-9759 View (757) 267-9759
Photo of Kathryn A Fede, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kathryn A Fede
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chesapeake, VA 23323
I specialize in trauma, military sexual trauma, and postpartum depression.
There are times in life when you need an ally. Someone to listen, offer feedback, and help you realize your potential. During such times a therapist can be an important support. Whether you are struggling with isolation during COVID, are finding it hard to move past a break up, or cope with the absence of a loved one. Perhaps the struggle of "adulting" has you in total disbelief, or at a loss for words. These are times when you have an opportunity to make great change. Not because someone told you to go to therapy, but because you want to find yourself. My goal is to help you find your way and renew your outlook on life.
I specialize in trauma, military sexual trauma, and postpartum depression.
There are times in life when you need an ally. Someone to listen, offer feedback, and help you realize your potential. During such times a therapist can be an important support. Whether you are struggling with isolation during COVID, are finding it hard to move past a break up, or cope with the absence of a loved one. Perhaps the struggle of "adulting" has you in total disbelief, or at a loss for words. These are times when you have an opportunity to make great change. Not because someone told you to go to therapy, but because you want to find yourself. My goal is to help you find your way and renew your outlook on life.
(757) 906-3759 View (757) 906-3759
Photo of Starla King, MSW, LMHP-S
Starla King
MSW, LMHP-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chesapeake, VA 23320
I specialize in working with women who are struggling during perinatal/ postpartum phases, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD/trauma, women’s issues, and relationship/family conflict.
The decision to begin therapy is not always an easy one and sometimes the process to finding a therapist can be a challenge. Wherever you are on this journey, your unique experience deserves to be heard. I am here to help you cope with patterns of mental health challenges by providing you with a holistic therapeutic experience. My sessions are curated in strengthening your inner self and helping you to establish a greater mind-body connection. I aim to help you in defining aspects of healing that are most relevant to you while effectively integrating clinical techniques toward balance and wellness.
I specialize in working with women who are struggling during perinatal/ postpartum phases, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD/trauma, women’s issues, and relationship/family conflict.
The decision to begin therapy is not always an easy one and sometimes the process to finding a therapist can be a challenge. Wherever you are on this journey, your unique experience deserves to be heard. I am here to help you cope with patterns of mental health challenges by providing you with a holistic therapeutic experience. My sessions are curated in strengthening your inner self and helping you to establish a greater mind-body connection. I aim to help you in defining aspects of healing that are most relevant to you while effectively integrating clinical techniques toward balance and wellness.
(757) 997-6729 View (757) 997-6729
Photo of Denisha Hosey, LPC, PMH-C, Licensed Professional Counselor
Denisha Hosey
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, PMH-C
Verified Verified
Chesapeake, VA 23321  (Online Only)
I am glad YOU are here! Have you been feeling anxious, angry, depressed, frustrated, and overwhelmed? Maybe you feel like you have so much to do with not enough time to do it all, adjusting to life’s transitions and finding ways to effectively balance work and family. If you find yourself dealing with lasting effects of grief, trauma, or issues related to infertility, pregnancy or postpartum, I offer a consultation to explore if we are a good fit for each other. Making the decision to reach out for support and help is not always easy. I am happy that you are courageous enough to take bold steps toward creating change for yourself.
I am glad YOU are here! Have you been feeling anxious, angry, depressed, frustrated, and overwhelmed? Maybe you feel like you have so much to do with not enough time to do it all, adjusting to life’s transitions and finding ways to effectively balance work and family. If you find yourself dealing with lasting effects of grief, trauma, or issues related to infertility, pregnancy or postpartum, I offer a consultation to explore if we are a good fit for each other. Making the decision to reach out for support and help is not always easy. I am happy that you are courageous enough to take bold steps toward creating change for yourself.
(757) 210-5671 View (757) 210-5671
Photo of Lauren Chester, LPC, PMH-C, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lauren Chester
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, PMH-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chesapeake, VA 23324
I have advanced training in perinatal mental health and am certified as a perinatal mental health specialist.
It can be challenging to seek help, especially when you're feeling anxious, depressed, or overwhelmed. You are officially taking the first step! Counseling is a unique investment in yourself; together we can begin a journey of hope and healing. I enjoy supporting clients navigating life transitions, anxiety, depression, OCD, neurodiversity, grief/loss, and stress management.
I have advanced training in perinatal mental health and am certified as a perinatal mental health specialist.
It can be challenging to seek help, especially when you're feeling anxious, depressed, or overwhelmed. You are officially taking the first step! Counseling is a unique investment in yourself; together we can begin a journey of hope and healing. I enjoy supporting clients navigating life transitions, anxiety, depression, OCD, neurodiversity, grief/loss, and stress management.
(757) 210-7274 View (757) 210-7274
Photo of Navarro Pulley - Harmony & Wellness Health, MS, NCC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Harmony & Wellness Health
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chesapeake, VA 23320
Mrs. Pulley is a dual Licensed Professional Counselor in Virginia and Arizona. Mrs. Pulley is a trained professional who helps individuals, couples, families, and groups navigate through various challenges. Mrs. Pulley utilizes different therapeutic techniques and approaches to address issues such as depression, anxiety, trauma, relationship problems, addiction, and more. She is dedicated to creating a safe and supportive environment where clients can explore their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors, gain insight into their problems, and develop coping strategies and skills to manage them effectively.
Mrs. Pulley is a dual Licensed Professional Counselor in Virginia and Arizona. Mrs. Pulley is a trained professional who helps individuals, couples, families, and groups navigate through various challenges. Mrs. Pulley utilizes different therapeutic techniques and approaches to address issues such as depression, anxiety, trauma, relationship problems, addiction, and more. She is dedicated to creating a safe and supportive environment where clients can explore their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors, gain insight into their problems, and develop coping strategies and skills to manage them effectively.
(757) 404-5355 View (757) 404-5355
Photo of Chenzirah Fannings, LRC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Chenzirah Fannings
Pre-Licensed Professional, LRC
Verified Verified
Chesapeake, VA 23320
Chenzirah Fannings is a Master level Resident in Counseling and obtained a Masters of Arts in Mental Health Counseling from South University. She believes in creating a nurturing and trustworthy environment which enhances her ability to truly see and hear her clients. She strives to meet her client’s where they are and help support them in their therapeutic journey. Chenzirah’s priority is to create a safe , respectful atmosphere, conducive to fostering healing and self-expression. She has worked with individuals with diagnosis such as Anxiety, Depression, Self-Esteem Concerns, Workplace Stress, Adjustment Disorder, Anger Issues.
Chenzirah Fannings is a Master level Resident in Counseling and obtained a Masters of Arts in Mental Health Counseling from South University. She believes in creating a nurturing and trustworthy environment which enhances her ability to truly see and hear her clients. She strives to meet her client’s where they are and help support them in their therapeutic journey. Chenzirah’s priority is to create a safe , respectful atmosphere, conducive to fostering healing and self-expression. She has worked with individuals with diagnosis such as Anxiety, Depression, Self-Esteem Concerns, Workplace Stress, Adjustment Disorder, Anger Issues.
(757) 703-4443 View (757) 703-4443
Photo of Ife Milligan, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ife Milligan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chesapeake, VA 23321  (Online Only)
I am Ife Milligan, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and Certified Holistic Life Coach (CHLC) with over 10 years of professional experience working with clients of all ages on issues related to grief, loss, depression, ADHD, anxiety, oppositional defiance disorder (ODD), low self-esteem, family conflict, and more. I received my Master’s degree in Clinical Social Work from Columbia University and earned my Bachelor’s in Psychology from Morgan State University. I received my Holistic Life Coach certification from the University of Wellness.
I am Ife Milligan, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and Certified Holistic Life Coach (CHLC) with over 10 years of professional experience working with clients of all ages on issues related to grief, loss, depression, ADHD, anxiety, oppositional defiance disorder (ODD), low self-esteem, family conflict, and more. I received my Master’s degree in Clinical Social Work from Columbia University and earned my Bachelor’s in Psychology from Morgan State University. I received my Holistic Life Coach certification from the University of Wellness.
(757) 530-5230 View (757) 530-5230
Photo of Susanne E Preston-Josey, LPC, NCC, RPT-S, ACS, BC-THM, Licensed Professional Counselor
Susanne E Preston-Josey
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, RPT-S, ACS, BC-THM
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chesapeake, VA 23320  (Online Only)
Are you looking for a safe, non-judgmental atmosphere to discuss your problems? Do you need a counselor who can really connect with you? Are you in need of someone who will listen to you in a supportive environment? I can help! I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor; practicing for twenty years. I specialize in working with women's issues, relationship concerns, online counseling, and teens. I use a Person-Centered approach and a blend of other therapeutic techniques, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Solution-Focused Brief Therapy.
Are you looking for a safe, non-judgmental atmosphere to discuss your problems? Do you need a counselor who can really connect with you? Are you in need of someone who will listen to you in a supportive environment? I can help! I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor; practicing for twenty years. I specialize in working with women's issues, relationship concerns, online counseling, and teens. I use a Person-Centered approach and a blend of other therapeutic techniques, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Solution-Focused Brief Therapy.
(757) 699-5088 View (757) 699-5088
Photo of Karen 'kc' Carroll - Karen "KC" Carroll, CNM, (ret), MS, MA, Licensed Professional Counselor
Karen "KC" Carroll
Licensed Professional Counselor, CNM, (ret), MS, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chesapeake, VA 23320
“It’s fine. I’m fine. Everything’s fine.” You can’t put it into words or don’t know who to confide in, so that’s what you portray. But that’s NOT what’s going on inside. You disconnect to survive. But, if any of the following sounds like you, that skill is wearing out: your moods are all over the place; your sleep is off; you’ve been sick or in pain; memory and focus are down; work is just stupid, and you always seem to be in conflict with someone. Plus, if you’re expecting, now you have another generation and the pending birth blowing up your list of concerns! You can’t help thinking, "This is not how my life is supposed to be."
“It’s fine. I’m fine. Everything’s fine.” You can’t put it into words or don’t know who to confide in, so that’s what you portray. But that’s NOT what’s going on inside. You disconnect to survive. But, if any of the following sounds like you, that skill is wearing out: your moods are all over the place; your sleep is off; you’ve been sick or in pain; memory and focus are down; work is just stupid, and you always seem to be in conflict with someone. Plus, if you’re expecting, now you have another generation and the pending birth blowing up your list of concerns! You can’t help thinking, "This is not how my life is supposed to be."
(757) 720-7057 View (757) 720-7057
Photo of Madeline Garrett, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Madeline Garrett
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chesapeake, VA 23321  (Online Only)
I am Madeline Garrett, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the states of Virginia and Florida with over 9 years of experience providing clinical assessments and therapeutic care to teens and adults seeking help with anxiety, depression, trauma, bipolar disorder, addiction, co-dependency, grief and loss, parenting assistance, and sexuality issues. I identify as an ally of the LGBTQIA+ community and affirm all spiritual beliefs. I completed my Bachelor of Psychology from Florida State University, my Master of Social Work from the University of Southern California, and my Master of Leadership from Grand Canyon University.
I am Madeline Garrett, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the states of Virginia and Florida with over 9 years of experience providing clinical assessments and therapeutic care to teens and adults seeking help with anxiety, depression, trauma, bipolar disorder, addiction, co-dependency, grief and loss, parenting assistance, and sexuality issues. I identify as an ally of the LGBTQIA+ community and affirm all spiritual beliefs. I completed my Bachelor of Psychology from Florida State University, my Master of Social Work from the University of Southern California, and my Master of Leadership from Grand Canyon University.
(757) 993-4369 View (757) 993-4369
1
Pregnancy, Prenatal, Postpartum Therapists

What are the most effective ways to address pregnancy, prenatal, and postpartum concerns?

The most effective way to address pregnancy, prenatal, and postpartum concerns is by finding a therapist who has prior experience helping other patients overcome the challenge being faced. For example, a marriage and family therapist may have experience helping couples adjust to their new relationship dynamic. An anxiety specialist may have experience helping with phobias or illness anxiety related to the child’s health. A depression specialist may have experience treating postpartum depression.

When should I seek treatment for prenatal or postpartum concerns?

Pregnancy and the postpartum period involve intense physical and mental changes; a degree of upset and instability is normal. However, if these changes impair daily functioning, it may be time to seek help. This distinction is pertinent for postpartum depression: A period of teariness, irritability, and distress is difficult but normal in the one to two weeks after childbirth (sometimes called the “baby blues.”) But if feelings of sadness and hopelessness persist beyond that period, the person should seek treatment.

How do I manage worries during pregnancy or the postnatal period?

A therapist can help patients develop the tools they need to manage anxieties during or after pregnancy. Cognitive behavioral therapy can help people identify and reframe harmful patterns of thought, and change their behaviors. Other techniques and skills can allow people to develop acceptance, psychological flexibility, self-compassion, communication skills, and more.

Are there specific medications for postpartum depression?

In 2019, the FDA approved the first medication designed to treat postpartum depression. The medication is called brexanolone and is delivered intravenously by a medical professional over the course of a few days. However, typical antidepressants, which are more accessible, can also treat postpartum depression. The disorder is often best treated through a combination of medication and therapy.