Pregnancy, Prenatal, Postpartum Therapists in Norfolk, VA

Photo of Alison Rinsland, MSEd
Alison Rinsland
Resident in Counseling, MSEd
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Norfolk, VA 23508
My speciality varies from working with individuals with anxiety disorders, perinatal / postpartum mental health, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, and perfectionism. Additionally, I have clinical experience working with depression, trauma, grief, domestic violence, women's issues, religious trauma & abuse, neurodiversity, military, first responders, and addiction.
My speciality varies from working with individuals with anxiety disorders, perinatal / postpartum mental health, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, and perfectionism. Additionally, I have clinical experience working with depression, trauma, grief, domestic violence, women's issues, religious trauma & abuse, neurodiversity, military, first responders, and addiction.
(757) 780-8094 View (757) 780-8094
Photo of Laura Bolt, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Laura Bolt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Norfolk, VA 23507  (Online Only)
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.
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 Catina Williams, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Catina Williams
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Norfolk, VA 23503  (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 Sultana Karim, MA, LCPC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sultana Karim
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC, LPC
Verified Verified
Norfolk, VA 23501
I specialize in treating pregnant and postpartum mood and anxiety disorders, birth trauma, infertility, pregnancy and infant loss, & termination of pregnancy.
You are struggling with keeping yourself together. You don’t know who you are anymore. You are grieving for what your life was before baby, without kids, or thoughts what life would be like when having baby. You are feeling overwhelmed and tired. You find it difficult to take care of yourself when you are focused others needs. Asking for help seems like a weakness and you believe that you have to do it by yourself. I help those who are trying to conceive, pregnant, and postpartum people who are struggling with mood and anxiety disorders to feel confident in themselves to know that they are enough and they are doing enough.
I specialize in treating pregnant and postpartum mood and anxiety disorders, birth trauma, infertility, pregnancy and infant loss, & termination of pregnancy.
You are struggling with keeping yourself together. You don’t know who you are anymore. You are grieving for what your life was before baby, without kids, or thoughts what life would be like when having baby. You are feeling overwhelmed and tired. You find it difficult to take care of yourself when you are focused others needs. Asking for help seems like a weakness and you believe that you have to do it by yourself. I help those who are trying to conceive, pregnant, and postpartum people who are struggling with mood and anxiety disorders to feel confident in themselves to know that they are enough and they are doing enough.
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Photo of Nerissa F. Jones, MEd, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Nerissa F. Jones
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Norfolk, VA 23500
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 Danielle Bryant, MSW, Pre-Licensed Professional
Danielle Bryant
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Norfolk, VA 23502
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 Danielle Artis - Artis Supervision and Counseling LLC, LCSW , CCTP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Artis Supervision and Counseling LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW , CCTP
Verified Verified
Norfolk, VA 23529  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with a robust background in mental health therapy, specializing in perinatal mood and anxiety disorders, trauma, and depression. I have a commitment to fostering healing and resilience by helping individuals navigate and overcome life’s most difficult emotional challenges. I have a keen interest in maternal mental health and trauma-informed care. My clinical training includes specific training in perinatal mental health and also a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with a robust background in mental health therapy, specializing in perinatal mood and anxiety disorders, trauma, and depression. I have a commitment to fostering healing and resilience by helping individuals navigate and overcome life’s most difficult emotional challenges. I have a keen interest in maternal mental health and trauma-informed care. My clinical training includes specific training in perinatal mental health and also a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional.
(757) 780-8817 View (757) 780-8817
Photo of Starla King, MSW, LMHP-S
Starla King
MSW, LMHP-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Norfolk, VA 23510
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 Jessica Richards, LPC, PMH-C, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jessica Richards
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, PMH-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Norfolk, VA 23517
I also offer a Postpartum Therapy Group for parents in the first year postpartum.
I have been working in the mental health field with individuals 8 and older for the past 13 years. My approach is strengths based and client focused to address a variety of mental health issues and life stressors (including those occurring during pregnancy and the postpartum period). My style is relational, collaborative, and empowering. I also utilize trauma focused treatment including EMDR (I have completed Part 1 and 2 of EMDR training) to treat trauma (including birth related traumas), anxiety, depression, and grief/loss.
I also offer a Postpartum Therapy Group for parents in the first year postpartum.
I have been working in the mental health field with individuals 8 and older for the past 13 years. My approach is strengths based and client focused to address a variety of mental health issues and life stressors (including those occurring during pregnancy and the postpartum period). My style is relational, collaborative, and empowering. I also utilize trauma focused treatment including EMDR (I have completed Part 1 and 2 of EMDR training) to treat trauma (including birth related traumas), anxiety, depression, and grief/loss.
(757) 997-1708 View (757) 997-1708
Photo of Stephanie McQuiggan, MS, PMH-C
Stephanie McQuiggan
Resident in Counseling, MS, PMH-C
Verified Verified
Norfolk, VA 23510
I specialize in working with birthing persons and those affected by a Perinatal Mood and Anxiety disorder (PMAD).
I am happy you are here! I endeavor to walk the path of healing side-by-side with my clients as they experience the ebb and flow of the tides in their lives. I seek to create a warm, empathic, and authentic space for my clients to promote a true healing experience.
I specialize in working with birthing persons and those affected by a Perinatal Mood and Anxiety disorder (PMAD).
I am happy you are here! I endeavor to walk the path of healing side-by-side with my clients as they experience the ebb and flow of the tides in their lives. I seek to create a warm, empathic, and authentic space for my clients to promote a true healing experience.
(757) 992-8255 View (757) 992-8255
Photo of Shana Simmons, MSW, LCSW, PMH-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Shana Simmons
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, PMH-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Norfolk, VA 23510
My specializations include: Perinatal Mental Health (including Postpartum Depression), Depression, Anxiety, Trauma, Child and Parental Conflict, Family Conflicts and Mood Disturbance amongst adults to include women and men.
Are you struggling with either being or connecting with the best version of yourself? I understand on a personal and professional level. My practice is tailored to helping women and mothers managed mental health during the perinatal/postpartum stage, process birth trauma, find a work-life balance, transition into motherhood, effectively co-parent, and managing "mommy guilt". Through life's transitions and challenges, I'm available to walk with you on your journey. I'm the non-judgmental and friendly therapist, who offers a solution-focused and strength-based approach. Consider a new beginning within a wellness-based setting.
My specializations include: Perinatal Mental Health (including Postpartum Depression), Depression, Anxiety, Trauma, Child and Parental Conflict, Family Conflicts and Mood Disturbance amongst adults to include women and men.
Are you struggling with either being or connecting with the best version of yourself? I understand on a personal and professional level. My practice is tailored to helping women and mothers managed mental health during the perinatal/postpartum stage, process birth trauma, find a work-life balance, transition into motherhood, effectively co-parent, and managing "mommy guilt". Through life's transitions and challenges, I'm available to walk with you on your journey. I'm the non-judgmental and friendly therapist, who offers a solution-focused and strength-based approach. Consider a new beginning within a wellness-based setting.
(757) 600-0785 View (757) 600-0785
Photo of Dr. Jamitta Covington, DSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dr. Jamitta Covington
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Norfolk, VA 23504
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) 742-7234 View (757) 742-7234
Photo of Abigail Gellene-Beaudoin, LCSW, APHSW-C,  RPT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Abigail Gellene-Beaudoin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, APHSW-C, RPT
Verified Verified
Norfolk, VA 23510
Does your child seem to struggle with regulating their emotions? Do you feel like you need extra support before, during, or after your pregnancy? Did you or your family experience the loss of a loved one? If so, let me help support you and your family at whatever stage of your fertility journey! With a certification in perinatal mental health, I specialize in supporting women, birthing people, and families through the complexities of pregnancy, fetal anomalies, complex pregnancies, postpartum, infertility, NICU experiences, parenting a medically complex child, and pregnancy loss.
Does your child seem to struggle with regulating their emotions? Do you feel like you need extra support before, during, or after your pregnancy? Did you or your family experience the loss of a loved one? If so, let me help support you and your family at whatever stage of your fertility journey! With a certification in perinatal mental health, I specialize in supporting women, birthing people, and families through the complexities of pregnancy, fetal anomalies, complex pregnancies, postpartum, infertility, NICU experiences, parenting a medically complex child, and pregnancy loss.
(757) 573-9634 View (757) 573-9634
Photo of Kriston Nixon, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kriston Nixon
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Norfolk, VA 23507
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 Mariana Lazarin, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mariana Lazarin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Norfolk, VA 23503  (Online Only)
I am grateful you are considering my services during this difficult time in your life. I have experience with teens and adults, and treat a variety of concerns. I will partner with you using a person-centered approach to help create the change you want in your life. I help you integrate tools that feel authentic to your needs using a multicultural, trauma-informed lens. work collaboratively with clients who are struggling with feelings of anxiety, depression, ADHD, life transitions including perinatal mood and anxiety disorders, parenting issues, stress management, relationship issues, attachment concerns, and substance use.
I am grateful you are considering my services during this difficult time in your life. I have experience with teens and adults, and treat a variety of concerns. I will partner with you using a person-centered approach to help create the change you want in your life. I help you integrate tools that feel authentic to your needs using a multicultural, trauma-informed lens. work collaboratively with clients who are struggling with feelings of anxiety, depression, ADHD, life transitions including perinatal mood and anxiety disorders, parenting issues, stress management, relationship issues, attachment concerns, and substance use.
(757) 210-5529 View (757) 210-5529
Photo of Kimberly Grebb, LPC, RPT, PMH-C, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kimberly Grebb
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, RPT, PMH-C
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Norfolk, VA 23505  (Online Only)
I would love to help guide you to a calmer, happier and more fulfilled place in your pregnancy, postpartum or parenting journey.
Do you struggle with anxiety, rage or loss of identity in motherhood that affects the quality of your day-to-day life? Do you feel overwhelmed by endless to-do lists and carrying the mental load of raising children while also managing a household, career or relationships with your partner, family or friends? Do you ever feel like the reality of pregnancy or parenthood doesn't live up to your expectations? Or wonder if you were really cut out for this? If so, you're not alone! Now more than ever, new and expecting mothers are feeling alone and uncertain as they enter one of the most transformative chapters of their lives.
I would love to help guide you to a calmer, happier and more fulfilled place in your pregnancy, postpartum or parenting journey.
Do you struggle with anxiety, rage or loss of identity in motherhood that affects the quality of your day-to-day life? Do you feel overwhelmed by endless to-do lists and carrying the mental load of raising children while also managing a household, career or relationships with your partner, family or friends? Do you ever feel like the reality of pregnancy or parenthood doesn't live up to your expectations? Or wonder if you were really cut out for this? If so, you're not alone! Now more than ever, new and expecting mothers are feeling alone and uncertain as they enter one of the most transformative chapters of their lives.
(843) 212-6651 View (843) 212-6651
Photo of Ann-Marie Johnson, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ann-Marie Johnson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Norfolk, VA 23500
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 Lisa Stanford, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lisa Stanford
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Norfolk, VA 23510  (Online Only)
Lisa is a master's level certified clinical social worker (LCSW-C) in MD and DC. Lisa has an eclectic background and experience, as she has worked in multiple roles including labor & delivery, hospice, crisis response, and faith based counseling settings. She currently provides individual and group therapy. She provides a solution-focused approach, assisting clients to create viable action steps towards change. She provides support in helping clients with postpartum concerns, women's issues, stress, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, trauma, and grief/loss. Lisa believes that the therapeutic relationship is vital to a client'
Lisa is a master's level certified clinical social worker (LCSW-C) in MD and DC. Lisa has an eclectic background and experience, as she has worked in multiple roles including labor & delivery, hospice, crisis response, and faith based counseling settings. She currently provides individual and group therapy. She provides a solution-focused approach, assisting clients to create viable action steps towards change. She provides support in helping clients with postpartum concerns, women's issues, stress, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, trauma, and grief/loss. Lisa believes that the therapeutic relationship is vital to a client'
(855) 983-0326 View (855) 983-0326
Photo of Lauren Chester, MA, PMH-C
Lauren Chester
Resident in Counseling, MA, PMH-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Norfolk, VA 23507
I have advanced training in Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders (PMADs) 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 Mood and Anxiety Disorders (PMADs) 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 Playfulleigh Home - PlayfulLeigh Psyched, LLC, PhD, LCPC, MS/MA, LGPC, Counselor
PlayfulLeigh Psyched, LLC
Counselor, PhD, LCPC, MS/MA, LGPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Norfolk, VA 23504  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
We work with individuals, families, and children. We specialize in trauma including generational trauma, perinatal, immigrants, parent-child relationship issues, depression, anxiety, self-esteem, and family conflict. Our greatest intention is to help you understand yourself better and improve your quality of life and relationships. We tailor our approach to the needs of each person or family, responding to your unique problems, identities, and realities. This is not a one-size-fits-all practice because we are trauma-informed and social-emotional focused practices from a social justice framework.
We work with individuals, families, and children. We specialize in trauma including generational trauma, perinatal, immigrants, parent-child relationship issues, depression, anxiety, self-esteem, and family conflict. Our greatest intention is to help you understand yourself better and improve your quality of life and relationships. We tailor our approach to the needs of each person or family, responding to your unique problems, identities, and realities. This is not a one-size-fits-all practice because we are trauma-informed and social-emotional focused practices from a social justice framework.
(301) 835-2610 View (301) 835-2610
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Pregnancy, Prenatal, Postpartum Therapists

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

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

When should I seek treatment for prenatal or postpartum concerns?

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

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

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

Are there specific medications for postpartum depression?

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