Pregnancy, Prenatal, Postpartum Therapists in Bellevue, WA

Photo of Maya Petkova Arth, MA, LMHC, LPC, Counselor
Maya Petkova Arth
Counselor, MA, LMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
Bellevue, WA 98005
I specialize in supporting mothers, fathers and birth partners navigate pregnancy and postpartum challenges to find joy and growth in parenthood.
IMMEDIATE OPENINGS AVAILABLE If raising a little one in times of uncertainty and isolation has not turned out as you imagined, I am here to help. Are you struggling with transitioning to parenthood? Do you find yourself facing unrealistic expectations, guilt and pressure to be perfect? Are you trying to keep anxiety and depression at bay, while daily exhaustion prevents you from getting even basic self-care? If you feel inadequate as a parent, I can help quiet your inner critic, so that you can find peace within, fully connect to your child/partner and build an emotionally healthy family.
I specialize in supporting mothers, fathers and birth partners navigate pregnancy and postpartum challenges to find joy and growth in parenthood.
IMMEDIATE OPENINGS AVAILABLE If raising a little one in times of uncertainty and isolation has not turned out as you imagined, I am here to help. Are you struggling with transitioning to parenthood? Do you find yourself facing unrealistic expectations, guilt and pressure to be perfect? Are you trying to keep anxiety and depression at bay, while daily exhaustion prevents you from getting even basic self-care? If you feel inadequate as a parent, I can help quiet your inner critic, so that you can find peace within, fully connect to your child/partner and build an emotionally healthy family.
(833) 629-2999 View (833) 629-2999
Photo of Michelle Michal Alpert, LICSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Michelle Michal Alpert
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Bellevue, WA 98007
Experiencing stress and emotional pain can be overwhelming. It may be difficult to take the first step and seek help, but you don't have to face these challenges alone. As your therapist, I am here to help you navigate these difficulties. I use an insight-oriented approach to help you make sense of your feelings and behaviors. By exploring your internal world, you gain a deeper understanding of how your past experiences affect you today, and pave a way for change & growth. I specialize in working with anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, life transitions (pregnancy, relocation), concerns about relationships, parenting & identity.
Experiencing stress and emotional pain can be overwhelming. It may be difficult to take the first step and seek help, but you don't have to face these challenges alone. As your therapist, I am here to help you navigate these difficulties. I use an insight-oriented approach to help you make sense of your feelings and behaviors. By exploring your internal world, you gain a deeper understanding of how your past experiences affect you today, and pave a way for change & growth. I specialize in working with anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, life transitions (pregnancy, relocation), concerns about relationships, parenting & identity.
(425) 541-1473 View (425) 541-1473
Photo of Sumi Garg, MA, LMFT, PMH-C, Marriage & Family Therapist
Sumi Garg
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, PMH-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Bellevue, WA 98004
I offer specialized support to perinatal populations, couples, and teen families including multicultural or racial issues.
I work with clients during big emotions like new parents or the roller-coaster of teen life. Identity of who you are can feel fragile. Responsibilities are mounting and the stakes of making a mistake feels overwhelming. It is hard to communicate or even know what you need. Diagnosis like anxiety, depression, PTSD are being thrown around and yet you know that is only part of the picture. I offer a safe space to feel empowered by the change and create a healthy way forward.
I offer specialized support to perinatal populations, couples, and teen families including multicultural or racial issues.
I work with clients during big emotions like new parents or the roller-coaster of teen life. Identity of who you are can feel fragile. Responsibilities are mounting and the stakes of making a mistake feels overwhelming. It is hard to communicate or even know what you need. Diagnosis like anxiety, depression, PTSD are being thrown around and yet you know that is only part of the picture. I offer a safe space to feel empowered by the change and create a healthy way forward.
(425) 517-1639 View (425) 517-1639
Photo of Holly Robinson, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Holly Robinson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Bellevue, WA 98004
Accepting new clients in Washington state, Washington, DC and Florida. Are the constant pressures of daily life coupled with unexpected challenges leading you to feel burnt out and hopeless? I can help you live your best life by overcoming the issues that have you feeling stuck. I believe many of us carry emotional baggage because we do not realize how it is impacting us until we are struggling to function in our daily lives. I specialize in treatment for trauma, anxiety, stress, ADHD, infertility, pregnancy & postpartum issues, mood disorders and grief.
Accepting new clients in Washington state, Washington, DC and Florida. Are the constant pressures of daily life coupled with unexpected challenges leading you to feel burnt out and hopeless? I can help you live your best life by overcoming the issues that have you feeling stuck. I believe many of us carry emotional baggage because we do not realize how it is impacting us until we are struggling to function in our daily lives. I specialize in treatment for trauma, anxiety, stress, ADHD, infertility, pregnancy & postpartum issues, mood disorders and grief.
(425) 365-6678 View (425) 365-6678
Photo of Abigail Carey, MA, LMHC, LPC, CMHS, NCC, Counselor
Abigail Carey
Counselor, MA, LMHC, LPC, CMHS, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Bellevue, WA 98008  (Online Only)
This often includes perinatal loss, fertility challenges, perinatal mood and anxiety disorders, and navigating termination of a pregnancy.
I am an individual therapist at the Bellevue Trauma Recovery Center. I earned my master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Gonzaga University and I am currently licensed to practice in both Washington and Texas. Throughout my career I have prioritized fostering strong therapeutic relationships built on compassion for self and others. Practicing from a trauma informed, integrative approach, I utilize collaborative and compassionate therapeutic modalities including Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Narrative Therapy.
This often includes perinatal loss, fertility challenges, perinatal mood and anxiety disorders, and navigating termination of a pregnancy.
I am an individual therapist at the Bellevue Trauma Recovery Center. I earned my master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Gonzaga University and I am currently licensed to practice in both Washington and Texas. Throughout my career I have prioritized fostering strong therapeutic relationships built on compassion for self and others. Practicing from a trauma informed, integrative approach, I utilize collaborative and compassionate therapeutic modalities including Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Narrative Therapy.
(425) 585-2420 View (425) 585-2420
Photo of Emily Ackley, LMFTA, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Emily Ackley
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LMFTA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Bellevue, WA 98004  (Online Only)
I enjoy also working with folks who need pregnancy or postpartum support.
I believe therapy should be a place where you feel safe and understood. I love working with individuals who are trying to reconnect to themselves and with couples who want to strengthen the bonds they have. I want you to feel seen and supported through the therapy process, and I am here to listen without judgment and help you find ways to make your life feel more manageable. I will walk you through the process of self-discovery, helping you find the strengths you already possess and encouraging you to grow in ways you need. I see the beauty and hope in making small changes that will make your life feel more fulfilling.
I enjoy also working with folks who need pregnancy or postpartum support.
I believe therapy should be a place where you feel safe and understood. I love working with individuals who are trying to reconnect to themselves and with couples who want to strengthen the bonds they have. I want you to feel seen and supported through the therapy process, and I am here to listen without judgment and help you find ways to make your life feel more manageable. I will walk you through the process of self-discovery, helping you find the strengths you already possess and encouraging you to grow in ways you need. I see the beauty and hope in making small changes that will make your life feel more fulfilling.
(425) 970-8743 View (425) 970-8743
Photo of Alexus Marx, LMHCA, Counselor
Alexus Marx
Counselor, LMHCA
Verified Verified
Bellevue, WA 98006
Immediate openings available! I specialize in perinatal mental health, but enjoy supporting parents all along the spectrum of their journey to growing a family. I have specialized training and experience working with people that are facing the challenges of trying to conceive, pregnancy/postpartum, unexpected birth experiences, parenting small children, and loss. In addition to this speciality, I have focused my work in supporting children and adults around themes of trauma, attachment challenges, mood issues (depression/anxiety), identity exploration, self-esteem, relationships, body image, parenting, spirituality, and grief/loss.
Immediate openings available! I specialize in perinatal mental health, but enjoy supporting parents all along the spectrum of their journey to growing a family. I have specialized training and experience working with people that are facing the challenges of trying to conceive, pregnancy/postpartum, unexpected birth experiences, parenting small children, and loss. In addition to this speciality, I have focused my work in supporting children and adults around themes of trauma, attachment challenges, mood issues (depression/anxiety), identity exploration, self-esteem, relationships, body image, parenting, spirituality, and grief/loss.
View
Photo of Dr. Alison Batchelder, PhD, PMH-C, PsyPACT, Psychologist
Dr. Alison Batchelder
Psychologist, PhD, PMH-C, PsyPACT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bellevue, WA 98004
I also have an advanced Self-Compassion in Psychotherapy (SCIP) certification and a Perinatal Mental Health (PMH-C) certification.
As human beings, we frequently subject ourselves to harsh self-judgment. While self-criticism has its merits on occasion, it often engenders emotional turmoil. Research into self-compassion has unveiled its extraordinary ability to diminish anxiety, depression, and stress while elevating motivation, confidence, and overall performance. Yet, the practical application of self-compassion is often more challenging than mere words suggest.
I also have an advanced Self-Compassion in Psychotherapy (SCIP) certification and a Perinatal Mental Health (PMH-C) certification.
As human beings, we frequently subject ourselves to harsh self-judgment. While self-criticism has its merits on occasion, it often engenders emotional turmoil. Research into self-compassion has unveiled its extraordinary ability to diminish anxiety, depression, and stress while elevating motivation, confidence, and overall performance. Yet, the practical application of self-compassion is often more challenging than mere words suggest.
(425) 414-8155 View (425) 414-8155
Photo of Leanne Konzelman, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Leanne Konzelman
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Bellevue, WA 98004  (Online Only)
Are you struggling to maintain a healthy relationship, find yourself easily overwhelmed in life or lacking confidence in your own abilities? I am passionate about helping clients live life to the fullest. As a mental health counselor, I am committed to developing a positive and helpful partnership with each client during the therapy process. Working with individuals and couples, I look at how our environment, life experience, and current relationships affect choices and decisions made. I am trained in Parental care, and specialize in postpartum anxiety and depression. I also work with couples who are married, engaged or dating.
Are you struggling to maintain a healthy relationship, find yourself easily overwhelmed in life or lacking confidence in your own abilities? I am passionate about helping clients live life to the fullest. As a mental health counselor, I am committed to developing a positive and helpful partnership with each client during the therapy process. Working with individuals and couples, I look at how our environment, life experience, and current relationships affect choices and decisions made. I am trained in Parental care, and specialize in postpartum anxiety and depression. I also work with couples who are married, engaged or dating.
(206) 966-6369 View (206) 966-6369
Photo of Daisy Vergara - Ohana Behavioral Health, LMHC, LMFT, Counselor
Ohana Behavioral Health
Counselor, LMHC, LMFT
Verified Verified
Bellevue, WA 98006
At Ohana, we offer hope and healing for those who are challenged with depression, anxiety, perinatal challenges, and parenting issues.
Do you struggle with anxiety, depression, a challenging relationship, loss of a sense of self, parenting struggles, that affect your daily life, relationships, ability to function, work, career? Do you feel exhausted, overwhelmed, frustrated, just getting through the day, answering emails, texts or calls, the thought that there’s no light at the end of the tunnel? Do you question, wonder, hope that life could be better? Now more than ever, people are anxious, overwhelmed, uncertain about overcoming a difficult relationship, working through a loss, finding their place in life.
At Ohana, we offer hope and healing for those who are challenged with depression, anxiety, perinatal challenges, and parenting issues.
Do you struggle with anxiety, depression, a challenging relationship, loss of a sense of self, parenting struggles, that affect your daily life, relationships, ability to function, work, career? Do you feel exhausted, overwhelmed, frustrated, just getting through the day, answering emails, texts or calls, the thought that there’s no light at the end of the tunnel? Do you question, wonder, hope that life could be better? Now more than ever, people are anxious, overwhelmed, uncertain about overcoming a difficult relationship, working through a loss, finding their place in life.
(206) 752-6685 View (206) 752-6685
Photo of Alicia Ferris, MS, LMHC, PMH-C, Counselor
Alicia Ferris
Counselor, MS, LMHC, PMH-C
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Bellevue, WA 98006  (Online Only)
Currently accepting clients! Infertility sucks, high risk pregnancies are hard, birth and the postpartum period can leave your head spinning, and the parenting a toddler can test your sanity! And...it doesn't have to be this hard. Whether you are just navigating some hard circumstances or have been struggling for a while, having the right tools and supports in place can help you thrive instead of just survive through your reproductive years.
Currently accepting clients! Infertility sucks, high risk pregnancies are hard, birth and the postpartum period can leave your head spinning, and the parenting a toddler can test your sanity! And...it doesn't have to be this hard. Whether you are just navigating some hard circumstances or have been struggling for a while, having the right tools and supports in place can help you thrive instead of just survive through your reproductive years.
(360) 523-7518 View (360) 523-7518
Photo of Mary Picardal, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mary Picardal
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Bellevue, WA 98005  (Online Only)
I specialize in working with individuals and couples experiencing or have experienced complicated/high-risk pregnancy, loss, birth trauma, and perinatal mood and anxiety disorders or PMAD.
I offer 100% teletherapy for adults (individuals and couples). The foundation of my practice is based on attachment and guided by research and work by Dr. Sue Johnson and Dr. John Gottman. I am passionate about helping others strengthen and build secure attachments. My work is centered around treating anxiety, depression, women’s issues, self-esteem issues, trauma, grief, and attachment disorders. The treatment modalities I utilize are attachment-based, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), feminist perspective, the Gottman Method, motivational interviewing, and Trauma Focused-CBT to name a few.
I specialize in working with individuals and couples experiencing or have experienced complicated/high-risk pregnancy, loss, birth trauma, and perinatal mood and anxiety disorders or PMAD.
I offer 100% teletherapy for adults (individuals and couples). The foundation of my practice is based on attachment and guided by research and work by Dr. Sue Johnson and Dr. John Gottman. I am passionate about helping others strengthen and build secure attachments. My work is centered around treating anxiety, depression, women’s issues, self-esteem issues, trauma, grief, and attachment disorders. The treatment modalities I utilize are attachment-based, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), feminist perspective, the Gottman Method, motivational interviewing, and Trauma Focused-CBT to name a few.
(206) 203-3403 View (206) 203-3403
Photo of Niamh Hughes - Blossom Through Therapy, PLLC, LMHC, MA, PMH-C, Counselor
Blossom Through Therapy, PLLC
Counselor, LMHC, MA, PMH-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bellevue, WA 98004  (Online Only)
Updated July 1, 2024. Limited availability. Hello! I'm Niamh (pronounced Neve). I specialize in depression, anxiety, adjustment issues, and pregnancy and postpartum (perinatal) mental health. I often work with clients who are dealing with high stress environments, burn-out, relationship issues, self-esteem, and adjustment issues. I believe that healing begins in a safe space. A place you can feel comfortable to grow, to explore, to reflect, and change. In your sessions with me, you should expect a warm, empathetic, non-judgmental person to accompany you on your therapy journey.
Updated July 1, 2024. Limited availability. Hello! I'm Niamh (pronounced Neve). I specialize in depression, anxiety, adjustment issues, and pregnancy and postpartum (perinatal) mental health. I often work with clients who are dealing with high stress environments, burn-out, relationship issues, self-esteem, and adjustment issues. I believe that healing begins in a safe space. A place you can feel comfortable to grow, to explore, to reflect, and change. In your sessions with me, you should expect a warm, empathetic, non-judgmental person to accompany you on your therapy journey.
(206) 589-1149 View (206) 589-1149
Photo of Casey Paganucci, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Casey Paganucci
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bellevue, WA 98004
Waitlist for new clients
Sometimes life can be overwhelming. Perhaps you're tired of anxiety keeping you up at night or feel like depression is hindering you from living your life to your full potential. I enjoy working with adults who may feel trapped in a cycle of anxiety/depression or just feeling stuck in the monotony of every day life. Some issues I commonly work with clients on are: pregnancy/new parenting stress, career challenges, academic stress, alcohol use, relationship challenges, trauma.
Sometimes life can be overwhelming. Perhaps you're tired of anxiety keeping you up at night or feel like depression is hindering you from living your life to your full potential. I enjoy working with adults who may feel trapped in a cycle of anxiety/depression or just feeling stuck in the monotony of every day life. Some issues I commonly work with clients on are: pregnancy/new parenting stress, career challenges, academic stress, alcohol use, relationship challenges, trauma.
(919) 737-7120 View (919) 737-7120
Photo of Dr. Madison Feil, PhD, Psychologist
Dr. Madison Feil
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bellevue, WA 98005
I currently have availability for new clients! I'm a licensed psychologist practicing in the Seattle area. I see clients both in person at my Eastlake office and via telehealth. I work individually with adults and teenagers, and I do parent coaching and/or family therapy for families struggling with behavioral difficulties or communication issues. I also work with new and expectant parents on the transition to parenthood with a focus on perinatal mood and anxiety disorders. My passion is helping people overcome obstacles in order to build the lives they envision for themselves.
I currently have availability for new clients! I'm a licensed psychologist practicing in the Seattle area. I see clients both in person at my Eastlake office and via telehealth. I work individually with adults and teenagers, and I do parent coaching and/or family therapy for families struggling with behavioral difficulties or communication issues. I also work with new and expectant parents on the transition to parenthood with a focus on perinatal mood and anxiety disorders. My passion is helping people overcome obstacles in order to build the lives they envision for themselves.
(206) 210-1597 View (206) 210-1597
Photo of Gladys Rodriguez, LSWAIC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Gladys Rodriguez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSWAIC
Verified Verified
Bellevue, WA 98004  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Hi, I'm Gladys I specialize in providing therapy to women to prevent and treat perinatal (time before and after birth, usually during pregnancy and up to one year postpartum) mood and anxiety disorders. While that is my specialty, my services are not limited to perinatal clients. I am passionate about studying trauma and raising awareness about mental health disparities, resources, and support. Please visit my website for my information.
Hi, I'm Gladys I specialize in providing therapy to women to prevent and treat perinatal (time before and after birth, usually during pregnancy and up to one year postpartum) mood and anxiety disorders. While that is my specialty, my services are not limited to perinatal clients. I am passionate about studying trauma and raising awareness about mental health disparities, resources, and support. Please visit my website for my information.
(206) 429-8635 View (206) 429-8635
Photo of Celeste Amato, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Celeste Amato
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Bellevue, WA 98004  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
I have a special interest in working with clients who are struggling with perinatal and postpartum mental health and also with individuals and couples who are experiencing or have been fighting infertility or pregnancy loss.
I'm so glad you're here. If you are feeling the urge to seek out therapy, I admire you for taking the leap. Sometimes, the hardest part of therapy can be searching for a therapist or making that first appointment. Going through therapy is a journey, and together with support, I am confident that it will be an experience you are proud of. Let's work together to create a story that fits exactly where you are in life.  ​ ​
I have a special interest in working with clients who are struggling with perinatal and postpartum mental health and also with individuals and couples who are experiencing or have been fighting infertility or pregnancy loss.
I'm so glad you're here. If you are feeling the urge to seek out therapy, I admire you for taking the leap. Sometimes, the hardest part of therapy can be searching for a therapist or making that first appointment. Going through therapy is a journey, and together with support, I am confident that it will be an experience you are proud of. Let's work together to create a story that fits exactly where you are in life.  ​ ​
(206) 558-9230 View (206) 558-9230
Photo of Jessica Scales, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jessica Scales
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Bellevue, WA 98005  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Not Accepting New Client When life gets busy, it is easy to wake up and find yourself not where you expected to be. I help people reconnect with themselves and in their relationships- whether this is healing from an affair, finding the spark again, to figuring out what makes you feel happy and alive. I believe that we can heal from hurt and live a life we love, but we must reconnect with ourselves and others in order to find peace. I also enjoy working with woman who are pregnant or postpartum, as this can be an overwhelming, yet exciting time in life.
Not Accepting New Client When life gets busy, it is easy to wake up and find yourself not where you expected to be. I help people reconnect with themselves and in their relationships- whether this is healing from an affair, finding the spark again, to figuring out what makes you feel happy and alive. I believe that we can heal from hurt and live a life we love, but we must reconnect with ourselves and others in order to find peace. I also enjoy working with woman who are pregnant or postpartum, as this can be an overwhelming, yet exciting time in life.
(206) 973-0105 View (206) 973-0105
Photo of Kristie Miller, LICSW, RN, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kristie Miller
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, RN
Verified Verified
Bellevue, WA 98004  (Online Only)
These experiences have equipped me to work with clients with a wide range of concerns including chronic illness, perinatal mood and anxiety disorders, infertility, and grief/loss.
The name of my business, Resilient Roots Counseling, captures the essence of my therapeutic philosophy. I believe we set down roots as we journey through life. Sometimes we grow abundantly through rich, fertile soil. Other times we must grow despite rocky, unproductive dirt. In these times, we can find healthy ways to cope and learn to be resilient. As a therapist, I will come alongside you as you work through your challenges, whether it be past or present. I will listen with empathy and compassion and provide tools to help you on your journey. I will encourage you to discover your authentic self and find ways to thrive.
These experiences have equipped me to work with clients with a wide range of concerns including chronic illness, perinatal mood and anxiety disorders, infertility, and grief/loss.
The name of my business, Resilient Roots Counseling, captures the essence of my therapeutic philosophy. I believe we set down roots as we journey through life. Sometimes we grow abundantly through rich, fertile soil. Other times we must grow despite rocky, unproductive dirt. In these times, we can find healthy ways to cope and learn to be resilient. As a therapist, I will come alongside you as you work through your challenges, whether it be past or present. I will listen with empathy and compassion and provide tools to help you on your journey. I will encourage you to discover your authentic self and find ways to thrive.
(360) 512-7925 View (360) 512-7925
Photo of Brianna Chamberlain, LICSW, SUDP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Brianna Chamberlain
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, SUDP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bellevue, WA 98004
I specialize in working with individuals 16-35 who are experiencing anxiety, depression, substance misuse, emotion dysregulation, stress, and challenges in relationships within their family of origin. I'm particularly passionate about supporting individuals experiencing life transitions, including pregnancy/postpartum and new parents. My work with clients is person-centered, strengths-based, and trauma-informed. My style is warm, genuine, and direct. I often use humor with my clients, when appropriate, because laughter can be a very powerful tool and often helps foster a sense of trust and alliance.
I specialize in working with individuals 16-35 who are experiencing anxiety, depression, substance misuse, emotion dysregulation, stress, and challenges in relationships within their family of origin. I'm particularly passionate about supporting individuals experiencing life transitions, including pregnancy/postpartum and new parents. My work with clients is person-centered, strengths-based, and trauma-informed. My style is warm, genuine, and direct. I often use humor with my clients, when appropriate, because laughter can be a very powerful tool and often helps foster a sense of trust and alliance.
(206) 208-7358 View (206) 208-7358
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.