Pregnancy and postpartum bring big changes—physically, emotionally, and mentally. While this time is often joyful, it can also come with unexpected emotional challenges. From the “baby blues” to more intense mood or anxiety symptoms, many new parents struggle—and you are not alone.
Our clinicians have advanced training in Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders (PMADs). We understand the many ways emotional struggles can show up during this time. Below is an overview of what you might be experiencing. We can help you understand what’s going on and create a plan to help you feel like yourself again.
Many new parents experience tearfulness, mood swings, and irritability in the days following birth. These symptoms, often called the "baby blues," are common and usually resolve on their own within two weeks. If feelings persist or intensify, it may be a sign of something more. We can help you monitor symptoms and provide early support if needed.
Postpartum depression can include persistent sadness, hopelessness, lack of interest in things you once enjoyed, or feeling disconnected from your baby. It can begin anytime during the first year and may not look like “typical” depression. We offer evidence-based support to help you feel more balanced, engaged, and supported as you heal.
This may show up as constant worry, racing thoughts, restlessness, or physical symptoms like a racing heart. You might feel on edge or unable to relax, even when things are going well. Our therapists help you understand and manage anxiety with tools that promote calm and confidence in your new role.
This form of anxiety can involve intrusive, unwanted thoughts (often about harm coming to your baby) and compulsive behaviors aimed at reducing distress. These thoughts can feel scary, but they don’t reflect your values or intentions. We provide a safe, nonjudgmental space to help you manage symptoms and regain a sense of control.
A traumatic birth or complications during pregnancy or delivery can lead to symptoms such as flashbacks, nightmares, or avoidance of reminders of the trauma. You may feel hypervigilant or emotionally numb. We offer trauma-informed care, including EMDR, to help you process and recover from the experience.
Mood episodes involving intense highs (mania or hypomania) and lows can emerge or worsen during the perinatal period. If you're experiencing drastic shifts in energy, mood, or behavior, we can work closely with your care team to ensure you receive the right support and stability.
This less-common but serious condition may involve hallucinations, delusional thinking, or extreme mood changes. It requires immediate medical attention. If you or someone you love is experiencing these symptoms, it’s important to seek emergency care. Our team can help make this diagnosis, coordinate care, and provide follow-up support.
No. While these conditions are often called “postpartum” because many changes occur after birth, perinatal mood and anxiety disorders (PMADs) can begin during pregnancy as well. We encourage you to reach out for support at any stage—so you can establish care, explore coping strategies, and help ensure a smoother postpartum experience.
We understand how busy this season of life can be, and we’re here to support you in whatever way works best. Many parents come for a single session to be assessed for PMADs or to receive guidance on coping strategies. Others choose regular therapy, while many establish a relationship with a therapist and come as-needed for ongoing support across the various milestones of parenting. We’ll help you determine the approach that fits your schedule and needs.
Absolutely! We encourage expectant parents to start therapy during pregnancy if possible. Meeting with a therapist before birth allows you to build a trusting relationship, learn coping tools, and have support in place for the postpartum period. This preparation can help you feel more confident and supported when your baby arrives.
It’s completely normal to feel unsure about your risk or early warning signs. We offer informational and educational sessions for expecting parents, either individually or with a support partner. In these sessions, we discuss potential risk factors, symptoms to watch for, and guidance on when to reach out for help. Being informed can help you feel more prepared and supported.
The “baby blues” are common in the first days after birth and can include tearfulness, mood swings, or irritability. These feelings usually resolve on their own within about two weeks. Postpartum depression, on the other hand, involves persistent sadness, hopelessness, or feelings of being disconnected from your baby, and it can begin anytime during pregnancy or after birth. Our therapists are happy to help you differentiate between the baby blues and postpartum depression.
Our clinicians have advanced training in PMADs and support a wide range of conditions, including:
We provide trauma-informed, evidence-based support tailored to each parent’s unique needs.
If you notice persistent sadness, anxiety, intrusive thoughts, or any emotional changes that feel overwhelming, it’s a good idea to reach out. You don’t need to wait until your symptoms become severe or until your baby is born. Early support can prevent escalation and help you feel more confident, balanced, and connected.
Yes! Partners or other support people are welcome to participate in educational sessions or therapy when appropriate. Involving your support system can improve understanding, communication, and shared strategies for managing mood and anxiety challenges.
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