Perinatal Mental Health - A Balancing Act
The arrival of a new baby, the journey of pregnancy, or the anticipation of parenthood is a time filled with immense emotions and joy. However, this period can also bring unexpected difficulties.
These phases can trigger various challenges such as
Depression
Anxiety
Anger
Grief
Guilt
Intrusive and Scary Thoughts
Relationship Strains
Body Image Issues
Trauma Related to the Birth Experience
We provide perinatal mental health services for new, expecting and hopeful parents.
Learn More About Who We Work With:
-
Infertility
Our bodies are supposed to be able to be able to make babies when we are ready. And when it doesn’t happen, it can lead to feelings of frustration, depression, anxiety, and grief (just to name a few). You may feel socially isolated (and see babies EVERYWHERE!), experience financial stresses, and experience relationship strains. We can walk along side you during this trying time.
-
Infant Loss and Miscarriage
Losing a pregnancy or a baby can be traumatizing. Few can truly comprehend the pain of losing a baby like a parent who has experienced that profound loss. Regardless of where you are in your grieving journey, it's important to recognize that you are not alone. We are here, prepared to offer support, whether it's today, a month, or even a year from now.
-
Birth Trauma
Birth trauma is rooted in a sense of powerlessness during the birthing process. Often times, for a new mother, it can be profoundly distressing effecting around 5% of all births. Postpartum PTSD may entail relving trauma, sleep disturbances, flashbacks, heightened anxiety, and episodes of panic and lead to feelings of anger, sadness, or disassociation.
-
Postpartum Depression
You had the baby, so why do you feel so off??? PPD can show up in a variety of forms: anger or irritability, disinterest in the baby, changes in appetite and sleep patterns. crying spells and overwhelming sadness, feelings of guilt, shame, or hopelessness, diminished interest or joy in previously enjoyed activities and/or occasional thoughts of harm towards the baby or oneself.
-
Postpartum Anxiety
Postpartum anxiety can include a variety of symptoms including constant worry, feeling that something bad is going to happen, racing thoughts, disturbances of sleep and appetite, inability to sit still, and physical symptoms like dizziness, hot flashes, and nausea. Another characteristic may be obsessive, intrusive, and frequently disturbing thoughts.
-
New Parent STRESS
Babies are amazing additions to our world but they also create stress! Between sleep deprivation, crying, relational stress, and financial strain, it is no wonder that you and or your partner may feel extra stress during this time. New parents often need support and guidance as they begin to navigate this new ‘normal.’
Remember, you're not alone in this!
Whatever you're going through, your mental health matters! I specialize in perinatal mental health and am in the process of becoming certified through Postpartum Support International. I offer individual and family therapy, group support, and consultations along with appropriate referrals.
My profound commitment lies in ensuring you feel supported, understood, and heard as you navigate through this transformative phase of life.