Perinatal Mental Health

You’ve heard of "prenatal" and "postpartum," but what’s "perinatal"? It’s the time from conception to your baby’s first year. So much happens during this time—it’s exciting, overwhelming, joyful, and sometimes isolating. You might feel everything from disbelief and joy to physical and emotional aches, all at once. It's a wild ride, for sure!

Taking care of your mental health during this time is so important, not just for you but for your baby, too. When you’re feeling supported and balanced, it helps you connect with your baby and feel more grounded as you navigate all these changes.

You are not alone.

As a new mom, I remember the overwhelming mix of emotions that came with early motherhood—joy, isolation, and everything in between. Everywhere I went, people would say, "enjoy this time; it goes by so quickly." I desperately wanted to cherish those moments with my newborn, but I was grappling with so many other emotions at the same time.

I knew I needed support, and while it took some time to reach out (yes, even therapists struggle with this!), I eventually reconnected with a therapist. Once I restarted therapy, my internal world shifted. I was able to process the range of feelings, parts of self, and trauma I had experienced in such a short time. Through this work (and by continuing to do the work), I realized I wasn’t alone, and my feelings were far more common than I had thought. Just by having someone see me as an individual, rather than just as a new mom, I was able to begin seeing myself again.

Seeking help is a gift you give yourself, creating space for healing and personal growth.

The perinatal period is a time of significant emotional and physical change. This transformative phase of your life can be filled with joy and anticipation as you prepare for and welcome a new life. However, it can also bring a range of challenges, including anxiety, depression, loneliness, anger, and stress. Let us not forget all the physical changes, hormonal shifts, and new responsibilities that can also impact your mental health. The perinatal period is one of the most overlooked periods for women. I’m here to support you through this time by helping to normalize what you’re going through, sharing resources if you’d like, and offering a warm and safe environment where you can share your experiences and feelings.

Common perinatal mental health issues:

Anxiety and depression during pregnancy
Postpartum depression and anxiety

Suicidal thoughts
Struggles with body image and self-esteem
Traumatic birth experience and/or NICU stay
Increased irritability and rage
Relationship stress
Feelings of loneliness and isolation
Difficulty bonding with the baby
Fear of birth and/or labor
Distrust in and negative experiences with medical professionals
Feeding challenges
Pelvic floor issues and other physical concerns
Loss of self

Do any of these examples hit home for you?

Feeling disconnected from your baby, partner, family, friends, and even yourself

How I Can See You

No Unsolicited advice

Oh, the unsolicited advice that new parents get! It comes from every direction. But don’t worry—you won’t get any advice here. You’re on your own, kid. I’m not going to tell you to “just try ginger” or ask, “have you tried…?” Instead, I’ll give you the space to talk through whatever’s weighing on you.

I will be curious about you

It seems like the moment you get pregnant, you're suddenly called "mama" or "daddy," and your name—and identity—goes out the window. Rest assured, I will only call you by your name. I’ll ask about your experiences and how you’re feeling about everything, focusing on you, not just your new role.

Connecting you to resources

Let’s find a village for you! Together, we’ll explore the kind of support you need, and I’ll help connect you with trauma- and perinatal-informed providers who are safe and supportive. This could include a pelvic floor therapist, lactation consultants (whether for nursing or formula support), gynecologists, and more.

Offer supportive and non-judgmental care

The last thing you need is to feel judged by your therapist. I’m here to support you through this challenging and rewarding season of life. I understand how complicated and isolating it can feel, and I’m deeply committed to making sure you feel seen, heard, and validated.