Pregnancy, Prenatal, Postpartum Therapists in Morehead City, NC

Photo of Ashlea Staunch-Humphries, LCSW (Remote NC only), Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Morehead City, NC
Ashlea Staunch-Humphries, LCSW (Remote NC only)
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, NC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Morehead City, NC 28557  (Online Only)
Ashlea utilizes dynamic, client-centered therapeutic methods to uncover the root causes of distress and transform negative patterns that arise from personal trauma, loss, depression, anxiety, court and medical issues, and relationship conflicts. As a court-certified, abuse and trauma expert, her clinical experience and certifications include: EMDR Levels 1 & 2, Critical Incident Stress Debriefing, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Gottman, Forensic Interviewing, Nia Blue Belt, mindfulness, and Transcendental Meditation (TM). She is a cancer survivor who connects from the heart.
Ashlea utilizes dynamic, client-centered therapeutic methods to uncover the root causes of distress and transform negative patterns that arise from personal trauma, loss, depression, anxiety, court and medical issues, and relationship conflicts. As a court-certified, abuse and trauma expert, her clinical experience and certifications include: EMDR Levels 1 & 2, Critical Incident Stress Debriefing, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Gottman, Forensic Interviewing, Nia Blue Belt, mindfulness, and Transcendental Meditation (TM). She is a cancer survivor who connects from the heart.
(252) 512-4061 View (252) 512-4061
Photo of Elizabeth Spires, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Morehead City, NC
Elizabeth Spires
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Morehead City, NC 28557  (Online Only)
I help women who feel stuck & overwhelmed regain control of their lives. My clients struggle as you do. Despite being smart, hardworking & motivated, life is hard. When they first come in they feel exhausted, angry & alone. They put others’ needs before their own & worry saying “no” will disappoint loved ones. Their relationships are suffering. They aren’t the partner, friend, daughter, & colleague they want to be. Before my clients came to see me, they felt guilty for feeling drained & frustrated. They feared the rollercoaster of emotions would go on forever. They worried no one would ever understand what they were going through.
I help women who feel stuck & overwhelmed regain control of their lives. My clients struggle as you do. Despite being smart, hardworking & motivated, life is hard. When they first come in they feel exhausted, angry & alone. They put others’ needs before their own & worry saying “no” will disappoint loved ones. Their relationships are suffering. They aren’t the partner, friend, daughter, & colleague they want to be. Before my clients came to see me, they felt guilty for feeling drained & frustrated. They feared the rollercoaster of emotions would go on forever. They worried no one would ever understand what they were going through.
(252) 484-6937 View (252) 484-6937
Photo of Brighter Life Counseling, PLLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Morehead City, NC
Brighter Life Counseling, PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, NCC, LPC, LCAS, CCMC, DBTC
Verified Verified
Morehead City, NC 28557
Life can be very difficult at times, and I want to help. I have had the opportunity to train in a variety of therapeutic modalities, making me uniquely qualified to utilize the interventions that are most appropriate for each of my clients. In order to determine the most appropriate form of treatment, I collaborate with each of my clients to determine the issues they would like to address and the goals they would like to achieve. We are then in a better position to determine the most efficacious treatment modality.
Life can be very difficult at times, and I want to help. I have had the opportunity to train in a variety of therapeutic modalities, making me uniquely qualified to utilize the interventions that are most appropriate for each of my clients. In order to determine the most appropriate form of treatment, I collaborate with each of my clients to determine the issues they would like to address and the goals they would like to achieve. We are then in a better position to determine the most efficacious treatment modality.
(910) 378-3685 View (910) 378-3685
Photo of Nicole Leigh Bettis, Marriage & Family Therapist in Morehead City, NC
Nicole Leigh Bettis
Marriage & Family Therapist, EdS, LMFT, RPT
Verified Verified
Morehead City, NC 28557
I am a marriage & family therapist and a registered play therapist. I have a wide range of experience in working with children, adolescents, couples, individuals, and families. My areas of specialization working with issues related to divorce, child custody, parenting, co-parenting, infidelity, family loss/grief, military family issues, school or work related problems, adoption, infertility, emotion regulation, trust and abandonment issues. My goal is to provide a private, safe place for you to better understand your situation and to help you make the changes necessary to live the life you desire.
I am a marriage & family therapist and a registered play therapist. I have a wide range of experience in working with children, adolescents, couples, individuals, and families. My areas of specialization working with issues related to divorce, child custody, parenting, co-parenting, infidelity, family loss/grief, military family issues, school or work related problems, adoption, infertility, emotion regulation, trust and abandonment issues. My goal is to provide a private, safe place for you to better understand your situation and to help you make the changes necessary to live the life you desire.
(252) 377-4047 View (252) 377-4047
Myra Schneider
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW
Verified Verified
Morehead City, NC 28557  (Online Only)
I have been providing individual, couples, and family therapy for over 35 years. Areas of specialty in my clinical practice include couple/family relational issues, anxiety, depression, stress and health, life transitions, and work systems issues. Anxiety may interfere with a person's ability to think clearly at times of stress or crisis and may impede their finding a course of action. Through the initial assessment phase and as therapy progresses, the ability to think more calmly and objectively about a problem can return. A person may then more effectively address the inevitable challenges in relationships and in life.
I have been providing individual, couples, and family therapy for over 35 years. Areas of specialty in my clinical practice include couple/family relational issues, anxiety, depression, stress and health, life transitions, and work systems issues. Anxiety may interfere with a person's ability to think clearly at times of stress or crisis and may impede their finding a course of action. Through the initial assessment phase and as therapy progresses, the ability to think more calmly and objectively about a problem can return. A person may then more effectively address the inevitable challenges in relationships and in life.
(743) 800-2121 View (743) 800-2121
Photo of Charlie P Marquardt, Counselor in Morehead City, NC
Charlie P Marquardt
Counselor, LCMHC, MEd
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Morehead City, NC 28557
Life is complicated. Often the difficulties and stress we face create conflict and struggles that need to be shared with others. Through counseling, I believe that clients can find relief from the stress and pain of broken relationships, addiction, past traumas and unidentified emotional and spiritual wounds. I primarily work with adults experiencing anxiety or depression. I also work with people experiencing grief or who have been in abusive relationships. I work collaboratively with clients to help them find peace and rest in the midst of daily life.
Life is complicated. Often the difficulties and stress we face create conflict and struggles that need to be shared with others. Through counseling, I believe that clients can find relief from the stress and pain of broken relationships, addiction, past traumas and unidentified emotional and spiritual wounds. I primarily work with adults experiencing anxiety or depression. I also work with people experiencing grief or who have been in abusive relationships. I work collaboratively with clients to help them find peace and rest in the midst of daily life.
(980) 295-1250 View (980) 295-1250
Photo of Lisa Fitzpatrick, Pre-Licensed Professional in Morehead City, NC
Lisa Fitzpatrick
Pre-Licensed Professional, LCSWA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Morehead City, NC 28557
Hello! I'm thrilled to have you here. When you're grappling with relationship woes, career changes, or the tumultuous shifts of life, remember, you're not alone. I recognize that seeking support can seem daunting, especially if you're uncertain about therapy's suitability for you. Doubts and uncertainties are common. You might value your self-sufficiency and independence, yet find yourself overwhelmed by emotions or the demands of life. You might be someone who prides themselves on being self-sufficient and independent, yet finds themselves struggling to manage everything. Despite doubts, you crave relief and healthier coping.
Hello! I'm thrilled to have you here. When you're grappling with relationship woes, career changes, or the tumultuous shifts of life, remember, you're not alone. I recognize that seeking support can seem daunting, especially if you're uncertain about therapy's suitability for you. Doubts and uncertainties are common. You might value your self-sufficiency and independence, yet find yourself overwhelmed by emotions or the demands of life. You might be someone who prides themselves on being self-sufficient and independent, yet finds themselves struggling to manage everything. Despite doubts, you crave relief and healthier coping.
(910) 901-2913 View (910) 901-2913
Photo of Noella N. S Dowers, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Morehead City, NC
Noella N. S Dowers
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MS, CHAD, LCMHC, CCTP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Morehead City, NC 28557
Counseling for children, adolescents, adults, & couples. Professional, confidential support for Children, Adolescents and Adults, Families and Couples. If you are struggling with relationship challenges, depression, anxiety, parenting, issues at work or difficulty figuring out where you fit in. Does your child have behavior challenges? socialization struggles? Are you experiencing loss of a loved one or a broken relationship? Past traumatic event making life seem unbearable therapy provides you someone who will listen, offer guidance, and offer support as you learn new coping strategies and gain insight.
Counseling for children, adolescents, adults, & couples. Professional, confidential support for Children, Adolescents and Adults, Families and Couples. If you are struggling with relationship challenges, depression, anxiety, parenting, issues at work or difficulty figuring out where you fit in. Does your child have behavior challenges? socialization struggles? Are you experiencing loss of a loved one or a broken relationship? Past traumatic event making life seem unbearable therapy provides you someone who will listen, offer guidance, and offer support as you learn new coping strategies and gain insight.
(910) 543-3483 View (910) 543-3483
Photo of Tracy R Perez, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Morehead City, NC
Tracy R Perez
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MS, LCMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Morehead City, NC 28557
Are you looking for a specialist in trauma, anxiety, relationships, and sex therapy? I provide a sound space for you to discuss your deepest feelings and worries. Sometimes you need an advocate that is there for you. Friends and family don’t always understand. Or maybe they are not safe to talk to about what is bothering you. I offer in-person therapy in the Jacksonville and surrounding areas AND online therapy throughout North Carolina.
Are you looking for a specialist in trauma, anxiety, relationships, and sex therapy? I provide a sound space for you to discuss your deepest feelings and worries. Sometimes you need an advocate that is there for you. Friends and family don’t always understand. Or maybe they are not safe to talk to about what is bothering you. I offer in-person therapy in the Jacksonville and surrounding areas AND online therapy throughout North Carolina.
(910) 240-4157 View (910) 240-4157
Photo of Che Hurt Ward, Psychologist in Morehead City, NC
Che Hurt Ward
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Morehead City, NC 28557
Its a TOXIC WORLD, social media and COVID have devastated our lives and caused so much pain. Its hard to know where to turn and who can actually understand or help. Having somewhere to go where you are understood and accepted is the first step. What comes after is amazing!
Its a TOXIC WORLD, social media and COVID have devastated our lives and caused so much pain. Its hard to know where to turn and who can actually understand or help. Having somewhere to go where you are understood and accepted is the first step. What comes after is amazing!
(252) 599-5027 View (252) 599-5027
Photo of Dana Duke, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Morehead City, NC
Dana Duke
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Morehead City, NC 28557
Everyone has times in their life that are challenging, confusing, and/or hard to figure out. Life gets that way sometimes. There is wisdom in seeking help to sort through these challenges. Sometimes a professional can help you see things from a different angle, provide other thoughts to consider, and be there with you as you figure out the hard things in life. We all want the very best for our marriages, our children, our families, and yes, even ourselves- at home and at work. Sometimes we experience unimaginable, unspeakable trauma. There is hope for the future, hope for your life, beyond what happened. Life gets better.
Everyone has times in their life that are challenging, confusing, and/or hard to figure out. Life gets that way sometimes. There is wisdom in seeking help to sort through these challenges. Sometimes a professional can help you see things from a different angle, provide other thoughts to consider, and be there with you as you figure out the hard things in life. We all want the very best for our marriages, our children, our families, and yes, even ourselves- at home and at work. Sometimes we experience unimaginable, unspeakable trauma. There is hope for the future, hope for your life, beyond what happened. Life gets better.
(252) 376-9614 View (252) 376-9614

Online Therapists

Photo of Alyssa Hermanson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Morehead City, NC
Alyssa Hermanson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSWA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New Bern, NC 28562  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
We will work together to build tools to manage anxiety, depression, or postpartum symptoms.
You may be feeling overwhelmed by work, stress from your relationships, or parenting. And while you may put on a brave and confident face, secretly you're over-analyzing and over-thinking every situation and decision. It can be difficult to cope when you're feeling stressed and overwhelmed. You feel like you're stuck in a rut, unable to move forward. My advice? It's time to take a step back, slow down, and reflect on your life and the changes you want to make to build sustainable happiness. You deserve it! Let's talk about what's been going on and see how we can work together to make some positive changes.
We will work together to build tools to manage anxiety, depression, or postpartum symptoms.
You may be feeling overwhelmed by work, stress from your relationships, or parenting. And while you may put on a brave and confident face, secretly you're over-analyzing and over-thinking every situation and decision. It can be difficult to cope when you're feeling stressed and overwhelmed. You feel like you're stuck in a rut, unable to move forward. My advice? It's time to take a step back, slow down, and reflect on your life and the changes you want to make to build sustainable happiness. You deserve it! Let's talk about what's been going on and see how we can work together to make some positive changes.
(252) 262-2475 View (252) 262-2475
Photo of Elizabeth W Watson, Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate in Morehead City, NC
Elizabeth W Watson
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate
Verified Verified
Wilmington, NC 28401
Hi! I'm Elizabeth. If you're reading this, you or someone you care about might be interested in seeking counseling services. Working through relationship and family of origin issues, challenging negative belief systems and improving unhelpful habits/thoughts are a few areas worked on often in therapy. I have worked with those who are adjusting to change, grieving, experiencing depression/anxiety (postpartum or otherwise) as well as teenagers coping with change, and children and families coping with divorce. My desire is to walk alongside clients to help navigate whatever issue is before them.
Hi! I'm Elizabeth. If you're reading this, you or someone you care about might be interested in seeking counseling services. Working through relationship and family of origin issues, challenging negative belief systems and improving unhelpful habits/thoughts are a few areas worked on often in therapy. I have worked with those who are adjusting to change, grieving, experiencing depression/anxiety (postpartum or otherwise) as well as teenagers coping with change, and children and families coping with divorce. My desire is to walk alongside clients to help navigate whatever issue is before them.
(910) 335-2648 View (910) 335-2648
Photo of Karen K. Esala (Open Water Wellness Pllc), Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Morehead City, NC
Karen K. Esala (Open Water Wellness Pllc)
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Jacksonville, NC 28540
I also have experience working with individuals seeking services for depression, anxiety and postpartum mental health care.
Do you ever feel a disconnect and you do not understand why? Perhaps, you play scenarios internally time and time again with little to no resolution. Maybe things from your past have never fully been resolved making it hard to streamline your thoughts. If you are seeking to find resolution, apply self-care, and enjoy the moment, I welcome you to contact me today. Together, we can determine goals applicable to your desired outcome, and strive to increase your overall level of wellness.
I also have experience working with individuals seeking services for depression, anxiety and postpartum mental health care.
Do you ever feel a disconnect and you do not understand why? Perhaps, you play scenarios internally time and time again with little to no resolution. Maybe things from your past have never fully been resolved making it hard to streamline your thoughts. If you are seeking to find resolution, apply self-care, and enjoy the moment, I welcome you to contact me today. Together, we can determine goals applicable to your desired outcome, and strive to increase your overall level of wellness.
(910) 548-7851 View (910) 548-7851
Photo of London Mingo, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Morehead City, NC
London Mingo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Jacksonville, NC 28546  (Online Only)
Hello! I am a therapist and Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the states of FL and NC. Over the past 10 years I've had the opportunity to work with diverse groups of individuals in many different settings. Through my experiences and focused trainings I am confident in my ability to help those struggling with adult ADHD, PTSD or trauma, relationship issues, parenting problems, anxiety/depression, and perinatal mood disorders. I would love to have a free phone/video consultation to ensure we are a good match!
Hello! I am a therapist and Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the states of FL and NC. Over the past 10 years I've had the opportunity to work with diverse groups of individuals in many different settings. Through my experiences and focused trainings I am confident in my ability to help those struggling with adult ADHD, PTSD or trauma, relationship issues, parenting problems, anxiety/depression, and perinatal mood disorders. I would love to have a free phone/video consultation to ensure we are a good match!
(252) 429-5437 View (252) 429-5437
Photo of Daniela Williams, Counselor in Morehead City, NC
Daniela Williams
Counselor, MA, NCC, LCMHC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Wilmington, NC 28403
While I work with various mental health issues, additional areas of interest include but are not limited to Infertility, depression, anxiety, postpartum depression, anxiety, and parenting coaching.
“Life isn’t easy, but it’s a beautiful ride”. If you're having trouble seeing the beauty in life, it would be my honor to help you gain a new perspective. I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor and I believe change begins with increased knowledge and understanding. My goal is to be the therapeutic guide to help you increase your knowledge and understanding of self. Using an integrative approach, we can identify and explore patterns in thoughts, feelings, and behaviors that impact our lives.
While I work with various mental health issues, additional areas of interest include but are not limited to Infertility, depression, anxiety, postpartum depression, anxiety, and parenting coaching.
“Life isn’t easy, but it’s a beautiful ride”. If you're having trouble seeing the beauty in life, it would be my honor to help you gain a new perspective. I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor and I believe change begins with increased knowledge and understanding. My goal is to be the therapeutic guide to help you increase your knowledge and understanding of self. Using an integrative approach, we can identify and explore patterns in thoughts, feelings, and behaviors that impact our lives.
(910) 597-0864 View (910) 597-0864
Photo of Alexis C. Steele, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Morehead City, NC
Alexis C. Steele
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, PMH-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Wilmington, NC 28412
I work with a wide range of grief & loss, including miscarriage, stillborn, out of order deaths, death of a child and death perpetrated by violence.
Looking for some guidance from a non-judgmental perspective? Maybe some hope? I have worked in outpatient mental health for the last 15 years with individuals who have presented with depression, grief and loss, reproductive health, anxiety, trauma and other mood disorders. I work to create a warm, trusting and healing environment so that clients can address their concerns in an honest manner that leads to enduring results. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who received her Masters in Social Work from the University of Maryland at Baltimore and my Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology from Eastern Michigan University.
I work with a wide range of grief & loss, including miscarriage, stillborn, out of order deaths, death of a child and death perpetrated by violence.
Looking for some guidance from a non-judgmental perspective? Maybe some hope? I have worked in outpatient mental health for the last 15 years with individuals who have presented with depression, grief and loss, reproductive health, anxiety, trauma and other mood disorders. I work to create a warm, trusting and healing environment so that clients can address their concerns in an honest manner that leads to enduring results. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who received her Masters in Social Work from the University of Maryland at Baltimore and my Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology from Eastern Michigan University.
(910) 534-4799 View (910) 534-4799
Photo of Parent Like It Matters, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Morehead City, NC
Parent Like It Matters
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Wilmington, NC 28403
Parent Like It Matters was founded in 2022 by Lauren Butler, MSW, LCSW after spending time in various private practice settings. She found her passion for working with children and realized that there is a huge need for specific pediatric mental health care in the Wilmington, NC community. She chose the name Parent Like It Matters because of its meaning to her therapeutic style. Whether it is a parent/guardian bringing a child to therapy, reaching out for postpartum support, asking for parenting help, or joining a support group, there is an intentional choice to parent like it matters, because it really does!.
Parent Like It Matters was founded in 2022 by Lauren Butler, MSW, LCSW after spending time in various private practice settings. She found her passion for working with children and realized that there is a huge need for specific pediatric mental health care in the Wilmington, NC community. She chose the name Parent Like It Matters because of its meaning to her therapeutic style. Whether it is a parent/guardian bringing a child to therapy, reaching out for postpartum support, asking for parenting help, or joining a support group, there is an intentional choice to parent like it matters, because it really does!.
(910) 406-6325 View (910) 406-6325
Photo of Starr Odom, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Morehead City, NC
Starr Odom
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSWA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Greenville, NC 27858
I am also passionate about working with clients through pregnancy and parenting.
Are you are stuck in an endless cycle of worry or depression? You are not alone. Life can be hard; it is common to feel overwhelmed or out of control. Whether you are struggling with anxiety, lack of motivation, or difficulty with new life transitions, I believe that therapy can be greatly beneficial in your life. I am passionate about helping individuals create realistic and sustainable ways to prioritize their mental health. No matter what season of life you are in, you deserve to be a priority.
I am also passionate about working with clients through pregnancy and parenting.
Are you are stuck in an endless cycle of worry or depression? You are not alone. Life can be hard; it is common to feel overwhelmed or out of control. Whether you are struggling with anxiety, lack of motivation, or difficulty with new life transitions, I believe that therapy can be greatly beneficial in your life. I am passionate about helping individuals create realistic and sustainable ways to prioritize their mental health. No matter what season of life you are in, you deserve to be a priority.
(252) 888-3221 View (252) 888-3221
Photo of Chloe Hill, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Morehead City, NC
Chloe Hill
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LCASA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wilmington, NC 28403
While I am passionate about counseling people with many different backgrounds, I have expertise in supporting adults through the challenges of college/higher education, parenting, pregnancy/postpartum, divorce/separation, relationship issues, military service, anxiety, depression, substance use recovery, and healing after sexual and/or emotional abuse.
Life is stressful! It’s full of unexpected changes, transitions, responsibilities, and sometimes, losses. The stress can feel overwhelming, and sometimes we need an extra person in our lives to help us cope. I provide a therapeutic space where you feel fully accepted and deeply understood. I believe in a collaborative and non-judgmental approach to therapy. My goal as your therapist is to empower you to achieve YOUR goals, however big or small. I am trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), an evidence-based treatment for psychological trauma, although I also use other methods depending on your goals.
While I am passionate about counseling people with many different backgrounds, I have expertise in supporting adults through the challenges of college/higher education, parenting, pregnancy/postpartum, divorce/separation, relationship issues, military service, anxiety, depression, substance use recovery, and healing after sexual and/or emotional abuse.
Life is stressful! It’s full of unexpected changes, transitions, responsibilities, and sometimes, losses. The stress can feel overwhelming, and sometimes we need an extra person in our lives to help us cope. I provide a therapeutic space where you feel fully accepted and deeply understood. I believe in a collaborative and non-judgmental approach to therapy. My goal as your therapist is to empower you to achieve YOUR goals, however big or small. I am trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), an evidence-based treatment for psychological trauma, although I also use other methods depending on your goals.
(910) 898-3788 View (910) 898-3788

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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.