Perinatal Mental Health

Do not navigate the journey of new parenthood alone.

Are you experiencing anxiety about your baby's health, your parenting decisions, or the future?
Are you feeling depressed or disconnected at this time when you think you should be happy?
Are you noticing identity shifts, while you're adjusting to being a parent?

If these things bother you, please know that you are not alone.These feelings are valid and a natural part of this profound life change. They don't mean you're not a good parent; they mean you're human, adapting to an extraordinary new role. You should be proud of yourself for wanting to take good care of yourself! Up to 50% of perinatal depression cases remain undiagnosed due to the stigma surrounding the condition and patients' reluctance to disclose symptoms. So we are so glad you are seeking help. Please do not hesitate to reach out to us just to have a conversation.

What is perinatal mental health anyway?

The perinatal period encompasses all things before and after childbirth. This can include fertility challenges, pregnancy, birth, postpartum, loss, and the early years of parenting (Isobel, 2023; Hopkins & Hellberg, 2021).Both women and men experience can mental health symptoms during the perinatal period, when both parents are experiencing the stress of a major life change. Although “postpartum” depression is a more recognized term, "perinatal" is a more comprehensive term that includes all kinds of mental health challenges, both before and after birth, and including both men and women.

This period, while often anticipated with hope and joy, can also be a time of intense system activation, grief, and reorganization. Past traumas may resurface, and new ones can unfold, creating layers of confusing emotions. The nervous system experiences flux, identity undergoes shifts, and relationships are renegotiated—all under high stress and often little sleep.

What are the issues that people face in the perinatal period?

Anxiety
Depression
Previous trauma surfacing
Infant loss / grief
Challenges with high-risk pregnancies
Birth trauma
Breastfeeding challenges
Infertility
NICU experiences
Perinatal mental health conditions (including OCD, bipolar disorder, and ADHD impacting parenting)

Why are we the right choice for perinatal therapy?

Luckily, we have Britni Hulser, LCSW on our team. She is certified in Perinatal Mental Health through Postpartum Support International (PSI). She brings a wealth of knowledge and experience working with clients in the perinatal stage.

Second, we utilize modalities that tap into the nervous system and foster adaptive information processing. We are not just reducing symptoms. We are helping the nervous system organize around safety and connection rather than fear and fragmentation.

Is it dangerous to work on my trauma during the perinatal period? Is EMDR safe while I am pregnant?

We have done a lot of EMDR with pregnant women, and have had great success. There is nothing dangerous about EMDR, when it is done with care, containment, and connection. We are not overwhelming the nervous system—we’re strengthening it. We will work with you at your pace and will always honor your body, your mind, and the time you need to feel safe. Communication with your therapist about fears, conflicting feelings, and body sensations are always a part of the EMDR process. This will keep you in your "window of tolerance" and keep you from feeling overwhelmed.