It is typical to experience something called “baby blues” up to 2 weeks post-birth. This is typically due to the hormonal aftermath of birthing a child(ren). After the 2 week period, we may explore whether you may be affected by any of the Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders (PMADs). PMADs includes Postpartum Depression (PPD), Postpartum Anxiety (PPA), Postpartum OCD, Postpartum Bi-Polar, Postpartum Psychosis and Postpartum Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder.

However, you do not need to be experiencing disordered symptomatology to find therapy helpful! You have likely entered one of the most joyous and simultaneously stressful timeframes of you life. We can all use support through times like those, and this huge adventure is no different. Postpartum therapy can help you with finding yourself again after birth, learning how to manage your own thoughts and feelings, finding validation in someone whose been there (Its me, I’ve been there!) and seeking support where you can feel comfortable to share all the intense and sometimes wild aspects of postpartum (read about the lemon clot story here!)

Postpartum therapy offers numerous benefits, including emotional support, development of coping strategies, improved mental health, and enhanced mother-infant bonding. It also helps in better communication with partners and family members and promotes a balanced approach to self-care, empowering mothers to embrace their new roles with confidence.

The duration of postpartum therapy varies depending on individual needs and circumstances. Some mothers may find relief after a few sessions, while others may benefit from ongoing support over several months. At Mental Perk Therapy, I value your opinion on your own needs. We’ll have open discussions about your progress along the way and assess your need for therapy as we pass certain milestones. My goal is for you to graduate therapy!

Yes, postpartum therapy can address emotional and psychological aspects of breastfeeding challenges. It can provide support for feelings of frustration, anxiety, or guilt related to breastfeeding, helping mothers develop a more positive and relaxed approach to feeding their babies.

Currently, Mental Perk Therapy does not accept insurance and is a private pay office. Session fees can be found here (Link to where that info will be held).

Mental Perk Therapy does offer a superbill** (an itemized bill that you can submit to your insurance company to seek reimbursement for out of network costs). There may also be limited sliding scale spots available. **In order to utilize a superbill, you must verify if you have out of network benefits available. If you are unsure, please feel free to reach out here (hyperlink to contact me page) and I am happy to assist you with that process.

Yes, many therapists offer sessions that include partners or family members. This can be beneficial for improving communication, understanding each other’s experiences, and fostering a supportive home environment.

I offer couple’s therapy in two ways – 1) Initial session and follow up sessions are with the couple together. 2) Individual therapy is being conducted and couple’s sessions may be ancillary to supporting that individual.

During a postpartum therapy session, you can expect to discuss your feelings, experiences, and challenges in a safe and non-judgmental environment. The therapist will help you explore your emotions, develop coping strategies, and work towards your mental health goals. Sessions may include talk therapy, cognitive-behavioral techniques, and other therapeutic approaches tailored to your needs.

The use of therapy in the pregnancy period is reported to significantly reduce the likelihood of postpartum depression. Postpartum therapy and treatment can be profoundly impactful to the reduction of symptoms, development of PMADs, and timely intervention in the case of any severe symptoms that may arise. Surprisingly, suicide and homicide are considered the leading cause of death during both pregnancy and postpartum periods.

Postpartum therapy can also help you assess for the need of medication, should you choose to pursue it.

Surprisingly, suicide and homicide are considered the leading cause of death during both pregnancy and postpartum periods.

Screening for postpartum mental health concerns is highly inconsistent and unregulated. Typically, we see birthing people screened very seldom, and usually only for postpartum depression. It is important to seek adequate care during your pregnancy and in the postpartum phase if you feel that you are not yourself. A perinatal informed therapist or prescriber (psychiatrist or nurse practitioner) can provide you with the appropriate assessments and diagnose you.