Pregnancy, Prenatal, Postpartum Psychiatrists in Chelmsford, MA

Photo of Adrienne Pitts, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Chelmsford, MA
Adrienne Pitts
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, CNM, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Chelmsford, MA 01824  (Online Only)
I have also taken additional courses in treating infertility, and pregnancy and postpartum adjustment and mood disorders.
I have current openings (as of 4/24). I enjoy getting to know my patients and consider that the best part of my job. I provide medication management services and won’t rush you through appointments and will take time getting to know you. I believe that quality care takes into account the whole person. As a specialist in women’s health, have spent years working in obstetrics as a midwife, and now as a psychiatric NP. I am passionate about serving as a support for women who may be coping with infertility, are currently pregnant, postpartum, or dealing with the stress that often accompanies the early parenting years.
I have also taken additional courses in treating infertility, and pregnancy and postpartum adjustment and mood disorders.
I have current openings (as of 4/24). I enjoy getting to know my patients and consider that the best part of my job. I provide medication management services and won’t rush you through appointments and will take time getting to know you. I believe that quality care takes into account the whole person. As a specialist in women’s health, have spent years working in obstetrics as a midwife, and now as a psychiatric NP. I am passionate about serving as a support for women who may be coping with infertility, are currently pregnant, postpartum, or dealing with the stress that often accompanies the early parenting years.
(603) 821-0008 View (603) 821-0008
Photo of Amanda Sadat, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Chelmsford, MA
Amanda Sadat
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC, APRN, RN, MSN, 200RYT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chelmsford, MA 01824  (Online Only)
My specializations: women's health, perfectionism, social anxiety, pregnancy/post-partum, depression, ptsd, gender dysphoria, anxiety, insomnia, workplace burnout, identity, seasonal affective disorder, life & relationship transitions, chronic illness including autoimmune disorders.
I have almost two decades of experience as a nurse practitioner and therapist treating individuals with mental health struggles. I enjoy working with women's mental health issues including postpartum, motherhood journeys, fertility struggles, PMDD and relationships. I also enjoy working with as a gender affirming provider and trauma informed practice. I offer medication or medication and therapy to treat the whole person as each journey is different. As an integrative mental health provider, it's important to me to curate a wellness plan that fits your needs. It's my goal to listen and empower you along the way.
My specializations: women's health, perfectionism, social anxiety, pregnancy/post-partum, depression, ptsd, gender dysphoria, anxiety, insomnia, workplace burnout, identity, seasonal affective disorder, life & relationship transitions, chronic illness including autoimmune disorders.
I have almost two decades of experience as a nurse practitioner and therapist treating individuals with mental health struggles. I enjoy working with women's mental health issues including postpartum, motherhood journeys, fertility struggles, PMDD and relationships. I also enjoy working with as a gender affirming provider and trauma informed practice. I offer medication or medication and therapy to treat the whole person as each journey is different. As an integrative mental health provider, it's important to me to curate a wellness plan that fits your needs. It's my goal to listen and empower you along the way.
(339) 217-5113 View (339) 217-5113

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Danielle Cogliano, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Chelmsford, MA
Danielle Cogliano
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP, PMHCNS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
North Chelmsford, MA 01863
Together, we may address matters such as new parenting issues, peri- or postpartum mood disorders, or ongoing female-specific mental/physical health topics.
Accepting state of MA. clients only. Please visit my website at Oasisbehavioral.com and fill out the new patient Depression, fear, and anxiety are some of the most common and uncomfortable emotions that we can experience at some point in our lives. My focus is to help my patients heal, energize, and become aware of their inner strengths in order to move forward to where they want to be in life. This is achieved by providing a neutral safe space, listening to your concerns, and customizing a treatment plan. Often this involves medication management, although I always take a holistic approach to my practice, treating the whole person.
Together, we may address matters such as new parenting issues, peri- or postpartum mood disorders, or ongoing female-specific mental/physical health topics.
Accepting state of MA. clients only. Please visit my website at Oasisbehavioral.com and fill out the new patient Depression, fear, and anxiety are some of the most common and uncomfortable emotions that we can experience at some point in our lives. My focus is to help my patients heal, energize, and become aware of their inner strengths in order to move forward to where they want to be in life. This is achieved by providing a neutral safe space, listening to your concerns, and customizing a treatment plan. Often this involves medication management, although I always take a holistic approach to my practice, treating the whole person.
(351) 888-1916 View (351) 888-1916
Photo of Dr. Andrea Papa-Molter, Psychiatrist in Chelmsford, MA
Dr. Andrea Papa-Molter
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Concord, MA 01742
I am double board-certified in Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine. I believe in using both medication when indicated as well as therapy. I was trained in CBT and was given the Excellence in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy during my residency program. I use supportive therapy with each client I see. During my residency I served as Chief Resident and was awarded the Overall Excellence in Psychiatry Award as well as the Clinical Excellence Award.
I am double board-certified in Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine. I believe in using both medication when indicated as well as therapy. I was trained in CBT and was given the Excellence in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy during my residency program. I use supportive therapy with each client I see. During my residency I served as Chief Resident and was awarded the Overall Excellence in Psychiatry Award as well as the Clinical Excellence Award.
(339) 233-4493 View (339) 233-4493
Photo of Mayumi Okuda Benavides, Psychiatrist in Chelmsford, MA
Mayumi Okuda Benavides
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Concord, MA 01742
I want to congratulate you on taking the first steps towards self-improvement. You’ve tried everything: therapy, mindfulness, lifestyle changes, but are still struggling. I understand that making that first appointment can often be one of the biggest hurdles. As your psychiatrist, I will work closely with you every step of the way to determine the best treatment that is tailored specifically to your personal needs.
I want to congratulate you on taking the first steps towards self-improvement. You’ve tried everything: therapy, mindfulness, lifestyle changes, but are still struggling. I understand that making that first appointment can often be one of the biggest hurdles. As your psychiatrist, I will work closely with you every step of the way to determine the best treatment that is tailored specifically to your personal needs.
(978) 643-5182 View (978) 643-5182
Photo of Sandra S Marien, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Chelmsford, MA
Sandra S Marien
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN, BSN
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Acton, MA 01720
My name is Sandra Marien and I am a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over 15 years of experience in the mental health field. I offer psychiatric services to children, adolescents, and adults, such as psychopharmacology evaluation, medication management, diagnosis, treatment, and psychotherapy. I work with clients who have various psychiatric disorders, such as depression, anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, and mood and psychotic disorders. My approach is to collaborate with you to create a personalized and realistic treatment plan that suits your needs and goals.
My name is Sandra Marien and I am a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over 15 years of experience in the mental health field. I offer psychiatric services to children, adolescents, and adults, such as psychopharmacology evaluation, medication management, diagnosis, treatment, and psychotherapy. I work with clients who have various psychiatric disorders, such as depression, anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, and mood and psychotic disorders. My approach is to collaborate with you to create a personalized and realistic treatment plan that suits your needs and goals.
(978) 254-2200 View (978) 254-2200
Photo of Cecilia Sky Ryll, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Chelmsford, MA
Cecilia Sky Ryll
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Westford, MA 01886
I am a board certified psychiatric and mental health nurse practitioner with experience in evaluating and treating anxiety disorders, depression, various mood disorders such as bipolar, PTSD, neurocognitive and psychotic disorders. I graduated from the University of New Hampshire with a post-master certificate in psychiatry and mental health. Prior to this I earned my MSN with specialization in women’s health and then my Doctor of Nursing Practice from Frontier University, and worked as a women’s health nurse practitioner and a primary care provider for women. My niche is focusing on issues involving both areas.
I am a board certified psychiatric and mental health nurse practitioner with experience in evaluating and treating anxiety disorders, depression, various mood disorders such as bipolar, PTSD, neurocognitive and psychotic disorders. I graduated from the University of New Hampshire with a post-master certificate in psychiatry and mental health. Prior to this I earned my MSN with specialization in women’s health and then my Doctor of Nursing Practice from Frontier University, and worked as a women’s health nurse practitioner and a primary care provider for women. My niche is focusing on issues involving both areas.
(508) 625-7434 View (508) 625-7434
Photo of Holly Kalinay Msn Pmhnp-Bc, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Chelmsford, MA
Holly Kalinay Msn Pmhnp-Bc
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Lowell, MA 01850
Personalized, Compassionate, Expert Medication Management. Insurance covered! Greetings! I am Holly, and I would love to hear from you about your needs. Send me a message and let me know how I can help you. Thanks! → Customized and Personalized Care: I individualize my treatment to your unique experiences, symptoms, narrative, needs, and goals. → Getting at Root Causes: I go beyond surface symptoms, take time to understand your history, your diagnostic picture, order laboratory studies, and do optional genetic testing. → Scientific and Evidence-Based: I aim to provide you with the most up to date and accurate advice.
Personalized, Compassionate, Expert Medication Management. Insurance covered! Greetings! I am Holly, and I would love to hear from you about your needs. Send me a message and let me know how I can help you. Thanks! → Customized and Personalized Care: I individualize my treatment to your unique experiences, symptoms, narrative, needs, and goals. → Getting at Root Causes: I go beyond surface symptoms, take time to understand your history, your diagnostic picture, order laboratory studies, and do optional genetic testing. → Scientific and Evidence-Based: I aim to provide you with the most up to date and accurate advice.
View
Photo of Holistic Behavioral Health Services LLC , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Chelmsford, MA
Holistic Behavioral Health Services LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Dracut, MA 01826
Holistic Behavioral Health Services provides both outpatient and tele-psychiatry mental health services in Dracut and surrounding areas. Tele-psychiatry services are provided in the comfort of your home using a computer/ a phone. We accepting new patients. Evening and weekend hours are available to those busy during office hours. Board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with training and experience across the lifespan in outpatient settings.
Holistic Behavioral Health Services provides both outpatient and tele-psychiatry mental health services in Dracut and surrounding areas. Tele-psychiatry services are provided in the comfort of your home using a computer/ a phone. We accepting new patients. Evening and weekend hours are available to those busy during office hours. Board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with training and experience across the lifespan in outpatient settings.
(978) 693-5001 View (978) 693-5001
Photo of Dr. Veronika Stock, Psychiatrist in Chelmsford, MA
Dr. Veronika Stock
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Concord, MA 01742
Waitlist for new clients
In past decade, I observed the mental health crisis culminating while access to help stagnate, or worse - decline. Most people are getting their psychiatric prescription from their general practitioner. This may be enough for some, but not all people affected by mental illness. In most cases, careful and stepwise stabilization is needed, sometimes with two of more medications. In addition, people suffering form several side effects may benefit from genetic testing.
In past decade, I observed the mental health crisis culminating while access to help stagnate, or worse - decline. Most people are getting their psychiatric prescription from their general practitioner. This may be enough for some, but not all people affected by mental illness. In most cases, careful and stepwise stabilization is needed, sometimes with two of more medications. In addition, people suffering form several side effects may benefit from genetic testing.
(978) 381-1903 View (978) 381-1903

Online Psychiatrists

Photo of Dr. Jen Sweet, Psychiatrist in Chelmsford, MA
Dr. Jen Sweet
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02116  (Online Only)
I hope to create a nurturing space that supports you through unique issues that we face as women – whether it be depression, anxiety, work-life balance, parenting, or managing mood disorders in pregnancy and postpartum periods, I want to support you through each phase.
I offer mental healthcare for women and their loved ones, encompassing a more holistic, and I believe, warmer approach to emotional health treatment. I aim to provide specialized and comprehensive treatment for challenges specific to your different life stages. I offer inclusive and truly quality care with the ultimate goal of helping you overcome emotional hurdles that you face, in any phase of your life.
I hope to create a nurturing space that supports you through unique issues that we face as women – whether it be depression, anxiety, work-life balance, parenting, or managing mood disorders in pregnancy and postpartum periods, I want to support you through each phase.
I offer mental healthcare for women and their loved ones, encompassing a more holistic, and I believe, warmer approach to emotional health treatment. I aim to provide specialized and comprehensive treatment for challenges specific to your different life stages. I offer inclusive and truly quality care with the ultimate goal of helping you overcome emotional hurdles that you face, in any phase of your life.
(925) 248-4512 View (925) 248-4512
Photo of Jennifer Tufts, Psychiatrist in Chelmsford, MA
Jennifer Tufts
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Peabody, MA 01960
Dr. Tufts, a Psychiatrist at Aster Mental Health, specializes in PTSD & trauma-related disorders, mood disorders, anxiety, OCD, ADHD, substance abuse, women's mental health, and perinatal & postpartum psychiatry. Her multidimensional treatment approach utilizes tools such as medication, psychotherapy, mindfulness, & lifestyle changes. She is a University of Vermont & Boston University trained Psychiatrist offering medication management as well as psychiatric assessment and treatment.
Dr. Tufts, a Psychiatrist at Aster Mental Health, specializes in PTSD & trauma-related disorders, mood disorders, anxiety, OCD, ADHD, substance abuse, women's mental health, and perinatal & postpartum psychiatry. Her multidimensional treatment approach utilizes tools such as medication, psychotherapy, mindfulness, & lifestyle changes. She is a University of Vermont & Boston University trained Psychiatrist offering medication management as well as psychiatric assessment and treatment.
(857) 675-3812 View (857) 675-3812
Photo of Nina Isakovich, Psychiatrist in Chelmsford, MA
Nina Isakovich
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Brookline, MA 02445
I am a compassionate and knowledgeable psychiatrist highly experienced in treating adults with severe psychiatric disorders and milder emotional disturbances. In addition to my general psychiatry training, I also completed the Harvard Fellowship in Women's Mental Health at the Brigham and Women's Hospital and have unique skills and experience in treating psychiatric symptoms and emotional distress during pregnancy and postpartum as well as psychological symptoms associated with other hormonal changes.
I am a compassionate and knowledgeable psychiatrist highly experienced in treating adults with severe psychiatric disorders and milder emotional disturbances. In addition to my general psychiatry training, I also completed the Harvard Fellowship in Women's Mental Health at the Brigham and Women's Hospital and have unique skills and experience in treating psychiatric symptoms and emotional distress during pregnancy and postpartum as well as psychological symptoms associated with other hormonal changes.
(617) 209-2625 View (617) 209-2625
Photo of Dr. Jen Sweet, Psychiatrist in Chelmsford, MA
Dr. Jen Sweet
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02115  (Online Only)
I hope to create a nurturing space that supports you through unique issues that we face as women – whether it be depression, anxiety, work-life balance, parenting, or managing mood disorders in pregnancy and postpartum periods, I want to support you through each phase.
I offer mental healthcare for women and their loved ones, encompassing a more holistic, and I believe, warmer approach to emotional health treatment. I aim to provide specialized and comprehensive treatment for challenges specific to your different life stages. I offer inclusive and truly quality care with the ultimate goal of helping you overcome emotional hurdles that you face, in any phase of your life.
I hope to create a nurturing space that supports you through unique issues that we face as women – whether it be depression, anxiety, work-life balance, parenting, or managing mood disorders in pregnancy and postpartum periods, I want to support you through each phase.
I offer mental healthcare for women and their loved ones, encompassing a more holistic, and I believe, warmer approach to emotional health treatment. I aim to provide specialized and comprehensive treatment for challenges specific to your different life stages. I offer inclusive and truly quality care with the ultimate goal of helping you overcome emotional hurdles that you face, in any phase of your life.
(646) 847-3787 View (646) 847-3787
Photo of Laura Mayer, Psychiatrist in Chelmsford, MA
Laura Mayer
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Plainville, MA 02762
Waitlist for new clients
My area of expertise is in the care of women throughout pregnancy, postpartum, breastfeeding, infertility, perinatal loss/grief, perimenopause, as well as sexual health.
Accepting NEW preconception planning, pregnant/postpartum ONLY at this time. Welcome! I'm a board certified psychiatrist with an MD from Brown University, fellowship training in Women's Mental Health, and a faculty member at Brown University. I aim to create a highly individualized care plan, tailored to each patient's goals and vision of care. My practice is designed to be small to allow for flexibility, accessibility and attentiveness to each of my patients. Our work together will be empathic, supportive and collaborative. I am now available to see patients in person or via telehealth in RI and virtually for those in MA.
My area of expertise is in the care of women throughout pregnancy, postpartum, breastfeeding, infertility, perinatal loss/grief, perimenopause, as well as sexual health.
Accepting NEW preconception planning, pregnant/postpartum ONLY at this time. Welcome! I'm a board certified psychiatrist with an MD from Brown University, fellowship training in Women's Mental Health, and a faculty member at Brown University. I aim to create a highly individualized care plan, tailored to each patient's goals and vision of care. My practice is designed to be small to allow for flexibility, accessibility and attentiveness to each of my patients. Our work together will be empathic, supportive and collaborative. I am now available to see patients in person or via telehealth in RI and virtually for those in MA.
(401) 264-8199 View (401) 264-8199
Photo of Dr. Kate Salama, Psychiatrist in Chelmsford, MA
Dr. Kate Salama
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02215
I am a Harvard trained adult psychiatrist who specializes in women's mental health. Most women in my practice are struggling with mood symptoms related to the menstrual cycle, fertility, pregnancy & postpartum, as well as the menopause transition. I practice integrative psychiatry, which means I combine traditional pharmacotherapy with nutritional guidance, sleep optimization support, supplement regimens, and hormonal testing if desired. Please visit my website, tendtohermd.com, for more details.
I am a Harvard trained adult psychiatrist who specializes in women's mental health. Most women in my practice are struggling with mood symptoms related to the menstrual cycle, fertility, pregnancy & postpartum, as well as the menopause transition. I practice integrative psychiatry, which means I combine traditional pharmacotherapy with nutritional guidance, sleep optimization support, supplement regimens, and hormonal testing if desired. Please visit my website, tendtohermd.com, for more details.
(720) 571-4036 View (720) 571-4036
Photo of Jain Lattes, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Chelmsford, MA
Jain Lattes
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, CNM
Verified Verified
Northampton, MA 01062  (Online Only)
I work with adolescents and adults who are dealing with mental health issues such as anxiety disorders, depression and bipolar mood disorders, and premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD). My career has been focused primarily around reproductive mental health and wellbeing and providing psychiatric treatment to individuals during preconception planning, pregnancy and postpartum periods.
I work with adolescents and adults who are dealing with mental health issues such as anxiety disorders, depression and bipolar mood disorders, and premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD). My career has been focused primarily around reproductive mental health and wellbeing and providing psychiatric treatment to individuals during preconception planning, pregnancy and postpartum periods.
(413) 570-3088 View (413) 570-3088
Photo of William Z Barnard, Psychiatrist in Chelmsford, MA
William Z Barnard
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02116
I am a board certified, Harvard-trained psychiatrist and specialize in helping people identify and manage ADHD, postpartum and peripartum emotional distress, anxiety, and depression.
PRACTICE IS TEMPORARILY CLOSED TO NEW PATIENTS... I aim to be as transparent as possible so as to help you to identify if I might be that person for you. This is vital because it is crucial for you to trust your psychiatrist and feel confident that your concerns and needs will be addressed in a sensitive, respectful, and nonjudgmental way. Whether you are a new mom or dad struggling with the challenges of new parenthood, having difficulty adapting to a new job or role, feeling worried and overwhelmed, or feeling down and withdrawn, I may be able to help you recover and improve your quality of life.
I am a board certified, Harvard-trained psychiatrist and specialize in helping people identify and manage ADHD, postpartum and peripartum emotional distress, anxiety, and depression.
PRACTICE IS TEMPORARILY CLOSED TO NEW PATIENTS... I aim to be as transparent as possible so as to help you to identify if I might be that person for you. This is vital because it is crucial for you to trust your psychiatrist and feel confident that your concerns and needs will be addressed in a sensitive, respectful, and nonjudgmental way. Whether you are a new mom or dad struggling with the challenges of new parenthood, having difficulty adapting to a new job or role, feeling worried and overwhelmed, or feeling down and withdrawn, I may be able to help you recover and improve your quality of life.
(774) 228-7420 View (774) 228-7420
Photo of Caryn Metzger, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Chelmsford, MA
Caryn Metzger
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHCNS, MSN, APRN
Verified Verified
Medway, MA 02053  (Online Only)
**For quickest response to schedule an appointment, please email info@greaterbostonpsych.com** I provide psychopharmacological treatment for adults over 18 years old. I have extensive knowledge and expertise in the assessment, evaluation, and treatment of depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety disorders, PTSD, schizophrenia, and a wide range of other psychiatric disorders. I have a particular interest in women's mental health issues, including perinatal and postpartum mental health disorders. I work collaboratively with clients in developing a treatment plan focused on target symptoms, in a pressure-free environment.
**For quickest response to schedule an appointment, please email info@greaterbostonpsych.com** I provide psychopharmacological treatment for adults over 18 years old. I have extensive knowledge and expertise in the assessment, evaluation, and treatment of depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety disorders, PTSD, schizophrenia, and a wide range of other psychiatric disorders. I have a particular interest in women's mental health issues, including perinatal and postpartum mental health disorders. I work collaboratively with clients in developing a treatment plan focused on target symptoms, in a pressure-free environment.
(508) 299-1411 View (508) 299-1411
Photo of Janice H. Goodman, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Chelmsford, MA
Janice H. Goodman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, PMHNP, PMHCNS
Verified Verified
Wakefield, MA 01880
I am a board-certified psychiatric/mental health nurse practitioner with over 20 years of clinical experience. I specialize in women’s mental health and provide psychotherapy and/or medication management with special attention to the specific needs of women of all ages, including pregnant and postpartum women. I utilize a relationship-based, collaborative, and holistic approach to empower women through knowledge, self-awareness, and self-care. The therapy I provide is grounded in psychodynamic, supportive, cognitive-behavioral, and mindfulness-based theories and approaches.
I am a board-certified psychiatric/mental health nurse practitioner with over 20 years of clinical experience. I specialize in women’s mental health and provide psychotherapy and/or medication management with special attention to the specific needs of women of all ages, including pregnant and postpartum women. I utilize a relationship-based, collaborative, and holistic approach to empower women through knowledge, self-awareness, and self-care. The therapy I provide is grounded in psychodynamic, supportive, cognitive-behavioral, and mindfulness-based theories and approaches.
(781) 775-4963 View (781) 775-4963

See more therapy options for Chelmsford

Pregnancy, Prenatal, Postpartum Psychiatrists

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.