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    Perinatal Mental Health

    You can thrive through your pregnancy and beyond.

    Nest Counseling Center can provide support in planning, pregnancy, postpartum concerns, and parenting.

    You probably expected things like pregnancy and new parenthood to be exciting and happy times. But there are many challenges that can arise during these life transitions. Since they’re not often discussed, it can leave you feeling alone and unsure of how to process your range of thoughts and emotions.

    It’s not just you. And you are not alone.

    Many, if not most, mothers have questions about pregnancy and postpartum related physical changes and fluctuating moods, along with concerns or fears about pregnancy, birth, or postpartum. Others wish to develop ways of caring for themselves physically, emotionally and spiritually during this time.

    I’m here to support you through this stage of life.

    Are you wondering if perinatal or reproductive mental health is right for you?

    If you are not sure that what you are going through is normal, you might feel better just by reaching out. It is possible that you will get some initial relief from just one phone call. I can help you decide if you should come in for an evaluation and further support.

    If you are so overwhelmed that adding therapy to your already-full-plate doesn’t feel possible, remember that therapy can help you minimize those overwhelmed feelings and also decrease depression and anxiety with resources and clinical skills. If getting out of the house is too much of a barrier, consider teletherapy.

    Everyone can benefit from an outside perspective. A therapist comes with a different understanding that your friends and family may not have. Therapy might be the very place you need to express yourself freely and without judgment.

    What we’ll work on:

    • Creating a strong therapeutic relationship in which you feel comfortable in sharing your thoughts and feelings. It can be difficult for pregnant and new moms to share the negative emotions and thoughts they might be experiencing.
    • Self compassion
    • Understanding your thoughts and emotions, as well as your own needs during this time
    • Mindfulness strategies to help cope with distressing thoughts and feelings as well as be more present with your new baby. This can help you to feel more connected and less overwhelmed.
    • Addressing any symptoms of Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders that you might be experiencing.
    How do I know if I need therapy?

    Perinatal mental health counseling is not just for parents that experience perinatal mood and anxiety disorders. If you are experiencing extreme symptoms that interfere with you daily life, therapy is probably necessary. You may also go to therapy during this stage of life if you are feeling overwhelmed, like you don’t know yourself anymore, experiencing thoughts that you are a bad mother, or just want someone to hear and validate your experience.

    Do you have special training or experience in working with perinatal mental health concerns?

    I have completed basic and advanced training in perinatal and maternal mental health through Postpartum Support International. I have worked with clients experiencing infertility, high risk pregnancies, infant loss, and the everyday stress of being a new parent.

    Can I bring my baby to my therapy session?

    You are welcome to bring your new baby with you. You will find Nest Counseling Center to be a warm and calming environment. There is also the option of virtual therapy sessions if you would prefer to not leave your home.

    FAQs

    What others have wondered about perinatal mental health and counseling.