PERINATAL MOOD & ANXIETY DISORDERS
Perinatal mood and anxiety disorders, e.g., postpartum depression, postpartum anxiety and postpartum OCD, are the most common complications related to pregnancy and birth. Although 1 in 7 mothers experience symptoms, only 15% of those suffering receive professional treatment. When left untreated, these disorders can cause devastating negative consequences for the woman, her baby, her family and society. However it is often hard for women to discuss their struggle with those around them. Shame, guilt and misunderstanding often create unnecessary burdens around the pain of perinatal mental health. It’s important to listen to your instincts and trust yourself if you feel like something is not right. This experience will not last forever and getting treatment does help.
TRAUMATIC BIRTH
How you feel about your birth is important. Painful or disempowering experiences related to birth can have lasting impacts on important relationships. A difficult birth can also have a significant impact on your postpartum experience. Therapy provides a space to process this experience and work towards healing.
INFERTILITY
Infertility affects 1 in 8 couples of reproductive age and can be a very lonely experience. Unpredictable challenges encountered throughout the process to conceive a child, may evoke overwhelming stress and feelings of loss, anger, guilt and sadness. Often, when the expected outcome of pregnancy is not achieved, women and couples struggle to cope on their own, a process that can become isolating and overwhelming. I offer a safe space, support and empathic collaboration that are vital to maintaining one’s wellness throughout this challenging process.
PREGNANCY LOSS & INFANT DEATH
Many families experience miscarriage, ectopic pregnancy, or stillbirth each year. In many cases the cause is unknown. Miscarriage is the most frequent type of loss, occurring in 20-25% of all known pregnancies. Many bereaved parents express feeling alone, overwhelmed and misunderstood. I work with individuals to help them discover what they need in order to share their pain, to acknowledge and respect their loss, and to find peace in the midst of the grief and heartache.
PATERNAL POSTNATAL DEPRESSION
Paternal Postnatal Depression (PPND) can affect up to 10% of new fathers. It can be difficult for men to report depression during pregnancy and postpartum. In receiving treatment you will be placing an importance on your health and the health of the family. Untreated Paternal Postnatal Depression can have a significant impact on you and your entire family, which can lead to marital/ relationship issues, lack of parental involvement, and a higher risk of children having behavioral, physical and mental health concerns. It has been found that up to half of men whose partners have postpartum depression are depressed themselves. With help you will feel better.
