Perinatal Mental Health
You deserve care just as much as your baby does
The word "perinatal" refers to the entire period from the start of pregnancy through the first year after giving birth. While this is often portrayed as a time of "universal joy," the reality is that the transition to parenthood is one of the most significant psychological and physical shifts a person can experience.
Perinatal Mental Health focuses on the emotional well-being of parents during this vulnerable window. It's about recognizing that you deserve care just as much as your baby does.
Beyond the "Baby Blues"
While many parents experience the "baby blues" (short-term tearfulness or worry) in the first two weeks after birth, about 1 in 5 women and 1 in 10 men will experience a Perinatal Mood or Anxiety Disorder (PMAD). These can include:
Postpartum Depression
Feeling disconnected, hopeless, or intensely sad.
Perinatal Anxiety & OCD
Racing thoughts, constant "what-if" worries, or intrusive, scary thoughts about the baby's safety.
Birth Trauma
Processing a birth experience that felt scary, powerless, or didn't go as planned.
Grief & Loss
Support for the unique heartbreak of miscarriage, stillbirth, or infant loss.
How I Support You at Lifted Willow
My approach to perinatal care comes with compassion and is rooted in trauma-informed care. I understand that becoming a parent often stirs up our own childhood histories and past traumas. Together we will work to:
Lower the Volume of Anxiety
Using Somatic Experiencing and CBT to help your nervous system feel safe amidst the "busyness" of new parenthood.
Process the Experience
Using EMDR to help you "digest" a traumatic birth or loss so it no longer feels like a present-day threat.
Find Your New Identity
Using a variety of modalities to explore the profound shift in who you are now that you are a parent.
Ready to Begin?
Reset your nervous system. Take the next step for yourself — schedule a consultation and let's connect.
If you're in crisis, please call 988.
I'll follow up within two business days