Maternal Mental Health
Psychotherapy for Peripartum Mental Health Concerns
You don’t have to live like this. There is help! You can find your identity as a mother – an identity that feels real and comfortable. You can reconnect with friends and family and make new connections with other mom and parent friends, as you widen your parenting village.
Why seek a maternal mental health therapist
Maternal mental health refers to a woman’s emotional well-being during pregnancy and after birth. It is important because a mother’s mental health can significantly affect her and her child’s health and development.
Unfortunately, maternal mental health disorders, such as postpartum depression and anxiety, are common, affecting about 1 in 5 women. These disorders can cause various symptoms, including severe mood swings, loss of appetite, difficulty bonding with the baby, and thoughts of self-harm.
It is essential for pregnant and postpartum women to be aware of the potential for maternal mental health disorders and to seek help if needed. Treatment options, such as therapy and medication, can significantly improve a mother’s well-being and ability to care for her child.
What is maternal mental health?
Maternal mental health is a critical issue affecting millions of people worldwide. At its core, maternal mental health refers to mothers’ physical, emotional, and psychological well-being before, during, and after pregnancy. Frequently, maternal mental health challenges stem from social, cultural, and environmental factors that can affect mood or well-being. For instance, stress during pregnancy can increase a mother’s risk for depression or anxiety. At the same time, social isolation or lack of family members’ support can also negatively affect maternal mental health.
To address these issues, many people turn to maternal mental health therapists for support and guidance. A maternal mental health therapist is a specialized healthcare professional who works with mothers to help them cope with perinatal challenges and achieve optimal well-being. Through therapy sessions that may include talk therapy, EMDR therapy, relaxation techniques, or mindfulness exercises, maternal mental health therapists work to empower mothers and help them connect with their inner strength during this critical time in life. Ultimately, their goal is to support mothers navigating the complexities of maternal mental health and nurture happy and healthy children growing within them.
Types of maternal mental health disorders
Maternal mental health disorders include:
- Postpartum depression
- Anxiety disorders
- Obsessive-compulsive disorders
- Postpartum psychosis
All these disorders are treatable but can be severe if left untreated.
How to identify signs of maternal mental health disorders
Mothers should be aware of the signs and symptoms of maternal mental health disorders, such as postpartum depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder. These can include sadness or emptiness, difficulty bonding with the baby, excessive worrying or fear, trouble sleeping, changes in appetite or weight, feeling overwhelmed or unable to cope, and thoughts of self-harm or harming the baby.
If you notice any of these symptoms in yourself or a loved one, seek help from a mental health professional.
Remember that seeking help for maternal mental health disorders is not a sign of weakness but rather a strength and self-care. It is essential to prioritize your mental health to benefit yourself and your child.
Treatment with a maternal mental health therapist
The interventions used in our practice are evidence-based, meaning that research exists to support the positive effects of these treatments. Our therapists prioritize staying up-to-date on the most effective techniques to help our clientele.
Inclusive Environment
Our commitment at Integritas Wellness and Recovery LLC is to provide an inclusive environment for everyone, regardless of race, religion, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other identity.
Convenient Location
Integritas Wellness and Recovery LLC is based in Bryn Mawr, which is convenient to Ardmore, Wayne, Radnor, Haverford, Newtown Square, Villanova, Wynnewood, Lower Merion, Havertown, Berwyn, Devon, Paoli, Rosemont, Gladwyne, Narberth, Broomall, West Chester, Media and other towns in Montgomery County, Delaware County, and Chester County, PA.
Further resources
Resources for further information and help with maternal mental health include Postpartum Support International, the American Psychological Association, and the Maternal Mental Health Leadership Alliance.
Carolyn Solo
Carolyn Solo, an Integritas Wellness and Recovery LLC therapist, offers EMDR intensives for current clients who need extra support and new clients who prefer to work intensively
Please note: due to the demanding nature of several hours of therapy, intensives are offered in person only at Integritas Wellness and Recovery LLC’s office in Bryn Mawr, PA.
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