Perinatal Mental Health Therapy in Chicago
Expert Support From Conception Through Postpartum
The journey to and through motherhood can be beautiful—and brutally challenging. If you're struggling with mood changes during pregnancy or after birth, you're not alone, and you don't have to white-knuckle your way through it.
The Truth About Perinatal Mental Health

It's More Common Than You Think
1 in 5 women experience perinatal mood and anxiety disorders (PMADs), yet most suffer in silence. Whether you're dealing with prenatal anxiety, postpartum depression, or birth trauma, specialized therapy can help.
This isn't about being "strong enough" or "grateful enough." Perinatal mental health challenges are medical conditions that deserve proper treatment—not just well-meaning advice to "sleep when the baby sleeps."
Comprehensive Perinatal Mental Health Support
Prenatal Anxiety & Depression
Racing thoughts about birth, baby's health, or your changing life? Mood changes during pregnancy are common but treatable. Don't wait until postpartum to get help.
Postpartum Depression
Beyond "baby blues"—when sadness, emptiness, or disconnection persist beyond two weeks postpartum. You can feel better, and you deserve support.
Learn More →Postpartum Anxiety & OCD
Intrusive thoughts, constant worry, or compulsive behaviors after birth. These symptoms are more common than discussed and very treatable.
Birth Trauma & PTSD
When birth doesn't go as planned—emergency cesareans, NICU stays, or feeling powerless during delivery. EMDR can help process traumatic birth experiences.
Learn More →Pregnancy Loss & Infant Loss
Miscarriage, stillbirth, or infant loss creates unique grief that deserves specialized support. We help you navigate loss while honoring your baby.
Learn More →Adjustment to Parenthood
When motherhood doesn't feel like you expected. Identity shifts, relationship changes, and overwhelming responsibility are real challenges requiring real support.
When to Seek Perinatal Therapy
During Pregnancy:
- • Excessive worry about baby or birth
- • Panic attacks or increasing anxiety
- • Depression or persistent sadness
- • Difficulty bonding with pregnancy
- • Previous pregnancy loss affecting current pregnancy
- • History of mental health concerns
- • Relationship stress or isolation
Postpartum Warning Signs:
- • Sadness lasting beyond 2 weeks
- • Difficulty bonding with baby
- • Intrusive, scary thoughts
- • Rage or irritability
- • Feeling like you're "not yourself"
- • Difficulty sleeping even when baby sleeps
- • Thoughts of harming yourself or baby*
*If experiencing thoughts of harm, please reach out immediately or call 988
Evidence-Based Perinatal Mental Health Treatment
Immediate Relief Strategies
- • Coping tools for anxiety and intrusive thoughts
- • Sleep hygiene for new parents
- • Mindfulness for present-moment awareness
- • Breathing techniques for panic
Processing & Healing
- • EMDR for birth trauma
- • Grief therapy for pregnancy loss
- • Cognitive restructuring for anxious thoughts
- • Attachment support for bonding concerns
Systemic Support
- • Partner involvement when appropriate
- • Coordination with OB/GYN and pediatrician
- • Referrals to psychiatry if medication needed
- • Connection to support groups
Why Timing Matters
Early intervention improves outcomes. Starting therapy during pregnancy can prevent postpartum complications.
Specialized Perinatal Mental Health Expertise
Advanced Training
Specialized certification in perinatal mental health
Personal Understanding
We get the unique challenges of modern motherhood
No Judgment Zone
Formula feeding? Sleep training? We support your choices
Flexible Scheduling
Because naptime is unpredictable
Virtual Options
No need to find childcare—therapy from home
Collaborative Care
We work with your medical team
Your Perinatal Therapy Journey
Week 1-2
Assessment and immediate coping strategies
Week 3-6
Building skills and processing experiences
Week 7-12
Deeper healing and pattern recognition
Ongoing
Maintenance and continued growth
Most clients report significant improvement within 6-8 sessions.
What You're Wondering
"Is this postpartum depression or baby blues?"
Baby blues resolve within 2 weeks. If symptoms persist, worsen, or interfere with functioning, it's time for support.
"Can I bring my baby to sessions?"
Absolutely! In-person sessions are baby-friendly. For virtual sessions, feeding and holding baby is completely fine.
"Will you judge my parenting choices?"
Never. We support your decisions and help you trust your instincts while managing anxiety.
"Do I need medication?"
Not necessarily. Many women improve with therapy alone. If medication would help, we'll coordinate with prescribers.
You Don't Have to Do This Alone
Motherhood is hard enough without fighting your mental health. Whether you're pregnant, postpartum, or anywhere in between, specialized support makes all the difference.
Available for new clients | Evening appointments | Insurance accepted
Located in Bucktown, Chicago. Serving expecting and new mothers throughout Chicago and Illinois via telehealth.