Maternal mental health encompasses the psychological and emotional wellbeing of women during pregnancy, birth, and the postpartum period – a transformative journey that can span from preconception through the first few years of parenthood. This specialized field of mental health recognizes that the transition to motherhood brings unique challenges, including hormonal changes, identity shifts, and new responsibilities that can impact mental wellness. While many experience normal adjustment periods, some birthing people face more serious mental health conditions such as perinatal mood and anxiety disorders (PMADs), birth trauma, or grief from pregnancy loss. The field emphasizes early intervention and culturally responsive care, understanding that maternal mental health significantly impacts not only the mother but also infant development, family dynamics, and long-term health outcomes. By addressing both individual experiences and systemic barriers, particularly for BIPOC communities, maternal mental health care works to ensure every mother has access to the support they need during this crucial life transition.
Here’s a list of what encompasses Maternal and Women’s Mental Health
- Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders (PMADs) – including prenatal and postpartum depression, anxiety, OCD, PTSD, and psychosis
- Birth Trauma and Recovery – supporting individuals through traumatic birth experiences, emergency C-sections, and unexpected birth outcomes
- Pregnancy and Infant Loss – providing specialized EMDR therapy for miscarriage, stillbirth, termination, and infant loss grief
- Reproductive Trauma – addressing fertility challenges, IVF experiences, pregnancy complications, and medical trauma
- Cultural and Systemic Trauma – working with BIPOC individuals navigating racism, discrimination, and inequities in healthcare settings
- Transition to motherhood – supporting identity shifts, relationship changes, and work-life integration during the perinatal period
- Birth Planning and Preparation – creating comprehensive mental health birth plans that incorporate trauma-informed approaches and cultural considerations
- Pregnancy Anxiety and Previous Loss – helping individuals manage anxiety during subsequent pregnancies after loss
- Attachment and Bonding – supporting parent-infant relationship development, especially after trauma or difficult births
- Partner/Family Support – addressing relationship dynamics, communication, and support systems during the perinatal period
- Childhood trauma – addressing those early traumatic experiences that are stuck in the body via memories, flashbacks, and challenging responses which get in the way of
Motherhood is such a sacred and personal journey that can be impacted by so many factors.
I help women and mothers with all this and more. I truly believe that the best way to help children and future generations, is to help the women and mothers who are central to their well-being.
