Therapy for perinatal mood disorders in San Diego & Phoenix

Parenthood is not all rainbows & sunshine

You don’t have to deal with it all on you own

What is PMADS or Perinatal or postpartum mood and anxiety disorders?

Perinatal or postpartum mood and anxiety disorder encompasses a range of mental health conditions that can affect parents during pregnancy or after childbirth. This is more than the “baby blues” and professional help might be needed to support new parents. These disorders, such as postpartum depression and postpartum anxiety, can significantly impact a parent's emotional well-being and ability to bond with their baby. PMADS should not be left untreated.

Things were not suppose to be this hard and it was suppose to be the most magical expirence…

It can be one of the most painful things a new mama or parent experiences, not being able to connect with their little one. It can be heartbreaking, frustrating, and make you feel like a terrible parent.

Other common factors that impact PMADS:

  • Unwanted pregnancy

  • Pregnancy complications

  • Struggles with infertility and miscarriages

  • Financial stressors and unexpected recent events

  • Couples issues: intimacy issues, infidelity, and not feeling like your partner is pulling their weight

  • Shifts in identity unsure about what this means for your career

  • PMADS does not impact just moms, but dads and non-binary people too

Therapy can help.

Being a new parent and even the journey to get there is not easy…

That’s why I provide therapy for Perinatal or postpartum mood and anxiety disorders in Phoenix and surrounding areas in Arizona & San Diego and surrounding areas in California.

Let me help you with navigated it all, you deserve to feel loved, connected, and good enough.

What are the signs or symptoms of PMADS?

This is more than the “baby blues.”

1. Persistent sadness or mood swings.
2. Irritability or anger.
3. Anxiety or excessive worry.
4. Insomnia or sleep disturbances.
5. Changes in appetite.
6. Lack of interest in previously enjoyed activities.
7. Feelings of guilt, shame, or worthlessness.
8. Difficulty bonding with the baby.
9. Physical symptoms.
10. Thoughts of self-harm or harming the baby

Supportive therapy services for PMADS online


I have advanced training in PMADS, trauma, and couples work to support you on your journey towards better mental well-being, providing you with the tools and strategies you need to thrive during this transitional phase of life.

Therapy for perinatal or postpartum mood and anxiety disorder (PMADS) in online California and Arizona.

Being a new parent and even the journey to get there is not easy, that’s I provide therapy for Perinatal or postpartum mood and anxiety disorders.

Common issues I work with:

  • Infertility

  • Miscarriages

  • Traumatic Birth

  • Couples Therapy for PMADS

  • Adjusting to parenthood

  • Being triggered as a parent “reparenting yourself”

  • Retuning to work and identity issues

  • Working through perfectionism

Holistic Approach: As a PMH-C therapist, I firmly believe in addressing the whole person and not merely the symptoms or challenges they present. I work holistically, understanding the interconnectedness of one's mind, body, and spirit.

The Process

Consultation

After filling out my contact form, I will get back to you to set up a time to speak for about 10-15 minutes. During this call, we will explore if I am the right fit to help you reach your goals. The first consultation is free.

Intake

Next we schedule our intake session. I will set up your online portal where forms and sessions can be accessed. A card must be on file prior to our first session. Our first session is all about exploring what is going on and how therapy can help.

On-going

We will come up with measurable goals to get you the life you deserve. Therapy can make things feel worst in the beginning. This work isn’t easy and I will support you along the way. On average I see people for 6-9 months.

So what’s the story?

No I am not a mom with direct lived experience in PMADS, but my mother was.

  • Immigrant teen mother

  • Absent father

  • Traumatic birth (me!)

I was a traumatic birth, and I will spare you the details, but I can safely say my mother did not get the support she needed. Neither did I.

I have advanced training in perinatal mental health and I am certified as a PMH-C.

Going to the PSI (Post Partum Support International) training, changed my life. Even though I am trained EMDR therapist working with trauma clients, I never really connected the pieces until then. I have an interesting perspective, and though I am not a mother myself who has struggled with PMADS, I am greatful for the information I was given at this training. It is a training I advocate for all to take, because we are all connected and impacted by PMADS one way or another.

Should you go to couples therapy or individual therapy for PMADS?

Even if you are “okay” on the outside, therapy can help with what is really going on.

I am trained in both couples and individual work. Reach out and we can figure out what would be best for you.

Going to couples therapy for Perinatal or postpartum mood and anxiety disorder can be a transformative experience for both partners. It provides a safe and supportive space to navigate the complexities of this challenging time. Through joint sessions, couples learn effective communication skills, develop strategies to support each other, and find ways to cope with the difficulties that arise. Ultimately, couples therapy offers a valuable opportunity for partners to strengthen their bond, enhance their understanding of one another, and work towards building a resilient and loving family unit.

Individual therapy treatment might be what is needed depending on several factors. As a trained EMDR therapist I can support you in overcoming deep pain and trauma that might be a result or somehow stirred up during this challenging time.

You deserve to feel light again.

Still not sure about whether to go to couples or individual therapy? Click the links below to help you learn more.

Individual therapy for PMADS and other issues.

Couples therapy for PMADS and other issues.

It is important to seek support for PMADS.


If you or someone you know is experiencing these symptoms, it is important to seek professional help from a healthcare provider familiar with perinatal mental health. Remember, PMADs are common and treatable, and early intervention can help mothers navigate this challenging period and experience the joys of motherhood. If this is emergency please go to your nearest emergency room or call 911.