Q: What is perinatal mental health?
A: Perinatal mental health refers to emotional well-being during the period before, during, and after pregnancy. This includes fertility journeys, pregnancy, postpartum recovery, and life as a parent or caregiver. Therapy can help you navigate challenges like anxiety, depression, mood swings, grief, trauma, and overwhelming life changes during this time.
Q: Will therapy be confidential?
A: Yes, therapy is confidential, and your therapist is bound by legal and ethical guidelines to protect your privacy. There are some exceptions to this, such as if there is a risk of harm to yourself or others, or if required by law. But no one can be told any information about therapy without written specific consent, including your job, loved ones including your spouse or kids, doctors, lawyers, or anyone else asking for information related to therapy.
Q: How do I know if I need therapy?
A: If you’re feeling overwhelmed, anxious, disconnected from yourself or your child, struggling with intrusive thoughts, or finding it hard to cope with everyday life, therapy can help. You don’t need to be in crisis to benefit—sometimes just having a space to process your emotions can make all the difference.
Q: How long will therapy take?
A: The length of therapy can vary depending on your specific needs and goals. Some people may see significant improvements after just a few sessions, while others may continue therapy for several months or longer. Your therapist will work with you to develop a treatment plan that is tailored to your specific needs and goals.
Q: What if I am hesitant to try therapy?
A: It's understandable to feel hesitant about trying therapy, especially if you have never done it before. It's important to remember that seeking help is a sign of strength and that therapy can provide a safe and supportive space for you to work through your issues. If you're not sure if therapy is right for you, consider scheduling a consultation with a therapist to learn more about the process and ask any questions you may have.
Q: How often should I go to therapy?
A: The frequency of therapy sessions will depend on your specific needs and goals. Some people may benefit from weekly sessions, while others may find that bi-weekly or monthly sessions are sufficient. Your therapist will work with you to determine a schedule that works best for you.
Q: Do you only work with new parents?
A: No. I support clients at all stages of their parenting journey—from those considering parenthood, to those struggling with fertility or loss, to parents of older children who are still processing their perinatal experiences or adjusting to ongoing parenting challenges.
Q: I’m not the one who gave birth—can I still come to therapy?
A: Absolutely. I work with all parents and caregivers, including non-birthing partners, adoptive parents, foster parents, and those supporting a loved one through the perinatal period. Your experience and emotional health matter, too.
Q: What if I have scary or intrusive thoughts? Will you report me?
A: Intrusive thoughts are incredibly common during the perinatal period and do not mean you are a danger to your child. This is a safe, judgment-free space to talk openly about whatever you’re experiencing. My goal is to help you understand and work through these thoughts—not to judge or punish you.
Q: Will I cause trauma to my therapist if I talk about my own trauma?
A: No, you will not cause trauma to your therapist if you talk about your own trauma. Therapists are trained to work with clients who have experienced trauma and are prepared to handle discussions around sensitive topics. It's important to remember that therapy is a safe and confidential space where you can talk about your experiences without fear of judgment or harm. Your therapist is there to support you and help you work through your trauma in a healthy and constructive way. If you have concerns about how talking about your trauma may impact your therapist, you can discuss these concerns with them and work together to find a way to address them.
Q: Do you offer virtual therapy?
A: Yes, I offer secure, confidential virtual sessions for clients throughout [Your State/Region]. This allows you to access support from the comfort of your own home, even on the busiest or hardest days.
Q: Will I be prescribed medication in therapy?
A: Therapist cannot prescribe medication. Your therapist may recommend medication as part of your treatment plan if it is deemed necessary for your mental health. However, medication is not always necessary, and your therapist will work with you to develop a treatment plan that is tailored to your specific needs and goals. If medication is needed, you will be referred to a first responder friendly medication management provider.