Navigating Mental Health During Pregnancy

Are you feeling overwhelmed by the emotional changes that come with pregnancy?
Do you find yourself grappling with anxiety, mood swings, or relationship tensions as you prepare for this new chapter in your life?

These feelings are common, and you're not alone. At Wild Hope Therapy, we understand the unique mental health challenges that pregnancy can bring and are here to support you through this transformative time.

Pregnancy is a significant life event that brings about many changes, both physically and emotionally. You might be experiencing heightened anxiety about the future, shifts in your identity, and stress in your relationships. Hormonal changes can intensify emotions, making it difficult to manage day-to-day stressors. These challenges can impact your overall well-being, but with the right support, you can navigate this transition to parenthood with confidence and resilience.

Most Women Experience Mental Health Challenges During Pregnancy

It's important to know that mental health concerns during pregnancy are common (even if we don’t talk about it enough). According to recent studies, up to 20% of women experience mental health issues during pregnancy, such as depression or anxiety (source link at the end).

Common mental health challenges during pregnancy include mood swings, anxiety about childbirth and parenting, changes in body image, relationship stress, in addition to prenatal depression, prenatal anxiety and other perinatal mood and anxiety disorders. These experiences are normal and shared by many expectant mothers. Recognizing that you are not alone can provide a sense of comfort and community.

Understanding that these challenges are a normal part of the pregnancy journey can be the first step toward finding relief. With the help of a compassionate, experienced, perinatal therapist, you can develop strategies to manage these emotions and enjoy a healthier, more fulfilling pregnancy.

How Therapy Can Help with Mental Health During Pregnancy

Therapy Can Provide Support and Stability

At Wild Hope Therapy, we believe in the power of therapy to bring about meaningful change. Our approach to addressing mental health during pregnancy is grounded in additional perinatal (maternal mental health) focused training, understanding, compassion, and evidence-based practices. We use a variety of therapeutic modalities, including strengths-based psychodynamic therapy, relational therapy, Interpersonal Therapy (IPT), Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT), and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT).

Creating a Personalized Treatment Plan

In our sessions, we start by taking a detailed history to understand your experiences, challenges, and aspirations throughout life, during conception, and in your current moment. We work with you to identify your triggers, develop coping strategies, and set achievable goals. Our therapists create a safe, non-judgmental space where you can explore your feelings and experiences without fear or shame.

Building Resilience and Coping Skills

Strengths-based psychodynamic therapy helps you tap into your inner strengths and resources, empowering you to navigate life’s changes with confidence. Relational therapy focuses on improving your relationships and communication skills, providing a strong support network during your pregnancy. IPT helps you manage the social and relational aspects of your life, while CPT addresses any traumatic experiences that may affect your mental health. DBT offers skills to manage intense emotions and improve relationships, fostering a sense of stability.

Ongoing Support and Guidance

Our team at Wild Hope Therapy is specially trained to support women during pregnancy. Each perinatal therapist has taken continuing education courses in perinatal mental health, many have also earned or are on track to earn their certification (PMH-C) from Postpartum Support International. This certification is earned after years of experience, focused ongoing training, and a final examination. It’s with this level of expertise and a deep understanding of women's behavioral health that we provide ongoing guidance and support tailored to your journey. We help you define what a healthy pregnancy looks like for you and work towards your self-determined goals.

Addressing Common Concerns About Therapy for Mental Health During Pregnancy

Will My Therapist Judge Me?

It’s natural to worry about being judged, especially when discussing deeply personal experiences. At Wild Hope Therapy, we prioritize creating a safe and non-judgmental environment, especially during the perinatal period. Our therapists are trained to listen with empathy and understanding, and we are here to support you without judgment.

I Don’t Have Time for Therapy

Balancing multiple responsibilities can make finding time for therapy challenging. We offer flexible scheduling, including evening and weekend appointments, to accommodate your busy life. Your well-being is important, and we're committed to making therapy as convenient as possible.

Is Therapy Expensive?

We understand that cost can be a concern. At Wild Hope Therapy, we accept various insurance plans and offer flexible payment options to make therapy accessible. Your mental health is a crucial investment, and we're here to support you in finding a plan that works for you.

Why Choose Wild Hope Therapy?

At Wild Hope Therapy, we specialize in treating perinatal, also known as maternal mental health, from conception through parenting. Our experience, non-judgmental approach, and affirming space make us a trusted partner in your journey through pregnancy. We offer a no-pressure, free 15-minute phone consultation to help you feel comfortable making contact and starting your healing process.

With the right support, you can navigate pregnancy with confidence and resilience. Contact us today to begin your journey toward a healthier, more empowered you.