Helping Women Navigate Pregnancy, Postpartum, and Motherhood

Compassionate Care for Perinatal & Postpartum Mental Health

If you are struggling during pregnancy or after the birth of your baby, please know that you are not alone—and you are not failing. Becoming a mother is one of life's most profound transitions. While it can bring tremendous joy, it can also bring unexpected emotional, physical, and psychological challenges. Needing support during this time is far more common than many women realize.

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Despite growing awareness of maternal mental health, too many mothers continue to suffer in silence. Feelings of anxiety, sadness, overwhelm, guilt, anger, or disconnection are often dismissed as simply being part of becoming a mother, leaving many women feeling isolated or believing they should be able to "handle it" on their own. The truth is that these experiences are common, treatable, and deserving of compassionate care.

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Dr. Brandt specializes in helping women navigate the emotional challenges of pregnancy, the postpartum period, and the transition to motherhood. Her approach is warm, collaborative, and individualized, recognizing that every woman's experience is unique. Treatment may include psychoeducation, supportive and goal-oriented therapy, crisis intervention, and, when appropriate, couples or family therapy.

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Because Dr. Brandt's practice is entirely virtual, therapy is designed to fit into the realities of pregnancy and early motherhood. Telehealth offers the flexibility that many expectant and new mothers need, allowing sessions to take place from the comfort and privacy of home without the added stress of travel or arranging childcare. Whether your baby is napping, feeding, or by your side, therapy can become a consistent source of support during a time when leaving home may feel overwhelming.

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Although society often portrays the postpartum period as "the happiest time of your life," many mothers experience a very different reality. Hormonal changes, sleep deprivation, physical recovery from childbirth, changes in identity, shifting family roles, relationship stress, family conflict, balancing career and family responsibilities, and pregnancy- or birth-related medical complications can all contribute to emotional distress. Feeling overwhelmed during this transition is far more common than many women realize.

In fact, up to 85% of new mothers experience the "Baby Blues," a temporary period during the first two weeks after childbirth characterized by tearfulness, mood swings, and increased emotional sensitivity. When symptoms persist beyond two weeks, become more intense, or begin interfering with daily functioning, they may indicate a Perinatal Mood or Anxiety Disorder (PMAD), which affects approximately 15–20% of mothers.

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Symptoms can occur during pregnancy or at any point during the first year after childbirth and may include:

• Feeling persistently sad, hopeless, or depressed

• Increased anxiety, excessive worry, or panic attacks

• Irritability or anger

• Difficulty bonding with your baby

• Changes in appetite or sleep beyond what is expected while caring for a newborn

• Distressing or intrusive thoughts that are difficult to control

• Feeling overwhelmed or as though you are "going crazy"

• Thoughts of harming yourself or concerns about harming your baby​

If you recognize these symptoms in yourself, please know that help is available. Seeking support is not a sign of weakness—it is a sign of strength. With the right treatment, recovery is possible, and you do not have to navigate this journey alone.

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While postpartum mental health concerns are most commonly discussed in relation to mothers, they can affect the entire family. Fathers, partners, and adoptive parents may also experience significant emotional challenges during the perinatal period. Research suggests that approximately 10–20% of fathers experience symptoms of depression or anxiety following the birth of a child. Dr. Brandt believes that supporting the family system is often an important part of recovery. When appropriate, partners and family members are encouraged to participate in treatment to strengthen communication, foster understanding, and create a supportive environment in which both parents—and their baby—can thrive.

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Every mother deserves to feel supported, understood, and empowered during this transformative season of life. You don't have to navigate this journey alone. Reaching out for help is a courageous first step, and healing is possible.

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• Member of Postpartum Support International (PSI) 

• Completed PSI and 2020 Mom Professional Maternal Mental Health Certificate Training

• Completed PSI Advanced Perinatal Mental Health Training

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