Postpartum Therapy in Denver

Understanding Postpartum Depression and Postpartum Issues

Postpartum depression affects up to 20% of new mothers, but many postpartum issues go unrecognized or untreated. These aren't signs of weakness or failure as a mother - they're common medical conditions that deserve professional support.

You might be experiencing postpartum depression if you're feeling:

• Persistent sadness, emptiness, or hopelessness that doesn't go away

• Loss of interest in activities you used to enjoy, including caring for your baby

• Overwhelming guilt, shame, or feelings of inadequacy as a mother

• Difficulty bonding with your baby or feeling disconnected from them

• Intense worry about your baby's health and safety

• Severe mood swings, irritability, or anger that feels out of control

• Extreme fatigue that goes beyond normal new parent tiredness

• Difficulty making decisions or concentrating on daily tasks

• Thoughts of harming yourself or your baby

Other common postpartum issues include:

• Postpartum anxiety and panic attacks

• Postpartum obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)

• Birth trauma and PTSD from difficult labor or delivery experiences

• Breastfeeding difficulties and related emotional distress

• Body image struggles after pregnancy and childbirth

• Relationship strain and intimacy issues with your partner

You Are Not Alone

The cultural narrative around motherhood often emphasizes joy and natural maternal instincts, but the reality is much more complex. Many new mothers experience:

The "Baby Blues" vs. Postpartum Depression: While baby blues are common and typically resolve within two weeks, postpartum depression lasts longer and significantly impacts your ability to function.

Difficulty Bonding: Not every mother feels an instant connection with their baby, and this doesn't make you a bad mother. Bonding can take time, especially when you're struggling with postpartum depression.

Loss of Identity: Becoming a mother involves a significant identity shift that can feel disorienting and grief-inducing.

Risk Factors for Postpartum Depression

Postpartum depression can affect any new mother, but certain factors may increase your risk:

Personal and Family History:

• Previous history of depression, anxiety, or other mental health conditions

• Family history of postpartum depression

• Previous postpartum depression with other pregnancies

• History of trauma or abuse

Pregnancy and Birth Experiences:

• Traumatic birth experience or emergency cesarean section

• Premature birth or baby health complications

• Breastfeeding difficulties or pressure around feeding choices

Social and Environmental Factors:

• Lack of social support or partner support

• Financial stress or relationship problems

• Single motherhood

My Approach to Postpartum Depression and Postpartum Therapy

Maternal Mental Health Specialization: I understand the unique challenges of postpartum depression and other postpartum issues, providing informed, compassionate care during this vulnerable time.

Trauma-Informed Care: Birth trauma and other traumatic experiences during pregnancy and postpartum can significantly impact mental health. I use approaches like EMDR therapy when appropriate.

Identity and Role Transition Support: Becoming a mother involves a profound identity shift. We'll explore this transition with compassion and help you integrate your new role with your authentic self.

Liberation from Motherhood Myths: We'll examine how cultural expectations about "perfect motherhood" contribute to guilt and shame, helping you find your own authentic way of being a mother.

Therapeutic Approaches I Use

Interpersonal Therapy (IPT): Specifically proven effective for postpartum depression, focusing on relationship issues and role transitions.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): Addressing negative thought patterns and developing coping strategies for managing postpartum depression and anxiety.

EMDR for Birth Trauma: Processing traumatic birth experiences that impact postpartum mental health. Learn more about EMDR therapy.

Attachment-Based Therapy: Supporting the development of secure attachment with your baby, especially if bonding feels difficult.

Internal Family Systems (IFS): Understanding the different parts of yourself as you navigate motherhood, including parts that feel overwhelmed or inadequate.

Specific Postpartum Issues I Address

Postpartum Anxiety: Excessive worry about your baby's safety, health, or development, often accompanied by physical symptoms.

Postpartum OCD: Intrusive thoughts about harming your baby (which are different from actually wanting to harm them) and compulsive behaviors to prevent feared outcomes.

Birth Trauma and PTSD: Emotional and psychological impacts from difficult, frightening, or medically traumatic birth experiences.

Breastfeeding Struggles: Emotional distress related to breastfeeding difficulties or grief around not being able to breastfeed as planned.

Body Image Issues: Difficulty accepting and adjusting to physical changes after pregnancy and birth. Learn more about body image therapy.

Relationship Changes: Strain on your relationship with your partner, changes in sexual intimacy, and communication difficulties.

What Recovery Looks Like

Recovery from postpartum depression and other postpartum issues isn't about becoming a "perfect mother" - it's about finding your own authentic way of mothering while taking care of your mental health:

• Mood stabilization: Experiencing more stable emotions and fewer overwhelming feelings

• Improved bonding: Developing a secure, loving connection with your baby at your own pace

• Self-compassion: Treating yourself with kindness rather than harsh judgment

• Identity integration: Honoring both your pre-motherhood self and your new identity as a mother

• Practical coping skills: Building strategies for managing difficult emotions and daily stressors

When to Seek Help

You don't have to wait until you're in crisis. Consider reaching out for postpartum therapy if:

• Your mood hasn't improved after the first few weeks postpartum

• You're having thoughts of harming yourself or your baby

• You're unable to care for yourself or your baby

• You're experiencing panic attacks or severe anxiety

• You feel disconnected from your baby or family

• Friends or family have expressed concern about your wellbeing

Crisis Resources: If you're having thoughts of harming yourself or your baby, please call 988 (Suicide & Crisis Lifeline), go to your nearest emergency room, or call Postpartum Support International's helpline at 1-944-4773.

Ready to Get the Support You Deserve?

Postpartum depression and other postpartum issues are treatable, and you can feel better. Seeking help isn't a sign of weakness - it's an act of love for both yourself and your family.

Your mental health matters, and your wellbeing is essential for your entire family's health.

Schedule a consultation to discuss how postpartum therapy can support your healing and recovery.

Related services: Depression Therapy | Anxiety Therapy | Trauma Therapy | Body Image Therapy | EMDR Therapy | Relationship Therapy | Postpartum Therapy | Nutrition Therapy

More about my approach: My therapeutic philosophy