Perinatal Mood & Anxiety Disorders

The term “perinatal” is a more inclusive term than "postpartum" which usually refers to the year after a baby is born. For many people, the perinatal period is an amazing and joyful time. For others, it can be a very difficult time in terms of their mental health. While mild mood changes during or after the birth of a child are quite normal, an estimated 15% to 20% of perinatal people will experience more significant symptoms of depression or anxiety usually referred to as Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders (PMADs). PMADs can occur at any point during the perinatal period, but early intervention and treatment are important. PMADs can be treated well with good medical and psychological care. I have additional training in treating perinatal mental health concerns, perinatal losses, and infertility. I am certified in Perinatal Mental Health by Postpartum Support International which has standardized training for professionals who work with this population. Parents and people of all gender expressions who are experiencing pregnancy or undergoing assisted reproductive technologies (ART) are welcome in my practice.

Common issues I work with: Perinatal Anxiety, Perinatal OCD, Birth Trauma/PTSD, Perinatal Depression

Of PMADs, Perinatal OCD is the most frequently missed and misunderstood. It can occur in both the person giving birth as well as their partner. Symptoms can include frightening intrusive thoughts and/or images (obsessions) that seem to “come out of nowhere” and result in very high levels of distress and anxiety. Behaviours to reduce or neutralize this anxiety (compulsions) develop in response and can include excessive checking/cleaning/counting. As some OCD symptoms and symptoms of postpartum psychosis (see below) can be confused, your health care professionals’ knowledge and assessment is key. Specific treatments (e.g. ERP) are very effective with OCD, and can help if you are suffering.

Postpartum psychosis is a rare but significant psychiatric emergency that requires immediate medical care to ensure the safety of the perinatal person and baby. It occurs in approximately 1-2 out of every 1000 deliveries and usually occurs in the first two weeks of the postpartum period (https://www.postpartum.net/learn-more/postpartum-psychosis/). Symptoms are such that the person who has given birth breaks from reality, experiencing hallucinations, delusions, paranoia and other psychotic symptoms that can be of significant risk. Medical assessment and treatment is a first line treatment, with psychological services occurring once the person has been treated and stabilized.

If you are concerned that you or a person you love is struggling, below are some resources.

Postpartum Support International

Crisis Services Canada Help Line

Phone: 1-833-456-4566 toll free / Text: 45645

Alberta Crisis Services

Supporting Parental Transitions

Preparing for and welcoming a child(ren) to your family is an amazing experience. When your child is born your routines, environments, and identities also change in ways that can be deeply rewarding and joyful. Those changes can also be incredibly overwhelming and difficult. The process of becoming a parent and parenting is often very hard for both individuals and couples. No one is fully prepared for the challenges they face physically, mentally and emotionally. These parenting transitions occur throughout the life of your family. Children go through their own developmental stages, eventually become teens, then adults then may become parents themselves. Adapting to your child(ren) and families changing needs and composition is an ongoing process. Negotiating these changes and relationships can be daunting.

I am here to validate the beautiful, complicated, and conflictual mess of it all for individuals and couples. I can help you find your way through the mess of societal expectations, unique relationships into roles in keeping with your values and that work for you and your family. Couples/families of all compositions who are experiencing issues with adjusting to parenthood are welcome!

Common issues I work with include; parental adjustments, lack of supports, relationship conflict, division of labor conflicts, emotional labor inequities, employment impacts, relationships with adult children, parenting stressors, adult children leaving home, relationships with in-laws and extended family.