Perinatal support for postpartum depression, postpartum anxiety and adjustment to motherhood in Gig Harbor and throughout Washington State
…because the postpartum experience doesn’t come with GPS directions.
Am I going crazy? Is it baby blues, postpartum depression, postpartum anxiety, something else? “I feel so disconnected from myself—this is what I thought my postpartum experience would be like".”
As a certified Perinatal Mental Health Therapist in Washington (PMH-C), I bring specialized training and a deep commitment to supporting mothers and families through the various challenges associated with fertility, pregnancy, and the transition to motherhood.
The journey often comes with twists, turns and unexpected hurdles. My expertise encompasses a broad range of issues, including those experienced by individuals facing difficulties with fertility and miscarriage, as well as new parents adjusting to the demands and changes of parenthood.
In my practice, I frequently work with new mothers as they navigate the complex and often demanding transition to parenthood. This includes addressing a variety of postpartum challenges that can arise, such as postpartum depression, which can significantly affect mood and functioning; postpartum anxiety, which may involve persistent worry and anxiety; and irritability or postpartum rage, which can impact relationships and overall well-being. Some clients are processing challenging, unexpected or traumatic birth experiences.
Additionally, I assist clients in managing communication difficulties that may emerge as they adjust to new roles and responsibilities, and in making necessary identity adjustments that come with the significant life changes of becoming a parent.
Through tailored interventions and a supportive approach, I partner with my clients to tap into their intuition and confidence.
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The postpartum period, often called the "fourth trimester," refers to the critical time following birth when a mother’s body, mind, and emotions undergo significant changes. While traditionally defined as the first six weeks after delivery, experts, including Postpartum Support International, recognize that recovery and adjustment extend well beyond that, often lasting months or even a year. This period is marked by major hormonal shifts, physical healing, and profound emotional changes as parents adapt to life with their baby. It is also a time when rest, nourishment, and self-compassion are essential, yet often overlooked in a culture that prioritizes bouncing back over true recovery.
It’s important to recognize that the postpartum period is not exclusive to those bringing home a baby. Women who have experienced pregnancy loss—including miscarriage, stillbirth, or infant loss—also go through postpartum changes. Their bodies still undergo hormonal fluctuations, physical recovery, and emotional shifts, often compounded by grief. Honoring this reality means allowing space for healing, seeking support, and acknowledging that postpartum care is just as vital for those grieving a loss as it is for those caring for a newborn. text goes here
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In the postpartum period, it’s common to experience a wide range of emotions as your body and mind adjust to major hormonal shifts, sleep deprivation, and the demands of new motherhood. Many parents experience the “baby blues” in the first two weeks after birth, which can include mood swings, tearfulness, and feeling overwhelmed. However, if these feelings persist or intensify, it may be a sign of a perinatal mood and anxiety disorder (PMAD), such as postpartum depression or postpartum anxiety.
Postpartum depression can show up as persistent sadness, guilt, or feeling disconnected from your baby, while postpartum anxiety often includes excessive worry, racing thoughts, and difficulty sleeping even when the baby is resting. Some parents are surprised by feelings of anger or even postpartum rage, which can be a sign of underlying anxiety or depression. Other concerning symptoms include intrusive thoughts, panic attacks, or feeling emotionally numb. According to Postpartum Support International, if your symptoms are interfering with daily life, lasting beyond the early weeks, or making you feel unlike yourself, it’s important to reach out for support. A perinatal mental health specialist can provide the care and guidance needed to navigate this transition and help you feel like yourself again. You don’t have to struggle alone—help is available, and healing is possible.
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I offer specialized therapy services for postpartum women navigating the challenges of new motherhood, whether you're experiencing anxiety, depression, grief, or unexpected emotional shifts.
My approach is warm, compassionate, and tailored to your unique needs. I provide traditional therapy, as well as therapy intensives for those looking for a focused, deep-dive approach to healing. For moms processing trauma, birth experiences, or pregnancy loss, I also offer EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) to help process distressing emotions and find relief.
You don’t have to go through this alone. If you’re struggling with overwhelming thoughts, mood swings, or simply feel like you need more support, I’d love to connect. I offer a free consultation to explore how we can work together to help you feel more like yourself again. Reach out today to get started.
FAQs: Perinatal & Postpartum Therapy in Gig Harbor, WA
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Postpartum depression doesn’t always look like constant sadness—it can also show up as irritability, rage, feeling detached, or struggling to bond with your baby. Postpartum anxiety often looks like racing thoughts, constant worry, or feeling on edge. If you don’t feel like yourself since becoming a mom, postpartum therapy can help.
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Yes, postpartum rage is more common than most people realize. It can feel shocking, especially when your reactions seem out of proportion to what’s happening. Therapy provides a safe place to understand what’s underneath the rage and learn tools to manage it with compassion instead of shame.
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While general counseling can be helpful, postpartum therapy focuses specifically on the unique challenges of motherhood—like identity shifts, hormonal changes, sleep deprivation, and relationship stress. As a Perinatal Mental Health Certified therapist, I bring training and experience that directly addresses these concerns.
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Absolutely. Many moms feel overstimulated and disconnected when everyone needs something from them. Therapy can help you set boundaries, prioritize your needs, and reconnect with the parts of yourself that go beyond motherhood.
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Yes. Pregnancy loss and infertility come with their own layers of grief and isolation. I offer specialized support for moms navigating miscarriage, stillbirth, infertility, and child loss. Whether you’re pregnant after loss or grieving a dream that feels out of reach, therapy can help you carry the weight.
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You can begin as soon as you feel ready. Some moms reach out in the first few weeks, while others wait months or even years. There’s no wrong time—postpartum therapy is for you whenever you need it.
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Yes. I provide both in-person therapy at my Gig Harbor office and secure online therapy across Washington. Virtual therapy is often especially helpful for new moms who don’t want the stress of leaving home.
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That’s exactly what postpartum therapy is for. Many moms feel lost, overwhelmed, or disconnected after birth. Therapy gives you tools to manage the hard parts and reconnect with your identity, so you don’t have to feel alone in this transition.