What it is
A therapist for pregnancy, called a perinatal therapist, is a counselor trained in perinatal mental health. That means anxiety, depression, loss, and birth trauma. PSI, Postpartum Support International, is the main group that trains and lists them. Many carry the PMH-C credential, which means they passed PSI's exam.
What's typical
Most mothers find one in a few steps. Ask your provider for a name. Search the PSI directory by zip code and insurance. Or call the PSI HelpLine, 1-800-944-4773, and a volunteer will send local names within a day. First appointments usually land within one to three weeks. Say if it is urgent. Sessions run about an hour, often by video. Medi-Cal and most plans cover therapy.
What's known
ACOG recommends talk therapy as a first step for mild to moderate perinatal depression and anxiety. The therapies with the best evidence are CBT and interpersonal therapy. Fit matters more than method. If the first person is wrong, switching is expected.
What helps
- Ask three things on the first call: do you see pregnant and postpartum mothers, do you take my insurance, how soon can I start.
- Bring a list of what has been hardest. You will forget in the room.
- Try a PSI online support group while you wait. They are free and weekly.
When to call someone
- Nowthoughts of hurting yourself or the baby. Call or text 988. The National Maternal Mental Health Hotline is 1-833-852-6262.
- Todayyou cannot wait weeks. Call the PSI HelpLine and say so.
- At your next visitask for a referral and whether a psychiatrist should also be on the team.
Who helps
Tools: Birthworker Directory · My Birth Team
Related
- Anxiety in pregnancyPregnancy: Mind and Life
- Depression during pregnancyPregnancy: Mind and Life
- Therapy and medication after birth: what the options arePostpartum: Mind
- Support groups and peer supportPostpartum: Mind
- When to get help, and who to call tonightPostpartum: Mind
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Sources
- Postpartum Support International — Provider directory and HelpLine
- Health Resources and Services Administration — National Maternal Mental Health Hotline
- American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists — Clinical practice guideline on treatment and management of mental health conditions during pregnancy and postpartum
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