Perinatal Mental Health Therapist
Licensed mental-health professionals (often psychologists, clinical social workers, or counselors) with specialized training in pregnancy and postpartum mental health.
What they do:
- Diagnose and treat postpartum depression, anxiety, OCD, or birth trauma
- Offer evidence-based therapies (CBT, EMDR, IPT)
- Support couples and family adjustment after birth
- Help you navigate intrusive thoughts, sleep struggles, or scary feelings
Best for:
Moms experiencing emotional distress, anxiety, intrusive thoughts, or depression lasting beyond “baby blues.”
Psychologists & Counselors
Licensed professionals who treat a wide range of mental-health concerns; some specialize in perinatal issues, while others may not.
What they do:
- Provide talk therapy for anxiety, trauma, identity changes, or relationships
- Can work alongside psychiatrists (who prescribe medication)
- Some may specialize in women’s mental health, but not exclusively in postpartum care
Best for:
Moms who need broader therapy support (not necessarily pregnancy-specific), or when postpartum struggles blend with prior mental-health concerns.
Postpartum Coaches
Certified or experienced professionals, sometimes former therapists, doulas, or nurse,s who guide moms through mindset, self-care, and lifestyle recovery after birth. They don’t diagnose or treat mental illness.
What they do:
- Offer emotional support and accountability
- Teach coping strategies for overwhelm and burnout
- Guide goal-setting, routines, and identity transitions
- Provide community and empowerment
Best for:
Moms feeling “stuck,” lonely, or unsure how to balance new motherhood with self-care without necessarily needing clinical therapy.
| Category | Credentials | Focus | Can Diagnose? | Typical Support |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Perinatal Mental Health Therapist | Licensed (LCSW, LPC, PsyD, etc.) + Perinatal Training | Postpartum mood & anxiety disorders | ✅ Yes | Therapy sessions, emotional regulation, trauma healing |
| Psychologist / Counselor | Licensed mental-health professional | General therapy (may include postpartum) | ✅ Yes | Broader mental-health care |
| Postpartum Coach | Certification or experience (not medical) | Emotional & lifestyle recovery | ❌ No | Mindset work, self-care plans, daily support |
