5 Best Pittsburgh Postpartum Therapists
Hi! I’m Emily.
Finding a therapist who focuses on postpartum care can provide therapy that specifically addresses the unique emotional needs many women face after giving birth. My practice, Zeller & Co. Therapy, specializes in supporting moms in all stages of parenthood, with special focus on the health care changes during the pregnancy and postpartum period. My passion is providing emotional support and treating postpartum depression (PPD), anxiety, and other mental health conditions affecting motherss.
Are you a new mom navigating postpartum mental health challenges and looking for the best postpartum therapist in Pittsburgh? I’d love to help. This blog will guide you through finding the right emotional support and potential treatment options to help you prioritize your well-being during the postpartum period.
5 best postpartum therapists in Pittsburgh
Start the process early by seeking postpartum therapy, which is one of the best ways to prevent and address mental health challenges after giving birth. A skilled therapist can provite counseling to you and your family members to help navigate the lifestyle changes of parenthood. With many options available in Pittsburgh and the surrounding areas, finding the right therapist who understands your unique needs can feel overwhelming. To help in your search, I’ve compiled a list of highly recommended postpartum therapists who offer both in-person and telehealth services.
These therapists bring something unique to the table, from specialized training in women’s health to years of experience in treating postpartum depression. If one of these therapists stands out to you, I encourage you to reach out directly. If you feel I may be a good fit, I’m always available to answer questions or discuss how we can work together.
Remember, no therapist is a one-size-fits-all solution. If you're looking for free therapy or need support with issues like substance abuse or domestic violence, it’s important to find someone with the appropriate specialization. Now, let’s explore some of the best postpartum therapists in the Pittsburgh area and Pennsylvania!
1. Perri Shaw Borish, MSS, LCSW, BCD, PMH-C
Perri is an experienced therapist specializing in maternal mental health. With over 20 years of experience, she provides a safe and supportive space for individuals navigating the emotional challenges of the reproductive journey. Her psychodynamic approach fosters a warm, nurturing environment where clients can explore their feelings and experiences. Perri offers personalized care for a range of issues, including postpartum depression, birth trauma, pregnancy loss, fertility challenges, and more.
Credentials: LCSW, BCD, PMH-C & Certified in Perinatal Mood & Anxiety Disorders & Pregnancy Loss & Grief
License Number: CW016052
Education: M.S.S., Bryn Mawr Graduate School of Social Work and Social Research
2. Alaina Schrader, LPC, NCC, PMH-C, ADHD-CSP
Alaina is a compassionate therapist with over 20 years of experience specializing in postpartum mental health. With her feminist, LGBTQ+ affirming, and trauma-informed approach, she creates a safe and supportive space for clients to explore their challenges. Alaina’s warm and humorous personality makes therapy sessions comfortable and enjoyable. Her expertise in perinatal mental health and diverse background ensures she can provide tailored, evidence-based care to help clients navigate the unique demands of motherhood.
Credentials: LPC, NCC, PMH-C, ADHD-CSP
License Number: PC013850
Education: Master’s degree in Counseling from West Virginia University
3. Sara Sculley, M.S.Ed., LPC, PMH-C, NCC
Sara’s collaborative approach makes her an ideal therapist for individuals seeking support with perinatal mental health. Sara's evidence-based approach combines psychodynamic theory, CBT, interpersonal psychotherapy, and person-centered therapy to help clients heal, build resilience, and achieve their goals.
Credentials: Licensed Professional Counselor, Perinatal Mental Health Certified (PMH-C)
License Number: PC016051
Education: University of Pennsylvania, Master's of Science in Education
4. April Robinson, M.S.ED, LPC
April's diverse experience make her a valuable therapist for individuals seeking support. As an LGBTQIA-affirming and certified school counselor, April creates a welcoming and inclusive space for clients of all backgrounds. Her passion for her work and dedication to cultivating an environment that ensures her clients feel safe and supported.
Credentials: Licensed Professional Counselor
License Number: PC014687
Education: University of Pennsylvania Graduate School of Education
5. SUPPORT GROUPS
Therapeutic support groups can be incredibly beneficial for women in the postpartum period, providing a safe space to share their experiences, reduce feelings of isolation, and receive validation from others going through similar challenges. These groups often foster a sense of community, allowing women to express their emotions openly, gain new perspectives, and access coping strategies to navigate the physical and emotional shifts of motherhood. Group therapy can help women feeling overwhelmed set realistic expectations by providing them with shared experiences and guidance from peers and a mental health professional.
Here are a few support groups in the Pittsburgh area and nationally that cater to postpartum women:
The Postpartum Support Group at Allegheny Health Network: This group focuses on providing emotional support and resources for new mothers dealing with postpartum depression, anxiety, and other mood disorders.
Moms’ Connection at UPMC Magee-Womens Hospital: A group aimed at connecting new mothers to share experiences, ask questions, and receive support in managing the emotional aspects of the postpartum period.
Postpartum Pittsburgh: An organization offering virtual and in-person support groups and community resources for postpartum women, with an emphasis on creating a welcoming, non-judgmental environment for all mothers.
Mothering Circle: A group that meets monthly to support women transitioning into motherhood, providing education on maternal mental illness and self-care practices.
A crisis lifeline for postpartum support is the National Maternal Mental Health Hotline, which provides 24/7, confidential, free support for new moms experiencing postpartum mood disorders in need of a self care plan. You can reach them at 1-833-9-HELP4MOMS (1-833-943-5746). Another option is the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, which offers immediate help for anyone in crisis, including those dealing with postpartum depression or other mental health conditions.
FAQs about postpartum therapy in Pittsburgh
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The best therapy for postpartum mental health issues often depends on the individual's symptoms and severity. Commonly, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)and interpersonal therapy is used by postpartum therapists to treat postpartum depression and anxiety. These therapies helps new moms challenge negative thoughts and create coping skills that help increase self-confidence. For severe cases, medical doctors may work with mental health professionals to prescribe medication in conjunction with talk therapy. Postpartum counseling can also include group therapy, which provides emotional support and coping strategies alongside other new moms experiencing similar challenges.
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Postpartum mental health issues can range from mild to severe, and understanding the different types is key to getting the right support. Below are the most common postpartum mood disorders and their symptoms:
Baby Blues: Mild mood swings, irritability, crying, and fatigue that typically resolve within two weeks after giving birth.
Postpartum Depression (PPD): Intense feelings of sadness, hopelessness, fatigue, and loss of interest in activities or the baby. Postpartum depression symptoms often include difficulty bonding with the baby, sleep problems, and changes in appetite.
Postpartum Anxiety: Excessive worry or panic about the baby's health, safety, or the mother’s ability to care for the baby. It can include physical symptoms like racing heart or shortness of breath.
Postpartum Psychosis: A rare but serious condition characterized by hallucinations, delusions, intense mood swings, and confusion, often requiring urgent medical intervention.
Each of these mental health issues requires different types of treatment. Seeking help from a postpartum therapist or mental health professional is essential for proper care and recovery.
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If you're searching for a postpartum therapist in Pittsburgh, PA, there are several resources available. Websites like Postpartum Support International offer a directory of mental health professionals specializing in postpartum depression, postpartum anxiety, and other postpartum mood disorders. The National Institute of Mental Health can also guide you to local support services.
Zeller & Co. Therapy provides telehealth services to help treat postpartum depression and other mental health conditions from the comfort of your home. My pracitce serves clients adjusting to postpartum located in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, Ohio, and Illinois.
Get the empathetic support you need to heal.
With my background in marriage and family therapy, I specialize in supporting individuals, families and couples through the challenges of postpartum mental health, including postpartum depression, anxiety, and the strain it can place on relationships. Too often, mothers wait until they feel overwhelmed by emotional struggles, mood swings, or the intense demands of caring for a newborn before seeking support. My therapy approach is proactive and compassionate, offering mothers a safe space to process their experiences, manage postpartum mental health challenges, and regain emotional balance. Through personalized support and realistic goal-setting, I help you prioritize your well-being while navigating this life-changing transition. If you’re facing postpartum challenges and seeking therapy designed to support your unique journey, I encourage you to reach out.
