Navigating Perinatal Mental Health and the Role of Therapy in Your Journey

Pregnancy and postpartum are often described as joyful, magical, and full of love. And

while that may be true for some moments, it is not the whole story. Many parents quietly

carry the weight of overwhelm, anxiety, grief, or even numbness—wondering if they are

the only ones feeling this way.

The truth is: you are not alone. And what you are feeling is valid.

At Brentwood Counseling Associates, we understand that becoming a parent is not just

a life event—it is a profound transformation. It touches every part of your identity: your

body, your relationships, your inner world. Whether you are navigating fertility

challenges, adjusting to life after birth, or trying to reconnect with yourself amidst the

chaos, support is here.

What Is Perinatal Mental Health?

Perinatal mental health refers to your emotional and psychological well-being during

pregnancy and throughout the postpartum period. While you may have heard of the

“baby blues” or postpartum depression (PPD), there is so much more to this landscape.

The perinatal period—which includes pregnancy and up to two years postpartum—is a

time when many individuals are at risk for developing new or intensified mental health

symptoms. These are known as Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders (PMADs) and

can include:

• Anxiety or panic

• Depression or deep sadness

• Intrusive thoughts or irritability

• Birth trauma

• Grief or loss (including fertility or pregnancy loss)

• Challenges adjusting to your new role or identity

  
  

These experiences are common—1 in 5 women will experience a PMAD—but they

are often misunderstood or minimized. However, that does not mean you have to suffer

through them alone.

How Therapy Can Help

Therapy offers a safe, non-judgmental space to process your experience, understand

your emotions, and find steadier ground. At BCA, we are proud to introduce Emily

Litzow, LPC-MHSP, who specializes in Perinatal Mental Health. She brings deep

compassion and clinical skill to her work with clients navigating this transformative

experience.

Emily works collaboratively with clients to help:

• Normalize the emotional ups and downs of pregnancy and postpartum

• Develop coping strategies for anxiety, overwhelm, and stress management

• Process birth trauma or past reproductive challenges

• Strengthen your support system and communication with partners

• Explore identity shifts and the evolving sense of self in parenthood

  
  

We live in a culture that often celebrates “doing it all” and equates strength with silence.

But asking for support is not weakness—it is wisdom. It is strength. And it is one of the

most powerful things you can do for yourself and your family.

Therapy does not erase the hard parts—but it helps you carry them with more clarity,

compassion, and confidence. It gives you tools, perspective, and—maybe most

importantly—a space to feel seen. It can be an anchor during a period where you may

feel in limbo.

Emily is here to walk with you through this season, offering care that is attuned to your

experience, rooted in best practices, and centered in genuine connection.

Ready to Take the First Step?

If you are feeling overwhelmed, anxious, down, or just not like yourself—know that you

do not have to go through it alone. Emily is currently accepting new clients and would

be honored to support you! Please reach out to us if you are ready to start your healing

journey. Call now at 615.377.1153.