Motherhood can be one of life’s most meaningful experiences–and one of it’s most challenging. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, anxious, disconnected from your self, grieving the life you had before becoming a mother, or struggling to adjust to your new role, you’re not alone.
As a licensed psychologist specializing in perinatal mental health, Dr. Rios helps women navigate the emotional complexities of pregnancy, postpartum, and the transition to motherhood. Through evidence-based therapy and compassionate support, Dr. Rios works with mothers experiencing postpartum depression, postpartum anxiety, identity changes and related grief, relationship challenges, perfectionism, and the intense pressure of modern motherhood.
Whether you’re a first-time mom or growing your family, therapy can provide a space where your experiences are understood and your struggles are met with empathy rather than judgment.
What is perinatal mental health?
Perinatal mental health refers to the mental health and well-being of mothers during pregnancy and the postpartum period. It is common for many mothers to experience mood changes related to pregnancy and postpartum. In addition,15-20% of mothers go on to develop more significant symptoms of anxiety and depression. This is not just limited to mothers though! According to Postpartum Support International (PSI), “One in ten dads gets postpartum depression, and up to 18% develop a clinically significant anxiety disorder such as generalized anxiety disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and post-traumatic stress disorder at some point during the pregnancy or the first year postpartum.”
Becoming a mother often transforms every aspect of your life–your relationships, priorities, body, identity, and sense of self. Many women are surprised by the intensity of these changes and may wonder why the adjustment feels so difficult.
You are not alone in experiencing these struggles. They are more common than you think. With therapy, you have an intentional and safe space to explore who you are becoming while honoring who you have been. Together, we work to help you develop coping skills, manage anxiety and depression, process grief and loss, strengthen self-compassion, and create a version of motherhood that aligns with your values rather than external expectations.
Common Concerns We Help Mothers Navigate
Contact us today if you:
- Postpartum depression
- Postpartum anxiety and excessive worry
- Maternal burnout and emotional exhaustion
- Difficulty adjusting to motherhood
- Loss of identity after becoming a mother
- Feelings of guilt, shame, or inadequacy
- Grief related to life transitions
- Relationship and marriage stress after having a baby
- Balancing motherhood, career, and/or personal needs
- Perfectionism and unrealistic expectations
- Feelings of loneliness and isolation
Can Spring Forth Counseling Services help me?
Dr. Rios has completed specialized training in the topic of perinatal mental health (mental wellness during pregnancy and postpartum) and motherhood, and is in the process of pursuing a certification specific to these concerns through PSI’s Perinatal Mental Health Certification Program. Dr. Rios is passionate about helping and supporting new moms, and is committed to (and excited about) developing this as an area of specialty.
If you’re looking for a postpartum therapist, perinatal mental health specialist, or psychologist for new mothers, we invite you to reach out for a consultation. Together, we can help you feel more grounded, supported, and connected during this important chapter of your life.
