Postpartum Therapy in Raleigh, NC
Support That Truly Understands You, Every Part of You
You've imagined this moment from the moment you found out you were pregnant. You planned your birth down to the minute, picked out the playlist, and couldn't wait to meet the new life you were creating. Now that your baby is here, you feel like you’ve disappeared. You’re thrilled to meet this little person you created, but you’re also overwhelmed—anxious, exhausted, maybe even sad. You tried telling the nurses how you were feeling, but they brushed it off, saying it’s just the adrenaline wearing off after the birth. Your partner wants to help but is also in shock. And your doctor, the lactation consultant? They’re so focused on the baby that it feels like no one sees you anymore.
It feels like time has stopped for you while the world keeps moving. The anxiety isn’t going away, making it hard to connect with your baby and leaving you feeling like you’re doing everything wrong. Maybe you're trying to force a connection, but it’s just not there. At the same time, you’re feeling disconnected from yourself too. You've tried telling your doctor at the 6-week check-up, but they just brushed it off as "baby blues" or you being a new mom. It's more than that and you wish someone other than you saw that.
Your partner wants to help, but they don’t really understand. They say things like “it takes time” or “it’s still new,” but it’s not that simple. You feel isolated, like no one truly gets what you’re going through. They step in to help with feedings, rocking the baby back to sleep, and tackling chores, but it still doesn’t feel like enough. When you try to explain, it only leads to frustration and confusion. Then, the guilt sets in—for feeling like a burden or for not appreciating their efforts. You just want to understand what’s happening to you and finally find some relief.
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What is Postpartum Therapy?
Postpartum therapy gives you a safe space to work through all the emotions that can surface after having a baby. Like feeling anxious, being overwhelmed, feeling irritable, or feeling out of touch with yourself. It’s normal to feel these things in small doses, but if they start to feel constant or exhausting, therapy can make a big difference. In therapy, you and your therapist will help you unpack those thoughts, figure out where they’re coming from, and find ways to respond that feel grounding instead of guilt-driven. It’s also a chance to explore the deeper changes, like shifts in identity, evolving relationships, or that inner critic that suddenly got louder.
Figuring out how to meet your own needs during the postpartum period can feel almost impossible when you’re running on empty. Postpartum therapy helps you create a version of self-care that works for this stage of life, not what you did before the baby. These will look like small, realistic practices to support your emotional well-being now. A postpartum therapist trained in perinatal mental health, such as those certified through Postpartum Support International (PSI), can provide valuable support. They can help you navigate daily challenges, manage anxiety, set boundaries, and ask for help without guilt. You don’t have to do it all alone, and you don’t have to put your needs last.
When Does the Postpartum Stage Start?
The postpartum period doesn’t end just weeks after giving birth, it actually lasts the entire first year of your baby’s life. While maternity leave might wrap up in 6-8 weeks, postpartum is part of the larger perinatal period. This time period spans from conception to your baby’s first birthday. It’s a time of massive change for both you and your baby. Your body, emotions, and mindset are all adjusting as you step into motherhood. Your identity shifts, your priorities evolve, and your baby grows and develops. Along the way, you’re navigating big milestones like childbirth, breastfeeding, weaning, and even the return of your menstrual cycle. This is also when maternal mental health often gets overlooked. Everyone’s focused on the baby, friends, family, and even doctors, while moms are left to cope on their own.
Why is this a big deal? Because there’s so much more happening than just adjusting to life as a mom. Your hormones are all over the place, your body is healing, and your mental health can take a hit. PMADS (Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders) impact up to 1 in 5 women during pregnancy and postpartum. That includes things like postpartum depression, postpartum anxiety, OCD, and even PTSD.. This is why postpartum support matters. You need care that takes care of all of you, not just the parent part. A postpartum therapist can help you work through emotional or mental health challenges and give you the support and tools to feel your best as a new mom. They can guide you in finding moments of calm in the chaos, managing tough emotions, and improving communication with your partner or family. It’s a safe, supportive space to help you navigate this new phase of life with confidence.
Why Postpartum Therapy Might Be Just What You Need
Being a new mom can feel overwhelming, and having the right support makes all the difference. If you’re thinking about postpartum mental health and how to take care of yourself during this time, you’re not alone. Wondering where to start? Postpartum therapy in Raleigh, NC, could be exactly what you need. To help you figure out if it’s the right fit, here are some frequently asked questions:
What are the Mental Disorders of Postpartum?
After having a baby, it’s completely normal to feel a rollercoaster of emotions, especially in those first couple of weeks as your hormones adjust. This is often called the “baby blues,” and while it can feel overwhelming, it usually resolves with some rest, support, and patience. But if those feelings stick around or start to feel unmanageable, it could be something more. Postpartum mental health conditions, known as Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders (PMADs), include postpartum depression, anxiety, OCD, PTSD, and, in rare cases, postpartum psychosis. These are real medical conditions that can happen during pregnancy or after birth. And they’re more common than most people think. They can even affect dads and partners.
PPD and PPA are common and can manifest as sadness, hopelessness, worry, panic, or intrusive thoughts. Some parents may also experience trauma after a difficult birth or feel trapped in repetitive fears or behaviors that seem impossible to stop. In rare cases, postpartum psychosis can occur, which is a medical emergency that needs immediate attention. This isn’t your fault, and it doesn’t define you as a parent. With the right support—whether it’s postpartum therapy, medication, or both—you can start to feel better. You’re not alone, and you don’t have to face this on your own.
What Does Postpartum Anxiety Look Like?
Postpartum anxiety isn’t always obvious. It’s more than just feeling nervous. It can be a constant loop of what-ifs that won’t stop. “What if something bad happens?” “What if I’m not a good mom?” These thoughts can pop up out of nowhere and feel impossible to control. You might find yourself checking on your baby repeatedly, avoiding certain situations, or feeling like you need to be perfect just to keep your baby safe. The worry can feel endless, overwhelming, and exhausting, even when everything seems fine on the surface. And those scary, intrusive thoughts? They don’t mean you’d act on them; they’re just a sign that your anxiety is in overdrive.
Postpartum anxiety doesn’t just affect you mentally, it can show up in your body, too. A racing heart, shortness of breath, trouble sleeping even when the baby is finally asleep, or feeling constantly on edge. Maybe you snap at your partner, feel too overwhelmed to tackle simple tasks, or avoid people and places that used to feel easy. It can make you feel like you’re failing, even though you’re giving it your all. But here’s the truth: you’re not failing; you’re struggling. And you deserve help. Postpartum therapy can help you understand what you’re feeling, manage the anxiety, and remind you that you’re never alone in this.
What Does Postpartum Depression Look Like?
Postpartum depression shows up differently for everyone, but there are some common signs to keep an eye on. Feeling down most of the day or losing interest in things you used to love? It might be worth checking in with yourself. Other signs include changes in appetite or weight, trouble sleeping (too much or too little), constant fatigue, or feeling completely drained. If these feelings stick around for more than two weeks, it could be postpartum depression.
It’s normal to feel agitated, irritable, or have trouble focusing and making decisions after having a baby. You might also feel overwhelmed by guilt or struggle with feelings of worthlessness. If you’re having recurring thoughts about death or suicide, please reach out for help right away. You’re not alone, and there’s support to help you through this. A postpartum therapist in Raleigh, NC can provide the care and guidance you need. Postpartum depression is a medical condition, and getting the right care can truly make a difference.
What are the 4 Types of PPD?
Postpartum mental health struggles are more common than people realize and can show up in different ways. They’re called Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders (PMADs) and can happen during pregnancy or after birth. The “baby blues” is the most common, affecting up to 80% of new moms. It’s those mood swings, tearfulness, and irritability in the first few days after birth that usually fade within a couple of weeks. But if those feelings stick around or get worse, it might be postpartum depression (PPD). PPD can feel like overwhelming sadness, exhaustion, disconnection from your baby, or like you just can’t cope. It’s not just a tough moment, it’s okay to ask for help.
Feeling constantly worried, trapped in racing thoughts, or on edge even when things seem fine? That could be postpartum anxiety. It’s often brushed off because people think it’s “normal” for new moms to be anxious. But there’s also postpartum psychosis. It's a rare, serious condition that can lead to hallucinations, delusions, or confusion, often within two weeks of giving birth. Whether it’s mood swings, overwhelming anxiety, or something more severe, you’re not alone. PMADs are treatable, and with the right support, healing is within reach. Postpartum therapy can provide the care and compassion you deserve.
You Can Feel Understood and Supported
Sometimes, friends, family, or even doctors don't really get what you're going through. They might offer advice or quick fixes without fully understanding how complicated PMADs can be. You know that you're not just feeling "a little down" or "tired from lack of sleep." It's more than that. And that's okay. Early intervention gives you the support you need when you need it most. It helps you build a stronger bond with your baby, helps improve communication with your spouse, and while life may look different now, it can help you find your new normal.
Postpartum therapy in Raleigh, NC offers a supportive space where you can feel seen, not just as a new mother, but as a whole person and a partner. Your struggles won’t be overlooked. A postpartum therapist will listen, validate your experiences, and equip you with practical tools to navigate this new chapter with confidence. Learn why self-care is so important, how to find the right treatment for you, and how to make sure your concerns aren’t brushed off as “just hormones.” Plus, build stronger bonds with your baby, improve communication with your partner, and tackle any postpartum depression or anxiety that comes your way. You deserve to feel supported and understood, no matter what life throws at you.
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I Want to Help You Feel Supported, Informed, and Empowered in Postpartum
Being a new mom can feel like a whirlwind—emotionally, physically, and mentally. As a postpartum therapist in Raleigh, NC, I get how overwhelming it can be. Maybe you feel like you’re supposed to have it all together, but instead, you’re exhausted, unsure, and trying to untangle all these emotions. That’s where I come in. Postpartum therapy gives you a safe, supportive space to talk openly, make sense of what you’re feeling, and start reconnecting with yourself. We’ll work through how your past, your beliefs, and your current challenges shape how you see yourself in this new role. Whether you’re dealing with identity shifts, anxiety, intrusive thoughts, or just the endless mental load of motherhood, you don’t have to do this alone. This is your space to pause, be honest, and truly feel understood.
The early postpartum months can feel overwhelming, especially with the heightened risk of PMADs in those first three months. That’s why early support is so important. In our sessions, we’ll focus on your unique experience and create a postpartum plan that works for your life. Whether it’s tackling the endless to-do list, improving sleep, setting boundaries, or finding ways for others to step in, we’ll figure it out together. I use evidence-based tools like CBT, mindfulness, narrative therapy, and trauma-informed care to help you feel more grounded and resilient. I’ve also trained with grief expert David Kessler to support clients dealing with loss, identity shifts, or unexpected changes in postpartum. This is a time that calls for understanding and real support, and I’m here to help you navigate this new chapter with compassion and clarity.
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Honored to Be a PSI-Certified Resource for Postpartum Mental Health
I’m a PSI-trained postpartum therapist and a proud member of Postpartum Support International (PSI). PSI is an incredible nonprofit that helps families facing postpartum depression, anxiety, psychosis, and other perinatal mood and anxiety disorders (PMADs). They offer great resources like support groups, helplines, educational tools, and a directory of experienced providers. Their mission is simple: make postpartum mental health care accessible, break the stigma, and improve screening and treatment.
As a member of PSI, I stay up-to-date on the latest research and training in perinatal mental health to provide the best care possible. Whether you’re quietly struggling or questioning if what you’re feeling is normal, you deserve support that truly meets you where you are. With PSI’s network and our work together, you’ll have the tools, resources, and connection to navigate postpartum with confidence and compassion.
Learn More About Postpartum Therapy in Raleigh, NC
Finding support during the postpartum journey is so important. But to be honest, sometimes it feels like everyone’s focused on the baby and not on you. That’s where postpartum therapy can make a difference. Asking the right questions can help you find the best fit for your needs. To get you started, here are some FAQs to help you make an informed choice:
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What Type of Therapy is Best for Postpartum?
Postpartum therapy isn’t one-size-fits-all, but there are proven approaches that can make a big difference. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is a top choice for postpartum depression and anxiety, helping to shift unhelpful thoughts and patterns. Mindfulness-based CBT and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) are also incredibly effective, especially if you’re feeling overwhelmed, stuck in perfectionism, or dealing with constant racing thoughts. These methods focus on staying present, managing emotions, and building self-compassion. Because every new mom deserves to feel supported.
Feeling disconnected, overwhelmed, or like your relationships are shifting in ways that are hard to understand? Interpersonal Therapy (IPT) might be what you need. If you’re a mom wanting to explore how past experiences impact your emotions, psychodynamic therapy could be a great fit. Couples or family therapy can also help when adjusting to new roles or improving communication. The important thing is finding what feels right for you. Postpartum therapy should be a supportive space, not another chore on your list.
How Do You Fix Postpartum Depression?
Postpartum depression is serious, but it’s also treatable. And you don’t have to figure it out on your own. Finding the right path forward often means combining postpartum therapy, support, and self-care that fits your needs. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is a great option for working through those heavy, critical thoughts that keep you stuck. Other approaches like Interpersonal Therapy (IPT), mindfulness, or couples therapy can help too, especially if you’re feeling disconnected or unsure. For some moms, medication can be an important part of recovery, especially when symptoms are severe or persistent. The most important thing? There’s no shame in getting the help that works best for you.
Self-care might feel like a buzzword, but when you're dealing with PPD, the basics—rest, eating well, moving your body, and carving out even a little time for yourself—can make all the difference. It’s also about staying in tune with your body, your baby, your support system, and yourself. Therapy, support groups, medication, or just saying “yes” when someone offers help (even if it’s tough) all play a role. Healing doesn’t have to be perfect, it just needs support. You’re not broken; you’re evolving, healing, and navigating important changes. Remember, your postpartum therapist is here to support you every step of the way.
What Causes Postpartum Depression?
Postpartum depression doesn’t happen because you did something wrong. It’s caused by a mix of emotional, physical, and hormonal changes that hit all at once after birth. Your body goes through a huge hormonal shift, sleep becomes a distant memory, and you’re adjusting to life with a newborn. On top of that, there’s pressure to feel happy and grateful all the time. It’s no wonder so many moms feel overwhelmed, anxious, or just plain sad during this stage.
Things like a history of depression or anxiety, a tough birth experience, limited support, or challenges with breastfeeding or recovery can all contribute to PPD. But sometimes, it shows up even when everything seems “fine.” That’s the tough part; it doesn’t always have a clear cause, but that doesn’t make it any less real or valid. The good news? PPD is treatable, and with the right support, things will get better.
How Do I Stop Being an Anxious Mother?
Feeling anxious as a new mom? Totally normal. You’ve just stepped into a whole new chapter, and your brain is working overtime to adjust. But if that anxiety starts to feel constant, overwhelming, or like it’s stopping you from enjoying time with your baby or taking care of yourself, it’s worth checking in. Postpartum therapy can be a game-changer. A postpartum therapist gives you a safe space to talk openly, no judgment, while helping you manage anxious thoughts, calm your nervous system, and feel more grounded in your new role.
Therapy helps, but so do the little things you do every day. Simple routines, resting when you can, moving your body, taking a deep breath, or even asking for help (even when it’s hard)—these can all make a difference. And remember, bonding with your baby, spending time with people who lift you up, or just grabbing a quiet moment for yourself, is self-care. You don’t have to “fix” your anxiety completely. With the right support, you can feel more grounded, capable, and like yourself again. You can thrive, even with anxiety.
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Find Steady Ground with Postpartum Therapy in Raleigh, NC
Postpartum can be one of the most overwhelming and transformative times in your life, but with the right support, you don’t have to navigate it alone. Through postpartum therapy, I offer a space where you can feel heard, supported, and equipped to care for your mental health while adjusting to your new role. I’m Ashley Finch, LCSW, and I specialize in helping new parents move through the challenges of anxiety, identity shifts, and emotional overwhelm with compassion and clarity. Let’s work together to help you feel more like yourself again- steadier, more confident, and deeply supported. Healing is possible, and you deserve to feel whole.
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Learn More About Me and My Services
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You don’t have to do this alone—support is here when you’re ready.
Other Therapy Services Offered by Ashley Finch, LCSW
I know postpartum is just one part of your story—and you're more than any one season of life. In addition to postpartum therapy in Raleigh, NC, I also offer life transitions therapy to support clients navigating big changes, identity shifts, and the emotional weight that can come with starting over. As a licensed clinical social worker, I specialize in working with anxiety, bipolar disorder, depression, major life changes, panic disorder, PTSD (trauma & abuse), and stress & self-esteem. I also offer individual therapy, life coaching, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy.
My approach is compassionate and supportive while also utilizing evidence-based techniques to help you achieve your goals. Whether you're adjusting to new motherhood, grieving a loss, or simply feeling overwhelmed, I am here to support you on your journey toward a healthier and more grounded life. Don’t hesitate to reach out for help, It’s never too late to feel supported and find your way forward.