The “mental load” is often described as the invisible, ongoing work of managing life. It includes: keeping track of schedules, appointments, and responsibilities and anticipating needs (your child’s, your partner’s, your household’s). For many mothers, the mental load is constant. And over time, this can feel exhausting.

A high-risk pregnancy refers to a pregnancy in which there are increased medical considerations for you, your baby, or both. While high-risk pregnancy is often discussed medically, the emotional experience is just as significant.

Most people have heard of postpartum depression (PPD), but fewer realize that there are multiple mental health conditions that can arise during pregnancy and the postpartum period.

Postpartum Depression is one of the most common perinatal mood and anxiety disorders (PMADs). It can occur during pregnancy or anytime within the first year after birth. While many people expect postpartum depression to look like sadness, it often presents in a range of ways.

When people think about self-care, they often imagine: Bubble baths, time alone, and long routines. But postpartum self-care is different. It’s not about doing more. It’s about supporting your nervous system, your recovery, and your mental health—within the reality of caring for a newborn.

When people seek out perinatal therapy in California, they are often looking for relief. Relief from: anxiety, intrusive thoughts and overwhelm. And while relief matters, my goal is something deeper. That’s why I use Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT).

Many high-achieving women enter motherhood with strengths that have served them well for years: Organization, responsibility, drive, problem-solving, the ability to “get things done”. These qualities often lead to success in school, career, and life. But postpartum is different.