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FREQUENTLY ASKED
QUESTIONS
When is the perinatal period?
Perinatal is the period of time when you become pregnant and up to a year after giving birth.
Why is working with the perinatal population so important?
Almost 20% of birthing individuals experience depression or anxiety during pregnancy, postpartum, or post-loss, yet less than 15% receive treatment. Mental health issues can appear regardless of age, income level, race, or culture, and symptoms can appear any time during pregnancy, post-loss, and the first 12 months after childbirth.
What are some signs of mental health issues in the perinatal period?
Warning signs could include increased sadness, anxiety, numbness, anger, irritability, confusion, insomnia, or racing and disturbing thoughts. Individuals with risk factors before pregnancy such as moodiness before periods, reaction to birth control pills, stress and isolation, and a personal or family history of depression, anxiety, manic-depressive illness may be more likely to suffer from Perinatal or Postpartum Mood and Anxiety Disorders.
Do I really need therapy/support group? Won’t this period phase pass on its own?
Pregnancy, postpartum, infertility treatments, and infant loss (such as still birth and miscarriage) all have something in common… large shifts in hormones. The changes in hormones during the perinatal period can impact your mood, thyroid, brain, sexual health, and pelvic floor. It can cause severe anxiety, depression, loss of motivation, loss of interest in previously enjoyed activities, feeling like a robot, feeling fearful around your baby, or having disturbing thoughts. Regardless of if you are celebrating life or grieving loss during the perinatal period, you must remember that you and your wellbeing are also a priority. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms during the perinatal period or infertility treatments, then you may benefit from therapy or support services.
With everything going on, do I even have time for counseling/supportgroup?
We understand and respect your busy schedule, which is why we provide flexible options. For Arkansas residents, we have two in-person locations and a virtual option for individual therapy. Our support sessions have set times and dates but are offered virtually and open residents in all states.
What is the difference between individual therapy and a support group?
Individual therapy involves working with a licensed therapist one-on-one to meet your specific needs. Our therapists are only licensed in Arkansas therefore can only provide services to those in Arkansas. Our support groups/sessions are moderated by a licensed therapist and bring together a group of people with common experiences or concerns to provide encouragement, comfort, and advice. Support groups/sessions are not therapy and can be provided to residents in all states.
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