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You thought you'd feel overwhelming love and joy. Instead, you feel... nothing. Or maybe you feel everything—crushing sadness, guilt, rage, emptiness—all at once. You're going through the motions of motherhood, but you don't feel present. You can't remember the last time you felt like yourself.
The worst part? Everyone keeps saying "it gets better" and "enjoy every moment," but you're just trying to survive each day. You wonder if you made a terrible mistake. You love your baby, but you don't feel connected. And the guilt about feeling this way makes everything even heavier.
If this resonates, you're experiencing postpartum depression—and I need you to hear this: You are not broken. You are not a bad mother. And you will feel like yourself again.
Postpartum depression affects up to 1 in 5 new mothers, yet it remains one of the most misunderstood and undertreated complications of childbirth. As a postpartum therapist in Austin who specializes in perinatal mental health, I've walked alongside hundreds of mothers through this darkness. The heaviness you're carrying right now? We can lighten it together.
What Postpartum Depression Really Looks Like
Postpartum depression isn't just feeling sad or tired (though those are certainly part of it). It's a complex mood disorder that affects your emotions, thoughts, physical body, and relationships. Here's what it actually looks like:
The Emotional Signs
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Persistent sadness or emptiness that doesn't lift, even during good moments
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Feeling numb or disconnected from your baby, partner, or life
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Overwhelming guilt about not feeling the "right" way about motherhood
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Feeling like a failure or that everyone would be better off without you
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Irritability or rage that feels disproportionate
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Loss of interest in things that used to bring you joy
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Feeling trapped, hopeless, or like this will never end
The Physical Symptoms
Many mothers don't realize their physical symptoms are actually postpartum depression:
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Exhaustion that sleep doesn't fix (or insomnia even when baby sleeps)
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Changes in appetite—either no appetite or eating for comfort
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Physical heaviness, like you're moving through water
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Headaches, body aches, or stomach issues
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No energy for basic tasks that used to be easy
The Cognitive Signs
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Difficulty concentrating or making decisions (even small ones feel overwhelming)
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Racing thoughts about being a bad mother or worst-case scenarios
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Memory problems or feeling "foggy"
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Intrusive thoughts about harm coming to the baby (or thoughts of harming yourself)
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Constant negative self-talk and self-criticism
How It Affects Bonding
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Difficulty feeling connected to your baby
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Going through the motions of care without feeling present
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Feeling resentful of your baby's needs
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Avoiding eye contact or feeling uncomfortable during bonding moments
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Guilt about not feeling the "instant love" everyone talks about
If you're nodding along thinking "yes, that's me," you're experiencing postpartum depression. You deserve support, this isn't about trying harder or being more grateful, if you are struggling with postpartum depression in Austin schedule a call now.
Motherhood is a Wonderful Whirlwind
It can be amazing, exhausting, overwhelming, isolating, and HARD!
Whether it's adjusting to a change in identity, managing postpartum anxiety or depression, being pulled in every direction, or experiencing changes in your relationships, this period of life can feel isolating and overwhelming.
The good news is you are not alone and things can get better! As a perinatal psychologist, I have advanced training in perinatal mental health and through therapy I have helped many parents find themselves and thrive in this stage of life!
I am here to help support mamas through all the ups and downs of motherhood! From baby blues to postpartum depression, I offer compassionate care for new mothers. I would love to be a part of your journey. I know taking time for yourself can seem impossible right now, but investing in yourself can impact not just you but your child and you relationships! You deserve to be prioritized and seen.
Therapy for all Moms
Motherhood can bring up a lot, together we can help you thrive!
Let's take the next step together
Feeling overwhelmed by the sudden changes that come with parenthood is completely normal. As a perinatal therapist—and a mom myself—I understand the unique challenges new parents face. Whether you're navigating sleepless nights, breastfeeding struggles, or simply trying to find a moment for yourself, seeking therapy as a new mom is a crucial step toward emotional well-being. I offer therapy for moms in a nonjudgmental space where you can explore your feelings and develop personalized coping strategies to support your mental health and well-being during this transformative time. Our therapy sessions for new moms cover a range of topics, including maternal mental health, postpartum anxiety, and building a support network.
You deserve to rediscover yourself
In the whirlwind of diaper changes, feedings, and sleepless nights, it's easy to lose sight of who you are outside of being a mom. Balancing your new identity with your personal aspirations can be challenging. My therapy approach integrates proven therapeutic techniques to help you reconnect with your passions, set healthy boundaries, and carve out essential time for self-care. Therapy for new moms can help you thrive both as an individual and a mom.
Investing in yourself is an investment in your kids
Therapy can be one of the best investments in your kids you can make. Research has shown that when moms seek out their own therapy it can enhance parent-child bonding, develop more secure attachments, decrease in intergenerational trauma, help develop and model healthy coping strategies, and even increase cognitive and academic outcomes! We also know that when mom's have address their own depression, anxiety, and mental health it can help their kids emotions and behaviors too!
Empowering New Moms Through Therapy
At Live Oak Psychology, we understand the unique challenges that come with new motherhood. Our specialized therapy for new moms is designed to support you through this transformative period. Whether you're dealing with postpartum mood disorders, struggling with work-life balance as a new parent, or simply need a safe space to process your emotions, we're here for you.
Our approach combines evidence-based techniques with compassionate care to address common concerns like:
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Managing expectations vs. reality of motherhood
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Coping with hormonal changes and body image issues
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Navigating relationship changes with your partner
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Dealing with mom guilt and societal pressures
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Developing self-care strategies for busy moms
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Building confidence in your parenting abilities
Remember, seeking therapy as a new mom isn't a sign of weakness—it's a proactive step towards being the best version of yourself for you and your baby. Let us support you on your journey through motherhood, helping you find balance, joy, and fulfillment in this new chapter of your life. If you are looking for a therapist in Austin, Texas reach out today!
512-766-9871
2525 Wallingwood Drive 7D, Austin, Texas 78746
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