Specialized Support for Your Pregnancy and Postpartum Journey
Recognizing When You Need Maternal Mental Health Support
- Constant worry that feels diffaicult to control
- Racing thoughts that keep you from sleeping even when your baby is asleep
- Physical symptoms like racing heart, shortness of breath, or dizziness
- Intrusive thoughts about harm coming to your baby
Avoiding certain situations due to fear or worry - Feeling constantly “on edge” or unable to relax
- Persistent sadness, emptiness, or hopelessness lasting more than two weeks
- Difficulty bonding with your baby or feeling disconnected
- Withdrawing from family and friends
- Overwhelming fatigue or loss of energy beyond typical new-parent tiredness
- Loss of interest in activities you previously enjoyed
- Intense irritability, anger, or rage
- Thoughts of harming yourself or your baby
When to seek immediate help: If you’re having thoughts of harming yourself or your baby, call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 988, text HOME to the Crisis Text Line at 741741, or go to your nearest emergency room immediately.
Signs You’re Struggling with Adjustment to Motherhood
- Feeling overwhelmed by the demands of caring for your baby
- Significant identity confusion or loss of sense of self
- Persistent feelings of inadequacy or failure as a mother
- Resentment toward your baby, partner, or your new life
- Intense longing for your pre-baby life
- Feeling trapped or fantasizing about escape
Signs You Need Support After Pregnancy Loss
- Intense grief that doesn’t seem to improve with time
- Difficulty functioning in daily life due to your loss
- Feeling isolated in your grief or misunderstood by others
- Anxiety about future pregnancies
- Relationship strain related to different grieving styles
- Anniversary reactions around due dates or loss dates
Comprehensive Maternal Mental Health Services
Pregnancy and the postpartum period can bring a range of emotional experiences, from joy and excitement to anxiety, stress, and sometimes depression. Our specialized maternal mental health services provide support throughout your reproductive journey, whether you’re planning for pregnancy, currently pregnant, or navigating the postpartum period. With specialized training from Postpartum Support International, our team offers evidence-based care tailored to your unique needs.
- Pregnancy Support – Addressing anxiety, depression, and stress during pregnancy
- Postpartum Depression & Anxiety Treatment – Specialized care for new mothers experiencing mood and anxiety disorders
- Pregnancy Loss Support – Compassionate therapy for those experiencing miscarriage, stillbirth, or infant loss
- Adjustment to Motherhood – Support for the identity shifts and relationship changes that come with new parenthood
- New Mom Support Group – Connect with other mothers in a facilitated supportive environment
- Partner/Family Support – Helping partners and family members understand and support maternal mental health
- Couples Support
Customized Care Options for
Your Maternal Mental Health
We recognize that every woman’s journey through pregnancy and postpartum is unique. That’s why we offer various approaches to maternal mental health support, tailored to your specific needs and preferences:
Individual Therapy
One-on-one sessions with a specialized maternal mental health therapist provide personalized support for your specific concerns. These sessions offer privacy and focused attention on your unique challenges and goals.
New Mom Support Group
Partner/Couple Sessions
Virtual Therapy Options
For mothers with limited childcare options or mobility challenges, we offer secure telehealth sessions that provide the same quality care as in-person visits. Virtual therapy can be especially helpful during the immediate postpartum period when leaving home with a newborn is difficult.
Coordination with Healthcare Providers
With your permission, we can collaborate with your OB/GYN, midwife, primary care provider, or psychiatrist to ensure comprehensive, coordinated care for your physical and emotional wellbeing.
The Benefits of Specialized Maternal
Mental Health Support
Seeking support during pregnancy and postpartum can transform your experience of motherhood. Here are some of the benefits our clients experience:
Emotional Relief and Stability
- Reduction in symptoms of anxiety and depression
- Decreased intrusive or worrying thoughts
- Improved sleep and ability to rest when possible
- Greater emotional regulation and resilience
Enhanced Bonding and Relationship
- Stronger connection with your baby
- Improved communication with your partner
- More satisfying family relationships
- Reduced conflict and increased support at home
Increased Confidence and Competence
- Greater trust in your parenting instincts
- Reduced feelings of inadequacy or failure
- Practical strategies for managing parenting challenges
- Balanced perspective on the realities of motherhood
Reclaimed Joy and Presence
- Ability to experience pleasure and joy with your baby
- Mindful presence during precious early moments
- Reduced overwhelm and increased calm
- Capacity to create meaningful memories despite challenges
Long-term Resilience
- Skills that support your mental health beyond the perinatal period
- Strategies for navigating future life transitions
- Models of self-care that benefit the whole family
- Foundation for long-term maternal wellbeing
Tampa-Specific Considerations:
New mothers in Tampa may face unique challenges that can impact maternal mental health, including:
- Limited family support due to relocation to the Tampa area
- Isolation during hurricane season or severe weather events
- Heat and humidity that can make it difficult to get outdoors with a new baby
- Navigating postpartum recovery during tourist season when the city is busiest
Our team understands these local challenges and provides tailored support to help you navigate them effectively.
Why Choose Dr. Ali Sager & Associates
for Maternal Mental Health Support
Specialized Maternal Mental Health Training
- Postpartum Support International Certification: Dr. Sager has completed specialized training through Postpartum Support International, the leading organization for maternal mental health
- Evidence-Based Approaches: Our team utilizes therapeutic techniques specifically proven effective for perinatal mood and anxiety disorders
- Ongoing Professional Development: We stay current with the latest research and best practices in maternal mental health
- Integrated Mind-Body Approach: We understand the complex interplay between physical and emotional aspects of the perinatal experience
Women Supporting Women
- All-Female Clinical Team: Many new mothers feel more comfortable discussing maternal mental health concerns with female providers
- Personal Understanding: Several of our clinicians have personal experience with the joys and challenges of motherhood
- Non-Judgmental Support: We provide a safe space free from shame or judgment about your feelings and experiences
- Validation and Normalization: We help you understand that many women face similar challenges and that seeking help is a sign of strength
Designed for New Mothers' Needs
- Baby-Friendly Environment: Babies are welcome in sessions when needed
- Flexible Scheduling: Appointments available during times that work for busy parents
- Virtual Therapy Options: Secure telehealth sessions eliminate the need for childcare or travel with a newborn
- Insurance Navigation Support: While we are out-of-network providers, we offer superbills and guidance for potential reimbursement
Investing in Your Maternal Mental Health
Session Fees
As an out-of-network provider, our sessions are not directly covered by insurance. Many clients use out-of-network benefits for reimbursement. We offer various price points based on the provider’s credentials and experience:
- Sessions with licensed psychologists
- Sessions with licensed mental health counselors and clinical social workers
- Sessions with registered clinical interns (more affordable option)
During your consultation, we’ll discuss fees and payment options to find a solution that works for you.
Insurance Reimbursement
While we don’t directly bill insurance companies, we provide superbills that you can submit to your insurance provider for potential reimbursement under your out-of-network benefits. Many of our clients successfully receive partial reimbursement this way.
Value Considerations
When considering the investment in maternal mental health support, many mothers find it helpful to reflect on:
- The impact of maternal wellbeing on the entire family system
- The importance of early intervention for both mother and baby
- The long-term benefits of developing coping skills and support systems
- The value of specialized expertise in perinatal mental health
Frequently Asked Questions
About
Maternal Mental Health Support
In addition to our specialized maternal mental health services, we offer several related services that may be helpful during your pregnancy and postpartum journey:
Adult Therapy Services
Our individual therapy services address a wide range of concerns that may be present alongside or separate from perinatal mental health issues, including general anxiety, depression, and relationship challenges.
Parenting and Family Therapy
For families navigating the transition to parenthood or experiencing challenges with older children, our family therapy services help improve communication and strengthen relationships.
Eye-Movement Therapy
(Accelerated Resolution Therapy)
For mothers who have experienced birth trauma or have past trauma that’s being triggered by pregnancy or parenthood, our certified ART providers offer this innovative approach that can provide rapid relief.
New Mom Support Group
Connect with other mothers in a supportive, facilitated group setting to share experiences, learn coping strategies, and build community during this significant life transition.
Our Commitment to Your Maternal Mental Health Journey
At Dr. Ali Sager & Associates, we are committed to providing compassionate, evidence-based care during this significant life transition. We understand that seeking help for maternal mental health concerns takes courage, and we honor that courage with:
- Timely Response: We recognize the urgency of perinatal mental health concerns and strive to offer appointments within one week of initial contact
- Specialized Care: Our team has specific training in maternal mental health, ensuring you receive interventions tailored to your unique needs
- Collaborative Approach: We work with you as an active participant in your healing journey, honoring your expertise about your own experience
- Ongoing Support: We provide resources, referrals, and connections to community support beyond our therapy sessions
- Flexible Options: We offer both in-person and virtual sessions to accommodate the realities of life with a new baby
We believe that every mother deserves support during the challenging transition to parenthood, and we’re honored to be part of your journey toward wellbeing.
Take the First Step Toward Maternal Wellbeing
Reaching out for support shows courage and a commitment to your wellbeing and your family’s future. Our team at Dr. Ali Sager & Associates is ready to walk alongside you on your journey toward healing and growth.
Ready to get started?
Call: (727) 228-2249 | Email: [email protected]
Visit: 611 W Bay St., Suites 1C, 1B, and 1H, Tampa, FL 33606
Contact Information &
Business Hours
Dr. Ali Sager & Associates
611 W Bay St., Suites 1C, 1B, and 1H
Tampa, FL 33606
Phone: (727) 228-2249
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.dralisager.com
Hours: Monday-Friday, 7:30 AM - 7:00 PM (Friday until 6:00 PM)
Options: Both in-person and virtual sessions available