Postpartum Anxiety & Perinatal Therapy in CT & NY
Support for postpartum anxiety, intrusive thoughts and identity shifts. Evidence-based therapy delivered via telehealth in CT & NY.
How therapy can help
In our work together, we will explore the thoughts, feelings and body sensations that accompany postpartum anxiety. Evidence-based approaches like cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and interpersonal psychotherapy are effective treatments for perinatal depression and anxiety. CBT is a structured, goal-oriented therapy that helps you identify unhelpful thought patterns and behaviors and learn healthier coping strategies. You will learn to challenge catastrophic thinking, manage intrusive images and build self-compassion.
For perfectionistic or all-or-nothing thinking, we may use CBT techniques such as cognitive restructuring and behavioral experiments. These tools teach you to reframe harsh self-criticism and reduce safety behaviors like excessive checking. Mindfulness and emotion-focused practices help you notice intrusive thoughts without judgment and foster self-acceptance.
What to expect in sessions
You’ll meet with Sarah Williams, LCSW via secure video sessions from your home in Connecticut or New York. During an initial evaluation, we will discuss your history, current symptoms and goals. Each session lasts 50 minutes and will focus on your individual experience. You’ll learn grounding exercises, breathing techniques, and practical skills for managing panic attacks, racing thoughts, intrusive images and overwhelm. In exposure sessions, we’ll gently face triggers—such as caring for the baby or engaging with certain objects—while practicing relaxation techniques. Over time, this approach reduces anxiety and avoidance behaviors.
As you progress, you will begin to reconnect with your sense of identity outside of motherhood, strengthen your support network and build resilience. We’ll also discuss sleep, nutrition, and adjusting expectations around postpartum life. Therapy provides a confidential space to share difficult feelings and gain clarity about your needs.
Logistics & fees
Sarah Williams offers private-pay telehealth sessions and does not accept insurance. Session fees are $X (update with your rate). We provide a superbill after each session so you can submit claims to your insurance for potential out-of-network reimbursement; please check your plan’s benefits. Payment is due at the time of service. Sliding-scale options may be available based on need. Sessions are offered to residents of Connecticut and New York only.
Ready to start
If you’re experiencing intrusive thoughts, panic, or overwhelming worry during pregnancy or after birth, support is available. You do not have to carry these feelings alone. Reach out today to schedule an appointment and take the first step toward feeling calmer and more confident in your new role.
The perinatal period (pregnancy through one year postpartum) brings enormous physical and emotional changes. Studies show that about one in five women and one in ten men experience depression or anxiety during the perinatal period. Symptoms may include racing thoughts, constant worry, feeling that something terrible will happen, irritability, or difficulty sleeping. Some new parents have intrusive thoughts and rituals involving the baby, a form of postpartum obsessive-compulsive disorder. These symptoms often involve unwanted images of harming the infant and result in avoidance of caring for the baby.
Perinatal anxiety and intrusive thoughts can be frightening, but they are treatable. Treatment may include serotonergic medication, psychoeducation and exposure with response-prevention therapy, which helps parents understand that they are unlikely to harm their baby and teaches coping strategies. You do not need a formal diagnosis to seek support. Early intervention leads to better outcomes for both parent and child.