Ep 144: Postpartum Mental Health: How Postpartum Support International Helps Moms and Therapists

How Postpartum Support International Empowers Moms & Clinicians Navigating Perinatal Mental HealthThis episode of The Therapist Mom Podcast is designed for therapists, mothers, and anyone supporting parents through the perinatal and postpartum journey. If you’re a private practice therapist, a mom struggling silently, or someone passionate about supporting healthy families, you’ll find actionable insights and relatable, heartfelt wisdom here.As someone who’s both a therapist specializing in perinatal mental health and a mom who’s personally navigated postpartum anxiety and depression, I know just how critical the right support—and the right resources—can be. Sometimes, that support looks like finding the right therapist or training to serve your clients better. Other times, it’s knowing you’re not alone and that what you’re experiencing is both normal and valid.This episode deep-dives into the invaluable work of Postpartum Support International (PSI), sharing my story and practical strategies to connect with help—whether you’re a mom, a clinician, or a supportive friend.Let’s dig in, share some honest truths, and remember we don’t have to do this alone.What You’ll Learn in This EpisodePersonal Story & Validation: Why lived experience with postpartum challenges matters—and what it means to move from surviving to seeking support.All About Postpartum Support International: What PSI offers to moms, families, and professionals, and why their resources are an absolute must-know.Steps for Clinicians & Moms: How to get specialized training, build a stronger support network, and access free, accessible help—no matter where you are in your journey.Episode Timestamps00:02 - Introduction to the Therapist Mom Podcast and the power of honest, strategic conversations about motherhood and practice-building.00:46 - What is Podcastathon 2026? Why we’re spotlighting nonprofits and how PSI personally and professionally changed my own journey.02:18 - Personal postpartum mental health story—when anxiety and depression show up differently than what you learned in grad school.05:28 - Facing postpartum struggles as a therapist mom, and how Postpartum Support International’s resources filled the gaps.14:44 - Practical PSI resources: helplines, directories, support groups for moms, partners, and clinicians.18:21 - Why specialization and training in perinatal mental health matters for providers, and how PSI helps you grow.22:31 - The intersection of systemic support, personal healing, and policy advocacy for families navigating postpartum challenges.Top Takeaways on Postpartum Mental Health & Support1. Understanding Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders Isn’t Always TextbookIf you’re working with (or are) a parent in the postpartum period, know that perinatal depression and anxiety can look and feel different than “classic” clinical depression and anxiety. My own experience as a licensed therapist didn’t immunize me from these challenges—in fact, it took me years (and three kids!) to recognize and give myself permission to seek the right help. If you’re struggling, there is no shame, and you are not alone.2. Postpartum Support International (PSI) Is a Game-Changer ResourceI can’t overstate how essential PSI is—whether you’re a mom seeking community or a clinician wanting to do right by your clients. Their free offerings include:Directories to help you find specialized therapists, prescribers, doulas, and lactation consultantsSupport groups for mothers, dads, partners, and diverse communitiesConsultation and certification opportunities for professionals (where you can earn your Perinatal Mental Health Certification)Crisis lines and warm lines for immediate and ongoing helpAccess doesn’t have to be complicated. Bookmark PSI now—whether it’s for you or someone in your orbit who’ll need it later.3. Specialized Training Isn’t Optional Anymore (and That’s Okay!)Most of us didn’t get adequate perinatal mental health training in grad school, and that’s not your fault. What matters is acknowledging that, seeking out PSI’s excellent (and often affordable) CE opportunities, and referring out when needed. There’s no room for gatekeeping in this space—our clients (and colleagues) thrive when we collaborate.What Not To Do:Don’t convince yourself you can “just wing it” if you’re feeling over your head (as a mom or a clinician).Don’t keep silent about your struggles—community, not isolation, is where the healing starts.Don’t forget about partners and fathers—postpartum depression and anxiety touch them, too.Resources Mentioned in This EpisodePostpartum Support International (PSI) Main SitePSI Provider DirectoryPSI Support GroupsJoin us for Therapist Mom Networking Meetup — a casual space to connect with other therapist moms, share what’s working in your practice, talk through challenges, and build real community. No pressure, no pitching — just support and connection. Register at https://www.raisedtoempower.com/networking💻 This episode is sponsored by Jane, the all-in-one practice management software I use and love. Book your FREE Live Demo HERE and when you're ready to sign up use code ASHLEY1MO for a 1 month grace period⭐️ Follow on Instagram @Raisedtoempower⭐️ Grab your FREE networking guide for therapists HERE⭐️ Learn more about how I can help support you and your practice, and ways we can work together at www.raisedtoempower.comYou don’t have to figure this out alone. Ashley Comegys specializes in helping therapist moms build private practices that allow them the time freedom, flexibility and autonomy they need in their careers. Looking for support in either starting your practice, or looking to revamp your marketing and systems? Let’s chat— book your consultation here!🎧 If you find today's episode helpful or inspiring, be sure to share it with your therapist friends, subscribe to the show, and leave your five star rating and review.Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for therapy, supervision, or legal advice.