The first few weeks after bringing a baby home to your apartment in the Bronx or your house in Westchester are a blur. Between the sleepless nights, the constant feedings, and the overwhelming shift in your identity, it’s normal to feel like you’re on an emotional rollercoaster.

Many new parents experience a period of weepiness and exhaustion known as the "baby blues." But for others, those feelings don't go away—they get heavier. As a perinatal mental health therapist in New York, one of the most common questions I hear is: "Is this just normal new-mom stress, or is it something more?"

Bringing a baby into the world is life-changing, beautiful, and often, well, a little overwhelming. If you've ever thought about seeking support during pregnancy or after birth, you might also have run into some confusion or hesitation. It's totally normal to have questions about something unfamiliar, and sometimes, those questions can turn into myths that keep us from getting the help we truly deserve.

As a therapist specializing in prenatal and postpartum mental health, I often hear common assumptions that create misunderstandings about what postpartum therapy (and therapy for pregnant women) is really all about. Let's clear up some of that confusion!

Ah, summer. The season of sunshine, long days, and... maternity leave! It's painted as this idyllic time for rest, bonding with your new baby, and enjoying family fun. But if you're a new parent navigating the perinatal period in New York, you know the reality can be a lot messier. What's supposed to be relaxing can quickly turn into a pressure cooker, amplifying family stress during summer and making you feel more overwhelmed than ever.

As a perinatal mental health therapist, I see firsthand how this season, especially with a new baby in the mix, can inadvertently create unexpected tension and stress in families. You're not alone if you're feeling this blend of hope and dread.