I’ve never talked to anyone before. Does going to therapy mean something is wrong with me?

Not at all. Reaching out for support is a sign of awareness and strength. Many people are used to handling things on their own until something begins to feel overwhelming. Therapy creates space to better understand what you’re experiencing and how to move through it.

How is this different from talking to a friend or family member?

Therapy offers a different kind of support. It’s a space that is confidential, non-judgmental, and guided by clinical training. The goal is not just to listen, but to help you gain insight, develop tools, and approach challenges in a more intentional way.

Why is motherhood harder for high-achieving women?

Motherhood is often harder for high-achieving women because the skills that built their success, like control, preparation, and measurable results, do not apply to raising a baby. High-achieving women frequently struggle with postpartum perfectionism, achievement-based self-worth, and the loss of a clear rubric for "doing it right."

What is the difference between a perinatal psychologist and a perinatal therapist?

A perinatal psychologist holds a doctoral degree (PhD or PsyD) and has advanced training in assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of perinatal mental health conditions. A perinatal therapist typically holds a master's-level license such as LMSW, LPC, or LMFT. Both can provide effective therapy, but a psychologist represents the highest clinical credential in the field. The PMH-C certification from Postpartum Support International indicates that a provider, at any license level, has completed specialized perinatal mental health training. Dr. Kristen Hering of Pearl Beech Psychology is a PhD-level licensed psychologist with PMH-C certification.

Postpartum exhaustion and postpartum anxiety can feel similar, but they are not the same. Signs that suggest clinical postpartum anxiety rather than normal new-mom tiredness include racing thoughts that do not stop when the baby sleeps, inability to rest even when given the chance, intrusive fears about the baby's safety, physical symptoms like a racing heart, and feeling unable to function in daily life. If rest and support are not improving how you feel, postpartum therapy with a perinatal specialist is recommended.

Do I need therapy for postpartum anxiety or am I just tired?

Do you accept insurance for therapy sessions?

Pearl Beech Psychology is in-network with Blue Cross Blue Shield and Blue Care Network. Private pay is also available and offers added privacy and flexibility, keeping your care outside of insurance requirements and diagnoses unless you choose otherwise. If you have out-of-network benefits, you may be able to submit for reimbursement.