Austin Postpartum Depression Therapist: Compassionate Care for New Moms
Struggling with overwhelming sadness, anxiety, or difficulty bonding with your baby? You're not alone, and you don't have to suffer. Get expert help from a psychologist who specializes in postpartum depression.
You deserve to feel like yourself again. Most mothers see significant improvement within 8-12 weeks of treatment.
Dr. Jana Rundle, PhD
Postpartum Depression Specialist
Licensed Clinical Psychologist
Understanding Postpartum Depression in Austin
Postpartum depression (PPD) is a serious but treatable mental health condition affecting approximately 1 in 7 mothers in Austin and across the United States. Unlike the "baby blues," which are mild and temporary, postpartum depression is more severe, lasts longer, and requires professional treatment. The good news? With the right support, nearly all mothers with PPD recover completely.
Common PPD Symptoms
- Persistent sadness, emptiness, or hopelessness
- Severe mood swings or irritability
- Difficulty bonding with your baby
- Withdrawal from family and friends
- Loss of appetite or eating much more than usual
- Inability to sleep or sleeping too much
- Overwhelming fatigue or loss of energy
- Feelings of worthlessness or excessive guilt
- Difficulty thinking, concentrating, or making decisions
- Severe anxiety and panic attacks
- Thoughts of harming yourself or your baby
- Recurrent thoughts of death or suicide
When to Seek Help Immediately
⚠️ Crisis Support
If you're having thoughts of harming yourself or your baby, please seek immediate help:
- • Call 988 (Suicide & Crisis Lifeline)
- • Text "HELLO" to 741741 (Crisis Text Line)
- • Call 911 or go to nearest ER
- • National Maternal Mental Health Hotline: 1-833-943-5746
Seek professional help if you experience:
- Symptoms lasting more than 2 weeks
- Symptoms getting worse over time
- Difficulty caring for yourself or your baby
- Thoughts of harming yourself or your baby
- Feeling detached from your baby
- Panic attacks or severe anxiety
- Feeling hopeless about the future
You're Not Alone - PPD is Common in Austin
Many Austin mothers struggle with postpartum depression, though it often goes undiagnosed because mothers feel ashamed or guilty about their feelings. Remember: PPD is not your fault, it doesn't mean you're a bad mother, and it's completely treatable. With proper support, you can recover and enjoy motherhood.
Dr. Rundle has helped hundreds of Austin mothers overcome postpartum depression. She understands the unique challenges of new motherhood and provides a safe, non-judgmental space for healing.
Evidence-Based PPD Treatment That Works
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
CBT helps identify and change negative thought patterns that contribute to depression. It's proven highly effective for PPD, with most mothers experiencing significant relief within 8-12 weeks.
Interpersonal Therapy (IPT)
IPT focuses on improving relationships and communication, addressing role transitions, and resolving interpersonal conflicts that contribute to postpartum depression.
Mindfulness & Coping Skills
Learn practical techniques for managing stress, regulating emotions, and developing self-compassion. These tools provide immediate relief and long-term resilience.
What to Expect in PPD Therapy
Comprehensive Assessment (First Session)
Dr. Rundle will conduct a thorough evaluation of your symptoms, medical history, birth experience, support system, and current circumstances. This helps create a personalized treatment plan tailored to your specific needs.
Weekly Therapy Sessions
Most mothers attend weekly 50-minute sessions. During sessions, you'll learn coping strategies, process difficult emotions, challenge negative thoughts, and develop skills for managing PPD symptoms. Sessions can be in-person or virtual.
Coordinated Care
If needed, Dr. Rundle can coordinate with your OB/GYN, primary care doctor, or psychiatrist to ensure comprehensive care. Some mothers benefit from combining therapy with medication, while others recover with therapy alone.
Measurable Progress & Recovery
Most mothers notice improvement within 2-4 weeks, with significant recovery by 8-12 weeks. Dr. Rundle tracks your progress and adjusts treatment as needed to ensure the best outcomes. The goal is complete recovery and prevention of future episodes.
Helpful Resources About Postpartum Depression
Explore our library of articles to learn more about PPD and recovery
New Research on Postpartum Depression Treatment Options
Discover the latest evidence-based treatments for postpartum depression and what research shows works best.
Postpartum Depression Support
Learn about the support systems, resources, and strategies that help mothers recover from PPD.
Preventing Postpartum Depression
Evidence-based preventative approaches to reduce your risk of developing postpartum depression.
Supporting Partners of Women with Postpartum Depression
A guide for partners on how to support a loved one experiencing postpartum depression.
Understanding the Maternal Mental Health Crisis
The state of maternal mental health care in America and what mothers need to know.
Postpartum Rage: The Anger No One Talks About
Understanding postpartum rage, its connection to PPD, and how to manage intense anger.
Digital Maternal Mental Health
How technology and digital resources are transforming maternal mental health support.
Supporting New Mothers Through Postpartum Challenges
Practical ways to support new mothers facing the challenges of the postpartum period.
Postpartum Depression Questions Answered
What's the difference between baby blues and postpartum depression?
Baby blues affect up to 80% of new mothers and typically resolve within 2 weeks. Symptoms include mood swings, crying spells, anxiety, and difficulty sleeping. Postpartum depression (PPD) is more severe and persistent, lasting weeks or months. PPD symptoms include intense sadness, hopelessness, difficulty bonding with baby, changes in appetite, and thoughts of harming yourself or your baby. If symptoms last more than 2 weeks or interfere with daily functioning, it's likely PPD and professional help is needed.
How common is postpartum depression in Austin?
Postpartum depression affects approximately 1 in 7 mothers nationwide, and Austin rates are consistent with national averages. That means thousands of Austin mothers experience PPD each year. It's one of the most common complications of childbirth, yet many mothers suffer in silence. The good news is that with proper treatment, most mothers see significant improvement within 8-12 weeks.
Will postpartum depression go away on its own?
While some mild cases may improve without treatment, moderate to severe postpartum depression typically does not resolve on its own and can worsen over time without intervention. Untreated PPD can last for months or even years, affecting your ability to care for yourself and your baby, and impacting your relationships. Professional treatment significantly speeds recovery and prevents long-term complications.
Can I take antidepressants while breastfeeding?
Many antidepressants are safe to use while breastfeeding, and the benefits of treating postpartum depression often outweigh the minimal risks. However, medication decisions should be made in consultation with your doctor or psychiatrist. Dr. Rundle provides therapy-based treatment and can coordinate with your medical providers if medication is recommended as part of your treatment plan.
How quickly will I feel better with PPD treatment?
Most mothers notice some improvement within 2-4 weeks of starting therapy, with significant improvement by 8-12 weeks. The exact timeline varies based on symptom severity, consistency of treatment, support systems, and individual factors. Dr. Rundle uses evidence-based approaches proven to treat postpartum depression effectively, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Interpersonal Therapy (IPT).
Start Your Recovery from Postpartum Depression Today
You don't have to struggle alone. Postpartum depression is treatable, and with the right support, you can feel like yourself again. Dr. Rundle is here to help you recover and thrive as a mother.
Austin Office: 13706 N Hwy 183 Ste 114, Austin, TX
Phone: (512) 898-9510