Postpartum Depression Therapist in Austin, TX
Specialized, compassionate treatment for postpartum depression and maternal mood disorders
Dr. Jana Rundle, PsyD • Licensed Clinical Psychologist • Perinatal Mental Health Specialist
Dr. Jana Rundle, PsyD
Perinatal Mental Health Specialist
You're Not Alone: Understanding Postpartum Depression
Postpartum depression (PPD) affects up to 1 in 7 new mothers, making it one of the most common complications of childbirth. Despite how common it is, many mothers suffer in silence, feeling shame or guilt about not experiencing the joy they expected.
Common Signs You May Need a Postpartum Depression Therapist:
- •Persistent sadness, hopelessness, or feeling empty that doesn't improve
- •Difficulty bonding with your baby or feeling emotionally numb
- •Loss of interest in activities you used to enjoy, including caring for yourself
- •Overwhelming guilt, shame, or feelings of inadequacy as a mother
- •Changes in appetite (eating much more or much less than usual)
- •Difficulty sleeping even when baby sleeps, or sleeping excessively
- •Intense irritability, anger, or rage episodes
- •Thoughts of harming yourself or your baby
- •Feeling like you made a mistake having a baby or wishing you could escape
Important: This Is Not Your Fault
Postpartum depression is a medical condition caused by hormonal changes, sleep deprivation, and the immense physical and emotional demands of new motherhood. It is not a sign of weakness, and it does not mean you're a bad mother. With proper treatment from a specialized therapist, most mothers see significant improvement and go on to fully enjoy motherhood.
How a Postpartum Depression Therapist Can Help
A specialized postpartum depression therapist understands the unique challenges of maternal mental health and provides evidence-based treatment tailored to new mothers.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
Identify and change negative thought patterns that maintain depression.
- • Challenge "I'm failing as a mother" thoughts
- • Develop realistic expectations for postpartum recovery
- • Build self-compassion and reduce guilt
Interpersonal Therapy (IPT)
Address relationship changes and role transitions that contribute to depression.
- • Navigate identity shift from woman to mother
- • Improve communication with partner
- • Build healthy support systems
Attachment & Bonding Support
Strengthen mother-baby connection and address bonding difficulties.
- • Process feelings about difficult births or NICU stays
- • Overcome emotional numbness toward baby
- • Build confidence in parenting abilities
Practical Life Management
Develop strategies for managing the overwhelming demands of new motherhood.
- • Optimize sleep despite infant care demands
- • Balance self-care with baby care
- • Return-to-work transition support
Collaborative Care: If medication may be helpful, your therapist can coordinate with your OB/GYN or psychiatrist. Many mothers benefit from a combination of therapy and medication, especially for moderate to severe postpartum depression.
What to Expect: Your Recovery Journey
Recovery from postpartum depression is a gradual process. Here's what most mothers experience:
Initial Assessment & Relief Planning (Week 1-2)
Comprehensive evaluation of depression symptoms, bonding experiences, and support systems. We create an individualized treatment plan and teach immediate coping strategies for the hardest moments. You'll leave the first session with practical tools you can use right away.
Symptom Reduction Phase (Weeks 3-8)
Focus on reducing the most severe symptoms: hopelessness, inability to function, suicidal thoughts. We work on sleep optimization, thought pattern changes, and building daily structure. Most mothers notice improved mood, better sleep, and reduced guilt within 4-6 weeks.
Bonding & Identity Work (Weeks 8-16)
Strengthen mother-baby connection, process difficult emotions about motherhood, and navigate identity changes. Address relationship challenges with partner and build sustainable support systems. Work through any birth trauma or medical complications that contribute to depression.
Maintenance & Thriving (Week 16+)
Solidify recovery, prevent relapse, and transition to enjoying motherhood. Plan for high-risk periods (returning to work, weaning, second child). Many mothers move to biweekly then monthly sessions for ongoing support.
Expected Timeline:
- •4-6 weeks: Notice improved mood, reduced hopelessness, better functioning
- •8-12 weeks: Significant reduction in depression symptoms, improved bonding
- •12-16 weeks: Return to baseline functioning, enjoying moments with baby
- •6+ months: Full recovery, thriving in motherhood role
Why Choose Dr. Jana as Your Postpartum Depression Therapist?
Specialized Expertise
Doctorate in Clinical Psychology with advanced training in perinatal mental health and maternal mood disorders
Deep Experience
15+ years treating postpartum depression with 500+ mothers helped through recovery
Personal Understanding
As a mother herself, Dr. Jana deeply understands the challenges and joys of motherhood
"I've walked alongside hundreds of mothers through postpartum depression. You don't have to do this alone."
Postpartum depression is isolating and overwhelming, but with the right support, recovery is possible. I provide evidence-based treatment in a warm, non-judgmental environment where you can be completely honest about your struggles. Together, we'll help you feel like yourself again and build the confidence to thrive as a mother.
— Dr. Jana Rundle, PsyD, Licensed Clinical Psychologist
Serving Austin & All of Texas
In-Person Therapy (North Austin)
Our office is conveniently located in North Austin, serving families from:
Virtual Therapy (All of Texas)
Secure, HIPAA-compliant telehealth sessions available throughout Texas:
Virtual therapy is especially convenient for new mothers - no need for childcare, fits around baby's schedule
Office Address: 13706 N Hwy 183 Ste 114, Austin, TX 78750
Phone: (512) 898-9510
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I find a postpartum depression therapist in Austin?
Finding a qualified postpartum depression therapist in Austin requires looking for specific credentials and expertise. Look for a licensed clinical psychologist or therapist with specialized training in perinatal mental health, experience treating postpartum depression specifically (not just general depression), and understanding of the unique challenges of new motherhood. Dr. Jana Rundle at Bloom Psychology offers both in-person therapy in North Austin and virtual sessions throughout Texas, with over 15 years of experience treating maternal mental health conditions and 500+ mothers helped.
What should I expect from a postpartum depression therapist?
A specialized postpartum depression therapist will conduct a comprehensive assessment of your mood symptoms, sleep patterns, bonding experiences, and support systems. Treatment typically includes evidence-based approaches like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Interpersonal Therapy (IPT), and practical strategies for managing new motherhood challenges. Your therapist should understand hormonal factors, sleep deprivation impacts, and the emotional transition to motherhood. Sessions focus on reducing depressive symptoms, improving mother-baby bonding, and building sustainable coping skills. Most mothers begin feeling better within 4-6 weeks of starting therapy.
What's the difference between a postpartum depression therapist and a regular therapist?
A postpartum depression therapist has specialized training in perinatal mental health and understands the unique aspects of maternal depression. Unlike general therapists, they recognize how hormonal changes, sleep deprivation, identity transition, and infant care demands contribute to depression. They're trained to assess mother-infant bonding, understand the differences between baby blues and postpartum depression, recognize when medication consultation is needed, and address guilt and shame specific to motherhood. Specialized therapists also understand that postpartum depression looks different from typical depression - it may include anxiety, intrusive thoughts, difficulty bonding, and rage rather than just sadness.
How long does therapy for postpartum depression take?
Most mothers see significant improvement in postpartum depression symptoms within 8-12 weeks of consistent therapy. Initial relief from the most severe symptoms (hopelessness, inability to function) often occurs within 4-6 weeks. Complete recovery typically takes 3-6 months of weekly therapy, followed by less frequent maintenance sessions. Timeline varies based on symptom severity, support systems, sleep quality, and whether medication is part of treatment. Some mothers continue monthly sessions for several months to prevent relapse during transitions like returning to work or weaning.
Is virtual therapy effective for postpartum depression?
Yes, research shows virtual therapy is equally effective as in-person therapy for treating postpartum depression. Virtual sessions offer significant advantages for new mothers: no need for childcare arrangements, flexibility around feeding and nap schedules, comfort of home environment, and access to specialists regardless of location. Dr. Jana Rundle provides secure telehealth sessions to mothers throughout Texas, using the same evidence-based approaches as in-person therapy. Many mothers actually prefer virtual sessions during the postpartum period due to the convenience and reduced barriers to consistent attendance.
Insurance & Investment in Your Recovery
Out-of-Network Benefits
We are an out-of-network provider, which means greater flexibility in your treatment plan and no restrictions from insurance companies. Many insurance plans offer out-of-network mental health benefits that cover 50-80% of session costs.
We provide Super Bills (detailed receipts) for every session that you can submit to your insurance company for reimbursement. This often results in similar out-of-pocket costs as in-network providers, with the benefit of specialized expertise and flexible treatment approaches.
To check your benefits: Call your insurance company and ask about "out-of-network mental health benefits for outpatient therapy" with a PhD psychologist (CPT code 90834 or 90837).
Session Investment
- • Initial Assessment: $250 (90 minutes)
- • Individual Therapy: $195 (50 minutes)
- • Expected insurance reimbursement: 50-80%
- • Super Bills provided for all sessions
- • Your actual cost: typically $35-$100 per session
Payment Methods
- • Credit/Debit cards accepted
- • HSA/FSA cards welcome
- • Payment plans available for financial hardship
- • Secure online payment portal
- • No surprise fees or hidden costs
Important: Please don't let cost prevent you from getting help. Untreated postpartum depression has significant costs - to your wellbeing, your relationships, and your ability to bond with your baby. Early treatment leads to faster recovery and better outcomes. If finances are a concern, let's discuss options during your free consultation.
You Don't Have to Feel This Way Forever
Postpartum depression is treatable. Recovery is possible. You deserve to feel like yourself again.
With specialized treatment, most mothers see significant improvement within 4-6 weeks and go on to fully recover and enjoy motherhood. The sadness, guilt, and difficulty bonding can end - and you can build the life you imagined with your baby.
📞 Call: (512) 898-9510
✉️ Email: info@bloompsychologynorthaustin.com
If you're having thoughts of harming yourself or your baby, please call 988 (Suicide & Crisis Lifeline) or go to your nearest emergency room immediately.
Related Services
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Postpartum OCD Treatment
Evidence-based treatment for intrusive thoughts and compulsive behaviors.