Postpartum Depression Therapist Guide

Many parents suffer from depression after having a baby. This can be both debilitating and distressing for the parent(s) and their families. Depression in the postpartum period often goes unrecognised, leaving parents struggling with its impact. Early identification and treatment of postpartum depression is essential in order to promote the best outcome possible for parents and their babies.

This book provides a step-by-step guide of an evidence-based treatment for postpartum depression and aims to be a resource for therapists treating parents using this approach. The programme is divided into four modules which address: (i) assessment and goal setting - covering strengths and values as well as risks and challenges, (ii) behavioural activation -encouraging helpful behaviours that reduce the depressive symptoms as well as how to counter unhelpful avoidance, (iii) managing unhelpful thinking - working out how to address rumination and build self-compassion and finally (iv) relapse prevention - working out what has helped and how to stay well. As well as these four standard modules there are also additional sessions covering how to manage distressing intrusive thoughts and dealing with traumatic images/memories of the birth.

This book can be used in conjunction with the accompanying workbook for the parent(s) undertaking this treatment including detailed worksheets and resources.

Dr. Anne Stewart, Consultant Child & Adolescent Psychiatrist Oxford Health, UK. Honorary Senior Clinical Lecturer, Dept of Psychiatry, University of Oxford, UK

Dr. Charlotte Granger, Acting Consultant Clinical Psychologist, Norfolk and Suffolk NHS Foundation Trust

Dr. Peter J Lawrence, Associate Professor of Clinical Psychology, School of Psychology, University of Southampton

Prof. Heather O'Mahen, Professor of Perinatal and Clinical Psychology, University of Exeter

Prof. Alan Stein, Senior Research Fellow in Global Health and Public Policy, Blavatnik School of Government, Emeritus Professor of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry, University of Oxford