Postpartum Depression: What Counselors Need to Know

This paper presents descriptions of the types of Postpartum Mood Disorders (PPMD) and calls counselors to be effective providers to women, spouses, and families struggling with PPMD. A basic understanding of the symptoms of each disorder and associated risk factors are presented. Finally, the counselor's role in prevention strategies and effective treatment modalities for working with women with PPMD as well as with their spouses and families is discussed.