Beyond the Baby Blues
The Real Signs of Perinatal Mood & Anxiety Disorders (and How to Get Help)
A practical, stigma-free session for expectant/new parents and clinicians who want to spot the signs early and know what to do next.
Beyond the Baby Blues
Irritability, intrusive thoughts, rage, resentment, numbness—these aren’t “just part of motherhood.” Learn how to recognize the red flags, start the hard conversations, and connect to real support.
Who This Talk Is For
Expectant & New Parents: If you’re pregnant or recently postpartum and wondering, “Is this normal?”—this is for you. You’ll leave with language for what you’re feeling and a clear map for where to turn.
Clinicians & Care Providers (Chiropractors, Acupuncturists, Physiotherapists, Doulas, Massage Therapists, Medical Doctors, Social Workers, etc.): If you touch perinatal care in any way, you need to know what PMADs look like beyond the screening tools—and how to respond ethically and effectively.
What You’ll Learn
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Postpartum depression, anxiety, OCD, rage, PTSD, bipolar disorder—plus the lesser-known symptoms people rarely talk about.
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Hint: Just because you’re not crying all day doesn’t mean things are “okay”.
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How to tell when irritability, sleep changes, or intrusive thoughts are more than “new parent stress.”
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Strategies for parents who feel dismissed or aren’t sure what to say.
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Trauma-informed, non-pathologizing questions that invite honesty instead of shame.
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Clear next steps whether you’re at home with a baby or in a busy clinic with a 20‑minute slot.
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A quick overview of paternal/partner PMADs and why they matter to whole-family care.
Meet Your Speaker
As a mom of three pre-teens and teens, Heather has faced the intense challenges of infertility, loss, postpartum anxiety, and medical trauma—experiences that now fuel her passion for helping others navigate similar challenges with resilience and compassion.
Heather brings over two decades of experience, and a passion for personal transformation. Her approach blends specialized care with empathy and authenticity, working with clients not only through the many emotions experienced on the fertility, pregnancy, and adoption journeys, and the demands of parenthood, but toward self-discovery, resilience, and growth in all aspects of their lives.
As the owner of Bloom Psychotherapy, Heather has helped clients process profound loss, supported them on the path to emotional wellness, and fostered growth and self-compassion. She is honoured to walk beside them on their unique journeys. Heather has expanded her coaching practice internationally to support parents and individuals worldwide and continue to advocate for a deeper understanding toward the complexity of this life-changing time.
Heather holds a Master’s Degree in Social Work, a Post-Graduate Certificate in Infant Mental Health, and certifications in Perinatal and Maternal Mental Health through Postpartum Support International.
Session Breakdown
Naming What’s Really Happening
Quick overview of PMADs, myths vs. reality, and why language matters.
What Help Actually Looks Like
Therapy, medication, peer support, self-guided tools, crisis pathways.
Signs & Symptoms You Might Miss
Irritability, rage, intrusive thoughts, somatic complaints, perfectionism, and shutdown.
Systems & Equity Lens
Barriers to care and why “just ask for help” isn’t enough for many families.
Talking About It—Without Shame
How parents can ask for help; how providers can open safe conversations.
Q&A / Case Questions
Space for real-life scenarios from both parents and providers.
Ready to feel informed, not overwhelmed?
Join us live and walk away with clear language, tools, and next steps.
Event Details
Thursday, October 23, 6-7pm
Refreshments provided
Babies in arms welcome
Free Event at Khalsa Chiropractic Office- Back Bay Office
376 Boylston St., Suite 301
Boston, MA, 02116
FAQs
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No. Anyone in the perinatal period—moms, birthing parents, partners—will benefit.
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Absolutely. You’ll learn what to watch for and how to respond within your scope of practice.
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Yes—there’s a Q&A portion. Clinical questions will be answered in a general, educational manner.
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No. It’s educational. If you need personal support, we’ll point you toward resources.