1 in 6 people globally are affected by fertility challenges.

The stress of infertility and treatments can put a person at an increased risk for mental health challenges, or PMADs. Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders can occur both in pregnancy and postpartum (up to 12 months after giving birth). PMADs are the #1 complication of pregnancy and childbirth. PMADs, like PPD can occur in 1 out of 4 birthing individuals, and 1 in 10 partners. Understanding the difference between baby blues, and the different PMADs can help with increased access to care and treatment.  Postpartum support does NOT end at the “6-week checkup”. Steph focuses on supporting the gap between fertility care, to pregnancy and postpartum.

Steph, LMHC, PMH-C has her Undergraduate Degree from Becker College in Criminal Justice, a M.Ed. in Counseling Psychology & a CAGS in Mental Health Counseling from Cambridge College. Steph was very interested in how trauma’s impact on the brain and nervous system functioning, and has 14 years experience in the behavioral health field.

Steph provides individual outpatient counseling to adults, motivated to reaching their personal, therapeutic goals.

Steph specializes in supporting individuals suffering from; Chronic Illness (Endometriosis, EDS, Chronic Fatigue Syndrome), health advocacy, as well as life transitions; from college to the workforce and pregnancy to parenthood.

Perinatal mental health has become Steph’s primary clinical focus starting with individuals TTC. Grieving fertility can be very vulnerable and lonely. Working with a clinician that understands the medical process personally can be helpful.

Steph holds advanced trainings in, Growing Great kids, TF-CBT, ARC, Perinatal Mental Health/ Component of Care, (PMH-C in 2023) Family transitions, perinatal loss, OCD “O” subtype, ACT. Steph is a valued and recognized professional member of ALL PATHS Family Building, MCPAP and PSI.

Wellness Workshops have become a recent passion and joy, to support individuals in accessing different coping tools in a fun way.

Reach out today to schedule an intake for outpatient therapy, interest in Group Therapy or for PRIVATE supervision. (Email at Steph@scarlsonlmhc.com)