Domestic Violence Awareness Month: Expanding the Conversation by Supporting Women, Men, and the LGBTQIA+ Community

Domestic Violence Affects Everyone

Every October, Domestic Violence Awareness Month reminds us of the importance of safety, empathy, and prevention. While the conversation often centers on women, and for good reason, domestic and intimate partner violence (IPV) also deeply affects men and the LGBTQIA+ community.

At Bloom Within Counseling, I believe healing begins with every survivor feeling seen, supported, and safe.

Safety Note: If you are searching for help online, please be cautious. Use a private or incognito window, and consider deleting your browsing history after visiting websites about domestic violence or counseling especially if you share a computer or device with your partner. Your safety comes first, always.

Why it Matters

Domestic violence (DV) doesn’t just affect “women in heterosexual relationships.” While women are disproportionately impacted, men, non-binary folks, and LGBTQIA+ people also face violence in intimate relationships, and often face unique barriers to help.

• According to a CDC 2022 study, about 1 in 3 women and 1 in 4 men have experienced physical violence from an intimate partner in their lifetimes. (KBFLC, unknown)

• Among men: approximately 1 in 12 men (8%) have experienced sexual violence other than rape by an intimate partner. (Domestic Shelters, 2015)

• In LGBTQIA+ communities:

  • 61.1% of bisexual women, 26% of gay men, and 37.3% of bisexual men reported an experience of rape, physical violence, and/or stalking within an intimate relationship. (City of Philadelphia, 2022)

  • 54% of transgender individuals reported experiencing some form of intimate partner violence in their lifetimes. (Fairfax County Virginia, 2022)

• Abuse often goes unreported, especially among men and LGBTQIA+ survivors, due to stigma, fear, or lack of trusted support.

This brief overview of statistics highlight that while patterns might differ, the need for awareness, support, and inclusive outreach is universal.

What Does “Domestic Violence/Intimate Partner Violence” Cover?

Domestic/intimate partner violence is more than physical assault. It can include:

• Physical harm (hitting, slapping, choking, using a weapon)

• Sexual violence (rape, unwanted sexual contact, coercion)

• Stalking or harassment

• Emotional/psychological abuse (threats, isolation, humiliation)

• Financial control (controlling money, employment, access to resources)

• Coercive control (monitoring, restricting movements, using identity/sexuality/gender as leverage)

Especially in LGBTQIA+ and male-survivor contexts, non-physical forms of abuse like isolation, identity-shaming or outing threats, and financial coercion are often prominent.

Barriers for Men and LGBTQIA+ Survivors

It’s critical for any DV awareness effort to be inclusive. Here are some factors that uniquely impact men and LGBTQIA+ survivors:

• Stigma & silence: Men are less likely to report abuse; social norms may suggest men “shouldn’t” be victims. (Domestic Shelters, 2015)

• Lack of appropriate services: Many shelters and programs center on women in heterosexual relationships; LGBTQIA+ survivors may fear discrimination or lack of culturally-competent support. (Sage USA, 2024)

• Identity-related leverage: For LGBTQIA+ individuals, abusers may use one’s sexual orientation or gender identity as a tool of control (threatening outing, using homophobia/transphobia).

• Under-reporting: Some survivors may avoid law enforcement due to fear of being disbelieved, concerns about bias, or prior negative experiences.

By acknowledging these barriers, we can position ourselves as safe and inclusive resources for all survivors, especially here at Bloom Within Counseling.

Why Awareness in October Matters

October’s focus offers opportunities to:

• Encourage early recognition of signs of abuse (in oneself, partner, friends)

• Promote inclusive language and outreach (not just female victims, but all genders/identities)

• Highlight resources and support services that are competent, accessible, and affirming

• Inspire survivors to reach out and feel seen, understood and supported

• Encourage community members, friends, family, and allies to act (listen, believe, refer)

Key Signs of Abuse to Watch For

Whether you are supporting someone or evaluating your own relationship, some warning signs include:

• Unexplained injuries, frequent “accidents”, or excuses

• Extreme jealousy, monitoring of communications or movements

• Isolation from friends/family, guilt-shaming, threats

• Financial control: access to money is limited, partner handles all finances

• Verbal/emotional abuse: name-calling, humiliation, threats, gaslighting

• Sexual coercion or assault, even if the partner is the same gender or another identity

• Threats related to identity: “If you leave, I’ll tell people you’re gay/trans”, or similar manipulative behavior

• A partner who dismisses the idea that abuse happens to men or LGBTQIA+ people, thus invalidating your experience

Encouraging survivors to trust their feelings (“if it feels unsafe or wrong”) is often more effective than relying solely on visible injuries.

What you can do (if you’re a survivor or an ally)

For survivors:

• If you’re in immediate danger, call 911 or local emergency services.

• Reach out to a domestic violence hotline or talk with a trusted mental-health professional. The National Domestic Violence Hotline offers 24/7 assistance at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) and via online chat.

• Document incidents (dates, photos, messages) if safe to do so.

• Build a safety plan: identify a safe place, save important documents (IDs, bank info), let a friend know what’s going on.

• Seek support from a therapist, support group, or an inclusive-DV organization that understands male and LGBTQIA+ survivors.

• Remember: the abuse is not your fault. You deserve to feel safe and respected.

For friends, family, and allies:

• Believe and validate the person’s experience. Avoid minimizing (“Oh it wasn’t that bad”) even if you can’t fully see all aspects of the abuse.

• Offer non-judgmental support. Ask: “What do you think would help?” rather than “Why don’t you just leave?”

• Connect them to inclusive resources (see below).

• Be patient: leaving an abusive relationship is complex and may take time.

• Educate yourself about how abuse can look different in same-gender relationships or when gender identity is involved.

Inclusive resources worth sharing

Here are trusted resources that intentionally serve all survivors, including men and LGBTQIA+ individuals:

• National Domestic Violence Hotline – 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) or chat at thehotline.org

• For LGBTQIA+ survivors: SAGE (Services & Advocacy for GLBT Elders)’s page on domestic violence in LGBTQ + communities.

• Haven House - A supportive space and shelter for survivors in Tennessee.

• YWCA - Domestic violence shelter in the Nashville area for inclusive DV/IPV support

• Tennessee Coalition to End Domestic and Sexual Violence - Statewide hotline and resource

• RAINN - A national, confidential support network for survivors of sexual violence that works in partnership with local DV programs

• National LGBTQ Institute on Intimate Partner Violence- Resources, training, and referrals for LGBTQ+ survivors nationwide (212-714-1141 national crisis line)

• Men Can Stop Violence - Education and resources for men and all genders on preventing and healing from violence.

How Bloom Within Counseling can help

At Bloom Within Counseling, my mission is to create a safe, welcoming space for all survivors of intimate partner and domestic violence. Here is how I help:

• Affirm that abuse is about power/control not about gender or sexuality alone.

• I am trained to recognize subtle and identity-specific patterns of abuse (e.g., LGBTQIA+ dynamics, male survivors, non-binary folks).

• Offer individual therapy focused on safety planning, healing trauma, reclaiming identity, rebuilding trust and empowerment.

• Offer local referral networks, shelters, legal advocacy, and support groups that welcome diverse identities.

• Encourage community outreach, education, and prevention frameworks.

If you’re reading this and wondering, “Could this be happening to me?”, or “I’m supporting someone I care about”, reaching out is a brave and important step. If you would like to schedule an appointment or contact me, click here.

Final Thought

Domestic violence is often hidden behind closed doors, and the silence can be especially loud for survivors who don’t fit the “traditional” victim profile. Whether you identify as a woman, man, non-binary person, or are part of the LGBTQIA+ community, know that help exists, and you are not alone.

This October as we observe Domestic Violence Awareness Month let’s commit to understanding the full picture of abuse, affirm all survivors, dismantle stigma, and expand inclusive support. Healing begins with being seen and believed.

If you need help today, contact the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233). Or reach out to Bloom Within Counseling for confidential and affirming care if you are located in Tennessee.

Remember to clear your browser history if you are concerned about your privacy while viewing this page.

Postpartum Anxiety: What It Looks Like and Why It’s Not Just “New Mom Worry”

You’ve welcomed your baby, and everyone tells you this should be the “happiest time” of your life. But instead of feeling calm or joyful, your mind won’t stop racing. You’re exhausted, yet you can’t rest. You’re flooded with ‘what-ifs’: “What if something happens to my baby? What if I make a mistake? What if I never feel like myself again?”

If this sounds familiar, you’re not alone. While many people have heard of postpartum depression (PPD), fewer know about postpartum anxiety (PPA), a very real, very common experience that affects many new moms everywhere.

What is Postpartum Anxiety?

Postpartum anxiety is more than just the typical worries that come with being a new parent. It’s a form of perinatal mood and anxiety disorder (PMAD) that can show up anytime during pregnancy or after birth.

While occasional worries are normal, postpartum anxiety feels like your brain’s alarm system is stuck on high alert, even when things are okay.

Common Symptoms of Postpartum Anxiety

Every parent’s experience is unique, but common symptoms include:

• Racing thoughts you can’t turn off

• Constantly feeling “on edge” or tense

• Trouble sleeping even when the baby sleeps

• Physical symptoms (heart racing, nausea, shakiness)

• Intrusive thoughts or images of something bad happening

• Difficulty concentrating or relaxing

• Feeling like you have to “do everything right”

Many moms describe feeling like they’re living in a constant state of “fight or flight.” I call this ‘flooding’, which is our body’s survival instincts kicking in and causing us to experience “fight, flight or freeze.”

Why It’s Not Just “New Mom Worry”

It’s natural to worry about your baby’s well-being, but postpartum anxiety goes beyond that. The fear and tension can interfere with bonding, rest, and daily life. It’s not a reflection of your parenting or your love for your baby. It’s a sign that your nervous system is overwhelmed and needs care, not that you’re doing something wrong.

When to Reach Out for Help

You deserve support. Reach out if:

• Anxiety feels like it’s taking over your thoughts

• You’re losing sleep from worry or intrusive thoughts

• You feel detached, guilty, or “not yourself”

• You’re struggling to enjoy time with your baby or partner

Postpartum anxiety is treatable and therapy can help you find calm, confidence, and connection again.

How Therapy Can Help Postpartum Anxiety

At Bloom Within Counseling, I am a perinatal mental health certified therapist, so I specialize in helping new moms across Tennessee navigate postpartum anxiety and overwhelm.

Using evidence-based approaches like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), we’ll work together to:

• Identify and challenge anxious thought patterns

• Learn grounding and mindfulness techniques

• Build self-compassion and emotional resilience

• Reconnect with your values and sense of self

Therapy offers a safe, supportive space to process what you’re feeling and build tools for lasting relief.

Frequently Asked Questions about Postpartum Anxiety

Is postpartum anxiety common?
Yes! Research shows that postpartum anxiety affects many new moms, sometimes even more than postpartum depression. It’s nothing to be ashamed of, and help is available.

How do I know if I need therapy for postpartum anxiety?
If worry or intrusive thoughts are interfering with your sleep, relationships, or ability to relax, therapy can help. You don’t have to wait until things feel “bad enough” to seek support.

Do you offer virtual therapy for postpartum anxiety in Tennessee?
Yes. I offer online therapy sessions to clients throughout Tennessee, including Nashville, Franklin, Murfreesboro, Memphis, Knoxville, and Chattanooga.

Virtual Therapy for Moms Across Tennessee

Whether you’re in Nashville, Franklin, Murfreesboro, Memphis, Knoxville, or Chattanooga, Bloom Within Counseling offers virtual therapy so you can access support from the comfort of home: during nap time, between feedings, or whenever you can carve out a quiet moment. At Bloom Within Counseling, I accept private insurance plans and offer sliding scale to make therapy more accessible.

You don’t have to face postpartum anxiety alone. Healing is possible, and it starts with reaching out.

If you’re noticing signs of postpartum anxiety, you’re not “just worrying too much” you’re having a valid emotional response that deserves care.

Click here to schedule an intake appointment to get started on your mental health journey today.

Visit here to read more about my services.

Private Pay for Couples Therapy: Is it Worth it?

When couples begin looking for therapy, one of the first questions that comes up is: “Do you take insurance?” And for good reason! Insurance can seem like the most straightforward way to access mental health care. But when it comes to couples therapy, and particularly specialized relationship work, private pay often offers more than meets the eye. Here’s what many couples don’t realize: true couples counseling, where the relationship itself is the client, and no one person is diagnosed with a mental health condition, is almost never covered by insurance. In fact, the structure of insurance billing isn’t designed for relationship-focused work at all. While some relationship-focused sessions may be partially reimbursed when linked to one partner's diagnosis, this is not considered true couples therapy and comes with limitations

If you’ve ever wondered whether private pay therapy is worth the investment for you and your partner, this post is here to help clarify the “why” behind it and why so many couples ultimately choose this path.

First, What Is Private Pay Therapy?

Private pay therapy means you pay out of pocket for sessions, rather than using insurance. Some therapists do not work with insurance at all, while others offer both options depending on the service.

In couples work, private pay is often the norm, not the exception, and here’s why that actually works in your favor.

What’s the Difference Between Couples Counseling and a Joint Therapy Session?

Here’s where the confusion starts. Insurance plans may cover a code called 90847: a “conjoint psychotherapy session with the identified patient present.” But this is not the same thing as couples counseling.

90847 (Insurance-Covered Session):

• One person is the official patient with a diagnosis

• The partner joins to support that individual’s treatment

• Documentation goes into the individual’s medical record

• Focus is on that person's mental health needs

• Time-limited, medically necessary

True Couples Counseling (Private Pay):

• The relationship is the client, not either individual, meaning it is equal

• Sessions focus on dynamics like communication, conflict, trust, emotional connection, or infidelity

• In couples therapy, the record reflects both partners, and neither is considered the sole client. In most cases, both partners must consent to releasing the record, but privacy laws vary by state

• Not billable to insurance because there is no diagnosis to either person

In these cases, the therapist may use Z63.0: “Relationship distress with spouse or intimate partner” as a clinical code. This is the most accurate way to document that the therapy is focused on relational conflict, not individual pathology. This distinction is important not just for billing, but also for the ethics, confidentiality, and goals of treatment.

What is Z63.0 and Why Doesn’t Insurance Cover it?

When doing true couples counseling, therapists often use the ICD-10 code Z63.0, which stands for:

“Relationship distress with spouse or intimate partner”

This code is often used in true couples counseling when the focus is on the health of the relationship, not on diagnosing a mental disorder in either partner. Z63.0 is not a mental health disorder: it’s a relational issue code. It’s used to document that therapy is addressing relationship distress, not an individual’s mental illness. Because of that, most insurers do not consider it medically necessary and therefore do not usually cover services tied to it

Most insurance companies do not cover treatment based on Z-codes, because:

• They don’t view relationship issues as a medical necessity

• Z-codes are considered “V-codes” or “non-billable” codes

• There’s no reimbursable procedure code tied directly to treating the relationship

While Z63.0 is clinically appropriate for many couples seeking therapy, it is typically not reimbursable by most insurance plans, since Z-codes are considered non-medical or non-billable under most coverage policies.

Can You Submit 90847 with Z63.0?

Technically, yes, a therapist can submit 90847 with a Z63.0 diagnosis (you need both a CPT code and a diagnosis to bill insurance).
However, in most cases, this will not be covered, because Z63.0 is not considered medically necessary treatment by most insurers.

Important Tip: If you call your insurance to ask “Is couples counseling covered?”, a representative may say yes, because 90847 is a valid, billable code.

But they may not tell you that coverage depends entirely on the diagnosis attached to the claim. That’s why it’s essential to ask specifically:

“Do you cover sessions billed under code 90847 with diagnosis code Z63.0?”

That’s the only way to know whether your relationship-focused therapy would actually be reimbursed. Even if your therapist is out-of-network and provides a superbill, sessions billed with Z63.0 are still unlikely to be reimbursed, since most plans don’t accept Z-codes as medically necessary treatment.

So Why Do Some Therapists Still Offer Couples Counseling Through Insurance?

You may come across therapists who do offer what appears to be couples counseling through insurance, and there are a few reasons for this:

• They’re offering supportive conjoint therapy under a diagnosis for one partner, using 90847, and framing the work accordingly

• They prioritize accessibility, aiming to reduce cost barriers for clients

• They may not be aware of the legal or ethical complexities, or have never been audited

• They choose to assume the risk, knowingly or not, of billing insurance for relationship work that isn’t technically covered

• In some cases, they’re using creative workarounds to support couples, but these may not hold up in the event of an audit or legal situation

This isn’t meant to criticize, as every therapist makes their own clinical and business decisions. But it’s important for clients to understand that when insurance is used, there are strings attached from documentation and diagnosis, to who legally “owns” the record, to how treatment is structured. This is why it’s so important to be an informed consumer: ask your provider specific questions, and make sure you understand what you’re being billed for and why

Why Private Pay Makes Sense for Couples

1. You're Getting the Right Type of Care

Using insurance for couples therapy usually means you're not actually getting couples therapy, you're getting individual therapy with the partner sitting in. That may help short term, but it won't address the deeper relationship patterns, especially if you're navigating things like:

• Escalating conflict

• Infidelity

• Communication breakdowns

• Emotional withdrawal

With private pay, you get therapy that’s built around the relationship itself, not limited by insurance definitions or documentation rules.

2. Sessions Are Longer, Deeper, and More Flexible

Most insurance-covered sessions are 45–55 minutes and that’s often not enough for complex relationship work. 90847 can be billed for sessions that last 26 minutes or more. Insurance reimbursement typically doesn’t increase after that threshold, so whether your session is 26 minutes or 55 minutes, the payment to the therapist is often the same, which can limit the time available for deeper relationship work.

At Bloom Within Counseling, couples sessions are 90 minutes, using the Gottman Method, a research-based approach to understanding and improving relationship dynamics. Longer sessions allow for:

• Deeper emotional processing

• Structured interventions with time for follow-up

• Space to navigate difficult conversations safely

You’re not rushed, and you don’t have to fit meaningful work into an insurance-imposed time box. There are two of you after all!

3. Full Confidentiality and Shared Ownership

With private pay couples therapy:

• In private pay couples therapy, the clinical record reflects both partners, and while neither is labeled the ‘patient,’ laws around record access and ownership vary by state. In most cases, both partners must consent to releasing the record.

• No one is labeled the “patient” or pathologized

• You avoid diagnoses entering your medical history

• You're more protected in legal or court-related scenarios

This is especially important if you’re navigating high-conflict dynamics, custody concerns, or if either partner has hesitation about therapy being part of their permanent health record.

4. You Choose the Therapist Based on Fit, Not Network

When you pay out of pocket, you’re not limited to in-network therapists. That means you can choose someone who:

• Specializes in couples and relationship therapy

• Has advanced training (like the Gottman Method)

• Offers structure, clarity, and evidence-based tools, not just open-ended talk therapy

This matters when your relationship is in distress. You want someone who knows how to help both of you, not just treat one person.

So… Is It Worth the Cost?

It depends on what you’re hoping to get out of therapy. If you're looking for long-lasting change, better communication, healing from past wounds, and practical tools you can actually use, then private pay therapy is not just a cost, it’s an investment.

In many ways, it’s preventative care for your relationship. Working with a skilled therapist now can reduce long-term stress, resentment, and even the emotional or financial costs of separation or divorce down the road.

The Bottom Line

Private pay therapy gives couples:

• The right type of treatment for their needs

• The freedom to work deeply and meaningfully

• The protection of confidentiality and shared ownership

• The expertise of a relationship specialist

If you're ready to invest in your relationship with intention, clarity, and support, private pay therapy may be the path that truly fits.

Interested in Starting Couples Therapy?

I offer 90-minute sessions for couples using the Gottman Method, a structured, research-based model that focuses on communication, conflict resolution, emotional connection, and rebuilding trust. I provide virtual sessions covering Tennessee statewide, including couples counseling for Nashville, Memphis, Knoxville, to Chattanooga, and more.

Insurance is not accepted for couples therapy, but many couples find the investment is well worth the clarity and progress they gain.

Want to learn more or schedule a session? Click here to learn more about couples counseling and to schedule a session.

Honoring Hispanic Heritage Month: Uplifting Identity, Mental Health & Inclusive Perinatal Support

Each year from September 15 to October 15, we celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month, a time to honor the histories, cultures, and contributions of Hispanic and Latinx communities in the U.S. As a Black, LGBTQIA+ affirming, and perinatal mental health therapist, I hold this month as a meaningful opportunity to reflect, honor, and advocate, especially for those navigating mental health issues.

This post is written in solidarity and with deep respect for the mothers, parents, birthing people, caregivers, and queer families within Hispanic and Latinx communities who deserve safe, inclusive, and culturally responsive care.

Culture, Identity & Mental Health

In every culture, there are powerful stories of strength, but also challenges that make mental health support difficult to access. In Hispanic and Latinx communities, cultural values like familismo (deep family loyalty), religiosity, and machismo or marianismo (traditional gender roles) can complicate how people experience and express emotional needs, especially during the perinatal period. According to federal government data from Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA, 2023), approximately 1 in 5 Latinx/Hispanic persons reported experiencing mental illness.

Based on research from National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI, 2025), many Latinx individuals face:

• Language barriers when accessing mental health care

• Cultural stigma around therapy or postpartum mood disorders

• Financial barriers such as lack of health insurance

• Lack of providers who reflect or affirm their identity

These challenges multiply when someone is also navigating LGBTQIA+ identity or nontraditional family roles. Queer Latinx parents, for example, may face rejection or invisibility in parenting spaces.

Holding Intersections: Perinatal Mental Health, Queer Identity, and Latinx Culture

As a PMH-C certified therapist, I work closely with people experiencing:

• Pregnancy or postpartum depression and anxiety

• Birth trauma or loss

• Identity shifts in new parenthood

• Stress around coming out while becoming a parent

• Queer family planning or fertility challenges

In Latinx culture, where parenting is often deeply gendered and rooted in tradition, LGBTQIA+ Latinx parents may feel isolated, invisible, or pressured to conform. When cultural expectations clash with lived identity, it can lead to shame, internal conflict, or even disconnection from one’s community or family.

Therapy can be a space where these intersections are gently unpacked with care, cultural humility, and deep respect.

What Inclusive, Culturally Affirming Therapy Looks Like

Inclusive perinatal mental health support should recognize all of who you are — not just your symptoms. That means honoring:

• Your language (offering services in Spanish or bilingual support where possible)

• Your gender identity and pronouns especially in reproductive spaces

• Your family structure, whether you’re partnered, co-parenting, chosen family, or solo

• Your spiritual or religious beliefs, if important to you

• Your immigration or generational status, and how that shapes your experience

As a therapist, I don’t claim to know every experience, but I do lead with curiosity, respect, and commitment to creating a space where you don’t have to leave parts of yourself at the door.

Resources for Latinx LGBTQIA+ & Perinatal Support

If you're looking for support that honors your culture and identity, these organizations may help:

• Latinx Therapy – Therapist directory, bilingual mental health education

• The Trevor Project – Crisis support for LGBTQIA+ youth (bilingual available)

• Familia: Trans Queer Liberation Movement – Advocacy for Latinx trans and queer communities

• Postpartum Support International – Spanish-language support groups

• Therapy for Latinx – Culturally centered mental health care

A Note from Me, As Your Therapist

As a Black woman and affirming therapist, I’ve experienced firsthand the power of visibility and representation in healing spaces. I know what it’s like to feel unseen, and I’ve made it my mission to ensure that my clients feel the exact opposite of that.

During Hispanic Heritage Month and beyond, I remain committed to:

• Uplifting voices and stories that are often silenced

• Advocating for inclusive care that reflects all families

• Offering compassionate, identity-affirming support for birthing people of all backgrounds

Although I am not a Spanish speaker, I am deeply committed to providing culturally respectful and inclusive care, and I am always open to referring to trusted bilingual providers when needed. Whether you're a new parent, expecting, grieving, coming out, or simply trying to hold it all together, you deserve support that sees you.

You don’t have to carry it alone.

To learn more about my services or to schedule a session, click here.

Honoring Suicide Awareness Week: Understanding Risk and Supporting Hope

Every September, Suicide Awareness Week (and month!) reminds us of the urgency and importance of having open, informed conversations about mental health. Suicide doesn't discriminate. It touches lives across every demographic. But research shows that some groups carry a disproportionate burden of risk, making awareness, prevention, and access to care absolutely vital.

At Bloom Within Counseling, I believe in building a compassionate, inclusive culture where every individual feels seen, supported, and empowered to seek help. This week, I’m sharing current statistics and insights that reflect the mental health struggles faced by many, and the need for community-driven solutions.

Suicide by Gender: A Stark Difference in Outcomes

Although women attempt suicide more frequently, men are nearly four times more likely to die by suicide. According to the CDC (2023):

• In the U.S., the suicide rate is 22.8 per 100,000 for men, compared to 5.7 per 100,000 for women.

• Older men (85+) are at especially high risk, with rates reaching 55.7 per 100,000. (CDC, 2023)

This gender disparity highlights the need to challenge stigma, particularly around men seeking mental health support. Silence is not strength—reaching out is.

LGBTQ+ Communities: Elevated Risk, Urgent Need for Affirming Care

Members of the LGBTQ+ community, especially youth, face heightened rates of suicidal ideation and attempts due to social stigma, discrimination, and lack of support.

• Nearly 45% of LGBTQ+ youth in the U.S. seriously considered suicide in the past year. (Trevor project, 2023)

• Lesbian, gay, and bisexual (LGB) adults were 3 to 6 times more likely than heterosexual adults to experience suicidal thoughts, plans, and attempts in the past 12 months. (NIMH, 2021)

• Transgender adults: 82% have seriously considered suicide; 40% have attempted. (U.S. Transgender Survey 2015)

Safe, affirming spaces save lives. Mental health providers must be informed, inclusive, and proactive in supporting LGBTQ+ clients.

People of Color: Disparities in Access and Outcomes

Suicide rates among American Indian and Alaska Native populations are the highest among all racial/ethnic groups in the U.S. (NIMH, 2023)

• AI/AN men: 35.3 per 100,000

• AI/AN women: 12.4 per 100,000

Other communities of color, including Black, Hispanic, and Asian populations,often face cultural stigma, systemic barriers, and underdiagnosis, leading to increased risk and limited access to care (NIMH, 2023)

Black Americans:

• Men: 15.1 per 100,000

• Women: 3.5 per 100,000

Hispanic Americans (of any race):

• Men: 13.3 per 100,000

• Women: 3.0 per 100,000

Asian Americans/Pacific Islanders:

• Men: 10.3 per 100,000

• Women: 3.7 per 100,000

Mental health equity means addressing these systemic gaps through culturally competent care and outreach.

Postpartum Depression and Suicide: A Silent Risk

Suicide is a leading cause of death in the postpartum period for both women and men.

• 1 in 7 women experience postpartum depression. (PSI)

• 1 in 10 new fathers report symptoms of postpartum depression as well.

While data on postpartum suicide rates is still emerging, the emotional and psychological impact of new parenthood cannot be overlooked. Support for new parents should include regular mental health screenings and judgment-free access to care.

Teens and Young Adults: A Generation in Crisis

Suicide is the 2nd leading cause of death for individuals aged 10 to 24 in the U.S. (CDC, 2025)

• LGBTQ+ teens face especially high rates nearly 1 in 2 have considered ending their lives. (Trevor Project, 2023)

We must prioritize prevention in schools, homes, and digital spaces where teens live and connect. Listening without judgment can be life-saving.

Warning Signs of Suicide

Recognizing the warning signs can save lives. While not everyone at risk shows the same behaviors, these signs may indicate someone is struggling with suicidal thoughts:

1. Verbal Indicators

• Talking about wanting to die or kill oneself

• Expressing feelings of hopelessness or having no reason to live

• Saying they feel like a burden to others

• Mentioning unbearable emotional or physical pain

2. Behavioral Changes

• Withdrawing from friends, family, or social activities

• Sleeping too much or too little

• Giving away prized possessions

• Increased use of alcohol or drugs

• Searching for means (e.g., looking up ways to die, purchasing a weapon)

• Saying goodbye to loved ones or writing a will

3. Emotional Signs

• Extreme mood swings (suddenly calm after a period of depression)

• Rage or agitation

• Anxiety or panic

• Persistent sadness, emptiness, or numbness

4. Physical or Practical Red Flags

• Decline in personal hygiene or self-care

• Neglecting work, school, or responsibilities

• Loss of interest in hobbies or activities they once enjoyed

If You Notice These Signs

Take all warning signs seriously. If you're concerned about someone:

• Ask directly: “Are you thinking about suicide?”

• Listen non-judgmentally

• Stay with them and connect them with help

In the U.S., you can call or text the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline any time, 24/7: 988lifeline.org

If you're struggling, or know someone who is, please know that help is available, and healing is possible. At Bloom Within Counseling, I am here to support you in every season of your mental health journey.

Let’s use Suicide Awareness Week to spark empathy, action, and hope. Because everyone deserves to feel like their life matters—because it does.

What Does a PMH-C Therapist Do—and Do I Really Need One If I’m Just Feeling Off?

You are officially a parent—Yay! But maybe you find that you’re frazzled, completely stretched thin, exhausted. Maybe your mood has done a total 180 on you, or maybe you are feeling increasingly anxious since becoming a parent. Perhaps you are having feelings of regret or shame. You find yourself searching for a therapist for postpartum depression, pregnancy anxiety, or maybe someone to help with your postpartum anger. You’re googling things like:

• “Why do I feel so overwhelmed after having a baby?”

• “Is it postpartum depression or am I just exhausted?”

• “I feel disconnected from my baby. What’s wrong with me?”

And maybe you’ve come across therapists with “PMH-C” after their name, but you’re not so sure what the heck that means.

Here’s the truth:
If you’re feeling frazzled, anxious, sad, angry, or just “off” during pregnancy or postpartum—it matters who you talk to.

Working with a PMH-C certified perinatal therapist means getting support from someone who specializes in what you’re going through.

You might be wondering:
What does that even mean?
And more importantly:
Does it really matter for the support I’m looking for?

The short answer: Yes—it matters a lot.
Here’s why.

What Is a PMH-C Therapist?

PMH-C stands for Perinatal Mental Health-Certified.

This certification is offered by Postpartum Support International (PSI) and tells you that the therapist has:

• Completed specialized training in perinatal mental health

• Passed a national certification exam

• Continues education in evidence-based support for all parents

• Knows how to support people through the emotional challenges of pregnancy, postpartum, fertility struggles, and loss, and more

You can view my certification on the PSI provider directory here if you’d like to learn more.

What does perinatal mean?

The term perinatal refers to the entire period from conception through the first year after birth including:

• Trying to conceive (including IVF, IUI, or fertility struggles)

• Pregnancy (whether planned or not)

• Birth and delivery

• Postpartum (the first year after giving birth)

• Parenting adjustments and identity changes

• Losses such as miscarriage, stillbirth, or termination

So when we say perinatal mental health, we’re talking about the full emotional journey that can come with:

• Hormonal shifts

• Body changes

• Relationship stress

• Identity confusion

• Grief, fear, or guilt

• And a whole lot of “I wasn’t expecting this” moments

A PMH-C therapist understands all of that and is trained to help you feel grounded, supported, and less alone through it.

Why Seeing a PMH-C Certified Therapist Matters

Here’s what makes working with a PMH-C therapist different:

1. Expert Support for Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders (PMADs)

PMH-C therapists are trained to recognize and treat PMADs, including:

• Postpartum depression (PPD)

• Postpartum anxiety (PPA)

• Perinatal OCD (often with distressing intrusive thoughts)

• Postpartum rage

• Post-traumatic stress after birth

These symptoms are common, treatable, and nothing to be ashamed of, but they require a therapist who knows how to spot them and respond appropriately.

2. Trauma-Informed and Identity-Aware Care

Pregnancy, birth, and new parenthood can stir up old wounds, trauma, or identity shifts. A PMH-C therapist is trained to provide nonjudgmental, compassionate care during these moments, and can support you whether you’re:

• Grieving a miscarriage

• Healing from a traumatic birth

• Struggling with feeding or sleep deprivation

• Navigating identity shifts as a new parent

• Exploring gender, queerness, or body autonomy through a perinatal lens

3. Support Beyond the Birthing Parent

Whether you're a non-gestational parent, partner, or LGBTQIA+ family, a PMH-C therapist understands the whole family system, and not just the individual giving birth. Your experience matters, too.

Why Not All Therapists Are Equipped for Perinatal Work

Even excellent therapists may not be trained in perinatal-specific challenges, such as:

• Normal vs. clinical intrusive thoughts

• The emotional toll of infant feeding struggles

• How hormone shifts impact mood

• Sleep deprivation’s effect on mental health

• Relationship challenges after baby arrives

A PMH-C therapist is trained specifically in these areas, so you don’t have to explain or educate your provider while you’re already struggling.

How I Integrate My PMH-C Certification into Therapy

As a PMH-C certified therapist, I help individuals and couples navigate:

• Pregnancy and postpartum mood changes

• Parenting transitions and identity shifts

• Fertility grief, pregnancy loss, and birth trauma

• LGBTQIA+ family building and inclusive perinatal care

• Relationship struggles after baby arrives

I integrate proven, evidence-based approaches like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Internal Family Systems (IFS), and Gottman Method Couples Therapy all through a trauma-informed, inclusive, and perinatal-aware lens.

FAQs About PMH-C

Is PMH-C the same as being a licensed therapist?

No, it’s an additional specialty certification that builds on a therapist’s license. It means your therapist has gone beyond general training to specialize in perinatal emotional health.

Can PMH-C therapists treat partners or dads, too?

Absolutely. Partners also experience anxiety, depression, and adjustment struggles, and a PMH-C therapist is trained to support the entire family system. Studies show 1 in 10 dads experience postpartum depression.

Where can I learn more?

Visit Postpartum Support International for more on PMADs, support groups, and resources.

You Deserve the Right Kind of Support

Thoughts I Hear Often:

• “I feel like I’m failing at being a mom/dad/parent.”

• “I miss who I used to be.”

• “I’m scared to tell anyone how bad I feel.”

• “My relationship is falling apart since the baby came.”

• “I don’t even know what I need. I just know I’m not okay.”

If any of these resonate, you’re not alone, and you’re not broken.
You’re just in a chapter that deserves real support.

If you’re feeling overwhelmed, anxious, disconnected, or not like yourself during pregnancy or postpartum, you don’t have to wait until things get worse. With help, you will be well.

Working with a PMH-C certified therapist means working with someone who truly gets it. If you're even asking the question, it’s worth exploring

Ready to talk?

Schedule an initial session to see if I’m the right fit, or to reach out with any questions.
I’d be honored to support you.

Not sure if I’m the right fit?
You can also view my verified listing on the PSI provider directory.

Let’s help you feel like yourself again… whatever that looks like now.

Navigating Postpartum: 5 Signs You Could Benefit from Therapy

The postpartum period is often described as a time of joy, bonding, and new beginnings. But for many new parents, it's also a time filled with emotional ups and downs, identity shifts, and deep exhaustion. If you're finding this stage harder than you expected, you're not alone, and even better, it doesn’t mean anything is wrong with you.

As a therapist who specializes in perinatal mental health, I work with many parents of many backgrounds who are struggling in the weeks and months after childbirth. If you're wondering whether what you're feeling is "normal," here are five signs that you might benefit from extra support during this season of life.

1. You Feel Overwhelmed More Often Than Not

Some level of overwhelm is expected when you're caring for a newborn. But if you're feeling persistently anxious, panicked, or like you're barely hanging on, that might be a sign to reach out. Therapy can help you slow down and learn strategies to manage daily stressors, especially when everything feels like too much.

2. You're Struggling to Bond with Your Baby

Many people assume bonding with a baby happens instantly, but that’s not always the case. If you're feeling disconnected, numb, frustrated, unsure, or even resentful about your baby, know that you’re not alone. These feelings are common and often unspoken truths for many parents. Therapy provides a space to explore those feelings without judgment and to begin healing any emotional barriers that may be in the way.

3. You Feel a Deep Sense of Sadness or Guilt

If you find yourself crying often, feeling hopeless, or questioning your worth as a parent, these could be signs of postpartum depression. Feelings of guilt, shame, or “I should be enjoying this” are common but can become heavy to carry. In therapy, we can unpack those thoughts together and help you reconnect with yourself.

4. You're Not Sleeping or Eating Well…Even When You Have the Chance

Sleep and nutrition are often disrupted after having a baby, but if you're unable to rest or nourish yourself even when the opportunity arises, that could be a red flag. Therapy can help identify what's going on beneath the surface and provide practical tools to support your well-being.

5. You Feel Like You’ve Lost Yourself

Becoming a parent can shift your sense of identity in major ways. If you feel like you don’t recognize yourself anymore or feel detached from the person or identity you were before birth, that’s something worth exploring. Therapy can support you in reconnecting with who you are, and who you’re becoming.

How Therapy Can Help

As a perinatal mental health certified (PMH-C) therapist, I offer a space that is nonjudgmental, affirming, and grounded in trauma-informed care. Whether you're navigating postpartum anxiety, depression, grief, or simply trying to adjust to this new chapter, therapy can help you feel less alone and more equipped to cope. I offer my services to all parents, which includes birthing and non-birthing parents.

Through approaches like Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Internal Family Systems (IFS), and mindfulness-based strategies, we can work together to help you find stability, clarity, and confidence again. We will also tap into exploring and understanding your support systems, new and old. You do not have to face this alone. If you would like to read more about how Bloom Within Counseling supports postpartum mood and anxiety disorders (PMADs), during pregnancy and after, read more here.

What to Expect from Virtual Therapy

At Bloom Within Counseling, all sessions are offered virtually to clients across Tennessee. This allows you to access support from the comfort of your home, without having to arrange childcare or leave the house. Sessions are flexible and tailored to meet you where you are, emotionally and practically. This means you and your baby are welcomed and encouraged to meet with me in sessions and to come as you are.

With Help You Will Be Well: You're Not Alone Support Is Here

If any part of this post resonates with you, I invite you to reach out. Whether you’re in the thick of postpartum emotions or just starting to notice something feels off, therapy can be a valuable part of your healing journey.

Schedule an appointment to see if we might be a good fit. You're doing more than enough and you deserve support too.