Dialectical Behavior Therapy for Prenatal, Postnatal, and Postpartum Mental Health Concerns
Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) For
Prenatal, Postnatal, and Postpartum Maternal
Health Concerns In The Greater Nashville, TN Area
Prenatal, Postnatal, and Postpartum Maternal
Health Concerns In The Greater Nashville, TN Area
Discover how Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) can support maternal mental health before, during, and after pregnancy. Freeman Health Partners offers DBT treatment for maternal mental health concerns in Middle Tennessee, helping you navigate emotional challenges, build coping skills, and find balance during the prenatal, postnatal, and postpartum periods. Contact us or call (615) 879-3582 to get on the right path.
What is Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)?
Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) is a mindfulness-based therapy that helps you manage emotions, build coping skills, and improve relationships. It combines cognitive-behavioral therapy with concepts like dialectics, radical acceptance, and self-validation to support emotional well-being. DBT focuses on emotional regulation, interpersonal effectiveness, distress tolerance, and behavioral analysis to create lasting positive change.
By developing mindfulness, you learn to stay present and respond to challenges with clarity. Emotional regulation techniques help you manage mood swings, while interpersonal effectiveness strengthens communication and relationships. Distress tolerance builds resilience in difficult situations, and self-validation teaches you to acknowledge and accept your emotions. DBT equips you with practical tools for balance and mental well-being.
How Does DBT Work?
Dialectical Behavior Therapy works by helping you develop practical skills to manage emotions, cope with stress, and improve relationships. It combines mindfulness, emotional regulation, distress tolerance, and interpersonal effectiveness to create balance in your thoughts and behaviors. DBT is structured, evidence-based, and support long-term emotional well-being.
Through individual therapy, group skills training, and coaching, DBT teaches you how to respond to challenges with greater awareness and control. You learn to replace unhealthy coping mechanisms with positive strategies, improving both your mental health and daily life. By practicing these skills consistently, you can build resilience and confidently navigate the emotional demands of motherhood. At Freeman Primary Care, we can guide you in your path to wellbeing – contact us today.
What is Maternal Mental Health?
Maternal mental health is your emotional, psychological, and social well-being in the time around pregnancy. It plays a crucial role in fetal development, your ability to manage prenatal care, and your overall experience of motherhood. Struggles like postpartum depression and motherhood adjustment difficulties are common, making proper support vital.
Caring for your mental health during pregnancy and after birth impacts both you and your baby. Challenges such as anxiety, mood swings, or feelings of overwhelm can affect how you bond with your child and adapt to the demands of postnatal care. Prioritizing women’s mental health services at a clinic like the Freeman Mental Health Program eases a healthier transition into motherhood and improves your long-term well-being. See our prenatal, postnatal, postpartum parent page for more information!
How Can Pregnancy and Childbirth Impact A Mother’s Mental Health?
Pregnancy and childbirth can have a profound impact on your mental health, bringing both joy and emotional challenges. Hormonal shifts during the antenatal period, the intensity of labor and delivery, and the demands of newborn care can contribute to stress, anxiety, or depression. Postpartum recovery can also be overwhelming, making emotional support and coping strategies essential.
If you struggle with pre-existing conditions like borderline personality disorder, these transitions may feel even more intense. Using validation strategies and crisis survival skills can help you navigate emotional ups and downs, while support with breastfeeding and adjusting to motherhood can ease stress. Prioritizing mental health care can make you feel supported and empowered during this life-changing journey.

How Can Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) Help Manage and Treat Maternal Mental Health Concerns?
DBT can help you manage and treat maternal mental health concerns by providing behavioral therapy techniques that improve emotional resilience. Through core mindfulness, emotion regulation skills, and dialectical thinking, DBT helps you stay present, manage stress, and navigate the emotional ups and downs of pregnancy, childbirth, and early motherhood.
By practicing mindful awareness and self-soothing, you can respond to challenges with greater calm and clarity. Validation principles encourage self-compassion, while interpersonal communication techniques strengthen relationships and support networks. Additionally, schema-focused therapy helps you reframe negative thought patterns, allowing for a healthier and more balanced transition into motherhood.
Check Your Insurance Coverage Levels With Freeman Health Partners
At Freeman Health Partners, we understand the financial concerns that accompany the decision to seek mental health and primary care services. That’s why we’re committed to making our services as accessible as possible by accepting most major insurance providers in Tennessee. This includes Aetna, Carelon, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Cigna, and Humana.
Our goal is to ensure that everyone who needs our help can receive it, regardless of their insurance coverage. We encourage you to take the first step towards better mental health by filling out our online form. This will allow us to determine your health insurance coverage levels for mental health and primary care services. By understanding what services your insurance covers, you can start your journey with confidence, knowing that you have the financial support you need.





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Find out your health insurance coverage levels for by calling the number below.
In What Stages of Pregnancy and Childbirth Can Mental Health Concerns Occur?
Mental health concerns can develop at any stage of pregnancy and childbirth, from early pregnancy to life after birth. You may experience emotional shifts during prenatal care, challenges adapting to motherhood in postnatal care, and lingering mental health struggles in postpartum care. Recognizing these stages helps you get the support and guidance you need.
Prenatal Care
During pregnancy, hormonal changes and physical discomfort can affect your mood and well-being. Anxiety, depression, and mood swings may surface as you prepare for childbirth. Seeking emotional support from Freeman Mental Health and practicing self-care can help you navigate this period with greater stability.
Postnatal Care
After birth, adjusting to new responsibilities while managing exhaustion and physical recovery can feel overwhelming. You might experience stress related to newborn care, feeding challenges, or lack of sleep. Support from loved ones and mental health professionals can ease this transition.
Postpartum Care
Weeks and months after childbirth, you may continue to face mental health struggles, including postpartum depression or anxiety. Feelings of sadness, guilt, or emotional disconnection are common but treatable. Seeking therapy, building coping strategies, and prioritizing self-care can help you regain balance and well-being.
DBT Treatment For Mothers and Mothers-to-be In The Middle Tennessee Region
Freeman Health Partners provides specialized DBT treatment for mothers and mothers-to-be in the Middle Tennessee region. Located at 222 State Street, Dickson, TN 37055, our facility offers compassionate, evidence-based care to help you navigate prenatal, postnatal, and postpartum mental health challenges. Call (615) 879-3582 to learn more or schedule an appointment.

How Can Freeman Health Partners Help?
The Freeman Mental Health Program is unique in offering both primary care and mental health care, providing comprehensive support for mothers and mothers-to-be. Our integrated approach means you receive DBT therapy alongside essential medical care, creating a continuous treatment plan for prenatal, postnatal, and postpartum wellness.
Other Ways to Find Support For Maternal Mental Health In Middle Tennessee
Finding support for maternal mental health in Middle Tennessee involves exploring various resources tailored to your needs. Whether you’re seeking family planning, parenting support, or postpartum wellness, multiple options can connect you with the right care.
- Consult with Healthcare Professionals: Your primary care provider, OB-GYN, or pediatrician can recommend trusted mental health specialists who offer maternal mental health support. Scheduling a consultation allows you to discuss your concerns and explore available treatment options.
- Use Online Search Engines: Searching online with specific terms like “maternal mental health DBT therapy near me” can help you find local providers, reviews, and treatment options. Many clinics and therapists have websites where you can learn about their services and specialties.
- Check Mental Health Directories: Websites like Psychology Today and SAMHSA provide directories where you can filter providers based on specialties, location, and insurance coverage. These directories often include therapist bios, contact information, and patient reviews.
- Contact Local Mental Health Organizations: Nonprofits and advocacy groups in Middle Tennessee offer counseling, support groups, and educational resources for new and expecting mothers. Many of these organizations provide free or low-cost services to ensure access to care.
- Explore Online Reviews and Testimonials: Reading reviews from other mothers can provide insight into the quality of care and effectiveness of different mental health programs. Reviews can help you gauge whether a provider’s approach aligns with your personal needs and preferences.
- Insurance Provider Assistance: Many insurance providers have online tools or customer service lines to help you find in-network therapists who specialize in maternal mental health. Checking your benefits can clarify costs, coverage limits, and pre-authorization requirements.
- Visit University Hospitals and Medical Centers: Teaching hospitals often have specialized maternal mental health programs, research-based treatments, and access to expert providers. These facilities may also offer clinical trials or cutting-edge therapies not available elsewhere.
- Connect with Local Mental Health Hotlines: Calling a crisis or mental health helpline can provide immediate guidance and connect you with appropriate resources in your area. These hotlines are confidential and can help you find urgent care when needed.
- Seek Referrals from Support Groups: Parenting or postpartum support groups can offer firsthand recommendations for therapists and programs that have helped other mothers. Connecting with other moms can also provide emotional support and encouragement during your journey.
- Verify Accreditation and Licensing: Before committing to a provider, ensure they are licensed and accredited by reputable organizations to receive high-quality, evidence-based care. Verifying credentials helps you feel confident that you’re receiving safe and effective treatment.
What is the Admissions Process For DBT Treatment Programs For Maternal Mental Health Concerns?
The admissions process for DBT treatment programs for maternal mental health concerns is set up to be straightforward and supportive. From the first call to active participation in therapy, each step gets you the personalized care you deserve. Below is an overview of what to expect when seeking DBT treatment for maternal mental health.
- Initial Contact: The process begins when you reach out to a mental health center by phone or online to inquire about DBT treatment options. Staff will guide you through the next steps and answer any questions.
- Assessment and Evaluation: A clinician will conduct a thorough evaluation to understand your mental health history, current symptoms, and treatment needs. This helps determine if DBT is the right approach for you.
- Insurance Verification and Coverage: The admissions team will check your insurance benefits, confirm coverage for DBT, and discuss any potential out-of-pocket costs. They can also assist with financial planning if needed.
- Treatment Plan Development: Based on your assessment, a customized DBT treatment plan will be created, outlining therapy goals, session frequency, and additional support services tailored to your maternal mental health needs.
- Admissions Coordination: Once your treatment plan is finalized, staff will coordinate scheduling and ensure all necessary paperwork is completed. They will also provide guidance on preparing for treatment.
- Orientation and Program Introduction: You will receive an overview of your DBT program, including what to expect in therapy, key techniques, and how to engage in the treatment process effectively.
- Active Participation in Treatment: You will begin attending therapy sessions, learning DBT skills such as mindfulness, emotional regulation, distress tolerance, and interpersonal effectiveness to improve your mental well-being.
- Progress Monitoring and Adjustments: Throughout treatment, clinicians will track your progress and make any necessary adjustments to ensure the therapy remains effective. Feedback and continued support help you stay on the path to recovery.
Check Your Insurance Today!
Find out your health insurance coverage levels for by calling the number below.
How Can A Mental Health Center in Greater Nashville Use DBT For Maternal Mental Health Concerns?
A mental health center in Greater Nashville can use Dialectical Behavior Therapy to provide structured support for mothers facing emotional challenges before and after childbirth. DBT for postpartum mental health concerns helps you develop coping skills, manage mood swings, and reduce anxiety or depression, ensuring a smoother transition into motherhood.
Through DBT treatment for postpartum mental health concerns in Nashville, Tennessee, you can access individual therapy, group skills training, and emotional regulation techniques custom-fit to maternal needs. These programs, like ours at Freeman Mental Health, focus on mindfulness, distress tolerance, and self-compassion, equipping you with the tools to navigate postpartum recovery, strengthen infant bonding, and build a strong support system for long-term well-being.

What Prenatal, Postnatal, and Postpartum Maternal Mental Health Conditions Can DBT Help Treat?
Dialectical Behavior Therapy can help treat a range of maternal mental health conditions that surface during prenatal, postnatal, and postpartum periods. Pregnancy and motherhood bring significant emotional and psychological changes, and DBT provides essential tools to manage stress, regulate emotions, and build healthy coping strategies. Here are some conditions DBT can help with:
- Prenatal Anxiety and Depression: During pregnancy, you may experience excessive worry, sadness, or irritability due to hormonal shifts, lifestyle changes, or fears about childbirth. DBT techniques like mindfulness and distress tolerance help reduce anxious thoughts and improve mood stability, making it easier to manage pregnancy-related stress.
- Postpartum Depression (PPD): After giving birth, you might feel persistent sadness, exhaustion, or difficulty bonding with your baby. Symptoms of PPD can include mood swings, loss of interest in activities, and feelings of hopelessness. DBT helps by reinforcing self-validation, self-soothing strategies, and behavioral changes that support emotional recovery.
- Postpartum Anxiety: Unlike PPD, postpartum anxiety causes excessive fear and worry about your baby’s health, safety, or your own abilities as a mother. You might experience panic attacks, racing thoughts, or physical symptoms like rapid heartbeat and shortness of breath. DBT’s emotion regulation and mindfulness skills help you manage overwhelming thoughts and regain control.
- Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) and Emotional Dysregulation: If you have BPD, pregnancy and motherhood can heighten emotional instability, causing intense mood swings, fear of abandonment, and impulsive behavior. DBT’s dialectical thinking, validation techniques, and interpersonal effectiveness skills teach you how to manage emotions and build healthier relationships with your child and loved ones.
- Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) Related to Motherhood: Perinatal OCD can cause distressing, intrusive thoughts about harm coming to your baby, leading to compulsive behaviors like excessive checking or cleaning. DBT’s mindfulness and cognitive restructuring techniques help reduce obsessive thoughts and encourage healthier coping mechanisms.
- Birth Trauma and PTSD: A difficult or traumatic birth experience can lead to post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), with flashbacks, nightmares, and heightened anxiety. DBT’s distress tolerance and radical acceptance techniques help you process trauma, reduce emotional distress, and regain a sense of control over your healing.
- Adjustment Difficulties in Motherhood: The transition into motherhood can feel overwhelming, leading to self-doubt, frustration, or difficulty balancing responsibilities. DBT equips you with interpersonal communication skills, self-compassion techniques, and coping strategies to ease the adjustment and help you build confidence as a mother.
What Is The Success Rate of DBT For Maternal Mental Health Concerns Near Nashville, Tennessee?
The success rate of DBT for maternal mental health concerns near Nashville, Tennessee, is strong, with many women experiencing reduced symptoms of postpartum depression, anxiety, and emotional distress. DBT helps improve mood stability, stress management, and overall well-being by teaching emotion regulation, distress tolerance, and interpersonal effectiveness skills.
Freeman Health Partners offers specialized DBT programs for maternal mental health, providing structured support during pregnancy and postpartum recovery. Many mothers report improved relationships, better self-care, and increased confidence in managing motherhood-related challenges. With evidence-based strategies and professional guidance, DBT remains a highly effective treatment for maternal mental health concerns in Middle Tennessee.
What is a Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) Treatment Program?
A Dialectical Behavior Therapy treatment program is a structured approach to help you manage emotions, reduce stress, and improve your overall well-being during and after pregnancy. DBT for mothers in Nashville, Tennessee, focuses on DBT prenatal and postnatal mental health support, providing essential coping skills for the emotional and physical challenges of motherhood.
These programs often integrate holistic care, including childbirth education, doula support, midwifery, and birth plan guidance, to ensure you feel prepared for labor and delivery. Additionally, DBT can support infant bonding, lactation consulting, and pelvic floor health, helping you navigate the postpartum period with confidence while maintaining your mental and emotional stability.

Does Health Insurance Offer DBT Coverage for Maternal Mental Health Concerns?
Health insurance often covers Dialectical Behavior Therapy for maternal mental health concerns, but coverage depends on your specific plan and provider. Many insurance plans, including private insurers and Medicaid, offer benefits for DBT as part of mental health treatment, helping you access therapy for conditions like postpartum depression, anxiety, and emotional regulation challenges.
To determine your coverage, review your policy details, check for in-network providers like Freeman Primary Care, and understand any copays or deductibles. Some plans may require pre-authorization or a diagnosis for approval. If you’re unsure about your benefits, contacting Freeman Mental Health in Nashville can help you navigate your options and access the care you need.
Do Health Insurance Companies Cover DBT in Middle Tennessee?
Health insurance companies in Middle Tennessee often cover Dialectical Behavior Therapy, but the extent of coverage depends on your specific plan. Many private insurers, Medicaid, and employer-sponsored plans offer benefits for DBT as part of mental health treatment, especially for conditions like postpartum depression, anxiety, and emotional regulation difficulties.
To confirm coverage, check your policy for details on mental health benefits, in-network providers, and any pre-authorization requirements. Some plans may cover DBT fully, while others require copays or meeting a deductible. If you’re unsure, contacting Freeman Mental Health can help you understand your options and access the care you need for maternal mental health support.
What Are The Therapeutic Techniques Used in Dialectical Behavior Therapy?
Dialectical Behavior Therapy uses a variety of therapeutic techniques to help you manage emotions, cope with stress, and improve your overall mental well-being. These methods provide structure and practical tools for navigating challenges, especially during pregnancy and postpartum recovery. Below is a list of key DBT techniques (but not all) used in treatment.
Behavioral Techniques for Coping and Enhancing Well-Being
DBT helps you recognize and change negative thought patterns and behaviors that contribute to emotional distress. Through mindfulness exercises, self-soothing techniques, and behavioral analysis, you can develop healthier coping strategies that support long-term emotional stability and well-being.
Strategies for Regulating Emotions
Emotional ups and downs are common during pregnancy and postpartum. DBT teaches emotion regulation skills to help you identify, understand, and manage your feelings effectively. By practicing mindfulness and distress tolerance, you can reduce emotional overwhelm and respond to stress with greater balance.
Dialectical Approaches to Mental Health
DBT encourages a dialectical perspective, helping you find a middle ground between acceptance and change. This means acknowledging your emotions while also working toward positive behavioral shifts. Learning radical acceptance allows you to embrace challenges without judgment, making it easier to move forward.
Developing an Interpersonal Effectiveness Mindset
Strong relationships and support systems are essential for maternal mental health. DBT enhances your communication skills, helping you set boundaries, express your needs, and maintain healthy relationships with family, partners, and healthcare providers. These skills create a foundation for emotional and social well-being.
Building Resilience Through Distress Tolerance
Difficult moments are inevitable, but DBT equips you with distress tolerance techniques to handle them with confidence. These strategies help you stay grounded during stressful situations, avoid impulsive reactions, and develop resilience. By practicing self-soothing and crisis survival skills, you can navigate emotional challenges more effectively.
How Much Is Maternal DBT Treatment Without The Support of Insurance Companies in Tennessee?
The cost of maternal Dialectical Behavior Therapy treatment in Tennessee without insurance varies depending on the program type and provider. On average, individual DBT therapy sessions range from $100 to $250 per session, while structured programs like Intensive Outpatient Programs (IOPs) or Partial Hospitalization Programs (PHPs) can cost between $3,000 and $10,000 for a full course of treatment.
Many mental health centers, like Freeman Mental Health, offer sliding-scale fees, payment plans, or financial assistance for uninsured patients. Community-based clinics and nonprofit organizations may provide lower-cost options. If you’re seeking affordable DBT treatment, contacting local providers like Freeman Health Partners or researching alternative funding options can help make care more accessible without relying on insurance coverage.
How Much Is Maternal DBT Treatment With The Support of Insurance Companies in Tennessee?
The cost of maternal DBT with insurance in Tennessee varies depending on your plan, coverage limits, and provider network. With insurance, copays for individual therapy sessions typically range from $20 to $50, while deductibles and coinsurance may apply to more intensive programs like Intensive Outpatient Programs (IOPs) or Partial Hospitalization Programs (PHPs).
Many insurance plans cover DBT as part of maternal mental health treatment, significantly reducing out-of-pocket costs. Some policies may require pre-authorization or a formal diagnosis for coverage approval. Checking with Freeman Mental Health can help clarify costs and ensure you receive affordable, in-network care.
Therapy Programs for Mothers Facing That Use DBT Around Nashville, Tennessee
Finding the right therapy program can make a significant difference in managing maternal mental health concerns. If you are struggling during pregnancy or postpartum, therapy programs that use DBT around Nashville, Tennessee, can provide the structured support you need. Here are some treatment options designed to help mothers like you.
Residential/Inpatient Programs For Mothers
Residential or inpatient programs offer continual care for mothers experiencing severe mental health challenges, such as postpartum depression, anxiety, or emotional dysregulation. These programs provide a safe, structured environment where you can focus on healing, participate in DBT therapy, and receive support for both your mental and physical well-being.
Partial Hospitalization Programs (PHPs) For Mothers
A Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP) is a step down from inpatient care, allowing you to receive intensive treatment while going home at night. These programs include daily DBT therapy sessions, group counseling, and skills training to help you build coping strategies and emotional resilience as you navigate motherhood.
Intensive Outpatient Programs (IOPs) For Mothers
Intensive Outpatient Programs (IOPs) provide structured mental health support while allowing you to maintain your daily responsibilities. With multiple therapy sessions per week, including DBT-based individual and group therapy, IOPs help you manage stress, regulate emotions, and develop effective parenting and self-care strategies.
Outpatient Therapy Programs For Mothers
Outpatient therapy is a flexible option if you need ongoing support but do not require intensive treatment. DBT-based outpatient programs allow you to work with a therapist on a weekly basis to develop coping skills, improve emotional regulation, and strengthen your overall mental well-being while balancing motherhood and daily life.
Check Your Insurance by Phone
Find out your health insurance coverage levels for by calling the number below.
DBT and Maternal Mental Health in Tennessee: The Facts
- In Tennessee, mental health contributed to almost one-third of all pregnancy-related deaths, according to TN.gov.
- 76% of Tennessee maternal deaths were preventable, per a recent report about TennCare.
- 13% of TN mothers experience postpartum depression, according to America’s Health Rankings.
- In one study reported in NIH.gov, depression scores were reduced by 30% after using DBT.
- In 2020, more than 56% of U.S. mental health facilities offered DBT, per Statista.