Perinatal Mental Health: Find Support for Your Emotional Well-being in Barrie, Ontario and virtually across the province.
Are you expecting a child or have recently welcomed a little one into your life? The journey of pregnancy and early parenthood can bring a range of overwhelming emotions. At Amber Sperling Social Work and Psychotherapy Services, we understand the unique challenges that individuals face during the perinatal period, which is why we are passionately dedicated to providing specialized support and therapy for perinatal mood and anxiety disorders.


Perinatal mental health refers to the emotional well-being of parents during pregnancy and up to a year after childbirth (but we stretch to include parents with children up to starting Kindergarten). While it is normal to experience occasional worry or sadness during this period, some individuals may find themselves struggling with more intense feelings that greatly impact their daily lives. Perinatal mood and anxiety disorders, such as postpartum depression, postpartum anxiety, and postpartum obsessive-compulsive disorder, are common and treatable conditions. You are not alone and we are here to help.


Our therapists are committed to providing a safe and non-judgmental space for clients to explore their emotional challenges related to the perinatal period. With an empathetic and compassionate approach, our therapist specializes in perinatal mental health, actively working to understand your unique experiences and tailor therapy to meet your specific needs.

Meet your Therapists

Welcome to the

Perinatal Therapy Clinic

Where therapy is accessible and offered by interns with years of experience

now directly supervised by Amber Sperling RSW PMH-C

Catherine Premji

Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)

FAQs

  • I am a Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), completing a Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology at Yorkville University. I am a partner in a long-term relationship, and mother to 3 children. I am committed to supporting individuals as they navigate the perinatal period and subsequent life transitions. I recognize the complexities of perinatal mental health and the impacts to parenting and families. I am here to support you as you move through such obstacles. I believe emotional connection is the core of healthy relationships and personal well-being.

     

    My personal experiences as a partner, and mother, allow me to relate to your parenting challenges and relationship struggles in an authentic way. I understand the loneliness and exhaustion that new parents encounter and the toll this has on our relationships and well-being. I have personally encountered fertility challenges, as well as complicated pregnancies, and I empathize with how difficult these experiences feel.

    My therapeutic approach is strength-based and rooted in the belief that strong emotional connections to self and others are the foundation of wellness. I believe in bringing my authentic self to our therapeutic space so you may feel supported and comfortable to be yourself. I strive to create a safe and supportive environment using techniques from a client-centered lens and an Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) approach. I am here to listen to you and help you discover emotional intimacy and relational fulfillment. My therapeutic space is judgement free, culturally aware, and most importantly warm and validating. In our sessions together you can expect to feel heard and safe to express your emotional needs and fears with the goal of reconnecting with yourself and others.

    In addition to my life experiences, I have completed an externship in Emotionally Focused Couples therapy and I have experience counselling couples. This combination of training and experience offers me a unique understanding of the impacts of pregnancy, childbirth, and early parenthood on relationships. I would be honoured to accompany you in your wellness journey.

  • Catherine offers sessions on Tuesdays in person in Barrie and virtually to clients across Ontario Tuesday, Wednesday and Fridays

  • The Perinatal Therapy Clinic is an affordable, accessible way to meet with an intern therapist virtually or in person in Barrie ON

  • Therapy in this clinic varies by practitioner - however our intern sessions are $50 for a 50 minute session.

    If this is out of your financial reach, we have a pay-what-you-can option where your rate will be reduced by your therapist.

    Payment can be made via credit card or e-transfer. Receipts will be provided for insurance.

  • We believe that the perinatal period starts when you start thinking about having a family, find out you are pregnant or are in any type of fertility journey.

    We support families up until children enter Kindergarten, as this time in your life can be very difficult and does not end after your baby’s first birthday.

  • Absolutely not! If you are struggling, not feeling like yourself, overwhelmed, anxious or feeling low - we are here for you. No diagnosis or referral necessary

Reaching out for extra support takes courage - and we are here to listen.

We believe that seeking therapy for perinatal mood and anxiety disorders is an act of strength and self-care. Our therapy sessions aim to help clients navigate the complex landscape of their emotions, develop coping strategies, and build resilience during this transformative time. Whether you're dealing with feelings of sadness, anxiety, intrusive thoughts, or struggling with the adjustment to parenthood, our therapist is here to provide the support and guidance you need.


Your mental well-being matters, not only for your own sake but also for the well-being of your growing family. Reach out to us at Amber Sperling Social Work and Psychotherapy Services today to begin your journey towards a healthier and happier perinatal experience. Together, we can help you regain your sense of balance and embrace the joy that this new chapter of your life has to offer.

Learn more about Perinatal Mood and Anxiety disorders here