Date of Conferral

8-17-2026

Date of Award

August 2026

Degree

Ph.D.

School

Counselor Education and Supervision

Advisor

Jeremy Enzor

Abstract

Perinatal mood and anxiety disorders (PMADs), including depression, anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder, posttraumatic stress disorder, and postpartum psychosis, affect postpartum individuals and their families. Limited research has examined the lived experiences and competencies of licensed mental health professionals who address PMADs, potentially limiting counselor educators’ ability to prepare counselors for postpartum mental health needs. Guided by hermeneutic phenomenology and informed by Ecological Systems Theory, the purpose of this qualitative study was to answer the guiding question: What are the lived experiences of licensed mental health professionals in recognizing, assessing, and treating PMADs among postpartum clients? Semi-structured interviews were conducted with eight licensed mental health professionals across the United States. Data were analyzed using an iterative hermeneutic process informed by the hermeneutic circle to identify shared meanings and patterns. Eight themes emerged concerning counselor preparedness, graduate education, post-licensure competency development, professional development barriers, emotional and professional impact, counselor education recommendations, interdisciplinary collaboration, and licensure and professional standards. Participants reported limited PMAD-specific preparation in graduate education and reliance on continuing education, supervision, mentorship, and experience. Findings support enhanced PMAD education, professional development, interdisciplinary collaboration, and maternal mental health competencies. This study contributes to positive social change by informing counselor preparation and practices that may improve access to competent postpartum mental health care.

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