Pregnancy, new parenthood and other changes throughout the reproductive years can be filled with joy and excitement, but they can also bring emotional challenges. At CU Medicine Psychiatry - Women’s Behavioral Health and Wellness (WBHW) clinic, patients receive compassionate, evidence-based care that supports emotional well-being before, during and after pregnancy.
Comprehensive and Accessible Care for Pregnant and Postpartum Women
The Healthy Expectations program at the WBHW clinic provides care across the full spectrum of reproductive mental health. Services range from traditional outpatient therapy to more structured, intensive programs for individuals who need extra support. Treatment is available both in-person and virtually, making it easier for patients across Colorado to receive care that fits their lives.
WBHW accepts most major insurance plans as well as Medicaid. This ensures that high-quality, specialized behavioral health care is accessible to as many patients and families as possible.
A Team of Specialists Dedicated to Women’s Mental Health
The WBHW team includes licensed clinical social workers, psychologists, advanced practice providers, psychiatrists and care coordinators. Together, they bring expertise and compassion to every patient’s treatment plan.
As part of CU Anschutz, the WBHW team also trains future clinicians and stays current with the latest research in reproductive mental health. Patients benefit from a collaborative, informed approach to care that combines clinical expertise with empathy and understanding.
Understanding Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders
Many people are surprised to learn that emotional challenges during pregnancy and after childbirth are common. Perinatal mood and anxiety disorders (PMADs) affect about one in 11 women in Colorado and are the most common complication during pregnancy and postpartum.
PMADs can include depression, anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder and postpartum psychosis. Symptoms may include changes in sleep or appetite, difficulty bonding with a baby, feelings of guilt and hopelessness or unwanted thoughts about self-harm.
Experiencing these symptoms does not mean someone is a bad parent. It means they need support and care. With the right treatment, recovery is possible.
Perinatal Services Designed for Each Patient
WBHW offers several types of therapy and support to meet each person’s needs. The Healthy Expectations program at the clinic offers individual therapy, free support groups, traditional therapy groups and PIPER: Parent Infant Program for Emotional Resilience.
PIPER is Colorado’s first and only intensive outpatient program designed specifically for the perinatal period. Babies are welcome and support includes a monitored playroom and structured multidisciplined care for people who need more frequent and sustained support than traditional outpatient therapy.
Throughout all of the Healthy Expectations services offered at the WBHW, the goal is to help each patient find balance, build coping skills and strengthen emotional resilience.
Care that Meets You Where You Are
Whether in person or online, Healthy Expectations services are designed to be flexible and accessible. The WBHW clinic welcomes patients from across the state and provides a supportive, inclusive environment where individuals can begin to heal and feel understood.
You Are Not Alone
Mental health challenges during pregnancy or postpartum are common, and help is available. The WBHW clinic offers a safe, welcoming space to talk opening, find support and begin the path toward healing.
To learn more about outpatient perinatal services or to start the intake process, call (303)724-1646 or email WBHW@CUAnschutz.edu.
