Hello, I am Becky Spencer. I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, a lactation consultant, and perinatal mental health specialist. Are you planning for pregnancy, currently pregnant, or postpartum, and you either just aren't feeling "right" or have a history of mental health challenges? Have other healthcare providers told you that you can't receive treatment for mental health while pregnant and breastfeeding? Is the transition to parenthood overwhelming? You are not alone, and treatment can help. I provide integrative psychiatric care to perinatal patients. I have a whole-person approach integrating prescription medications, nutraceutical and botanical guidance, and multi-modal therapy. I also provide lactation education and consults. My practice is limited to women and birthing parents who are preparing for pregnancy, are currently pregnant, or are within 3 years postpartum (youngest child under the age of 3).

What can clients expect to take away from sessions with you?

I require that you complete the intake paperwork before we meet. An initial evaluation lasts about one hour and consists of learning about your symptoms, your medical and mental health history, and your goals for treatment. We will discuss treatment options at the end of the initial evaluation, and I will schedule a follow-up session. I am a strong believer in the healing that occurs in therapy. I refer all clients to a therapist if they are not currently seeing one. With your permission, I can communicate with your obstetric provider, therapist, or other healthcare providers to make sure your care is coordinated.

What treatment methods and tools do you utilize?

I am licensed to prescribe medications that treat mental health conditions, but I do NOT prescribe stimulant medication for ADHD (i.e. Adderall, Vyvance, Ritalin). I will only prescribe benzodiazepines for short-term use with the goal of tapering off in 4-6 weeks. Nutrition is an important component of mental health. I have received training in complementary nutrition strategies that support mental health. We will discuss foods and supplements that may be helpful additions to your treatment plan. Cognitive behavioral therapy, interpersonal therapy, and motivational interviewing are evidence-based therapies for perinatal patients. I integrate elements of these therapies within my practice and treatment plans.

Explain to clients what areas you feel are your biggest strengths.

I am also an Associate Clinical Professor in the College of Nursing at Texas Woman's University and I am the editor of 2 textbooks, Breastfeeding and Human Lactation 6th ed. and The Core Curriculum for Interdisciplinary Lactation Care, 2nd ed.

About Becky Spencer