Austin Postpartum OCD Therapist: Relief from Intrusive Thoughts
Struggling with disturbing, unwanted thoughts about your baby? Checking constantly to make sure they're breathing? Avoiding certain tasks because of frightening images in your mind?
You're not alone, and these thoughts don't make you a bad mother. Postpartum OCD affects 3-5% of new mothers—and it's one of the most treatable perinatal mental health conditions.
500+
Moms Helped
15+
Years Experience
70-80%
Success Rate
Dr. Jana Rundle, PhD
Licensed Clinical Psychologist
Specializing in Postpartum OCD & ERP Therapy
Understanding Postpartum OCD
Postpartum OCD is a specific type of perinatal anxiety disorder characterized by unwanted, intrusive thoughts (obsessions) and repetitive behaviors or mental rituals (compulsions). More common than many realize, it affects 3-5% of new mothers—and some studies suggest rates may be as high as 9%.
Often misdiagnosed as postpartum depression or generalized anxiety, postpartum OCD has a distinct pattern: an intrusive thought triggers intense anxiety, which leads to a compulsion to reduce the distress, providing temporary relief before the cycle repeats.
Here's the most important thing to understand: Having these thoughts does NOT mean you will act on them. In fact, mothers with postpartum OCD are often the most vigilant, protective parents. The distress you feel about these thoughts proves you would never want to harm your baby.
Common Symptoms of Postpartum OCD
Intrusive Thoughts (Obsessions)
- •Graphic thoughts about accidentally or intentionally harming your baby
- •Fear of contamination or germs causing illness
- •Obsessive worry about SIDS or suffocation
- •Disturbing sexual or violent mental images
- •Fear of being left alone with your baby
Compulsive Behaviors (Compulsions)
- •Excessive checking (breathing, locks, baby monitor)
- •Repeated cleaning or sterilizing
- •Seeking constant reassurance from partner or doctor
- •Mental rituals (counting, praying, repeating phrases)
- •Avoiding baby or specific caregiving tasks
These symptoms are NOT a reflection of your character or your love for your baby. Postpartum OCD is a medical condition caused by hormonal shifts, sleep deprivation, and your brain's overactive protection instinct.
Postpartum OCD vs Postpartum Anxiety
Both postpartum anxiety (PPA) and postpartum OCD involve intense worry, but the patterns are different—and this distinction matters for treatment.
Postpartum Anxiety involves generalized, persistent worry about your baby's safety, health, or development. The worry may feel excessive but often seems somewhat rational.
Postpartum OCD involves specific, graphic, intrusive thoughts that feel foreign and deeply disturbing. These thoughts are vivid, detailed, and often violent or sexual in nature. They feel like they're coming from outside yourself.
| Postpartum Anxiety | Postpartum OCD |
|---|---|
| "What if something bad happens?" | "What if I intentionally hurt my baby?" |
| Constant, non-specific worry | Specific, graphic intrusive thoughts |
| Difficulty relaxing, feeling on edge | Compulsive behaviors to reduce anxiety |
| Physical symptoms (racing heart, nausea) | Avoidance of triggers + checking rituals |
Evidence-Based Treatment for Postpartum OCD
Postpartum OCD is one of the most treatable perinatal mental health conditions. Evidence-based therapies show 70-80% effectiveness when delivered by a specialist who understands the unique needs of new mothers.
Exposure & Response Prevention (ERP)
Gold standard treatment for OCD with the highest success rates. Gradual, controlled exposure to intrusive thoughts without performing compulsions. Teaches your brain that the feared outcome won't occur. 70-80% of individuals see significant improvement.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
Identify and challenge anxious, catastrophic thought patterns. Distinguish between real danger and OCD-generated false alarms. Learn that thinking a thought is not the same as wanting or doing it. Build tolerance for uncertainty.
Mindfulness & Acceptance
Learn to observe intrusive thoughts without judgment or engagement. Practice letting thoughts pass like clouds without trying to control them. Grounding techniques for moments of panic. Reduces the struggle with thoughts, which paradoxically reduces their frequency.
What Treatment Looks Like
Starting therapy for postpartum OCD can feel scary. Dr. Rundle creates a safe, non-judgmental space where you can share openly. Treatment is gradual, personalized, and goes at your pace.
Initial Assessment & Diagnosis
Comprehensive evaluation to understand your specific symptoms. Differentiate postpartum OCD from other conditions. Assess history of anxiety or trauma. Create personalized treatment plan with clear goals. Answer all your questions in a confidential, judgment-free space.
ERP Hierarchy Building
Identify your specific intrusive thoughts and triggers. Create a gradual exposure hierarchy from least to most distressing. Start with manageable exposures to build confidence. Learn response prevention strategies. Dr. Rundle guides you through each step.
Active Treatment
Weekly 50-minute sessions (in-person or virtual throughout Texas). Practice ERP exercises during and between sessions. Track progress: reduction in compulsions, distress levels, and intrusive thought frequency. Most mothers see noticeable improvement within 4-6 weeks.
Long-Term Management & Relapse Prevention
Develop strategies to maintain progress. Identify early warning signs of symptom return. Create plan for handling stress or transitions. Transition to less frequent check-ins as symptoms improve. Many mothers see 70-80% reduction in symptoms within 8-12 weeks.
Serving Austin & Surrounding Communities
Bloom Psychology provides in-person postpartum OCD therapy at our North Austin office and virtual therapy throughout Texas. We proudly serve mothers in the following Austin-area communities:
Primary Service Areas
- North Austin (78750, 78759, 78731)
- Cedar Park
- Round Rock
- Pflugerville
Austin Neighborhoods
- The Domain
- Great Hills
- Anderson Mill
- Wells Branch
Virtual Therapy Available
- Lakeway
- Georgetown
- All of Texas
- HIPAA-Compliant Platform
Our North Austin Office Location
Frequently Asked Questions About Postpartum OCD
How do I know if I have postpartum OCD or just normal new parent worry?
Normal new parent worry is manageable and doesn't consume your day. Postpartum OCD involves specific, graphic intrusive thoughts that feel disturbing and foreign. You may engage in compulsive behaviors like checking your baby's breathing dozens of times per night, cleaning excessively, or seeking constant reassurance to reduce anxiety. If your thoughts are interfering with your ability to care for your baby, bond with them, or function day-to-day, it's likely postpartum OCD. Dr. Rundle can provide a comprehensive assessment to determine the right diagnosis and treatment.
Will I act on my intrusive thoughts? Am I dangerous to my baby?
No. Having intrusive thoughts about harm does NOT mean you will act on them. The intense distress you feel about these thoughts proves you would never want to harm your baby. Mothers with postpartum OCD are often the most vigilant, protective parents. These intrusive thoughts are a symptom of OCD—a misfiring of your brain's threat-detection system—not a reflection of your true desires. With proper treatment, these thoughts become less frequent and less distressing.
Should I tell my partner or family about my intrusive thoughts?
Sharing your intrusive thoughts can be relieving, but it's important to share with people who understand postpartum OCD. Many partners initially feel shocked or confused, which can increase shame. We recommend starting therapy first, where you can process these thoughts in a safe, non-judgmental space. Dr. Rundle can help you decide when and how to share with your partner, and can provide education to help them understand that these thoughts are symptoms of a treatable condition, not true intentions.
How long does postpartum OCD treatment take?
Most mothers notice improvement within 4-6 weeks of starting ERP therapy. Significant symptom reduction (typically 70-80% improvement) occurs within 8-12 weeks of consistent treatment. The exact timeline depends on symptom severity, frequency of sessions, and engagement with between-session exercises. Some mothers continue maintenance therapy for several months to prevent relapse, especially during stressful periods or transitions.
Can I breastfeed while being treated for postpartum OCD?
Yes. ERP therapy and CBT are non-medication treatments and do not interfere with breastfeeding. If your symptoms are severe and medication is recommended, many SSRIs and anti-anxiety medications are considered safe while breastfeeding. The decision about medication is always yours to make with your healthcare providers. Dr. Rundle provides therapy-based treatment and can coordinate with your medical team if medication is being considered.
Payment & Insurance Information
Out-of-Network Provider
Dr. Rundle is considered an out-of-network provider on all insurance panels. We provide Super Bills that you can submit to your insurance company for reimbursement if you have out-of-network benefits.
What is a Super Bill?
A Super Bill is a detailed receipt that includes all the information your insurance company needs to process an out-of-network claim. We provide this after each session, making it easy for you to submit for potential reimbursement.
You Don't Have to Suffer in Silence
Postpartum OCD is one of the most distressing maternal mental health conditions—but it's also one of the most treatable.
The intrusive thoughts you're experiencing are not your fault. They don't define you as a mother. With specialized ERP therapy, you can reduce intrusive thoughts, manage anxiety, and feel confident in your ability to care for your baby.
Questions? Call us at (512) 898-9510
Or email info@bloompsychologynorthaustin.com