Motherhood and Me (Mom-Me): The Development of an Acceptance-Based Group for Women with Postpartum Mood and Anxiety Symptoms

Abstract

Untreated postpartum mood and anxiety disorders (PMADs) place women and their fami-lies at risk for negative biopsychosocial sequelae. Innovative and tailored treatments are needed to address potential disruptions in maternal functioning. Third-wave cognitive–behavioral approaches, including acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) and dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), hold promise for optimizing functioning given the focus on values-based living, rather than symptom reduction. Purpose: The purpose of this paper is to describe the development of an innovative psychotherapy group for women with symptoms of PMADs. Methods: This seven-session group, Motherhood and Me (Mom-Me), includes selected skills training from ACT, DBT, and Emotion-Centered Problem-Solving Therapy. Results: Mom-Me group sessions are described, and an outline of key information (session goals, content, and homework assignments) is provided to facilitate practical implementation. Conclusion: In line with third-wave approaches, this group was developed to enhance maternal functioning, which, in turn, may help women cope with psychological distress during the transition to motherhood.