Prenatal

Prenatal refers to the critical developmental period from conception to birth, during which a counselor provides specialized support to manage the psychological, emotional, and social changes associated with pregnancy. The American Counseling Association (ACA) emphasizes a "wellness model," viewing the prenatal phase as a major life transition that requires screening for perinatal mood and anxiety disorders (PMADs), fostering healthy attachment styles, and addressing the impact of hormonal shifts on mental health. Counselors focus on providing psychoeducation and coping strategies to mitigate stressors that could affect both the expectant parent’s well-being and the future developmental outcomes of the child.