Perinatal Mental Health: Find Support for Your Emotional Well-being
Are you expecting a child or have recently welcomed a little one into your life? The journey of pregnancy and early parenthood can bring a range of overwhelming emotions. At Amber Sperling Social Work and Psychotherapy Services, we understand the unique challenges that individuals face during the perinatal period, which is why we are passionately dedicated to providing specialized support and therapy for perinatal mood and anxiety disorders.


Perinatal mental health refers to the emotional well-being of parents during pregnancy and up to a year after childbirth (but we stretch to include parents with children up to starting Kindergarten). While it is normal to experience occasional worry or sadness during this period, some individuals may find themselves struggling with more intense feelings that greatly impact their daily lives. Perinatal mood and anxiety disorders, such as postpartum depression, postpartum anxiety, and postpartum obsessive-compulsive disorder, are common and treatable conditions. You are not alone and we are here to help.


Our therapists are committed to providing a safe and non-judgmental space for clients to explore their emotional challenges related to the perinatal period. With an empathetic and compassionate approach, our therapist specializes in perinatal mental health, actively working to understand your unique experiences and tailor therapy to meet your specific needs.

Meet your Therapists

Welcome to the

Perinatal Therapy Clinic

Where therapy is accessible and offered by interns with years of experience

now directly supervised by Amber Sperling RSW PMH-C

FAQs

Leah Desormeaux

BSW MSW (Cand.)

  • Transitioning into motherhood can be overwhelming, Leah is here to help you build coping strategies, enhance your emotional resilience, and find balance in your new role. Her goal is to create a safe and empathetic space where you can openly discuss your feelings, concerns, and experiences.

    Leah is a Registered Social Worker with over twenty years experience in the social services field including shelter work, treatment home work and over five years in children’s mental health. For the last fourteen years Leah has worked in the developmental services field supporting families navigate the developmental services world. The last three years, she has supported infants and young children with a developmental concern. 

     Professional credentials:

    • Registered Social Worker (RSW) with the Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers

    • Master of Social Work (MSW) degree from Dalhousie University – in progress

    • Canadian Perinatal Mental Health Education Series – in progress

    • Brain Story Certification from the Alberta Family Wellness Initiative.

    • Cognitive Behavioural Therapy Certificate - Level 1 from Wilfrid Laurier University

    • Post Graduate Addictions Treatment and Prevention Diploma with Honours from Georgian College. 

    • Bachelor of Social Worker (BSW) from Toronto Metropolitan University 

     

    In her spare time, Leah enjoys spending time outside with her young family, exploring nature and going for bike rides. She also enjoys planning the next family vacation.

     Leah is passionate about advocating for the mental health needs of new mothers and is eager to contribute positively to this important area of care.

  • Leah offers sessions on Tuesdays in person in Barrie and virtually to clients across Ontario

  • I am a Master of Social Work (MSW) student at the University of Windsor, set to graduate in 2025, and a mother of 3. I am dedicated to supporting individuals and families during the perinatal period, recognizing the profound impact that mental health has on pregnancy, childbirth, and early parenthood. My education and clinical experience have provided me with a strong foundation in evidence-based therapeutic approaches and a nuanced understanding of the unique emotional and psychological challenges faced by parents during this transformative life stage.

    With a client-centered approach, I prioritize empathy, cultural humility, and a non-judgmental attitude in my work. I am skilled in crisis intervention and collaboration, and I have developed expertise in supporting individuals coping with complex mental health challenges. My experience includes working with individuals affected by eating disorders, which has deepened my understanding of the intersections between body image, mental health, and the perinatal experience. I have applied therapeutic approaches such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT) to support clients in managing mood disorders, anxiety, and stress, all of which are common during the perinatal period.

    In addition to therapeutic skills, I bring strong communication, assessment, and organizational abilities, allowing me to work effectively with clients and multidisciplinary teams to create tailored care plans. I am committed to ongoing professional development, with certifications in crisis intervention and mental health first aid, and I am passionate about providing a safe, supportive space for clients to build resilience and enhance their emotional well-being during early parenthood.

  • Jocelyn offers sessions virtually to clients across Ontario.

    She is available for clients in the evenings and is accepting new clients for January 2025!

Jocelyn Gates

BAH MSW (Cand.)

  • The Perinatal Therapy Clinic is an affordable, accessible way to meet with an intern therapist virtually or in person in Barrie ON

  • Therapy in this clinic varies by practitioner - however our intern sessions are $50 for a 50 minute session.

    If this is out of your financial reach, we have a pay-what-you-can option where your rate will be reduced by your therapist.

    Payment can be made via credit card or e-transfer. Receipts will be provided for insurance.

  • We believe that the perinatal period starts when you start thinking about having a family, find out you are pregnant or are in any type of fertility journey.

    We support families up until children enter Kindergarten, as this time in your life can be very difficult and does not end after your baby’s first birthday.

  • Absolutely not! If you are struggling, not feeling like yourself, overwhelmed, anxious or feeling low - we are here for you. No diagnosis or referral necessary

Reaching out for extra support takes courage - and we are here to listen.

We believe that seeking therapy for perinatal mood and anxiety disorders is an act of strength and self-care. Our therapy sessions aim to help clients navigate the complex landscape of their emotions, develop coping strategies, and build resilience during this transformative time. Whether you're dealing with feelings of sadness, anxiety, intrusive thoughts, or struggling with the adjustment to parenthood, our therapist is here to provide the support and guidance you need.


Your mental well-being matters, not only for your own sake but also for the well-being of your growing family. Reach out to us at Amber Sperling Social Work and Psychotherapy Services today to begin your journey towards a healthier and happier perinatal experience. Together, we can help you regain your sense of balance and embrace the joy that this new chapter of your life has to offer.

Learn more about Perinatal Mood and Anxiety disorders here