Emily Gates, LPC

07/30/2026

With recent attention on postpartum mental health, this is an important time to understand the differences between postpartum OCD and postpartum psychosis.

While both can occur during the postpartum period, they are different conditions that require different approaches to care.

One of the defining features of postpartum OCD is the presence of intrusive thoughts that are unwanted, distressing, and inconsistent with a person's values. People experiencing postpartum OCD may engage in compulsions or avoidance to reduce their anxiety, prevent harm, or reduce uncertainty.

In contrast, postpartum psychosis involves symptoms such as hallucinations, delusions, and a loss of touch with reality. It is a medical emergency that requires immediate evaluation and treatment.

Understanding these differences helps reduce stigma, supports accurate diagnosis, and connects people with the care they need.

If you've experienced unwanted intrusive thoughts during pregnancy or after having a baby, you're not alone. Having intrusive thoughts does not mean you want to act on them, and effective treatment is available. If you need support, help is available.

The Postpartum Support International (PSI) HelpLine provides information, resources, and support:
👉 Call: 1-800-944-4773 ( #1 Español, #2 English)
👉 Text in English: "Help" to 800-944-4773
👉 Texto en Español: 971-203-7773

Learn more about perinatal OCD and find additional resources at www.iocdf.org/perinatal

07/29/2026

📚FREE Back-to-School Mental Wellness Guide!

This free guide is filled with practical tips to help parents support their child's mental health, manage back-to-school stress, and build healthy routines for a successful school year.

📖 Download your free guide here:

07/27/2026

🎒✨ Back-to-school can bring excitement, but it can also bring anxiety, stress, and big emotions.

Therapy can help prepare your child for a successful school year by building confidence, strengthening coping skills, and increasing resilience to navigate challenges.

📞 Call or 💬 message today to schedule an appointment.

07/13/2026

✨ Exciting News! ✨

I’m so excited to share that beginning this August, I’ll be joining the amazing team at Cumberland Counseling Centers in Griffin, GA! I’m incredibly grateful for this new opportunity and look forward to continuing to provide compassionate, evidence-based counseling in a place that values hope, healing, and community.

Over the next few weeks, I’ll be sharing more details about scheduling, services, and how to connect with me so be sure to keep an eye on this page for updates!

Thank you to everyone who has supported and encouraged me during this new chapter. I can’t wait to see what’s ahead! 🤍

Cumberland Counseling Centers offers therapy for trauma, anxiety, couples, and families across Metro Atlanta and Georgia. We specialize in Christian counseling when welcomed, but our heart is to work with everyone without imposing faith-based approaches when a client is not ready for that. Our licen

07/04/2026

Wishing you and your families a joyful and blessed 4th of July! May your day be filled with laughter, good company, and cherished moments with those you love. Stay safe and enjoy the celebration! 🇺🇸❤️🤍💙

06/27/2026

What a privilege 🤍

06/21/2026

Sending love to everyone on Father’s Day. Your story matters. 💙

06/17/2026

06/15/2026

June is Men’s Mental Health Awareness Month 💙

Men are often taught to be strong, independent, and resilient. While those qualities can be valuable, strength also includes asking for help when you need it.

Mental health struggles don’t always look like sadness. They can show up as irritability, withdrawal, overworking, difficulty sleeping, or feeling emotionally disconnected.

If you’re struggling, you don’t have to carry it alone. Reaching out is not a sign of weakness, it’s a sign of courage.

03/14/2025

Spring is around the corner, and with it comes a season of renewal.🌸 It's a great time to check in with yourself: How's your stress levels? If stress is feeling overwhelming, try focusing on grounding exercises or deep breathing exercises. These small practices can make a big difference. Remember, taking care of your mental health is just as important as taking care of your body.