The Journey to Parenthood

Diana Lynn Barnes, Psy.D., MFT, an internationally recognized expert in the field of perinatal mood disorders, is a psychotherapist who has been writing and speaking on family issues and women’s mental health for over 20 years. She is the author of Celebrity Parenting: famous parents share personal stories and the creator/producer of The Parent Profile, a CBS nationally syndicated radio feature. In addition to her private practice, she teaches Family Studies and Child Development at Los Angeles Valley College and Pierce College. The past president of Postpartum Support International, Diana created and teaches a monthly seminar for expectant parents called Transition to Parenthood. She lives in Los Angeles with her son and daughter. Leigh G. Balber is a freelance writer whose work has appeared in Child magazine, American Baby magazine and on BabyZone.com. She spent a decade in television news, writing and producing for CBS News, CNBC TV and Court TV. She lives in New York City with her husband and daughter.

Beginning the journey. The mind-body connection of pregnancy. Motherhood, the psychological experience. Fatherhood, the psychological experience. Labor and delivery. Welcoming baby. The changing marital relationship. Postpartum mood disorders and the baby blues. The many paths to parenthood. Conclusion. Exploration questions. Resources.