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Roots: DBT for Perinatal Health – Frequently Asked Questions
Sep 16, 2025
1. What is Roots: DBT for Perinatal Health?
Roots is a specialized Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) program designed for birthing parents navigating emotional challenges during pregnancy, postpartum, and up to the first two years after birth. It focuses on emotional regulation, distress tolerance, and building support during the perinatal period.
2. Who is the program for?
This program is for people who are currently pregnant or who are up to two years postpartum, and who are experiencing symptoms like anxiety, depression, trauma, or emotional dysregulation.
3. Is Roots only for people experiencing postpartum depression?
No. While Roots supports those with postpartum depression, it’s also for people experiencing anxiety, trauma, intrusive thoughts, grief, relationship strain, and other perinatal mental health concerns.
4. Is this program virtual or in-person?
Roots is offered virtually and is accessible to clients across Minnesota.
5. What does the program include?
The program includes a twice-weekly, 3-hour virtual DBT skills group.
6. What is perinatal mental health?
Perinatal mental health refers to emotional and psychological well-being during pregnancy and postpartum. It includes conditions like depression, anxiety, OCD, PTSD, and birth-related trauma.
7. What is postpartum depression?
Postpartum depression (PPD) is a type of depression that occurs after childbirth. It can involve persistent sadness, fatigue, irritability, difficulty bonding with the baby, and feelings of hopelessness.
8. How is postpartum depression different from the “baby blues”?
“Baby blues” are mild mood changes that many parents experience shortly after birth related to the significant changes in hormone production, often resolving within two weeks. Postpartum depression is more severe, lasts longer, and may require treatment.
9. What are signs of postpartum anxiety?
Postpartum anxiety can include excessive worry, racing thoughts, restlessness, sleep disturbances, and physical symptoms like heart palpitations or nausea.
10. Is it normal to have intrusive thoughts after having a baby?
Intrusive thoughts can be common in the postpartum period, but if they are persistent, distressing, or interfere with daily functioning, they may be a sign of postpartum OCD or anxiety. Roots can help individuals safely address these experiences.
11. Do I need an existing diagnosis to join the Roots program?
An existing diagnosis is not required to participate. Your intake provider will work with you to see if you meet the diagnostic criteria to participate.
12. Can I join if I’m pregnant and not yet postpartum?
Yes! Roots is open to anyone in the perinatal period, including those currently pregnant. Some clients chose to take a short leave of absence after giving birth. You can discuss this option with your group provider.
13. Is Roots inclusive of all family structures and birthing experiences?
Absolutely. It is important to meet with an intake provider to determine if our program fits your specific needs. If you have questions prior to scheduling your intake, let us know!
14. What skills are taught in the DBT group?
You’ll learn core DBT skills in four key areas: mindfulness, emotion regulation, distress tolerance, and interpersonal effectiveness—with adaptations for the perinatal experience.
15. Can I bring my baby to the group sessions?
Since Roots is a virtual program, you’re welcome to engage with your baby during group sessions. Many participants join from home while caring for their infants,
16. How do I enroll in the Roots program?
Visit mhs-dbt.com/programs/perinatal or call 952-835-2002 to schedule an intake or learn more about enrollment.
17. Is this program covered by insurance?
Yes, MHS accepts most major insurance plans. Our staff can help verify your benefits before you start.
18. What if I already have a therapist?
We collaborate with your existing care team to ensure coordinated, comprehensive support.
19. What if I’m not sure if DBT is right for me?
That’s okay! Our intake process includes a full assessment to determine if Roots—or another MHS program—best fits your needs.
20. How long does the program last?
The length of the program varies, depending on your goals and needs. We support clients through the entire perinatal journey, with most clients graduating between 6-9 months.
21. What if I’m in crisis or having thoughts of harming myself or my baby?
If you’re in crisis, please call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room. You can also contact the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988. You are not alone, and help is available.
22. Can Roots help with birth trauma or grief after miscarriage?
Roots is designed to help birthing parents during or following the birth of their child. Trauma and grief can be complicated—it is important to meet with an intake provider to determine which programming offered at MHS would be the best fit for you.
23. Can I join if I’m a first-time parent?
Yes—many participants are first-time parents, but the program also welcomes those with multiple children or complex parenting experiences.
24. I’m feeling overwhelmed and unsure where to start. What should I do?
Start by reaching out. You don’t need to have it all figured out. Call 952-835-2002 or visit mhs-dbt.com and let us walk you through the next steps.
