Perinatal Mental Health
Postpartum Depression Support
Anxiety, intrusive thoughts, stress, excessive worry, isolation, and postpartum depression negatively impact pregnant women, new moms, and their families. These types of mood and anxiety disorders can happen anytime during pregnancy and up to a year after giving birth.
Pregnancy and postpartum take a toll on women’s bodies and minds. Between the physical changes, hormonal ups and downs, plus the learning curve of becoming a mom and adding to the family dynamics, women go through a lot from the time they discover they are pregnant until baby’s first birthday.
In cooperation with Previa Alliance, a maternal mental health company dedicated to supporting the mental well-being of moms and moms-to-be, five of our therapists, Whitney Gay, Carnisha Johnson, Elizabeth Cook, Valerie Lawhon, and Piper Doherty, provide counseling to women experiencing perinatal mental health challenges. You can learn more about Previa Alliance by clicking the button below.
Who We Are
Effective, Soul-Centered, Integrated, and In-Depth Psychotherapy
Soul Story Therapy offers a unique approach to psychotherapy that is genuine, non-judgmental, and empowering.
Whitney Gay
Psychotherapist, LICSW (License #4403C)
As a Clinician & Psychotherapist, I am invested in helping you achieve your goals and dreams. Whether it be developing critical coping skills to fight depression and anxiety, helping you resolve issues from the past, or navigating relationship issues, I am committed to your success and health.
I have worked in women’s health social work for 9 years and have specific training on helping women combat postpartum anxiety and depression. I have had the privilege of helping women cope with the trauma and grief of losing their babies due to miscarriage, stillbirth, or post delivery death. This is a loss like no other; and needs to be handled with understanding, empathy and compassion.
In this world of criticism, negativity, and self-doubt, I want to help you overcome the challenges and struggles you face and empower you to flourish and thrive. We can work together to help break down the barriers in your life and enable you to reach your full potential.
Carnisha Johnson
Psychotherapist, LMSW,
Supervisee-in-training (License #5470G)
We have all been knocked down by life. You do not have to navigate life challenges alone. As a psychotherapist, my goal is to provide a safe space for you to work through barriers to reach your full potential for personal growth and wellness. I am compassionate about you being able to fully show up in life as your authentic self.
Over the past 14 years, I have had the pleasure of working in a variety of areas in social service and mental health. I have a strong background working with diverse populations; individuals of all ages, couples and families from different walks of life. I received my Bachelors in Social Work from Jacksonville State University and Masters in Social Work from The University of Alabama. My areas of focus are anxiety, depression, and life transitions. I look forward to helping you organize your thoughts and emotions and taking back control of your life.
Beth Cook
Counselor, M.Ed., LPC, NCC (License #4972)
I was born and raised in Birmingham, AL, where I attended the University of Alabama at Birmingham for undergraduate studies, and then the University of Montevallo where I graduated with a master’s degree in clinical mental health counseling. During my internship, I worked with clients in recovery as well as survivors of sexual assault. I like to use blends of different techniques and treatment modalities to help clients improve in whatever areas they might be struggling with. In a world where our physical health is generally more prioritized than our mental health, I strive to help my clients take care of their mind just as they would their body. Focusing on each individual's unique strengths, I believe everyone has the power within themselves to be their best self, whoever that self might be. We all need a little help sometimes in getting there, and I would be honored to be part of your story.
Valerie Lawhon
Counselor, MA, ALC, NCC (License #ALC04255)
As a therapist, it genuinely brings me joy to guide those who may be struggling mentally. I provide a comfortable and open space for us to explore what you would like to work on. As someone with an intuitive nature, I will always match your energy on how you would like sessions to go. My goal as your therapist will be to help you develop effective tools and skills to have the quality of life that you deserve. Together, we can make positive changes together so that you can become the best version of yourself.
I previously worked for four years in the healthcare/research field at the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB) where I discovered my passion for mental health. I went on to complete my master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at UAB and have loved being a therapist ever since. I have worked with a wide variety of ages, including adults and teens, primarily dealing with anxiety, trauma, relationship issues, grief, ADHD, and OCD.
I believe in a person-centered approach where you are the writer of your story. Life should be lived to the fullest, and I would love to help get you there. If you are interested, reach out to see if we would be a good fit! I would be honored to walk alongside you as your guide.
Piper Doherty
Supervisee-in-training, LMSW (License #6709G)
As a social worker and therapist, I am deeply committed to supporting you on your journey toward mental and emotional well-being. I strive to create a safe, nurturing environment where you feel heard and understood. I believe that true healing emerges from exploring your emotions and understanding how your environment shapes your experiences. I approach therapy with an open and compassionate dialogue, focusing on your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors to uncover core issues while being mindful of how external factors influence your mental and emotional health.
My passion for mental health was sparked during my time at Mississippi State University, where I volunteered at several crisis pregnancy centers. These experiences inspired me to pursue a master’s degree in Social Work with a clinical focus on children, youth, and families at Boston College. I am now thrilled to return to Alabama, eager to connect with and support the community I deeply care about. I’ve had the privilege of working with individuals across the lifespan, from young children to adults, addressing a wide range of concerns including anxiety, trauma, anger, attachment issues, ADHD, depression, and life transitions.
My goal is to partner with you in developing personalized strategies that foster resilience and a deeper understanding of yourself. If you’re ready to take the next step toward a more fulfilling and balanced life, I would be honored to walk this path with you. Please feel free to reach out—I look forward to meeting you and taking the next step together!