Postpartum depression is linked with decreased motivation to seek rewarding activities and enjoyment of pleasurable experiences. Social isolation and low perceived social support predict persistence of postpartum depression. Engagement in rewarding social activities with significant others may increase motivation and enjoyment, motivating utilization of a therapy that addresses social isolation and reward response. The investigators developed Engage & Connect, a 9-week psychotherapy program that focuses on increasing meaningful social activities with significant others. This study will test the treatment benefits of Engage & Connect and changes in thoughts, feelings and behaviors during therapy.
This study tests a novel psychotherapy, Engage & Connect, tailored to reduce postpartum depression. The study includes 9 weeks of psychotherapy, delivered remotely. It will examine changes in social isolation, processing of social rewards and depression severity over 9 weeks of treatment.