Women’s hormones are powerful neurochemicals - not just reproductive regulators. They influence serotonin, dopamine, and GABA, the same neurotransmitters that affect mood, anxiety, and motivation.
When these hormones fluctuate, so does emotional stability. It’s no coincidence that many women first experience mood disorders during times of hormonal change: puberty, the postpartum period, and perimenopause.
At Conscious Psychiatry, we help women understand and navigate these transitions with evidence-based, compassionate care.
Estrogen increases serotonin synthesis and receptor sensitivity, boosts dopamine signaling, and enhances blood flow to key brain regions like the prefrontal cortex and hippocampus.
When estrogen levels drop - whether cyclically before a period or more permanently during perimenopause - women may notice:
These changes aren’t “just stress” or aging. They’re neurobiological responses to fluctuating hormone levels.
Progesterone metabolizes into allopregnanolone (ALLO), which activates GABA-A receptors in the brain.
For many women, this provides a sense of calm and deeper sleep in the luteal phase. But for others, sensitivity to ALLO’s rapid rise and fall can create irritability, anxiety, or depression - the core of PMDD (Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder).
It’s not a hormone imbalance; it’s a brain sensitivity to normal hormone fluctuations.
From PMDD to postpartum depression to perimenopausal mood shifts, one common thread emerges: instability, not deficiency, drives vulnerability.
Women with a history of hormonal mood changes are more likely to experience mood disruption during perimenopause, when cycles become erratic. Recognizing that pattern allows for proactive treatment - not just reactive symptom management.
Understanding the hormonal influence on the brain changes how we treat women’s mental health.
The most important intervention, though, is validation. Listening with curiosity and understanding the biology behind distress helps women feel seen and empowered - not dismissed.
If you’ve noticed mood, energy, or focus shifts that seem tied to your cycle or life stage, you’re not imagining it- and you’re not alone.
Book a consultation with Conscious Psychiatry to explore hormone-informed care tailored to your body and your story.
Conscious Psychiatry is a specialized mental health practice that takes a holistic, evidence-based approach to women's mental wellness throughout all life stages. Founded by Jordan Gough, a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with extensive experience in critical care, our practice combines traditional and alternative treatment options to provide comprehensive, personalized care.
Our Philosophy: We believe that every individual deserves to be heard, supported, and empowered on their journey to better mental health. Our approach is rooted in empathy, empowerment, and evidence-based practices, ensuring that you feel validated and understood throughout your treatment.
Specialized Services:
Our Approach: We treat the whole person, not just symptoms. By integrating mental health support, hormone therapy when appropriate, and lifestyle medicine, we help women navigate life's transitions with confidence and optimal well-being.
Insurance and Accessibility: We accept insurance for psychiatric evaluations and follow-ups, making mental health care accessible. Our hormone therapy services are offered on a transparent, self-pay basis to ensure the comprehensive time and attention this specialized care requires.
Located in Denver, Colorado, Conscious Psychiatry serves women throughout the region who are seeking compassionate, expert care during perimenopause, menopause, and beyond. We're here to help you reclaim your mental wellness and thrive through life's changes.
Contact us today to learn how we can support your journey to optimal mental and hormonal health.
In-Person in Denver | Virtually Throughout Colorado
Located in: Cherry Tower
Address: 950 S Cherry St Suite 1675, Denver, CO 80246
