Perinatal Mental Health 201: How to Help
Overview
Welcome to the Perinatal Mental Health 201: How to Help learning pathway created by Maternal Mental Health NOW. Visit our website to find additional specialized trainings on topics like screening, suicide, and loss in the perinatal period.
Building upon the foundational Perinatal Mental Health 101 learning pathway, this 201 pathway will enhance understanding of perinatal mood and anxiety disorders (PMADs) with clinical case examples, psychosocial assessment best practices, and a thorough review of clinical interventions.
Throughout this four-module pathway, you will learn to:
- Identify the signs and symptoms of the most commonly experienced PMADs.
- Explain three considerations regarding those with serious mental illness who are pregnant and postpartum to provide effective care.
- Demonstrate improved psychosocial assessment skills with consideration for the unique needs of the perinatal period.
- Name three evidence-based psychotherapies that address PMADs.
As the following vignettes are based on real people and events, some of the information may cause emotional reactions. When you are ready to engage with the pathway, we encourage you to challenge yourself and be fully present with the material, as this maximizes your learning. However, please be aware of your own reactions and move, physically or emotionally, away from the training as needed.
Upon completing the pathway, you will receive a certificate of completion. Continuing Education (LMFTs, LPCCs, LCSWs, LEPs, and psychologists) and Continuing Medical Education in the form of AMA PRA Category 1 credit (MDs, DOs, RNs, NPs, and PAs) are available. We suggest you check with your state licensing board to ensure that these credits will meet your requirements. If you are seeking CMEs, please review this required accreditation and disclosure document before beginning the pathway.
For more information about this pathway, please review our FAQ.
Once completed, additional support for learners is available via free monthly virtual consultation groups and other resources provided by Maternal Mental Health NOW.
Pathway Trail
This module provides an overview of the diagnoses that can affect perinatal mental health. By the end of this module, participants will understand the importance of discussing symptoms, impact on life, and facilitation of resources.
There are often many misconceptions regarding serious mental illness during the perinatal period. This module provides an overview of perinatal mental health diagnoses and co-occurring conditions that can impact the functioning of a birthing person. By the end of this module, participants will better understand the importance of discussing symptoms, their impact on life and functioning, and the facilitation of resources.
Assessing perinatal mental health and the psychological impact of pregnancy and parenting requires an understanding of an individual’s history as well as present circumstances. This module explores the key components of a thorough assessment for perinatal mental health. Additionally, recommendations for universal perinatal mental health screening will be offered along with recommended protocols and screening tools to supplement the intake and assessment process.
When addressing perinatal mental health, it is important to take a whole person approach to determining which measures are best for each individual as providers engage in a collaborative wellness planning process. This module explores the ways in which whole-person care incorporates an understanding of both internal and external factors, considering the person within their environment.
The last step of the pathway is an evaluation.
