Description
The perinatal period is often marked by hope, anticipation, and significant transition as individuals and couples prepare to grow their families. For many, however, this season is complicated by the onset or worsening of mental health concerns, including perinatal depression and anxiety. When reproductive trauma is present, the emotional and relational impact may be profound. Reproductive trauma can result from miscarriage, infertility, assisted reproductive technologies, premature or complicated birth, fetal or infant health concerns, and recurrent pregnancy loss. As infertility rates, the use of reproductive interventions, and perinatal challenges continue to rise; clinicians are called to respond with clinical competence and compassionate care. This training provides a foundational overview of perinatal mental health with attention to the psychological, relational, and spiritual effects of perinatal mental health issues and reproductive trauma. The course reviews evidence-based screening and assessment practices and introduces trauma-informed treatment approaches with attention to integrating Christian faith and spiritual resources to promote well-being.
Learning Objectives
Participants will:
- Examine common psychological, emotional, and relational symptoms associated with perinatal mental health conditions in individuals and couples.
- Identify and apply evidence-based screening and assessment tools used in perinatal mental health care, including screening for reproductive-related trauma and clinical risk factors.
- Apply trauma-informed, attachment-informed clinical interventions appropriate for individuals and couples presenting with perinatal-related mental health concerns.
- Identify religious and spiritual practices that may be clinically integrated into perinatal mental health counseling, consistent with client’s values.