Training Opportunities for Providers Interested in Perinatal Mental Health

Perinatal mental health is a growing area of focus within the mental health field, offering providers the opportunity to support parents during one of the most transformative periods of their lives. Postpartum Support International (PSI) provides exceptional training opportunities for clinicians, therapists, and support professionals who want to specialize in this critical area of care. These training programs cover a wide range of topics, equipping providers with the knowledge and skills needed to deliver culturally competent and evidence-based care.

At Black Girls Mental Health Collective Foundation (BGMHCF), we are committed to increasing the number of trained professionals in this field, especially those serving Black women and birthing people. We are proud to offer scholarships to cover the costs of these training programs for interested providers.

Training Opportunities Offered by PSI

PSI’s training programs are designed to deepen providers' understanding of perinatal mental health and its complexities. Below are some of the key courses available:

1. Advanced Perinatal Mental Health Psychopharmacology
   For providers managing medications during the perinatal period, this training offers advanced knowledge of psychopharmacology specific to pregnancy and postpartum.

2. Advanced Perinatal Mental Health Psychotherapy
   This course delves into therapeutic techniques and strategies tailored to perinatal clients, focusing on evidence-based interventions.

3. Foundations in Paternal Perinatal Mental Health
   Fathers and non-birthing parents also experience perinatal mental health challenges. This training helps providers understand and address their unique needs.

4. Maternal Mental Health Certificate Training Course
   A comprehensive training designed for all providers, this course equips participants with foundational knowledge about perinatal mood and anxiety disorders (PMADs), screening tools, and treatment options.

5. Perinatal Loss: Clinical and Supportive Care
   This course focuses on providing compassionate care for families coping with miscarriage, stillbirth, or infant loss.

6. Perinatal Mood Disorders: Components of Care
   Learn about the range of mood disorders affecting birthing people and how to assess, diagnose, and treat them.

7. Birth Trauma Support Training for Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC)
   This culturally informed training focuses on providing trauma-sensitive care to BIPOC communities during and after childbirth.

8. Teletherapy for Perinatal Mental Health
   As virtual care becomes more prevalent, this course helps providers adapt their practice to effectively serve perinatal clients online.

Why These Trainings Matter

Specialized training in perinatal mental health is essential for providers to:

• Recognize and address perinatal mood and anxiety disorders (PMADs), which affect up to 20% of birthing people.

• Support culturally diverse populations and understand the unique challenges faced by Black women and birthing people.

• Provide trauma-informed care for those experiencing birth trauma or perinatal loss.

• Gain confidence in managing the complexities of medication use during pregnancy and postpartum.

By participating in these programs, providers can improve outcomes for parents and families while expanding their professional expertise.

How to Access These Training Programs

PSI training programs are available online, making them accessible to providers nationwide. While these trainings do have a cost associated, they are a worthwhile investment in your career and the well-being of your clients.

For more information on available training opportunities, visit Postpartum Support International's Training Page.

Scholarships Available Through BGMHCF

To support more providers in accessing these essential trainings, BGMHCF offers scholarships to cover the costs of PSI’s training programs. Our scholarships are specifically aimed at increasing the number of providers who serve Black women and birthing people, addressing critical disparities in perinatal mental health care.

How to Apply for a Scholarship

1. Visit our website’s scholarship application page.

2. Complete the application form, detailing your interest in perinatal mental health and how you plan to use the training to serve your community.

3. Submit your application for review. We accept applications on a rolling basis.

Next Steps for Providers

1. Explore PSI Training: Browse PSI’s course catalog to find the training that aligns with your professional goals.

2. Apply for a Scholarship: Don’t let cost be a barrier—apply for financial support through BGMHCF.

3. Commit to the Work: By completing these trainings, you’ll be better equipped to support birthing people, reduce disparities, and improve outcomes for families in your community.

Together, We Can Make a Difference

The need for culturally competent and specialized perinatal mental health care has never been greater. By pursuing training through PSI and partnering with BGMHCF, you can make a meaningful impact on the lives of Black women, birthing people, and their families.

If you’re ready to take the next step in your professional journey, apply for a scholarship today. Let’s work together to create healthier, more supported communities.

Empowered providers create empowered families.