Perinatal Strong Program

Amid the pandemic, Pettaway Pursuit Foundation (PPF) has seen a sharp increase in the number of perinatal mental health cases. These cases are waiting an average of 12-16 weeks to be seen by a provider to assess these mental health needs. Once seen, they are often not receiving appropriate treatment with perinatal mental health certification being a specific training often not sought or received by providers. Additionally, providers evaluating the patients are not providing culturally congruent care, further complicating the treatment plan of the affected individual. PPF has made it a mission to impact this immensely important field with our Perinatal Strong program. 

Social workers have the unique ability to provide social services from a systemic, social justice perspective. They have the ability to utilize both micro and macro-level skills to enhance the well-being of those they serve. However, as mentioned, there is a lack of consistent, adequate education in the arena of Perinatal mental health services, specifically providers that are trauma-informed and culturally aware. This program serves to enhance the well-being of PPF participants as well as create learning and ongoing licensure opportunities for future generalist and clinical practitioners dedicated to serving those with the most disparate Maternal- Infant Health outcomes. Our program will utilize Perinatal Mental Health certified LCSW’s and clinical level interns to facilitate the mental health care of women in their perinatal period with such needs.

PPF will use an evidence-based Perinatal Mental Health centering model, highlighting both one on one and group therapy. Options for both in-person and virtual telehealth will be available, making this program accessible for all. Our integrative approach will offer inclusive, knowledgeable, expert care for women and their families at a vulnerable time. Our Perinatal Strong program will balance Trauma-Informed Care with mindfulness practices providing a holistic and cohesive treatment plan. This specialized care will yield stronger, more successful families. 

The Perinatal Strong program is a comprehensive mental health option directly targeting the inequities within the perinatal mental health field. Our data collection practices will serve to track these maternal mental health outcomes, proving value and worth in this integral program. The ability to offer such services to the socioeconomically compromised population we serve is groundbreaking and will greatly impact the lives of those supported by these efforts.