Online CBT program available for pregnant/new parents suffering from perinatal mood disorder
Do you have a client who is suffering from a perinatal mood disorder? South East Health Unit is offering an online, evidence-based, group Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) program for pregnant and new parents with babies up to 12 months of age, who have been feeling depressed, down, or anxious. CBT principles offer a proven and effective means of understanding and reducing depressive or anxious symptoms. During this nine-week series participants will meet weekly in a virtual group setting with public health nurses to learn skills, strategies, and tools to help manage their depression and anxiety. The public health nurses offering this CBT program received training by Dr. Ryan Van Lieshout, perinatal psychiatrist, and Associate Professor Psychiatry and Behavioural Neurosciences Department at McMaster University, to ensure high program fidelity and quality implementation.
Each week will build on the knowledge and skills taught the week before and participants will be provided with a workbook where they can record their goals and progress. Below is an outline of what will be covered during the nine-week series:
- Introduction to Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)
- Thinking Errors and Behavioural Activation
- Cognitive Restructuring
- Healthy Supportive Relationships
- Sleep and Relaxation
- Role Transitions
- Problem Solving
- Review of Strategies
- Relapse Prevention
How do I know if my client is eligible?
Eligibility criteria:
- Female client over the age of 18
- Edinburgh Postpartum Depression Score (EPDS) is between 10-23
- Child 12 months or younger or currently pregnant
Exclusion criteria:
- EPDS less than 10 (can be 9 or less if clinical judgement warrants)
- EPDS greater than 23
- An individual with active Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
- An individual with Bipolar Disorder
- An individual with Borderline Personality Disorder
- An individual with Psychosis
- An individual with active substance use
Clients must reside within the South East Health Unit geographic area.
Referrals for eligible clients can be done on our website at Healthy Families Information for Health-Care Providers.
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