CALPCC is pleased to offer a live webinar with Alyssa Theis from Foresight Mental Health. We hope you will join us! Details below.

Working Effectively with the Perinatal Population in Therapy: Supporting Assessment, Conceptualization, and Treatment

This presentation provides an overview of best practices for working with the perinatal population in psychotherapy, with a focus on assessment, case conceptualization, and treatment planning. The perinatal period, spanning pregnancy through the first year postpartum, is characterized by significant biological, psychological, and relational challenges that can increase vulnerability to mood and anxiety disorders. Clinicians will be introduced to common perinatal mental health conditions, including depression, anxiety, OCD, PTSD, bipolar disorder, and psychosis, as well as key risk factors and high-risk periods across the reproductive timeline like infertility, pregnancy loss, and the immediate postpartum period.

The training emphasizes the importance of a contextualized, biopsychosocial approach to treatment that integrates biological factors, sleep disruption, identity shifts (matrescence), and relational dynamics. Special attention is given to risk assessment in the perinatal period, including differentiating intrusive thoughts from safety concerns and identifying signs of postpartum psychosis. Evidence-based treatment modalities are reviewed with specific adaptations for perinatal populations.

The presentation also highlights common clinical pitfalls, including over-attributing symptoms to hormonal changes, under-assessing sleep and bipolar risk, and misinterpreting intrusive thoughts. Finally, the training highlights the importance of culturally responsive and equity-informed care, encouraging clinicians to examine personal biases, recognize diverse perinatal experiences, and support clients in navigating systemic barriers within healthcare systems. This presentation is designed to enhance clinical competence and support the delivery of effective, individualized, and inclusive care for perinatal clients.

About the Presenter:

Alyssa Theis, LMFT, PMH-C

Alyssa Theis is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and Perinatal Mental Health Certified (PMH-C) clinician specializing in trauma-informed care across pregnancy, postpartum, and the reproductive timeline. She provides evidence-based psychotherapy for perinatal mental health conditions as part of the Maternal Mental Health Specialty Program at Foresight Mental Health. Her work emphasizes equitable access to care, and supporting clients in navigating the complexity of the perinatal period. She also delivers professional trainings and community presentations, with a focus on advancing perinatal mental health awareness and integrating evidence-based care into clinical settings.