Perinatal Mental Health Professional Development Session

This free 90 minute professional development session will be presented by the Ready Steady Family team at Drummond Street Services. The session will focus on a Whole of Family Approach, exploring the psychological, emotional, and social challenges that can arise during pregnancy and the early parenting period, not just for mothers, but for fathers, partners, and the broader family system.

This presentation highlights the importance of viewing perinatal mental health through a holistic, family-centred lens that recognises the interconnectedness of relationships, attachment, and wellbeing within the family unit. Drawing on current research and clinical practice, it offers strategies for early identification, prevention, and support that strengthen the mental health and resilience of all family members during this critical life stage. Participants will gain an understanding of the multifaceted nature of perinatal mental health, including contributing factors, risk and protective elements, and the impact of perinatal distress on family dynamics.

Learning objectives:

• Identify key risk and protective factors influencing perinatal mental health across the family system.
• Describe how perinatal mental health challenges impact parental functioning, attachment, and family relationships.
• Apply a trauma-informed and family-centred framework when supporting parents and caregivers.
• Recognise the importance of involving partners and extended family in perinatal mental health interventions.
• Implement strategies for early identification and collaborative support to promote whole-family wellbeing.