Providence launches behavioral health program for new mothers

Providence is addressing a critical need for behavioral health services by launching a program for new moms and their babies. The Perinatal RISE Program (P-RISE) is an intensive, outpatient resource specifically for people who are pregnant or up to one-year post-partum. It is located on the Providence Holy Family Hospital campus in Spokane.

Providence developed this resource to address a critical need for mental health services for new and expecting mothers. While some mothers experience mild mood changes, one in eight experience significant symptoms of depression or anxiety, according to Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) research.

Providence is now accepting referrals for individuals 18 and older who are pregnant or up to one-year post-partum. Self-referrals are accepted.The program has capacity with no wait list currently.

New moms attend treatment three to four days per week, from 2-5:30 p.m., for six to eight weeks. Services are mostly group-based and include therapy, parenting education, and other learning opportunities.

Treatment is tailored to meet the needs of each mom. The P-RISE multidisciplinary team has specialized training in pregnant and new mom’s mental health needs, including care coordination and medication management.

Mothers are encouraged to bring their infants under the age of one with them. P-RISE includes opportunities for participants to bond with their baby.

“Providence’s Perinatal RISE Program marks an important step in addressing the urgent need for mental health services among new moms. It’s important that new families get their best possible start and this program can provide hope and healing to new moms in need,” said Tamara Sheehan, Providence behavioral health director.

In addition to P-RISE, Providence offers intensive outpatient behavioral health services for children and adults through the RISE and BEST programs. All three programs are located on the Providence Holy Family Hospital campus at 235 E. Rowan, Suite 107.

For more information, prospective participants can call (509) 252-6446.