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Healthy Expectations: A Perinatal Mental Health Program from CU Medicine Psychiatry

Whether you're expecting or navigating life after pregnancy, your emotional well-being matters. The Healthy Expectations program is here to support you with mental health care that’s grounded in expertise, compassion and respect – every step of the way.

We offer a full spectrum of perinatal and postpartum mental health services, from individual and group therapy to intensive support through our specialized outpatient program. No matter where you are in your journey, we’re here to help you feel seen, supported and empowered.

Babies are welcomed and incorporated into treatment. Parents are encouraged to bring their infants to in-person sessions, with access to an adjacent playroom to support bonding and comfort. See more about the playroom here.

 

Understanding PMADs: You’re Not Alone

Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders (PMADs) are a group of mental health conditions that affect people during pregnancy and in the year after giving birth. These conditions include depression, anxiety, OCD (obsessive compulsive disorder), PTSD (post-traumatic stress disorder), postpartum psychosis and more. 

PMADs are the most common complications during pregnancy and postpartum. They affect 1 in 11 women in Colorado, yet only half receive the care they need.

PMADs can include:
  • Depression
  • Anxiety
  • Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)
  • Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
  • Postpartum Psychosis
Symptoms may range from mild to severe and can look like:
  • Difficulty bonding with your baby
  • Changes in sleep or appetite
  • Feelings of hopelessness or overwhelm
  • Intrusive or distressing thoughts

If this sounds familiar, know this: you are not alone, and help is available.

 

In-Person and Virtual Healthy Expectations Services 

  • Individual Therapy 
  • Medication Management 

 

Healthy Expectations Group Offerings 

  • Moms and Moods Support Group
    • A free support group that meets weekly for individuals seeking support before or after childbirth.
  • Black Mamas Circle Support Group
    • A free, uniquely inclusive, weekly mental health support group focused on increasing access to mental healthcare for Black mothers and their babies.
  • Mamas Connect Therapy Group
    • For those experiencing depression and anxiety in their first year of parenthood. The goal of this group is to connect, learn and find support. Babies are encouraged to attend as well.
  • Bearing Hope Therapy Group
    • For those in their second or third trimester experiencing depression or anxiety. Helps participants learn and find support as they navigate becoming a parent.

     

 

PIPER: Parent Infant Program for Emotional Resilience

PIPER is Colorado’s first and only Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) designed for the mental -health needs of expectant and new parents. For those who need more support than traditional therapy,  PIPER offers a structured and accelerated path to wellness and recovery. 

Offered both virtually and in person, PIPER is here to support you. 

What is PIPER?

PIPER provides comprehensive support for a range of PMADs, helping you:
  • Strengthen your bond with your baby
  • Build confidence in your parenting
  • Improve relationships with loved ones
  • Learn tools to manage anxiety, depression, and stress
  • Connect with a community that understands
  • Enhance your overall well-being

What to Expect

PIPER requires a commitment of 9 hours per week. Taking place from 9:00am to 12:00pm on Mondays, Wednesday and Fridays, the program is typically 10 weeks long but tailored to individual patients. You’ll receive access to individual therapy, reproductive psychiatrist services, care coordination for long-term treatment, and an adjacent playroom for your infant. Sessions are offered virtually and in-person at the University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus.

 

How to Enroll in a Healthy Expectations Service

You don’t have to navigate this alone. The Healthy Expectations program is here to support you with care that meets you where you are. To get started with any of the services detailed above, call 303-724-1646 or email WBHW@CUAnschutz.edu to set-up an intake call.