Perinatal Program Helps Women Experiencing Mental Health Challenges Related to Pregnancy
For women who face feelings of depression or anxiety related to pregnancy, the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine’s Psychiatric Clinic offers a specialized Perinatal Program to address those challenges.
“Pregnancy can be a wonderful time, but it can also trigger other issues,” said Nicole Mavrides, M.D., assistant professor in the Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences. “We use evidence-based treatments to help women at all stages of pregnancy, including post-partum depression.”
Dr. Mavrides directs the Perinatal Program clinics with Vanessa L Padilla Davila, M.D., assistant professor. Services are available on Tuesday and Wednesday afternoons, and the program accepts most types of insurance.
“Our expert physicians offer initial diagnostic evaluations, second opinions, and medication management for mood and anxiety disorders,” said Dr. Mavrides. “As an academic site for teaching and training future psychiatrists, our specialty clinic provides access to advanced psychiatric treatment and care.”
The Perinatal Program team helps women who develop psychiatric symptoms during pregnancy or after delivery, women who are planning to become pregnant and looking to maintain stability during pregnancy, or women experiencing emotional distress as a result of infertility and loss.
Individual treatment is tailored to optimize the well-being of women, children, and families. Services include psychotherapy and medications that have been shown to be safe for women who are pregnant or breast feeding.
“Some women come for several sessions, while others continue for longer periods,” said Dr. Mavrides. “We make sure they have appropriate options available if they wish to continue with therapy on a longer-term basis.”
The Perinatal Program clinics are located in the Don Soffer Clinical Research Center, 1120 NW 14th Street, Suite 1457. More information is available here. To schedule an appointment, please call 305-243-2301.
Tags: Department of Psychiatry, Dr. Nicole Mavrides, Perinatal program