Breaking Barriers in Perinatal Mental Health: The Impact of Peer Support Training

TEMPE, Ariz. - Jan. 30, 2025 - PRLog -- The Perinatal Mental Health Add-On Training for Certified Peer Support Specialists, a pilot study conducted by Cummings Graduate Institute for Behavioral Health Studies (CGI) in collaboration with the Policy Center for Maternal Mental Health, Mental Health America of Ohio's POEM Program, and Postpartum Support International, sheds light on the critical role of peer support in improving maternal mental health outcomes.

With perinatal depression and anxiety affecting one in five mothers, the need for accessible, culturally competent support has never been greater. This study evaluates the effectiveness of specialized training for Certified Peer Support Specialists (CPSS), addressing knowledge gaps, state-level disparities, and cultural competency in maternal mental health care.

The study revealed several key findings that highlight the importance of specialized training for Certified Peer Support Specialists (CPSS) in perinatal mental health care. Participants demonstrated a significant improvement in their ability to provide evidence-based support. Notably, 91% of trainees reported feeling better equipped to assist mothers, reinforcing the value of structured peer support education. Most importantly, the findings confirm that peer support plays a crucial role in empowering mothers, helping them build confidence, reduce feelings of isolation, and access resources, ultimately improving maternal mental health outcomes.

Policy Recommendations for Meaningful Change
The study outlines four key policy shifts to enhance maternal mental health care:

1. National Standardization: Establish uniform training and certification for CPSS across all states.
2. Cultural Competency Integration: Provide funding for culturally sensitive training to address diverse community needs.
3. Sustainable Funding Models: Advocate for insurance reimbursement and public health funding to ensure accessible, high-quality peer support.
4. Further Research: Conduct longitudinal studies to assess the long-term benefits of peer-led maternal mental health interventions.

This research marks a critical step forward in addressing maternal mental health gaps through peer-driven, community-based solutions. By implementing these recommendations, policymakers, healthcare providers, and community leaders can create a sustainable support system for mothers nationwide.

About the Contributors
This report was prepared by Dr. Cara English, DBH, MA, LAC, CEO and CAO of CGI, in collaboration with CGI Doctor of Behavioral Health student researchers:

• Roseline Obealor, MS
• Olivia Mikel, MS, LPCc
• Shelly Espejo, LPC
• Nneoma Achikam, LCSW, BCD
• Shaina Nedderman, MPH
• Evelyn Fatokun, LMSW

Their collective efforts underscore the urgent need for standardized, well-funded peer support training to ensure better mental health outcomes for mothers and families.

Dive into the full report to explore the findings, personal stories, and policy recommendations to shape the future of perinatal mental health support.

View the report

About Cummings Graduate Institute for Behavioral Health Studies (CGI)

Cummings Graduate Institute for Behavioral Health Studies is a nonprofit, DEAC-accredited, online institution of higher learning offering post-graduate education and training in the field of integrated behavioral healthcare. To learn more, visit, https://cgi.edu/.