
Why CBT?
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) is a proven and effective approach that helps clients understand the connection between their thoughts, emotions, and behaviours. It has been shown to significantly reduce symptoms of perinatal depression and anxiety, providing measurable and lasting results. CBT is acknowledged as a key treatment method in perinatal mental health.
This training provides a comprehensive, trauma-responsive, and culturally sensitive exploration of Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) in the context of perinatal mental health care. It’s a virtual, self-paced training designed specifically for perinatal professionals who want to integrate CBT into their practice in ways that are both effective and compassionate.
While rooted in evidence-based methods, this training goes beyond the standard model by blending CBT with trauma-informed, relational, and cultural humility. You'll explore CBT through a flexible lens that honours the complex, intersecting realities of perinatal clients. Whether you work one-on-one with clients or facilitate group sessions, are new to CBT or are looking to deepen your skills, this program will equip you with adaptable tools, relevant case studies, and transferable strategies you can use in practice immediately.
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Evidence-Based Skills for Treating PMADs
This training provides practical skills and insights to help you confidently integrate Cognitive Behavioural Therapy into your perinatal mental health practice. You will learn how to effectively address perinatal anxiety, depression, and intrusive thoughts using research-backed CBT techniques grounded in real-world applications. Designed for both individual and group settings, this workshop equips you with trauma-responsive tools that support your clients' healing as well as your professional growth.
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Who Is This Program For?
This program is open to anyone wishing to enhance their ability to support perinatal clients with their mental health. Ideal for mental health professionals, wellness practitioners, allied health professionals, peer support workers, and students engaged with perinatal populations. There are no prerequisites—just a desire to learn and grow in this field.
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Key Learning Outcomes
By the end of this workshop, participants will confidently identify and address perinatal anxiety and depression using the principles of Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT). They will learn practical techniques for effectively and compassionately work with perinatal-specific challenges, such as intrusive thoughts, with evidence-based tools that enhance client outcomes. The focus will be on adopting a flexible, client-centered approach.
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Core Competencies
The professional knowledge gained from the workshop includes:
- A solid understanding of perinatal anxiety and depression, along with tools for assessing signs and symptoms.
- Extensive knowledge of Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) as an evidence-based treatment for anxiety, depression, and intrusive thoughts.
- The ability to assess and create effective treatment/referral plans.
- Skills to integrate CBT into your current role when working with perinatal populations, whether in group or one-on-one sessions.
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Professional Competencies
The skills gained during the workshop can be applied directly in client care, including:
- Identifying and challenging cognitive distortions such as catastrophizing, self-blame, and perfectionism.
- Implementing cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT) techniques such as thought-stopping, cognitive restructuring, and behavioural activation.
- Supporting clients in managing intrusive thoughts, recognizing symptoms of anxiety, and utilizing grounding techniques.
- Designing accessible interventions to aid in mood regulation and foster emotional resilience during the perinatal period.