Learning objectives:
Discuss the prevalence of varying anxiety disorders and the impact they have among women and their families.
Describe types of anxiety disorders in the perinatal period and what screen processes can be utilized for proper identification
Identify appropriate perinatal resources concerning anxiety disorders for mothers and their families
Presented by: Dr. Marianela Rodriguez and Elizabeth O'Brien
Dr. Marianela Rodríguez Reynaldo is a Clinical Psychologist who has dedicated the past 15 years to the work of mental health and wellness during the perinatal period. She is a
member of Postpartum Support International where she serves as the coordinator in Puerto Rico and a national trainer on PMADs. She currently works as a Mental Health Consultant for the Puerto Rico Department of Health in the Maternal-Infant and Adolescent Division where she can promote public health changes by sharing the outcomes of this project. She has worked with a diverse group of birth workers on island, several community-based programs that provide health care services and support to perinatal women, and is an activist for reproductive justice and human rights in maternal-infant care.
Elizabeth O’Brien, LPC, PMH-C
After listening to hundreds of women struggle with how invisible labor negatively impacts their relationships, careers and family systems, Elizabeth knew something had to change. Blending her work as a mindset repairist, a self-made business owner, and women’s activist, she has built a feminist business consulting firm for women entrepreneurs while still offering psychotherapy in her private practice.
Elizabeth has over twenty years of clinical experience as a psychotherapist and is a recognized expert in women’s well-being, specializing in Maternal Mental Health. She has contributed to articles in The Washington Post and Atlanta Magazine, and has been featured on podcasts, and an ebook. In 2017, she founded the award-winning Postpartum Support International Georgia Chapter (PSI-GA) where she served as president for a term. This chapter has become a national leader recognized for its fundraising, innovative training courses, and mentorship of other PSI chapters. Additionally, Elizabeth is a nationally recognized leader and the 2019 winner of the Carolyn Wetzel Continuum Award honoring her role as an agent for positive change for the health and wellbeing of Georgia families. Currently Elizabeth co-chairs the Georgia Perinatal Task Force and is one of the national trainers with Postpartum Support International.
Elizabeth earned an MA in Dance Movement Therapy, where she focused on complex trauma and early childhood mental health. Committed to integrating mind/body/spirit treatment she serves women throughout their lifespans. Additionally, she consults with creatives, therapists, and female entrepreneurs both individually and in groups to help them launch their own businesses.
Elizabeth spent 15 years in Alaska, working on the rural tundra, in hospitals, correctional facilities, and intimate partner settings. Today she toggles her work between Atlanta, and southeast coastal Alaska. She is a feminist, meditation teacher, wife, mother, beekeeper, yogi, kayaker and gardener. Elizabeth is passionate about changing the economic and mental health landscape for all mothers locally and globally into a more balanced, validated, and sane position.
Learn more about this series: Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders: Diagnosis, Treatment, and Other Considerations