Stakeholder Convening on Perinatal Suicide Prevention
Format: Hybrid (in-person at the University of Colorado Anschutz campus & virtual)
This convening was funded through a Patient- Centered Outcomes Research Institute® (PCORI®) Eugene Washington PCORI Engagement Award (EASCS-38478). The content of the convening does not represent the views of PCORI.
September 11 & 12 2025
Day 1: Thursday | 9:00 AM–5:00 PM
Time Content
9:00-9:40 AM Opening (40 min)
Welcome and Orientation- Sarah Nagle-Yang
Group Norms- Sarah Nagle-Yang
Personal Story- Karen Wachenheim
“What’s your Why” Reflection and Pair Share- Sarah Nagle-Yang
9:40-10:00 AM
Micro-Session: What is Suicide Prevention? (20 min)
Presentation- Diana Clark
10:00-11:00 AM Session 1: Pregnancy as an Opportunity for Prevention (60 min)
Personal Story- Meghan Cliffel
Virtual Panel Conversation- Lindsay Standeven, Darius Tandon, Elizabeth Werner
1-2-ALL small group activity
11:00-11:15 AM BREAK
11:15AM -12:15 PM Session 2: Identification and Help Friends, Family, & Community Helpers (60 min)
Personal Story- Joanne Bryant
Brief Interview and Reflection- Camille Hoffman, Joaenne Bryant, Sarah Bryant
Community Helper Mapping Small group activity
12:15-1:00 PM LUNCH (45 min)
Day 1: Thursday | 9:00 AM–5:00 PM
Time Content
1:00-1:40 PM Session 3: Identification and Help- the role of Peer Support Professionals (40 min)
Personal Story- Jessica Orenstein
Fishbowl Discussion- Birdie Meyer, Jessica Orenstein, Cheri Rivard-Lentz, Nikki Booker, and Laurel Hicks
1:40-2:00 PM
2:00-3:15 PM
Emerging Themes Check-In: What Are We Hearing? (20 min)
Session 4: Identification and Help-Obstetric Care Providers and Pediatric Care Providers (75 min)
Personal Story- Nancy Byatt
Panel Discussion- Joy Burkhart, Emily Miller, Nancy Byatt, Natasha Sriraman, Ayelet Talmi
1-2- ALL small group activity
3:15-3:30 PM BREAK
3:30-4:45 PM
Session 5: Navigating the Mental Health Care Landscape (60 min)
Personal Story- Steven Steven D’Achille
Panel Discussion- Adrienne Griffin, Emily Johnson, Mary Kimmel, Amritha Bhat, Steven D’Achille
1-2-ALL small group activity
4:45-5:00 PM Closing and Grounding Exercise
Thematic Review- Brooke Holliman
Grounding and Gratitude: TBD
Day 2: Friday | 8:00 AM–3:00 PM
Time Content
8:00-8:30 AM Arrival and Welcome (30 min)
Check In Question and Orientation to Day 2- Sarah Nagle-Yang
Personal Story- Hannah Bonoyer
8:30-9:15 AM Session 6: Tailoring Suicide Prevention: Treatments, Safety Planning, and Perinatal Loss (45 min)
Breakout rooms organized by topic
9:45-10:15 AM Microsession: What the Data Tell Us (and Don’t) (30 min)
Virtual Panel discussion- Julia Frew, Kara Zivin, Laurel Kordyban, Jill Harkavy Friedman
10:15-10:30 AM BREAK
10:30-11:15AM Session 7: Closing the Gaps: PCORI’s Role in Advancing Maternal Health Research (45 min)
Presentation- Adele Appiah
Panel Discussion: Andrea Clark, Tamiya Griffin, Kylie Hibshman
11:15-11:45 AM Microsession: Outcomes that Matter (30 min)
Panel discussion- Lauren Osborne, David Rudd, Julie Goldstein, Michael Allen
11:45AM -12:30PM Session 8: Emerging Priorities Breakout Sessions (45 min)
Each breakout group will receive a summary of cross-cutting themes from the convening thus far.
12:30-1:15 PM LUNCH
1:15-2:00 PM Prioritization Session (45 min)
Facilitated discussion- Brooke Holliman
2:00-2:30 PM BREAK/OPTIONAL WORKING GROUP MEETUPS
2:30-3:00 PM Closing (30 min)
Next Steps and Gratitude- Sarah Nagle-Yang
SEPTEMBER 11 | 9AM-5PM
SEPTEMBER 12 | 8AM-3PM
STAKEHOLDER CONVENING ON
Theme: Building a PatientCentered Research Agenda to Prevent Perinatal Suicide
Jessica Anderson
jessica.anderson@cuanschutz.edu
Rebecca Alderfer, MPP, is the CEO of the Colorado Perinatal Care Quality Collaborative, where she leads statewide efforts to ensure all pregnant and postpartum Coloradans receive equitable, culturally relevant, and high-quality perinatal care She also serves on the Colorado Maternal Mortality Review Committee and the Colorado Hospital Association’s Maternal Health Clinical Excellence Subcommittee Her commitment to maternal health is deeply personal shaped by her own experience as a mother of two and by witnessing friends and colleagues struggle to access timely mental and physical health support during the postpartum period Her work has centered on expanding access to care, including integrating mental health into maternal health services and improving oral health access for underserved communities She has led maternal health initiatives across Colorado and nationally, including as a consultant for the National Governors Association.
Dr. Michael Allen is a psychiatrist and national leader in suicide prevention and crisis care. He serves as Professor of Psychiatry and Emergency Medicine at the University of Colorado School of Medicine, where his work bridges research, clinical practice, and systems change As Medical Director at Rocky Mountain Crisis Partners, he played a central role in launching Colorado's 988 suicide prevention lifeline His research has shaped national standards, including studies like ED-SAFE and PRISM, focused on suicide screening and emergency care A founding member of the Colorado State Suicide Prevention Commission, Dr Allen brings decades of expertise to the urgent challenge of preventing perinatal suicide and centers the value of collaborative, multidisciplinary approaches that include lived experience.
Dr Jessica Anderson serves as Professor and Associate Dean of Clinical and Community Affairs at the University of Colorado College of Nursing Her professional interests center on advancing maternal health, with particular focus on maternal mortality, peer support, nitrous oxide use during labor, health care policy, practice development, midwifery models of care, and doula services. Dr. Anderson is a recognized leader in her field, having received several prestigious honors, including the Colorado Nurses Association Nightingale Luminary Award, the American Academy of Nursing Edge Runner Award, and the CU College of Nursing Innovation in Practice Award. She actively contributes to numerous committees and initiatives through organizations such as the March of Dimes, the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment, the Colorado Hospital Association, and the American College of Nurse-Midwives (ACNM)
Rachael Bardnell
rachael bardnell@gmail com
Conlin Bass
conlin bass@state co us
Adele Appiah, MPH (she/her/hers), is a Ghanaian American public health leader and reproductive justice advocate committed to reducing health disparities in marginalized communities. Having experienced injustices across the spectrum of reproductive health care, she began her career working directly in communities. These early experiences continue to shape her belief that philanthropy and grantmaking, when grounded in equity and trust, can be powerful tools for dismantling systemic oppression. She has led national grantmaking portfolios exceeding $7 million, with a focus on centering community voice, equity-driven strategy, and long-term sustainability Adele sees herself as a lifelong student of community expertise, committed to learning from those leading change on the ground Outside of her work, Adele is a sister, daughter, friend, and encourager who centers full-spectrum wellness, joy, and intentional living
Rachael Bardnell is an Independently Licensed Social Worker and provides mental health services to staff of Nationwide Children's Hospital supporting them through all moments of life stress and adverse events seen in the workplace As a practitioner Rachael focuses on mindfulness, Somatic Experiencing, and Perinatal Mental Health Rachael is also a trauma informed yoga teacher Rachael's personal experience with depression and anxiety in pregnancy and postpartum has been a driving force to become more involved in the maternal health space Even as a mental health professional who supports clients during similar situations, Rachael's world was turned upside down after being diagnosed with hyperemesis. Depression in pregnancy in addition to a traumatic birth led to severe postpartum anxiety and depression. After her own transformative journey, Rachael has dedicated her professional time to learning how to support parents better.
Conlin Bass, MPH, has a passion for suicide prevention that led him to his current position as the Health Systems Suicide Prevention Manager at the Colorado Office of Suicide Prevention (OSP) in the CO Dept of Public Health and Environment He currently co-chairs the Colorado Suicide Prevention Commission's Maternal Suicide Taskforce Before being part of the OSP, he created and led mental health promotion-related organizations, engaged in related research and writing, and provided community care as an EMT and home health aide With his Masters in Public Health from the Yale School of Public Health, he is driven to equitably improve communities' mental health through innovative collaboration. When not at work, you can find him enjoying some Wisconsin cheddar cheese curds, hanging out with family and friends in the great outdoors, or trying (and failing) to copy the dance moves in favorite music videos.
Jessica Bass is the Maternal Health Manager at the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment, where she helps to support the Maternal Health program and the Maternal Mortality Review Committee Jessica manages a contract between CDPHE and CPCQC, and serves as a lead for the MCH perinatal wellbeing priority for the state She is an LCSW and has worked for 20 years in the maternal behavioral health field She enjoys spending time with her cats, children, and husband, (not in rank order), traveling to new places, and eating new foods (that she doesn't have to cook).
amritha@uw edu
Amritha Bhat, MBBS, MD, MPH is a perinatal psychiatrist and Associate Professor in the Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences at the University of Washington. She is the director of the Perinatal Mental Health and Substance Use Disorder Education Research and Clinical Consultation (PERC) center and leads several projects that make perinatal mental health treatments available in primary care, obstetric and community based settings, including collaborative care, telephone consultation, and interdisciplinary education. She is a member of the WA State Maternal Mortality Review Panel. Her research interests include developing sustainable accessible models of perinatal mental health care that also include attention to the parent – infant dyad.
Hannah Bonoyer is an experienced labor and delivery nurse whose passion for maternal mental health began after navigating postpartum depression, anxiety, and OCD; and battling suicidality, all during the height of COVID While Hannah continues working at the bedside, she facilitates a peer support group for maternal mental health, attends graduate school working towards a Master of Science in Nursing degree, concentrated in public health, and sits on the Postpartum Support International Rhode Island Chapter Board as the Advocacy Lead Once she obtains her graduate degree, Hannah hopes to join state or nationwide efforts aimed towards awareness, education, and advocacy surrounding maternal mental health. Currently, Hannah openly shares her story as a part of her advocacy efforts in an attempt to help even one person know that it does get better, and they are not alone.
Joanne and Sarah Bryant joannebryant5@gmail.com
Joy Burkhard joy.burkhard@policycentermmh.org
Nikki Brooker is an educator, author, photographer, and the founder and President of You Are Not Alone Mom 2 Mom (YANAM2M), a Colorado based nonprofit dedicated to supporting mothers through perinatal mental health challenges and preventing maternal suicide Her journey was profoundly shaped by two mothers who lost their lives and their children's lives, due to untreated postpartum mental illness. Motivated by these experiences, Nikki founded YANAM2M to build community, mentorship, and peer support for mothers navigating postpartum depression and anxiety. Her flagship initiative, Strong Mamas, Thriving Babies, offers a full year of wrap around care, including hospital partnerships, community support groups, wellness check ins, peer mentorship, and mental health referrals, to reduce isolation, maternal mortality, and postpartum distress. Nikki is also the author of Let’s Be Real, a candid, humorous guide for new moms.
Joanne and Sarah Bryant, mother and daughter and advocates for Postpartum Depression Awareness After their daughter/sister, Shelane, lost her battle to Postpartum Psychosis in 2015, they have dedicated themselves to bringing about awareness of Postpartum Depression and advocating for legislation for moms suffering in silence. Family and friends established Shelane’s Run, a 5K/1K family day event every year in October in Shelane’s honor to memorialize her love and commitment to her family, community, and running. Teaming up with Postpartum Support Virginia, funds raised from Shelane’s Run provide financial grants to women and families so they can get the life-saving care they truly need and deserve. Knowing Shelane has made a difference in so many lives encourages her family to remain vigilant in sharing her story www shelanesrun org
Joy is the founder and executive director of Policy Center for Maternal Mental Health, a non-profit social change organization aggressively working to close gaps in maternal mental health care Joy was inspired to found the Policy Center after several of her worlds collided, including losing her little brother to suicide, learning the complexities of the U.S. health and mental health system while working for a health insurer, becoming directly involved in health care policy change and experiencing the realities of birth and the postpartum period with her firstborn. She has a passion for quality and innovation and believes that the government's role should be to keep its people safe and to that end, establish baseline requirements for businesses so the U.S. can count on our health delivery system. She served as a regulatory affairs leader and has a passion for quality improvement and innovation
Dr. Nancy Byatt is a perinatal psychiatrist and physician-scientist whose work has transformed systems of care for perinatal mental health She is the founding Executive Director of the Lifeline for Families Center and the MCPAP for Moms program, a national model that expands access to mental health care for pregnant and postpartum people Her research uses implementation science to scale evidence-based interventions for families Dr Byatt’s mission is to redefine perinatal and family health care to include mental health care always with a focus on listening to the lived realities of families
nancy.byatt@umassmemorial.org
Diana E. Clarke DClarke@psych org
Andrea Clark Horton is Deputy CEO of Postpartum Support International and Director of the Perinatal Mental Health Alliance for People of Color. Her work centers on dismantling systemic inequities in perinatal mental health through culturally grounded care and community leadership. A mother with lived experience of pregnancy loss, Andrea leads training, advocacy, and peer-support initiatives that elevate BIPOC voices and address long-standing disparities. Her leadership highlights the essential role of lived experience in shaping care that is just, healing, and effective
Diana E Clarke, PhD, is the Senior Director of Research and Senior Epidemiologist/Research Statistician at the American Psychiatric Association (APA), where she leads research initiatives focused on advancing mental health equity, suicide prevention, perinatal mental health, diagnostic nosology, and evidence-based care delivery At APA, she oversees multi-site research collaborations, stakeholder-engaged studies, and strategic priorities aimed at transforming mental health systems through culturally responsive and personcentered approaches. Dr. Clarke has been the president-elect of the International Academy of Suicide Research for the past 2 years, an organization that promotes high standards of research and scholarship in the field of suicidal behavior by fostering communication and cooperation among scholars engaged in research on suicide and suicide prevention.
Meghan Cliffel is a writer, educator, and mindfulness coach whose life was reshaped by her experience with postpartum psychosis Formerly a public education consultant, Meghan now teaches others how to understand their thoughts and emotions through mindfulness, self-inquiry, and compassion Her lived experience informs her writing, speaking, and coaching, where she challenges societal expectations of motherhood and achievement. Through her story and ongoing healing, Meghan is shifting the narrative around maternal mental health and recovery, making space for every voice in the conversation including those whose healing is still unfolding.
Wendy Davis
wdavis@postpartum.net
Steven D’Achille is a single father, passionate advocate and fundraiser for Maternal Mental Health Disorders. After losing his wife Alexis in 2013 to her battle with Postpartum Depression, he decided to advocate and fundraise to bring awareness to this terrible disease. He set out to build the facility that his wife and he desperately sought during there time of need but found did not exist. He successfully aligned his efforts with a major health system in Allegheny Health Network and a major health Insurance provider in Highmark Health In December 2018, they opened their doors to a state of the art 7,800 sf facility bearing his wife’s name The IOP facility offers both group and1:1 therapy while keeping mom and baby together The center offers help for not just mom but fathers, partners, and children of women affected by MMH disorders Steven has successfully advocated in front of congress and the FDA To date his facility has helped give care to over 31,000 families
Wendy Davis, PhD, PMH-C, is the President and CEO of Postpartum Support International (PSI) She oversees PSI’s delivery of perinatal mental health education, support, and services to pregnant and postpartum individuals, training providers and connecting families to the resources and support needed to give them the strongest and healthiest start possible Wendy began her career as a psychotherapist and became a specialist in perinatal mental health after recovering from postpartum depression and anxiety. She founded Oregon’s first perinatal peer support organization, Baby Blues Connection, and believes that peer support and the wisdom of lived experience are an essential part of recovery. Dr. Davis and PSI partner with organizations to advance policy, training, and services. She leads PSI's Mind the Gap Initiative, which brings together a coalition of stakeholders to ensure that Perinatal Mental Health becomes a national priority.
Brooke Dorsey Holliman
brooke dorsey@cuanschutz edu
Dr. Brooke Dorsey Holliman is a qualitative health services researcher whose work addresses structural inequities in health care delivery An Associate Professor at the University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, she coleads interdisciplinary studies on suicide prevention, maternal health, and systems reform Her expertise in implementation science and stakeholder engagement ensures that the voices of communities especially those historically marginalized are at the center of her research A U S Army veteran, Dr Dorsey Holliman brings a trauma-informed lens and deep commitment to equity to her work on perinatal mental health and suicide prevention
Kristina Dulaney’s, RN, PMH-C, journey through postpartum psychosis transformed her life and launched her into a mission of advocacy for perinatal mental health She founded Cherished Mom, serves as a counselor on the National Maternal Mental Health Hotline, and shared her story on Dr Phil in 2023. She was appointed to the National Maternal Mental Health Task Force and named a 2024 Maternal Mental Health Hero. As Executive Director of Cherished Mom, Kristina created Pregnancy & Psychosis (PPP) Awareness Day and launched the annual Maternal Suicide Awareness Campaign, “is MOM ok?” in partnership with Lamar Advertising. A registered nurse and survivor, Kristina trains healthcare providers and supports families in recognizing the signs of maternal mental health disorders. Her work aims to improve outcomes for mothers and families nationwide. Kristina’s advocacy reflects the strength of lived experience and the power of turning adversity into action
ther C. Forkey, MD, is a Professor of Pediatrics at the University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, and Vice-Chair of Pediatrics and Director of the Foster Children Evaluation Service (FaCES) of the UMass Memorial Children’s Medical Center She serves as the Pediatric Director for Lifeline For Kids and the Co-Medical Director of the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) National Center for Relational Health and Trauma-Informed Care Dr Forkey has been the recipient of local and federal grants to address issues of children in foster care and to translate promising practices to address physical and mental health needs of children who have been traumatized She has published and presents nationally and internationally, and serves in leadership roles for the National Child Traumatic Stress Network and the AAP She coauthored the book Childhood Trauma and Resilience: A Practical Guide.
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Julie Goldstein Grumet jgoldstein@edc org
Dr. Julie Frew is a perinatal psychiatrist and addiction specialist at Dartmouth Health, where she directs a consultation clinic and integrated care program for pregnant and parenting people with substance use disorders. She also serves as Vice Chair for Education in Psychiatry at the Geisel School of Medicine, where she trains the next generation of reproductive psychiatrists. Dr. Frew contributes nationally to the development of reproductive psychiatry education through her leadership in the National Curriculum in Reproductive Psychiatry and service on the New Hampshire Maternal Mortality Review Committee Her work bridges care, training, and policy to address perinatal mental health and suicide risk centering the dignity and complexity of every patient and family
Dr. Goldstein Grumet is Vice President for Suicide Prevention Strategy, Director of the Zero Suicide Institute at the Education Development Center (EDC), and serves as Senior Health Care Advisor for Suicide Prevention Resource Center. She directs the Zero Suicide movement, providing strategic guidance for the establishment and evolution of the framework She leads the development of the resources that enable the effective implementation and dissemination of this framework throughout health care systems nationally and internationally Dr Goldstein Grumet integrates comprehensive suicide prevention approaches across sectors, settings, and ages and delivers solutions that address shared risk factors to improve long-term mental health and well-being for individuals Dr Goldstein Grumet has expertise in behavioral health transformation, state and local community suicide prevention, quality improvement, school mental health, and the use of evidence-based practices for suicide care
Alison Goulding alison.goulding@gmail.com
Alison Goulding is a high-risk obstetrician and physician-scientist at Baylor College of Medicine, where her work aims to improve perinatal mental health through implementation of evidence-based interventions Her ongoing research uses mixed methods to assess mental health needs and inform adaptation of established interventions to support hospitalized antepartum patients, a unique population with unmet mental health needs Dr Goulding co-leads the Women’s Mental Health Research Program She cares for high-risk obstetric patients within the Harris County public healthcare system, teaching medical trainees in all aspects of her clinical work Dr Goulding is honored to serve on several organizations, including the Society for Maternal-Fetal Medicine’s Patient Safety and Quality Committee, the National Curriculum for Reproductive Psychiatry’s Obstetrics Committee, and the Postpartum Support International Board of Directors.
Julie Frew
Julia R Frew@hitchcock org
Adrienne Griffen agriffen@mmhla.org
Adrienne Griffen is Executive Director of the Maternal Mental Health Leadership Alliance (MMHLA), where she leads national policy efforts to improve perinatal mental health care Drawing from her personal experience and two decades of nonprofit leadership, Adrienne has championed federal investment in maternal mental health and led the founding of Postpartum Support Virginia Her work focuses on expanding access, advancing equity, and integrating mental health into standard perinatal care. Adrienne’s leadership ensures that policy change is grounded in the lived realities of families and the urgent need for maternal mental health reform.
BMeyer@postpartum net
Tamiya Griffin is a New Jersey native, mother of five, and maternal and child health expert with expertise in perinatal support, postpartum care, and mental health. With a foundation in trauma-informed, culturally competent care, she’s worked as a Birth and Postpartum doula, Childbirth Educator, and NICU Advocate She is certified in Perinatal Mental Health (PMH-C), allowing her to support to individuals navigating emotional and psychological challenges during the perinatal period Her work spans across community education, crisis intervention, and family advocacy, helping to close gaps in care and elevate the voices of birthing people Tamiya serves as an Advisory Board Member for Lifeline for Moms, been featured in Forbes, Ebony Magazine, and STAT, and spoken at events hosted by PSI, the NAACP, and the National Birth Equity Collaborative She leads with empathy, lived experience, and purpose Her mission is “Motherhood is a journey that shouldn’t be traveled alone ”
s Degree in Religion, Psychology & natal Mood and Anxiety Disorders is Certified in Perinatal Mental artum Support International and is currently the Director of Education and Training. Birdie led the development of the first International Perinatal Mental Health Professional Certification. Birdie specializes in the recognition and treatment of pregnancy and postpartum mood and anxiety disorders She serves on the maternal mortality review committee for Indiana Birdie is highlighted as a PMD expert in PSI’s video “Healthy Mom, Happy Family” and soon to be released documentary, “More Than Blue” Birdie has been speaking to audiences for over 25 years and is an International Trainer for PSI and speaks frequently to communities, nursing schools, grand rounds, and conferences
Dr. Jill Harkavy-Friedman is a clinical psychologist and suicide prevention researcher with more than 35 years of experience. As Senior Vice President of Research at the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, she leads a comprehensive program that funds research grants, trains researchers, and disseminates findings to support public awareness and advocacy She has published over 140 peer-reviewed articles and book chapters, and her work has contributed to national conversations about suicide risk Through her leadership, Dr Harkavy-Friedman advances the integration of evidence-based science into suicide prevention strategies and policy
Cindy serves as the Senior Editorial & Research Manager at the Policy Center for Maternal Mental Health, where she leads the development of publications that highlight policy gaps, evidence-based recommendations, and emerging considerations in maternal mental health (MMH). She has led the Maternal Suicide program at the Policy Center since 2018, and is an expert in maternal suicide, MMH screening, peer support, and researching MMH disorders from a holistic perspective. Cindy has used her skills to bridge the gap between research and policy in MMH, while elevating the use of patient-centered, evidence-based research to inform policy development Cindy is a Certified Peer Support Specialist (CPSS) and is also certified in Perinatal Mental Health (PMH-C) Cindy is a core member of the Arizona Department of Health Services’ Maternal Mortality Review Board, on ADHS’s Arizona Maternal Mental Health Task Force, a Peer Support Certification Expert Panelist for SAMHSA and a reviewer for PCORI
Kylie Hibshman, LCSW, PMH-C, is the Director of Integrated Behavioral Health at the Colorado Perinatal Care Quality Collaborative (CPCQC). Through her role, Kylie works to strengthen and integrate local perinatal behavioral health systems across rural Colorado. Kylie brings nearly a decade of experience supporting perinatal dyads and their families in community-based settings to her work at CPCQC. She serves on the Infant and Early Childhood Mental Health Council of Colorado and works to advance Colorado’s perinatal suicide response efforts across CPCQC’s programs Kylie has experience eading collective impact initiatives, social sector program evaluations, public policy efforts, and community-based participatory research She is passionate about providing and increasing access to intersectional, traumanformed, and equity-driven perinatal mental health services
Jill Harkavy-Friedman
Camille Hoffman camille.hoffmanshuler@cuanschutz.edu
Dr. Camille Hoffman is a Professor of Maternal Fetal Medicine in the University of Colorado School of Medicine. She also serves as the Vice Chair of Faculty Wellness for the Ob/Gyn department and is the Maternal Fetal Medicine fellowship program director. Dr. Hoffman has clinical expertise in managing high-risk pregnancies, obstetric ultrasound, and the management of psychiatric conditions during pregnancy and the postpartum period Her research focuses on interventions to improve maternal mental health in order to improve the overall health and wellness of women, children and their families Dr Hoffman is a founding board member of the Marcé Society of North America and formerly served on the board of the International Marcé society for perinatal mental health as well as March of Dimes Colorado She recently joined the board of directors of PSI She lives in the Rocky Mountain foothills and is an enthusiastic trail runner and lover of being outside with her family
Emily Johnson, MHA, is a healthcare strategist and maternal mental health advocate based in Minneapolis After surviving postpartum hemorrhage and severe perinatal anxiety, depression, and OCD, she became a passionate voice for improving how the U S healthcare system supports new mothers She is currently writing a nonfiction book that blends memoir and investigative reporting to expose the consequences of a fragmented maternal mental health system Emily is the founder of Mission Just One Mom, a platform amplifying survivor voices and calling for urgent investment in maternal mental health infrastructure. She also serves as a Blue Dot Ambassador through Postpartum Support International and a Patient Family Partner with MoMMAs Voices, the Minnesota Perinatal Quality Collaborative, and the Minnesota Alliance for Patient Safety.
a y e kimmelm@wustl.edu
Dr Mary Kimmel, MD, PhD, is an Associate Professor of Psychiatry in the Department of Psychiatry at Washington University School of Medicine in St Louis She previously was at the University of North Carolina, where she was medical director for the Perinatal Psychiatry Inpatient Unit (PPIU) and helped found NC MATTERS, a statewide perinatal mental health consultation line She has been asked to present on suicide prevention in the perinatal period given her experiences working with individuals on the PPIU, a national referral center for severe postpartum depression and postpartum psychosis, and from her outpatient work. She is an affiliated researcher with Uppsala University in Sweden. Her research interests include better characterization of stress in pregnancy; studying the interaction between obstetrical complications and perinatal stress, depression and anxiety; and utilizing the microbiota-gut-brain axis to improve diagnosis and treatment .
laurenkobylski@gwu.edu
Lauren Kobylski is a doctoral candidate in clinical psychology at George Washington University with a long-standing commitment to improving perinatal mental health outcomes. Her background bridges psychology and public health with training in both qualitative and quantitative methods Her current work uses mixed methods to explore risk and protective factors, barriers to care, and intervention preferences for perinatal suicidality Through her research and clinical practice, Lauren aims to advance equitable, evidence-based care that is responsive to the lived experiences of perinatal individuals
laurel.kordyban@state.co.us
Lindsay Lebin
lindsay.lebin@ucdenver.edu
Laurel Kordyban (she/her) is the Maternal Mortality Manager in the Maternal Mortality Prevention Program at the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment Laurel has a bachelor’s degree from the University of WisconsinMadison in Neurobiology with minors in Gender & Women’s Studies and Global Health and a graduate certificate from Harvard Extension School in Social Justice She is currently a Master's of Public Health candidate at the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health Laurel’s background and interests include reproductive health access, data system improvements, perinatal health, and perinatal clinical psychology. In her role, she is passionate about working to ensure that all birthing people in Colorado have perinatal experiences where they feel connected and receive the care they want and need.
Dr Lindsay Lebin is a reproductive psychiatrist and medical educator at the University of Colorado She is the Program Director of the Reproductive Psychiatry Fellowship at the University of Colorado School of Medicine, a program she helped to launch, and also serves as the Director Psychiatry Trainees in the Women’s Behavioral Health and Wellness program. Dr. Lebin is passionate about advancing education in reproductive mental health and has completed additional training through the University of Colorado’s Teaching Scholars Program. She contributes nationally to curriculum development and training efforts through the National Curriculum in Reproductive Psychiatry. Her work bridges clinical care, education, and workforce development to improve mental health care for women and families across the reproductive lifespan
Zandra Levesque
Zlevesque@edc org
Zandra Levesque brings over 15 years of experience in maternal and child health (MCH) program leadership, with a strong focus on systems improvement, implementation, and cross-sector collaboration. As Director of MCH Programs at Education Development Center (EDC), she oversees projects aimed at improving maternal health outcomes Her experience includes serving as PI and Project Director for the Home Visiting Collaborative Improvement and Innovation Network, and leading statewide system-building efforts through the Maternal Health Innovation Award and the Community Birth Strategy initiative Her work emphasizes practical, sustainable implementation strategies and collaborative partnerships that enhance the reach and quality of MCH services She has contributed to initiatives serving a range of populations with a focus on strengthening access and coordination across public health and human services systems.
Simone M'Bala has a public health background and has always had a heart to help those around her. She currently works as a Care Advocate with digital women's health tech company called Ovia Health Simone was also able to obtain her certification in perinatal mental health with Postpartum Support International in 2022 As a Care Advocate, she is able to support members within their fertility journey, perinatal & postpartum stages Prior to this role, Simone was also able to work with members seeking to grow their families with the use of donor eggs Simone strives to provide an empathetic voice and be a support to those maneuvering difficult times, in the hope of also being able to rejoice with them during the small victories as well
Emily Miller
EmMiller@wihri org
Dr Emily Miller is a maternal-fetal medicine physician and Associate Professor of Obstetrics and Gynecology at the Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University She is a national expert in perinatal behavioral health Her work focuses on redesigning systems of obstetric care to address mental health as a core component of maternal health She has led national consensus efforts and received multiple federal grants to evaluate collaborative care models that improve access and outcomes for birthing people. Dr. Miller’s leadership is transforming how obstetric teams identify and respond to perinatal mental health needs, with a focus on equity, prevention, and partnership with families.
Dr. Sarah Nagle-Yang is a reproductive psychiatrist and Associate Professor at the University of Colorado School of Medicine, where she serves as Vice Chair for Quality and Executive Director of Colorado Women’s Behavioral Health and Wellness. She leads statewide initiatives to improve access to perinatal mental health care. Nationally, she is the Vice Chair of the National Curriculum in Reproductive Psychiatry, a national training initiative to strengthen clinician competency in reproductive mental health. Her role as behavioral health lead of the Colorado Maternal Mortality Review committee fuels her commitment to identifying evidence-based suicide prevention strategies for perinatal women
Sarah Nagle-Yang sarah.nagle-yang@cuanschutz.edu
Jessica Orenstein has dedicated the past 27 years to education Beyond the classroom, she is an avid amateur photographer, passionate crafter, and committed animal activist Her life took a dramatic and painful turn following the birth of her daughter, when she was struck by severe postpartum depression, psychosis, and suicidal ideation Confronted with the stark reality of perinatal mental illness—and the alarming lack of support available— Jessica made a life-changing vow: to turn her pain into purpose Now an advocate through Postpartum Support International, Jessica shares her journey to break the silence around perinatal mental health. Her mission is to ensure that every perinatal parent has access to the support and care they need. One of her deepest hopes is to help erase the stigma that too often prevents parents from seeking and receiving help, and to make sure no one faces this experience alone.
lmo2003@med cornell edu
Lauren M Osborne, MD, is an Associate Professor of OB-GYN and of Psychiatry and serves as the Vice Chair of Clinical Research in the Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology at Weill Cornell Medicine Her research on perinatal mental illness focuses on models of care and biological mechanisms and biomarkers, with a focus on neurosteroids and the immune system, and she runs the PIPPI Lab – Psychoneuroimmunology in Pregnancy and Postpartum –at Weill Cornell Dr Osborne’s clinical work consists of collaborative care for perinatal mental health within OB/GYN She is also the President-Elect of Marcé of North America; founder and chair of the National Curriculum in Reproductive Psychiatry; and an editor of The APA Textbook of Women’s Reproductive Mental Health. Her work has been supported by the Brain and Behavior Foundation, Doris Duke Foundation, American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology, Department of Defense, NIMH, and the NICHD.
Jessica Orenstein
Jess is a devoted mother and passionate advocate for maternal mental health. Drawing from her own pregnancy experiences and journey through motherhood, she dedicates her time to supporting others as a volunteer with Pregnancy & Postpartum Support-MN, Postpartum Support International, Chamber of Mothers and Momma's Voices. With deep empathy and a strong commitment to breaking the stigma around perinatal mood and anxiety disorders, Jess empowers mothers to seek help, find community, and prioritize their mental well-being
Arlene Remick
aremick@acog org
cheribirthdoula@gmail com
ene Remick, MPH, is Director, Obstetrics in the American College of stetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) Practice Activities Division Ms Remick oversees national activities that support ACOG’s efforts to reduce preventable maternal mortality and morbidity, with a focus on implementation of Levels of Maternal Care, integration of mental health care into obstetric practice, and an initiative to address readiness in nonobstetric settings to identify and manage obstetric emergencies Ms Remick staffs the Maternal Mental Health Expert Work Group and Opioid and Addiction Medicine Expert Work Group
Cheri Rivard-Lentz is a certified birth doula (CD, DONA), who supports a diverse group of birthing people, as well as women experiencing stillbirth and birth after loss. She is proud and excited to be providing prenatal and postpartum groups and birth support to incarcerated women in Connecticut and to women in early recovery from a substance abuse disorder through the support of Connecticut’s Office of Early Childhood. Cheri is passionate about supporting birthing people through physical and emotional support during the perinatal period, as well as providing education on childbirth, lactation, nurturing touch, and perinatal mood and anxiety disorders. Cheri is also trained and licensed as a marriage and family therapist (LMFT) and is in private practice supporting individuals and families in all stages of life She is deeply committed to advancing perinatal suicide prevention through her work as a birth doula, therapist, and advocate for all families
Michael Rudd mdrudd@memphis.edu
Chelsea Sadinski CSadinski@phdmc org
Michael Schoenbaum michael.schoenbaum@nih.gov
Dr. David Rudd is a clinical psychologist and internationally recognized expert in suicide prevention. He is Distinguished University Professor at the University of Memphis and Founding Director of the Rudd Institute for Veteran and Military Suicide Prevention. Dr. Rudd developed Brief Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Suicide widely used in clinical practice. A Gulf War veteran, his work bridges research, training, and real-world application His leadership informs best practices for suicide risk reduction across high-risk groups, including parents and veterans facing perinatal-related stressors
Chelsea Sadinski is the Fetal Infant Mortality Review Supervisor at Public Health - Dayton & Montgomery County, a county-level health department in Ohio. Through this position she is able to connect with moms and families when they are at their lowest, after having lost a baby and support them through their grief This often looks different for each family, but there is a consistent focus on maternal mental health and supporting the mom in their unique journey Through her own experiences with postpartum anxiety, pre-term birth and unexpected time in the NICU, Chelsea also helps support moms as a peer support person through Perinatal Outreach and Encouragement for Moms, hoping to inspire others to share their stories and get the support they need
Michael Schoenbaum is Senior Advisor for Mental Health Services, Epidemiology, and Economics in the NIMH's Division of Services and Intervention Research He conducts analyses of public health and mental health service issues, in support of Institute decision-making; and works to strengthen NIMH's relationships with stakeholders to increase the impact of NIMHsupported research His work focuses on expanding prevention, identification and treatment of suicide risk; and on wider implementation of evidence-based behavioral health interventions in real-world practice, such as measurementbased care, Safety Planning and post-discharge telephone Follow-up Contacts for suicide prevention, the Collaborative Care model, and Coordinated Specialty Care for early psychosis. Prior to NIMH, Dr. Schoenbaum was a Robert Wood Johnson Scholar in Health Policy at UC Berkeley, and an economist at the RAND Corporation.
Audrey Summers
audrey.summers@louisville.edu
Ayelet Talmi ayelet.talmi@cuanschutz.edu
Natasha K. Sriraman, MD, MPH, FAAP, FABM, PMH-C is a pediatrician, Associate Professor of Pediatrics, and the current President of the Virginia Chapter of the AAP She serves in the Center for Maternal & Child Health Equity and Advocacy within the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology Dr Sriraman worked with the Virginia Governor’s office to have May recognized as Maternal Mental Health Month She writes extensively and speaks internationally on maternal-child health, breastfeeding, and postpartum wellness Her research and teaching have earned multiple awards, and she has received grants from HRSA, the AAP, and joint projects with William & Mary/Eastern Virginia Medical School and the Virginia Department of Health Her book, Return to You: A Postpartum Plan for New Moms, offers guidance for the “fourth trimester.” Outside of work, she loves reading, yoga, running, and beach days with her husband and children.
Dr Audrey Summers currently serves as Assistant Professor in the Department of Psychiatry at the University of Louisville She is the director of the Psychiatric Consult-Liaison Service at the University of Louisville Hospital and the director of the Women’s Mental Health Clinic at the UofL Health Outpatient Center. She obtained her medical doctorate at the UofL School of Medicine in 2020 and completed her psychiatric residency at UofL in 2024, where she served as chief resident. She has published and presented on topics related to reproductive mental health at a regional and national level. She is involved in the education of medical students and resident physicians. Dr. Summers is involved with many organizations including the Kentucky Psychiatric Medical Association and the Southern Psychiatric Association. She also serves as the Medical Director for KyCOMPASS, Kentucky’s perinatal mental health access program
Ayelet Talmi, PhD, is the Robert J. Harmon Distinguished Professor of Psychiatry and a Licensed Clinical Psychologist in the Departments of Psychiatry and Pediatrics at the University of Colorado School of Medicine and Children’s Hospital Colorado Dr Talmi is the Director of Integrated Behavioral Health, Director of the Harris Program in Early Childhood Mental Health, and the Director of Project CLIMB, an integrated behavioral health services initiative in pediatric primary care settings Dr Talmi engages in perinatal, infant, and early childhood mental health and integrated behavioral health systems and workforce capacity building and implementation, direct service, advocacy, and policy Dr Talmi is a Past President of the Colorado Association for Infant Mental Health, a Graduate Fellow of Zero To Three’s Leader’s for the 21st Century Fellowship, and currently serves on several committees related to her areas of expertise at the national level.
Darius Tandon
dtandon@northwestern.edu
Darius Tandon is a Professor and Chief of Intervention Science in the Department of Medical Social Sciences at the Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine. Trained as a community psychologist and prevention scientist, his research focuses on the development, implementation, and testing of interventions aimed at preventing perinatal depression. He serves as a mentor to several junior faculty with career development awards in the perinatal mental health space and is committed to developing the next generation of researchers who can meet the mental health needs of perinatal populations seeking access to effective services and interventions
Karen Wachenheim is a Principal Accountant for the New York State Education Department She is also the current Postpartum Support International Board Treasurer and the PSI NY Chapter - Board Treasurer She has a bachelor’s degree in child development and family studies and a certificate in accounting She is also a Zumba instructor Her interest in perinatal mental health was sparked by being a two-time survivor of postpartum anxiety. She also lost a sister-in-law to perinatal psychosis. It became her family’s mission and goal to bring awareness and education to perinatal mood disorders. Karen became a Postpartum Support International volunteer coordinator in 2014 and raises funds for the organization by hosting Zumba fundraisers. She also leads the PSI support group for family members affected by perinatal psychosis.
Sandra J. Weiss
Sandra Weiss@ucsf edu
Sandra Weiss, PhD, DNSc, is a biological and developmental psychologist as well as nurse scientist, with a specialty in perinatal psychiatry. She is Professor and Eschbach Endowed Chair in the Department of Community Health Systems at University of California, San Francisco (UCSF). Among her many roles, she has served as Director of the Health Care Consortium, the Center for Family Health Studies, and the Stress and Depression Laboratory at UCSF She has also been Vice President of the National Network of Depression Centers, CoDirector of the Depression Center at UCSF, and Associate Provost for Research at the University of California, Office of the President Dr Weiss’ ongoing program of research is contributing to the understanding of biological mechanisms and psychosocial exposures associated with women’s suicide risk, as well as women’s perceived suicidal experiences during the postpartum
Elizabeth Werner
ew150@cumc columbia edu
Elizabeth Werner, PhD, is the Associate Director for the Center for the Transition to Parenthood at Columbia University. She is on the faculty in the Departments of Obstetrics & Gynecology and Psychiatry at Columbia University Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons. She serves as the Director of the Perinatal Pathways Lab. Dr. Werner is the co-developer along with Dr. Catherine Monk of PREPP, a clinical intervention to prevent postpartum depression, and the director of the PREPP training and certification program. She serves as the Associate Director of Women’s Mental Health @Ob/Gyn, through which she provides clinical care Dr Werner specializes in the treatment of mood disorders and stress management, particularly working with people during the perinatal period, and those struggling with infertility and assisted reproduction interventions Dr Werner is featured on the Philips+ pregnancy app
Dr Katherine Wisner is Professor of Psychiatry, and Pediatrics in the Developing Brain Institute at Children’s National Hospital, and Obstetrics and Gynecology at George Washington University School of Medicine She is internationally recognized as an expert in the treatment of mood disorders during pregnancy and the postpartum period Her research has advanced our understanding of the natural history of mood disorders across childbearing, benefit-harm decision-making for pharmacotherapy during pregnancy and lactation, and the pharmacokinetics of medications across pregnancy and lactation. Dr. Wisner received over $22 million in funding from NIH, published 280 peer-reviewed articles, and 23 book chapters. She received Mentorship Awards from both the University of Pittsburgh and Northwestern Schools of Medicine. Dr. Wisner was awarded the Marcè International Society for Perinatal Mental Health Medal for lifetime contributions, and she founded the North American regional group of the Society.
Martha Zimmermann
martha zimmermann1@umassmed edu
Martha Zimmermann is a clinical psychologist and Assistant Professor of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences at UMass Chan Medical School. She works at Lifeline for Moms, a program that supports perinatal care professionals in addressing mental health and substance use. Her research focuses on preventing perinatal mood and anxiety disorders and expanding access to care through scalable, sustainable approaches. She leads a pilot project testing a digital intervention to prevent perinatal anxiety in obstetric settings, and is exploring how to integrate suicide risk assessment and follow-up Dr Zimmermann is committed to collaborative, patient-centered approaches to proactively support mental health
Katherine Wisner
Kara Zivin kzivin@umich edu
Dr. Kara Zivin is a health services and policy researcher who uses social science and public health tools to improve health outcomes for vulnerable populations with mental health and substance use disorders. Following her own experience with depression and insomnia during her pregnancy, she completed her MFA and began working on a memoir of her experience, which will be published in 2026 Her work aims to increase public awareness about and influence policy addressing behavioral health conditions by combining research expertise and personal narrative She is the Marcia A Valenstein, MD Collegiate Professor of Psychiatry, Professor of Obstetrics and Gynecology, and Professor of Health Management and Policy at the University of Michigan where she directs the Perinatal Mental Health Services and Policy Program She is also a Research Career Scientist at the Department of Veterans Affairs and Senior Health Researcher at Mathematica.
Stakeholder Convening on Perinatal Suicide Prevention
Theme: Building a Patient-Centered Research Agenda to Prevent Perinatal Suicide
Format: Hybrid (in-person at the University of Colorado Anschutz campus & virtual)
September 11 & 12 2025
Day 1: Thursday | 9:00 AM–5:00 PM
Time Content
9:00-9:40 AM Opening (40 min)
Welcome and Orientation- Sarah Nagle-Yang
Group Norms- Sarah Nagle-Yang
Personal Story- Karen Wachenheim
“What’s your Why” Reflection and Pair Share- Sarah Nagle-Yang
9:40-10:00 AM
Micro-Session: What is Suicide Prevention? (20 min)
Presentation- Diana Clark
10:00-11:00 AM Session 1: Pregnancy as an Opportunity for Prevention (60 min)
Personal Story- Meghan Cliffel
Virtual Panel Conversation- Lindsay Standeven, Darius Tandon, Elizabeth Werner
Breakout Groups
11:00-11:15 AM BREAK
11:15AM -12:15 PM Session 2: Identification and Help Friends, Family, & Community Helpers (60 min)
Personal Story- Joanne Bryant
Brief Interview and Reflection- Camille Hoffman, Joaenne Bryant, Sarah Bryant
Small group activity
12:15-1:00 PM LUNCH (45 min)
Day 1: Thursday | 9:00 AM–5:00 PM
Time Content
1:00-1:40 PM Session 3: Identification and Help- the role of Peer Support Professionals (40 min)
Personal Story- Jessica Orenstein
Fishbowl Discussion- Birdie Meyer, Jessica Orenstein, Cheri Rivard-Lentz, Nikki Booker, Laurel Hicks additional panelist TBD
1:40-2:00 PM
2:00-3:15 PM
Emerging Themes Check-In: What Are We Hearing? (20 min)
Session 4: Identification and Help-Obstetric Care Providers and Pediatric Care Providers (75 min)
Personal Story- Nancy Byatt
Panel Discussion- Joy Burkhart, Emily Miller, Nancy Byatt, Natasha Sriraman, Ayelet Talmi
Small group discussions
3:15-3:30 PM BREAK
3:30-4:30 PM
Session 5: Navigating the Mental Health Care Landscape (60 min)
Personal Story- Steven Steven D’Achille
Panel Discussion- Adrienne Griffin, Emily Johnson, Mary Kimmel, Amritha Bhat, Steven D’Achille
Small group discussions
4:30-5:00 PM Closing and Grounding Exercise
Thematic Review- Brooke Holliman
Grounding and Gratitude: TBD
Day 2: Friday | 8:00 AM–3:00 PM
Time Content
8:00-8:30 AM Arrival and Welcome (30 min)
Check In Question and Orientation to Day 2- Sarah Nagle-Yang
Personal Story- Hannah Bonoyer
8:30-9:15 AM Session 6: Tailoring Suicide Prevention: Treatments, Safety Planning, and Perinatal Loss (45 min)
Breakout rooms organized by topic
9:45-10:15 AM Microsession: What the Data Tell Us (and Don’t) (30 min)
Virtual Panel discussion- Julia Frew, Kara Zivin, Laurel Kordyban, Jill Harkavy Friedman
10:15-10:30 AM BREAK
10:30-11:15AM
Session 7: Health Equity and Maternal Health (45 min)
Presentation- Adele Appiah
Panel Discussion: TBD
11:15-11:45 AM Microsession: Outcomes that Matter (30 min)
Panel discussion- Lauren Osborne, David Rudd, Julie Goldstein, Michael Allen
11:45AM -12:30PM Session 8: Emerging Priorities Breakout Sessions (45 min)
Each breakout group will receive a summary of cross-cutting themes from the convening thus far Their task is to discuss and refine 1–2 key research priorities
12:30-1:15 PM LUNCH
1:15-2:00 PM Prioritization Session (45 min)
Facilitated discussion- Brooke Holliman
2:00-2:30 PM BREAK/OPTIONAL WORKING GROUP MEETUPS
2:30-3:00 PM Closing (30 min)
Next Steps and Gratitude- Sarah Nagle-Yang
