Postpartum Support International Achieves NCCA Accreditation for Mental Health Certification

The National Commission for Certifying Agencies (NCCA) recently recognized the Postpartum Support International (PSI) Perinatal Mental Health Certification (PMH-C) program, granting it accreditation for five years, which will remain effective until June 2031. This significant achievement underscores PSI's ongoing commitment to excellence in perinatal mental health support.

Founded in 1987, Postpartum Support International is a dedicated nonprofit organization focused on raising awareness about perinatal mental health disorders (PMHDs), while providing essential resources, support, and training for healthcare professionals. The PMH-C program certifies individuals who are equipped with the necessary knowledge and skills to assist those experiencing mental health challenges during pregnancy and the postpartum period.

Perinatal mental health disorders are among the most frequent complications that arise during pregnancy and after childbirth. According to PSI statistics, approximately one in five women and one in ten men report symptoms of depression or anxiety in the year following the birth of a child, highlighting the urgent need for trained professionals capable of recognizing, assessing, and providing appropriate support to these individuals. Alarmingly, while over 800,000 people each year face PMHDs, only 25% receive the treatment they need, often due to a lack of awareness that their situation is both common and treatable.

The PMH-C certification program was launched in 2018 and recently underwent a comprehensive job task analysis and standard-setting study. This research, conducted from May 2023 to September 2024, validated the updated PMH-C blueprint, a crucial step leading to the program's current accreditation.

Birdie Gunyon Meyer, RN, MA, PMH-C, Education and Training Director of PSI, emphasized the importance of this accreditation, stating, "Achieving NCCA accreditation for the PMH-C program is a testament to the rigor and integrity of our certification process. This recognition affirms that PMH-C holders have met nationally recognized standards, allowing families to trust that these professionals possess the necessary expertise in perinatal mental health."

To earn the NCCA's accreditation, PSI demonstrated adherence to the NCCA Standards for the Accreditation of Certification Programs. NCCA, representing the Institute for Credentialing Excellence, has been accrediting certification programs since 1977, ensuring they maintain rigorous standards for professional certification and align with current best practices. Presently, more than 310 programs certified by NCCA span various professions and fields.

Wendy Davis, PhD, PMH-C, President and CEO of PSI, expressed pride in the achievement, stating, "We are incredibly proud of this accreditation, which reflects PSI's unwavering commitment to quality and accountability in perinatal mental health care. For individuals seeking help during the perinatal period, the PMH-C credential, now NCCA-accredited, provides additional assurance that the professional they are working with has met the highest standards of competency."

It is crucial for parents and their families to know that free support and care for PMHDs is readily available, and a formal diagnosis is not a prerequisite to receive help. PSI offers an array of complimentary resources and facilitates connections to assist individuals and families in finding suitable services tailored to their needs. Through their helpline and peer-support network, PSI provides valuable coordination, encouragement, and information to those seeking support during pregnancy and postpartum.

Parents are encouraged to visit postpartum.net, contact the PSI helpline for assistance and resources at 1-800-944-4773 (support available in English and Spanish), or download the Connect by PSI app. PSI also maintains an online directory of perinatal mental health providers, showcasing specialized services. Furthermore, the organization operates a perinatal psychiatric consultation program, allowing healthcare professionals to access expert advice from perinatal psychiatrists at no cost. PSI also organizes numerous free virtual support groups dedicated to various communities, including military families, fathers, LGBTQIA+ families, and Spanish-speaking families.

About Postpartum Support International

Founded in 1987 by a new mother, Postpartum Support International aims to enhance awareness of the emotional challenges that parents face during and after pregnancy. The organization provides extensive resources tailored to diverse needs and situations, facilitating strong and healthy beginnings for families through support and community engagement. PSI is committed to eliminating stigma surrounding perinatal mental health and ensuring accessible, compassionate care for all families. Should you require assistance, please call 1-800-944-4PPD (4773), visit postpartum.net, or download the Connect by PSI app.