Neurobehavioral Health: Women's Mental Health Program
Maternal Depression, also known as “postpartum depression”
affects 15 to 20% of new mothers. It is the most common complication related
to childbirth. Hoag Maternal Mental Health Program’s outpatient
clinic was launched in December 2017, as a collaboration between the Pickup
Family Neurosciences Institute and Women’s Health Institute. The
Program is an integral part of the comprehensive maternity care and education
provided at Hoag Hospital, which is widely recognized for excellence in
Obstetrics and Neurobehavioral Health.
The Hoag Maternal Mental Health Program is committed to identifying and
treating mental health conditions before, during and after pregnancy to
ensure healthy outcomes for both mothers and babies. With its focus on
four core principles- universal screening for maternal depression; connection
to support services; early intervention and treatment; and community education,
the program is set to make a significant impact on the wellbeing of mothers
and babies in our communities.
Services
This unique program provides screening services to identify maternal mental
health conditions early and offers a variety of treatment options including
lifestyle modifications, cognitive behavioral therapy, group psychotherapy
and medication management. Under the supervision of a board-certified
reproductive psychiatrist, treatments are evidence based and follow recommended
guidelines. The shared decision-making process carefully considers the
known risks of untreated depression and the risks and benefits of treatment.
The clinical team works in collaboration with the patient, support person(s)
and clinical providers to optimize care.
Some of the services offered by the Hoag Maternal Mental Health Program include:
- Pre-conception planning (women with existing mental health conditions or
who are already taking medications with plans to conceive)
- Mental health assessment during pregnancy and post-partum (up to one year)
- Individual and group psychotherapy
- Medication safety evaluation during pregnancy and breastfeeding
- Connection to support services through the Maternal Mental Health Support Line
- Support groups and classes
Clinic Information
The Maternal Mental Health outpatient clinic and the Maternal Mental Health
Support Line operate Monday through Friday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. The clinic
is located inside the Hoag for Her – Center for Wellness in Newport
Beach. With its calm and welcoming surroundings, women feel at ease and
removed from the stigma of seeking care for mental health.
Team
The clinical team is led by Patricia De Marco, M.D.
Dr. De Marco is board certified in Adult Psychiatry as well as Psychosomatic
Medicine by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. She completed
fellowship training in Psychosomatic Medicine with emphasis on Reproductive
Psychiatry at the University of Southern California.
The team includes licensed marriage and family therapists and licensed
clinical social workers, who are Maternal Mental Health certified through
Postpartum Support International.
Patients have access to a range of wellness providers and integrated therapies
within the Center for Wellness including Acupuncture, Massage, Pilates,
Yoga and Meditation, Guided Imagery, a Registered Dietitian and Certified
Fitness Trainer.
To learn more, visit the
Maternal Mental Health Program section or call 949-764-5333.