Supporting perinatal mental health remains a key national priority, with increasing recognition of the needs of both women and their partners during the perinatal period. This workshop is designed to enhance the confidence, knowledge, and clinical competence of qualified Adult Psychological Practitioners in the assessment and treatment of common mental health difficulties experienced during pregnancy and the postnatal period. Participants will develop an understanding of the unique psychological, social, and physiological factors that can influence mental health during the perinatal period, and how these can impact the presentation of common mental health difficulties.

The workshop will explore key considerations for low-intensity assessment, including how to identify and differentiate common perinatal mental health presentations, recognise additional vulnerabilities, and conduct effective risk assessments, with a particular focus on identifying and responding to clinical "red flags". The evidence base for low-intensity interventions within perinatal mental health will be explored, alongside practical adaptations that can support engagement and improve treatment outcomes for this patient group. Participants will consider treatment planning, the rationale for different intervention approaches, and how to determine when a patient may require high-intensity support, specialist perinatal services, or alternative sources of support.