Connections & Collaborations - Scottsdale IOP - April 17, 2026

Recognizing and Treating the Spectrum of Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders

Presented by Abby Jones, PhD, LMFT-S

SCHEDULE

8:30-9:00 am – Check-In & Breakfast

9:00-10:30 am – Presentation, Part 1

10:30-10:45 am – Break

10:45-12:00 pm – Presentation, Part 2

Perinatal mood and anxiety disorders (PMADs) affect up to 20% of pregnant and postpartum individuals, yet are often underrecognized and undertreated. This course equips clinicians to understand the full spectrum of perinatal mental health presentations—from depression and anxiety to perinatal rage and obsessive-compulsive symptoms.

Participants will explore the neurobiology of PMADs, learn evidence-based screening and assessment strategies, and differentiate between presentations. Drawing on clinical expertise, current research, and Dr. Jones’s lived experience with perinatal OCD, the program builds clinician confidence and reduces stigma around maternal mental health. Through experiential activities, case discussions, and practical tools, clinicians will strengthen assessment skills and leave better prepared to identify missed presentations and make appropriate referrals.

OBJECTIVES

By the end of this course, participants will be able to:

1. Identify at least four distinct presentations of perinatal mood and anxiety disorders.
2. Explain the neurobiological changes during the perinatal period that contribute to mood and anxiety dysregulation, including HPA axis function and sleep deprivation effects.
3. Utilize evidence-based screening tools and assessment strategies to identify perinatal mood and anxiety disorders in clinical practice.
4. Differentiate between perinatal obsessive-compulsive disorder, postpartum psychosis, and normative new parent worry using DSM-5-TR criteria and clinical indicators.
5. Demonstrate competency in delivering psychoeducation and normalization to perinatal clients experiencing intrusive thoughts, rage, or other stigmatized symptoms.
6. Recognize when to refer perinatal clients for specialized treatment and identify appropriate resources for various PMAD presentations.

ABBY JONES, PhD, LMFT-S

Abby Jones is the Executive Director of The Meadows Outpatient Center in Scottsdale, Arizona. A licensed marriage and family therapist and AAMFT-Approved Supervisor, she brings together clinical expertise and operational leadership. Originally from Birmingham, Alabama, Dr. Jones earned her bachelor’s and master’s degrees in Human Development and Family Studies from Auburn University and her PhD in Marriage and Family Therapy from Lee University.

She has led national clinical and operational teams, taking a collaborative and strategic approach grounded in compassion. At The Meadows, she oversees daily operations, ensuring high-quality, multidisciplinary care while cultivating a supportive environment for clients and staff. Dr. Jones is passionate about empowering individuals and families in their healing and advancing clinical excellence. Outside of work, she enjoys spending time outdoors with her family and keeping up with her energetic toddler.

CONTINUING EDUCATION:
There are 3.0 continuing education credits available. Please note you must register to receive a continuing education certificate. No partial credit will be given.

• The Meadows is approved by the American Psychological Association to sponsor continuing education for psychologists. The Meadows maintainsresponsibility for this program and its content. This course meets the criteria for 3.0 hours of continuing education for psychologists.

• This course has been approved by The Meadows, as a NAADAC-Approved Education Provider, for 3.0 CE. (NAADAC Provider #62791) The Meadowsisresponsible for all aspects of their programming. Course addresses Counseling Services from NAADAC Counselor Skill Group.

For more information, contact:

Chrissy Veith | [email protected] | 602-290-9657

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Host or Publisher Meadows Behavioral Healthcare