over 45+ educators and experts in perinatal mental health
Meet Our Speakers
Clinical Psychologist, PMH-C, Adjunct Faculty at Postpartum Stress Centre
(she/her)
Dr. Angel Montfort
@drangelmontfort
(she/her)
Kate Borsato
@theperinatalcollective
Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Founder Postpartum Stress Centre, Author
(She/Her)
Karen Kleiman
director, RSW, full spectrum doula, conference co-host
@postpartumstress
Melissa Medjuck
(she/her)
Founder + director, RCC, PMH-c,
conference co-host
@kateborsato
CEO and founder of Momwell, registered psychotherapist, Author
(She/Her)
Erica Djossa
@Momwell
Perinatal Advocate, Doula, Educator, Speaker
(they/them, she/her)
Gabrielle Griffith
www.gabriellegriffith.com
PHD, Fertility Support Practitioner, Adjunct Assistant Professor, Author
(She/Her)
Laine Halpern Zisman
@conceivablefamilies
Registered Nurse, Professor, Author, post-adoption depression expert
(she/her)
Dr. Karen J. Foli
Karen J. Foli, PhD, RN, ANEF, FAAN
CC-PMH Executive Director & Co-founder Canadian Perinatal Mental Health Collaborative
(She/Her)
Patricia Tomasi
@cpmhc
Certified Sleep Specialist & Perinatal Mental Health Advocate
(She/Her)
Rachael Shepard-Ohta
@heysleepybaby
Licensed Clinical Psychologist, PMH-c, Childbirth Educator, Certified Lactation Education Specialist, doula
(she/They)
Dr. Suzanne Mungalez
@its.themamaspace
(she/her)
Vanessa Colombina
Registered Clinical Counsellor, Approved Clinical supervisor
(She/Her)
Elana Sures
@openspacecounselling
Registered Psychologist, PMH-C
@pine_health_yeg
Registered Social Worker, Social Work Addiction Fellow
(she/her)
Ainslie Cook
ainsliecook.com
Clinical Psychologist, PMH-C, Somatic Experiencing Practitioner, Associate Professor, Author
(She/Her)
Dr. Helena Vissing
@helenavissing
Physiotherapist, founder of bodynamics
(She/Her)
Tamarah Calyniuk
@tamarah.bodynamics
Registered Psychotherapist, CC-PMH, PMH-C
(she/her)
Avril Ferguson
@mind.over.mother
Licensed Speech-Language Pathologists, founders of weetalkers
(she/her)
Katie Sterbenz
@weetalkers
Registered Midwife, Certified Life Coach, Energy Healer
(She/Her)
Eileen March
@iameileenmarch
Carly Tulloch
(she/her)
Licensed mental health counselors, creators of @yourhumantherapists
(she/her)
Andrea Rockefeller
Casandra Musumeci
(she/her)
registration options
Finding Peace With Food & Body (During Pregnancy, Postpartum, & Beyond)
seminar
Andrea Wetterau, a certified perinatal mental health specialist, began noticing patterns while working as a therapist in an eating disorder treatment program. She observed how pregnancy, postpartum, and parenting could trigger onset or relapse of eating disorders, impacting both parents' and children's relationships with food and body image. This insight led Andrea to start a private practice focused on helping individuals heal trauma and their relationships with food and body during pregnancy, postpartum, and parenthood. This insight led Andrea to start a private practice focused on helping individuals heal trauma and their relationships with food and body during pregnancy, postpartum, and parenthood.
Licensed Clinical Social Worker, PMH-C, Yoga Teacher
Andrea Wetterau
(She/her)
registration options
The Hidden Warning Signs: Uncovering Three Clinical Biomarkers Linked to Postpartum Depression
seminar
Dr. Alexsia Priolo is a Naturopathic Doctor in Toronto, Ontario where she supports women in the perinatal journey. Dr. Alexsia completed her Honours Bachelor of Science in Biology at York University, followed by a Doctor of Naturopathy from the Canadian College of Naturopathic Medicine. During her clinical year at CCNM, she took part in the pediatrics focus shift, where she became interested in supporting the health of children starting with their mothers.
Naturopathic Doctor
Dr. Alexsia Priolo
(She/her)
registration options
Preventing PMADS: A Values and Relationship Framework
seminar
Amber Sperling is a registered social worker and psychotherapist in Barrie, Ontario, specializing in perinatal mental health, trauma, anxiety, and grief. With over 15 years of experience, she provides individual, couples, and group therapy, focusing on new parents and women professionals. Amber holds degrees in Psychology, Criminology, and a Master of Social Work, and is certified in EMDR and REBT. She offers virtual therapy across Ontario. Outside of work, Amber enjoys time on her farm with her family and is involved in perinatal mental health initiatives.
Registered Social Worker, PMH-C
Amber Sperling
(She/her)
Mini Session
Using EMDR For The Perinatal Population
registration options
strategies from a birth and bereavement doula on how to navigate a miscarriage before, during and after.
seminar
Arden Cartrette is a bereavement doula based in North Carolina that focuses on providing emotional support to those who are (or have) suffered through pregnancy loss at any gestation. After her own journey with infertility and recurrent loss, followed by the live birth of two children, she grew passionate about making sure people knew what to expect, how to prepare, and how to process pregnancy loss.
Certified Birth & Bereavement Doula, Certified Trauma Support Specialist
Arden Cartrette
(She/her)
registration options
Empowering Partners: The Role of Relationships in Supporting Mental Health During Pregnancy and Early Parenthood.
seminar
Autumn is a Canadian Certified Counsellor and relationship expert who helps couples navigate the challenges of parenthood. Drawing from her own experiences, she developed digital programs focused on strengthening relationships during the perinatal period. Her work supports couples in reducing stress and conflict. Outside of work, Autumn enjoys cooking, yoga, exploring the Salish Sea with her family, and playing Cribbage with her husband.
Canadian Certified Counsellor + Relationship Therapist
Autumn Fowler
(She/her)
registration options
Rural Roots: Addressing Perinatal Mental Health in Rural and Remote Communities
seminar
Avril Ferguson, a Registered Psychotherapist, owns a private practice focusing on Perinatal Mental Health. She is certified in Perinatal Mental Health, Grief and Loss, and Birth and Reproductive Trauma. Avril is dedicated to improving mental health outcomes in rural areas with limited access to care and addressing the challenges of perinatal mental health and chronic pain. Her practice advocates for better support systems and provides compassionate care to individuals navigating these issues, especially in underserved communities.
Registered Psychotherapist, CC-PMH, PMH-C
Avril Ferguson
(She/her)
Mini Session
Pain and Parenthood: Unraveling the Hidden Link Between Chronic Pain and Perinatal Mental Health
registration options
Deepening your Spiritual Connection - Deepening your Presence with Clients
Live Workshop
Briar is a Registered Psychotherapist with the College of Psychotherapists of Ontario, specializing in spiritual psychotherapy, trauma-informed care, and integrative mind-body approaches. She values each individual's unique relationship with spirituality. A mother, partner, and nature lover, Briar's background in movement, nutrition, biochemistry, and ceremony supports her holistic approach in both client and supervisory work.
Registered Psychotherapist, Yoga Teacher, Reiki Master/Teacher
Briar Culbert
(She/her)
registration options
Supporting The Mental Health of NICU Families
Mini session
Christine is a Registered Social Service Worker, a faculty member at Canadian Perinatal Mental Health Trainings and Executive Director at Perinatal Wellbeing Ontario (PWO). Christine has lived experience with postpartum anxiety and depression. After working in mental health and addictions, she followed her heart to working with clients in the Perinatal period in private practice, including NICU families. Christine is a neurodivergent mom to 3 kids and 2 dogs.
Registered Social Service Worker & CC-PMH
Christine Cunningham
(She/her)
registration options
Touched Out or Low Libido? Understanding Sexual Desire and Where it Goes Once Baby Comes.
Seminar
Dr. Carolin Klein is a sex therapist, Registered Psychologist, and co-founder and co-director of the West Coast Centre for Sex Therapy. She helps clients strengthen sexual and relational intimacy; overcome sexual shame, pain, and anxiety; and bring more joy and curiosity into sex. She is also passionate about providing accurate information about sex to clients, the public, and healthcare professionals.
Sex Therapist + Registered Psychologist
Dr. Carolin Klein
(She/her)
registration options
the perinatal mental health conference 2024
conference kick off
Kate Borsato is a Registered Clinical Counsellor (RCC) and founder of The Perinatal Collective. Melissa Medjuck is a Registered Social Worker (RSW) and Certified Doula (DONA). Both hold master's degrees in their fields and specialize in perinatal mental health. They provide individual counseling, create educational resources for perinatal professionals, and share free resources online. Their vision is to build an accessible, honest mental health hub for parents and professionals in the perinatal space.
Founder, RCC, PMH-C, conference co-host
Kate Borsato
(She/her)
Melissa Medjuck
(She/her)
RSW, MSW, CD(DONA), conference co-host
registration options
Supporting BIPOC in the Perinatal Period: The Role of Therapeutic Strategies and Self-Compassion in Delivering Culturally Responsive Care
keynote
Angel Montfort, Psy.D., PMH-C, is a licensed clinical psychologist and mother of four. She founded the Center for Maternal Mental Health, offering support through all stages of parenthood. After earning her doctoral degree from Rutgers University, she developed a passion for perinatal mental health. Dr. Montfort treats postpartum depression, anxiety, birth trauma, and more. She shares educational content on Instagram and her website, helping moms navigate both the highs and lows of motherhood.
Clinical Psychologist, PMH-C, Adjunct Faculty at Postpartum Stress Centre
Dr. Angel Montfort
(She/her)
registration options
The Art of Holding Perinatal Women in Distress Model of Intervention
Interview
Karen Kleiman is a renowned maternal mental-health expert with over 38 years of experience. An advocate and author, she has written influential books like The Art of Holding in Therapy and Good Moms Have Scary Thoughts. In 1988, she founded The Postpartum Stress Center, and in 2022, The Karen Kleiman Training Center, LLC, focusing on perinatal mood and anxiety disorders. Her Art of Holding Perinatal Women in Distress™ model shapes advanced clinical training.
Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Founder Postpartum Stress Centre, Author
Karen Kleiman
(She/her)
registration options
Confronting White Supremacy Culture in Perinatal Mental Health Care
live workshop
Gabrielle Griffith is a dedicated leader in perinatal research, education, and advocacy. As co-founder of the Ontario Black Doula Society (OBDS), they focus on supporting Black doulas and families. With a background as a Full Spectrum Doula and a graduate student at McMaster University, Gabrielle leads initiatives on trauma-informed care and cannabis use during pregnancy. A Black, Queer, and Disabled parent, they champion equity, diversity, and inclusive care practices, working to improve healthcare access and outcomes for marginalized communities.
Perinatal Advocate, Doula, Educator, Speaker
Gabrielle Griffith
(they/them, she/her)
registration options
How guiding your clients through postpartum planning Improves their mental health
Mini session
Amanda Mitton is a Certified Postpartum Doula supporting clients in Winnipeg, Manitoba. She is dedicated to fostering a sense of community and care for the families she supports, believing that postpartum support is essential for everyone after birth. Amanda offers in-home emotional and practical support during the early stages of parenthood, gently guiding her clients and leaving them feeling empowered.
Certified Postpartum Doula (PCD)
Amanda Mitton
(She/her)
registration options
Conceivable: Supporting 2SLGBTQ+ Mental Health in Family Building
Live workshop
Laine Halpern Zisman is a fertility support practitioner, lecturer, and adjunct assistant professor at the University of Victoria, where she also completed a postdoctoral fellowship in 2024. She specializes in communication, advocacy, and decision-making in family building. Founder of 2SLGBTQ+ Family Building Canada and a practitioner with Birth Mark Toronto, she supports diverse families. Her book, Conceivable: A Guide to Making 2SLGBTQ+ Family, offers practical fertility strategies.
PHD, Fertility Support Practitioner, Adjunct Assistant Professor, Author
Laine Halpern Zisman
(She/her)
registration options
Obstetric Violence and Its Impact on Postpartum Intimacy
Seminar
Ashley Mariani, known as "The Rogue Therapist," is a registered social worker and founder of Mind Online, a therapy clinic offering holistic mental health support in Ontario, Canada. Specializing in sex, intimacy, childbirth, and postpartum relationships, Ashley empowers couples through these transitions. As an advocate against obstetric violence, she promotes autonomy in the birthing space. Ashley also pioneered a certification course for new fathers, equipping them to advocate and support during childbirth.
Registered Social Worker + Relationship Therapist
Ashley Mariani
(She/her)
registration options
Neurodivergent Affirming Practices
Seminar
Rise is a full-spectrum birthworker (birth, postpartum, grief & loss, abortion), yoga teacher, meditation facilitator, and educator specializing in gender-affirming, trauma-informed care, and disability justice. They're passionate about Black queer wellness, trauma education, and rest. Outside of work, they enjoy daydreaming, dancing, and time with their support pup, Jelly Ferocious. Rise founded Riotous Roots to unify their talents and passions for community care.
birthworker: birth, postpartum, abortion, grief & loss
Rise Osby
(They/He)
registration options
How the brain changes with parenting
Interview
Dr. Jodi Pawluski, PhD, is a Neuroscientist, Therapist, and Author specializing in the neuroscience of motherhood and perinatal mental illness. Her research has been featured in top journals like JAMA Neurology and Nature Mental Health, as well as major media outlets including The New York Times and CNN. Jodi speaks globally about her findings and the impact of parenting on the brain. She is also dedicated to counseling, mentoring, and advocating for perinatal mental health improvements.
Neuroscientist, Therapist, Author
Dr. Jodi Pawluski
(She/her)
registration options
What perinatal professionals need to know about supporting folks in alternative family structures
Seminar
Emma Devin (they/them) is a full-spectrum doula with 10 years of experience, specializing in 2SLGBTQIA+ families and doula agency structures. Co-founder of Brood, Western Canada's leading doula agency, they've supported over 500 births and are committed to training the next generation of doulas. A recipient of BC Business's 30 Under 30, Emma enjoys weekends at the farmers market with their four kids and dog.
Co-Founder, Chief People & Product Officer, Doula
Emma Devin
(They/Them)
registration options
Overcoming Shame and Judgment: Fostering Honest Communication with New Parents to Ensure Care in the Perinatal Period
Seminar
Dr. Julie Franks is a licensed clinical social worker specializing in women's mental health. Based on Bainbridge Island, WA, she founded the first local practice focused on perinatal mental health. She supports women through conception, pregnancy, postpartum, and early motherhood. Her research elevates women's roles in families and organizations. Dr. Franks teaches at St. Mary's University of Minnesota and Western New Mexico University, and serves on the Council of Social Work Education's Council on the Role and Status of Women.
Licensed Clinical Social Work Therapist, Social work educator
Dr. Julie Franks
(She/Her)
registration options
Finding the Courage to Rest: Practical tools for avoiding caregiver burnout and supporting clients in the transition to parenthood.
Live workshop
Eileen is an Intuitive Life Coach, a Wild Medicine Energy Healer, and a Registered Midwife. After experiencing burnout in her career as a midwife, Eileen carried her passion for empowering women into her work as a coach. Through her unique blend of coaching and energy healing, Eileen gently guides women & female-identifying folks home to themselves and into relationship with the cyclical energies of the earth so they can begin to rest without guilt, step into their power, and create the life they truly desire.
RM, Certified Life Coach, Energy Healer
Eileen March
(She/Her)
registration options
Nervous System Regulation for Providers
seminar
Dr. Nancy Grechko, Licensed Clinical Psychologist and Founder of Grechko Training & Consulting, has over 15 years of experience in mental health. She provides psychotherapy, training, and mentorship, making complex concepts accessible for professionals. After completing her studies at the University of Hartford and training at Yale University, she launched her private practice in 2015, offering holistic, research-supported care to help practitioners balance their professional and personal lives.
Licensed Clinical Psychologist, PsyD
Dr. Nancy Grechko
(She/her)
live workshop
Nervous System Regulation Between Clients: A Practice of Micro-regulations
registration options
When Adoptive, Foster, and Kinship Parents Struggle
mini session
Over the past 20 years, Dr. Karen J. Foli has impacted the lives of nontraditional families (i.e., adoptive, kinship, and foster families) by filling the gaps in understanding the challenges that families face. She has disseminated scholarship and partnered with adoption organizations so that professionals may provide trauma-informed, adoption-competent services, especially in the area of parental postadoption depression.
Registered Nurse, Professor, Author, post-adoption depression expert
Dr. Karen J. Foli
(She/Her)
registration options
How to help parents optimize parent and infant rest in the postpartum period
interview
Rachael is a certified sleep specialist, lactation educator, and mother of 3 living in San Francisco CA. Rachael founded Hey, Sleepy Baby while on maternity leave with her second baby as a way to spread more realistic, compassionate, and evidence-based information and advice surrounding infant sleep approaches. Rachael is also the host of the Podcast No One Told Us.
Certified Sleep Specialist & Perinatal Mental Health Advocate
Rachael Shepard-Ohta
(She/Her)
registration options
How To Help Parents Flag Early Speech Challenges While Managing Milestone Anxiety
Mini session
Wee Talkers was founded by Katie + Carly, licensed speech-language pathologists, with Certificates of Clinical Competence from the American Speech-Language Hearing Association. Katie is licensed in Arizona and Carly is registered with the regulatory body in British Columbia. They've worked with children and their families for 25+ (combined) years in clinics, hospitals, private practice and school settings. Wee Talkers specializes in early intervention and helps kids ages 0-5 with talking and communicating. A big part of what they do is parent coaching.
Licensed Speech-Language Pathologist, founder of weetalkers
Katie Sterbenz
(She/her)
Carly Tulloch
(She/her)
Licensed Speech-Language Pathologist, founder of weetalkers
registration options
Decoding Mom-Rage: A Professional Seminar on Understanding, Addressing, and Supporting Maternal Anger
seminar
Sam (she/her) is a Registered Clinical Counsellor in British Columbia with the Perinatal Collective. She offers individual therapy and relationship counselling. She is a mom to a busy toddler and currently expecting her second child. Sam supports clients who are feeling overwhelmed, burnt out, and a little lost while they figure out motherhood. She specializes in working with clients who are looking for support navigating the chaos and disorienting experiences of parenting and becoming parents, from conception to postpartum.
Registered clinical counsellor
Sam Welsh
(She/Her)
registration options
Debunking 4 Sleep Myths: Easing Parents' Stress Around Infant Sleep
mini session
Sammy Merritt is a counselling psychologist in Alberta who specializes in relational work and is certified in pediatric sleep. She is passionate about helping families get the sleep they need in responsive and attachment-informed ways, while being mindful of mental health, where parents can tune into their little ones and be there for them as much as they need.
Registered Psychologist + Sleep Specialist
Sammy Merritt
(She/Her)
registration options
Mental Backroads and Highways: The Power of Gratitude, Mindfulness and Self-Compassion for Patients and Providers from a NP Perspective
Seminar
Valerie Probstfeld, RN, MSN, FNP-BC is the proud mother of three children. She received her MSN from Yale University and BSN and BA from Bradley University. She has experience in both pediatric neurology and primary care. Valerie founded "To Mom is To Love" to support, encourage, and empower each other as imperfect moms to love as a verb.
Registered Nurse & Nurse Practitioner
Valerie Probstfeld
(She/Her)
registration options
Advocating For Change: Building A Movement For Perinatal Mental Health In Canada
Interview
Patricia Tomasi is the co-founder and Executive Director of the Canadian Perinatal Mental Health Collaborative, a non-profit improving perinatal mental health care in Canada. She launched Flora's Walk, Canada’s largest perinatal mental health event, held annually in May. A mother of two, Patricia experienced postpartum psychosis and advocates for better care through the CPMHC. She also runs the Postpartum Depression & Anxiety Support Group on Facebook and edited You Are Not Alone, a perinatal mental health anthology. Previously, she worked as a communications specialist and journalist.
CC-PMH Executive Director & Co-founder Canadian Perinatal Mental Health Collaborative
Patricia Tomasi
(She/Her)
registration options
Weaving personal and professional threads: parenting a neurodivergent child and navigating mental load, challenges and considerations for supporting these families
Mini session
Jaclyn has held various social work roles in Alberta and BC, including family crisis support, after-school programs, immigrant settlement, and mental health services within Fraser Health. Married for 11 years, she is a mother of three boys, with her eldest diagnosed with global developmental delay and autism. Recently, Jaclyn and her family relocated from BC's Fraser Valley to Saskatoon, SK, where she now works as a freelance grant writer.
Social worker, freelance grant writer
Jaclyn Willems
(She/Her)
registration options
Sharing The Motherload: How To Encourage Shared Mental Load With Families From The Start
Keynote
Erica Djossa, CEO and founder of Momwell, is a registered psychotherapist specializing in maternal mental health. As a mother of three boys, she has personally navigated the challenges of motherhood, including postpartum depression. She founded Momwell to provide specialized, mom-centered mental health support. An award-winning, published author, Erica has been featured in Time Magazine, USA Today, and more. She advocates for inclusive, accessible maternal healthcare and redefines motherhood expectations.
CEO and founder of Momwell, registered psychotherapist, Author
Erica Djossa
(She/Her)
registration options
Decolonizing Indigenous Birth Work and Reproductive Health
seminar
Miranda Kelly is of Stó:lō and mixed settler ancestry. She is a member of Soowahlie First Nation (near Chilliwack, BC), where she lives with her husband and two children. She carries the ancestral name of Tilyen. With 17 years in Indigenous health, Miranda has experience in leadership, planning, policy, evaluation, education, and research. She holds a BSc and an MPH but values her lived experience as an Indigenous woman. A member of the ekw’i7tl Indigenous doula collective, she consults on Indigenous reproductive health.
indigenous health leader, perinatal advocate, Postpartum doula
Miranda Kelly
(she/her)
registration options
What Providers Need To Know About Supporting Sensitively Wired Families In The Perinatal Period
interview
Natalie Brunswick is a psychotherapist, occupational therapist, writer, educator and fierce mental health advocate who believes strongly in the need for a nervous-system, trauma-informed & neurodiversity affirming approach to mental health & parenting. She shares her writing online and offers courses and workshops for parents who are ready to unpack the stories they've been telling themselves about who they are, who their kids are, and how they all "should" be showing up in the world.
Psychotherapist, Occupational therapist, writer, educator
Natalie Brunswick
(She/Her)
registration options
Somatic Treatment of PMADs and Trauma
seminar
Helena Vissing, PsyD, is a licensed psychologist specializing in Perinatal Mental Health and Somatic Experiencing. An Associate Professor at the California Institute of Integral Studies, she has published works on mothering psychology and somatic aspects. She authored “Somatic Maternal Healing” and hosts a podcast on New Books in Psychoanalysis. Additionally, she serves on the editorial board of the International Body Psychotherapy Journal.
Clinical Psychologist, PMH-C, Somatic Experiencing Practitioner, Associate Professor, Author
Dr. Helena Vissing
(She/Her)
registration options
Perinatal Substance Use: An Introduction for Perinatal Providers
seminar
Ainslie has been a social worker and therapist in substance use and mental health for almost 15 years, primarily with women. Passionate about harm reduction and social justice, she works tirelessly (okay, she gets a little tired) alongside clients, advocating for social change and better care systems. Ainslie believes in true collaboration and reciprocity to foster therapeutic relationships. Her research during her Master’s and subsequent Addiction Fellowship focused on perinatal substance use.
Registered social worker, Social Work Addiction Fellow
Ainslie Cook
(she/her)
registration options
Why the Pelvic Floor is Important to Perinatal Wellbeing: Debunking myths
mini session
Tamarah holds a Master of Physiotherapy from Curtin University and practices in Vancouver, focusing on orthopedics, sports, and pelvic health. She treats postnatal recovery, pelvic floor issues, pediatric continence, prolapse, and sports injuries. Certified in acupuncture, she completed post-grad training in orthopedic manual therapy and the Integrated Systems Model. She is currently pursuing Visceral and Craniosacral certification and speaks on women’s health. Outside of work, she enjoys outdoor activities and is a mother of four.
physiotherapist, founder of bodynamics
Tamarah Calyniuk
(She/Her)
registration options
Psychedelics for perinatal mood disorders
Workshop
Kate Kincaid is a licensed psychotherapist and executive business coach with practices in Arizona and Utah. She specializes in LGBTQIA2S+ clients, non-monogamous relationships, entrepreneurs, and psychedelic integration therapy. With over a decade of business experience, she coaches others to scale their businesses. Trained in MDMA and Ketamine Assisted Therapy, she also trains clinicians. Passionate about perinatal mental health, she advocates for innovative treatments for PMDD and postpartum depression.
licensed Psychotherapist, executive business coach
Kate Kincaid
(She/Her)
registration options
Rituals and Ceremonies to Acknowledge the Perinatal Journey
Workshop
Megan Sheldon is the co-founder of Be Ceremonial, a guided ritual and ceremony app. A cultural mythologist, humanist celebrant, and end-of-life doula based in North Vancouver, BC, she creates ceremonies for life's invisible moments of change. Passionate about shifting narratives around death and grief, Megan offers workshops, virtual courses, and seasonal retreats. When not crafting ceremonies, she enjoys swimming in the sea or exploring the rainforest with her family and their dog, Kona.
Cultural Mythologist, Humanist Celebrant, End of Life Doula
Megan Sheldon
(She/Her)
registration options
Therapists are human too
Mini session
Andrea and Casandra are two licensed mental health counselors from New York and co-owners of Peace Project Mental Health Counseling PLLC. They also are the creators behind @yourhumantherapists, which they have built up to 45k+ through relatable content connecting therapists to their most authentic selves. They provide space for therapists to connect on a deeper level through their Human Therapist Network where they offer opportunities such as their Therapist Exclusive Book Club.
Licensed mental health counselors, creators of @yourhumantherapists
Andrea Rockefeller
(She/her)
Casandra Musumeci
(She/her)
registration options
The Silent Pelvic Health Epidemic: What Perinatal Providers Need to Know
mini session
Dr. Jessica London's mission is to meet mothers where they are to raise the standard of pelvic health education and postpartum recovery rehab. She is a Doctor of Physical Therapy, Pelvic Floor Therapist, Pre & Postnatal Coach, and founder of Your Postpartum PT + Wellness.
YPPT is a 100% online pelvic health coaching company that serves women in pregnancy and postpartum to reduce leakage, pain with intimacy, prolapse and other childbearing or birth-related injuries.
Doctor of physical therapy, pre/postnatal exercise coach
Jessica London
(She/Her)
registration options
The Neurobiology of the Mama Bear/Papa Bear Brain
seminar
Margot is a licensed clinical social worker in private practice in Portland, Oregon. She specializes in supporting people during the perinatal time, using skills from EMDR, Sensoritmotor Psychotherapy and Interpersonal neurobiology. She has also worked as a childbirth educator, prenatal yoga instructor and is a co-founder of Next Wave Birth - Prenatal Yoga Teacher Training.
licensed clinical social worker, pmh-c
Margot Strauhull
(She/Her)
registration options
Integrating Mental Health Support Into Perinatal Healthcare
mini session
Sarah Goodman is a registered social worker and dedicated supporter of individuals navigating conception, pregnancy, and postpartum. She offers therapy for caregivers dealing with mood and anxiety disorders, traumatic events, and relationship issues. Sarah works with the Mount Sinai Academic Family Health Team in Toronto, integrating mental health support into their Perinatal Care Program, and also in private practice at Eva Wellness. She is certified in Perinatal Mental Health through Postpartum Support International (PSI).
Registered Social Worker, PMh-C
Sarah Goodman
(She/Her)
registration options
Perinatal OCD, Psychosis, & The Space In-Between
Seminar
Ashlee is a LCSW, the Director of Clinical Services at The Postpartum Stress Center, and the Program Administrator at The Karen Kleiman Training Center; specializing in Perinatal Mental Health, depression, anxiety, and couples therapy. Noah Suzuki is a LPC, Lead Trainer at The Karen Kleiman Training Center, and Senior Therapist at The Postpartum Stress Center; focusing on Holding Therapy and exposure-based treatments for anxiety. Both are dedicated to supporting new parents, drawing from extensive experience in clinical and hospital settings.
Licensed clinical social worker
Ashlee Adams
(She/her)
Noah Suzuki
(He/Him)
licensed professional counselor
registration options
The Silent Mood Shifters: Understanding the Role of Nutrients and Hormones in Mental Health from a Naturopathic Doctor's Perspective.
seminar
Dr. Ally is a mother, and Naturopathic doctor focusing on the perinatal journey and the health of mothers. She has a virtual practice, supporting patients all over British Columbia to bring more ease, joy, and support to their motherhood journey. Dr. Ally *loves coffee, and being outdoors with her husband and three young boys.
Naturopathic Doctor (ND)
Dr. Ally Power
(She/Her)
registration options
Finding Purpose from the Pain: Experiencing Perinatal Anxiety and How it Changed My Career.
mini session
Shannon is a certified maternal-newborn nurse and BSN program director at Emory University. After facing mental health challenges during pregnancy, she became dedicated to improving mental health care for pregnant and postpartum individuals. Shannon co-launched Georgia's Perinatal Mental Health Taskforce and focuses her research on screening and nurse-led interventions. She also serves on the Healthy Mothers, Healthy Babies Coalition board.
Assistant Clinical Professor of Nursing
Dr. Shannon Stevenson
(She/Her)
registration options
Navigating Birth Trauma: Insights, Impacts, and Interventions
seminar
Samantha is a registered psychologist and doctoral student in Alberta, Canada, and the clinical lead at Pine Integrated Health Centre in Sherwood Park. She is perinatal mental health certified, has published on birth trauma and postpartum PTSD, and has presented internationally. Samantha integrates various psychological approaches to tailor care for diverse mental health needs.
Registered Psychologist, PMH-C
Samantha Copithorne
(She/Her)
mini session
The PMDD Experience: Beyond PMS
registration options
A unique kind of expectancy – support during pregnancy after a previous experience of perinatal loss
seminar
Katarzyna Skorupska - polish psychologist, psychotherapist, crisis interventionist,
lecturer. For over 10 years, she has been focused on working with people experiencing perinatal crises, in particular perinatal losses, as part of the individual meetings, support groups, workshops. She currently teaches at University of Wrocław and conducts trainings and supervision groups for perinatal specialists in Poland.
Polish Psychologist, Psychotherapist, Crisis interventionist, lecturer
Katarzyna Skorupska
(She/Her)
registration options
Managing ADHD in the Postpartum Period
seminar
Vanessa is a registered psychologist with the Pine Integrated Health multidisciplinary team. She is passionate about supporting folks through the perinatal period, with particular interest in anxiety, OCD, trauma, and ADHD. She is interested in the impact of hormones, role transitions, and cultural expectations on various perinatal experiences. Working with this population has been a huge privilege.
Registered Psychologist, PMH-c
Vanessa Colombina
(She/Her)
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Managing ADHD in the Postpartum Period
mini session
Dr. Suzanne Mungalez, aka Dr. Zann, is a licensed clinical psychologist, certified perinatal mental health clinician (PMH-C), childbirth educator, lactation education specialist (CLES), and trained doula. A Black, Congolese-American, queer mother, her identity deeply informs her work. She is tender with people, tough on systems, and committed to collective liberation through interpersonal, intrapersonal, and ancestral healing.
Licensed Clinical Psychologist, PMH-C, Childbirth Educator, Certified Lactation Education Specialist, Doula
Dr. Suzanne Mungalez
(She/They)
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The "Never Good Enough" Mother: Powerful, Proven Strategies to Help Self-Critical Moms Get Out of the Shame Spiral (and adopt flexibility and self-encouragement)
seminar
Elana Sures has been providing psychotherapy, clinical supervision, and public education in the area of maternal mental health for over 15 years. Elana is the owner of Open Space Counselling, a Vancouver-based clinic specializing in women's health, and the creator of the proprietary program Mom Rage Reset: A Program for Overwhelmed Moms. As a mom to two teenage daughters, Elana combines candid reflections about the realities of modern motherhood with relevant, research-based interventions that get to the core issues in the complex experience of motherhood.
Registered Clinical counsellor, approved clinical supervisor
Elana Sures
(She/Her)
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Finding Peace With Food & Body (During Pregnancy, Postpartum, & Beyond)
seminar
Mark Williams is a Keynote Speaker, Author, and international mental health campaigner. After experiencing depression in 2004, he founded International Fathers Mental Health Day and the #HowAreYouDad campaign to ensure support for all parents. He also campaigned to reopen Wales' mother and baby unit, which succeeded in 2022. Mark has spoken on global platforms, co-published articles on parental mental health with Dr. Jane Hanley, and received numerous awards, including Pride of Britain’s Inspirational Father and the British Citizens Award for Healthcare in 2023, recognizing his impactful work supporting families.
keynote speaker, author, international mental health campaigner
Mark Williams
(He/Him)
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Parental burnout is on the rise. The village has the solution.
Mini session
Zamina is the founder and CEO of Mevi, a family operations mental load app for working parents. Mevi is rooted in the Fair Play method and enables parents to make their invisible load visible through shared family operations. She is a girl mom and technologist with a background in psychology, engineering, and user experience.
Founder of Mevi — The "It Takes a Village" App
Zamina Sunderji-Karim
(She/Her)
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Conception and Beyond: Collaborative Strategies for Black Perinatal Equity
seminar
Millicent Asiedu is a wife, mother of three, and CEO of Mesh of Mothers Foundation Inc., a nonprofit championing Afro-heritage maternal well-being. The organization raises awareness about maternal health disparities and offers culturally responsive perinatal support for African, Caribbean, and Black mothers. A mental health therapist, Millicent is dedicated to addressing social issues impacting families. Her journey with (in)fertility and motherhood inspires women to embrace their present circumstances.
Registered social worker, mental health therapist
Millicent Asiedu
(She/her)
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The Mental Weight of Mom Guilt: Causes, Consequences, and Clinical Care
MINI SESSION
Dr. Caroline Dickens is a licensed clinical psychologist specializing in perinatal mental health based in San Francisco, CA. She is passionate about helping women navigate anxiety, build self-trust, and let go of external expectations so they can do motherhood their way. She also co-hosts The Moms Are Alright, a podcast that shares practical knowledge and personal insights to help women build confidence and find more joy in new motherhood. Her mission as a therapist is to help clients feel less alone and equip them with concrete strategies and new perspectives that will guide them toward more peace, less stress, and self-discovery in this new chapter.
Licensed Clinical Psychologist
Dr. Caroline Dickens
(She/her)
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Unpacking Media Myths: A Journalist's Take On The Impact of Societal Pressures on Perinatal Mental Health
Interview
Amanda is an award-winning journalist specializing in psychology, child development, and family dynamics. As a triple citizen who has lived in four countries, she offers a unique cross-cultural perspective. Amanda challenges parenting norms by exploring scientific, cultural, and historical views. She combats misinformation on her Instagram and in her BBC column "How Not to Be Manipulated." Her recent stories have been featured in The Atlantic, New Scientist, Scientific American, and the BBC. Follow her on Instagram and TikTok @mandyruggeri for insights on parenting and child development.
Award Winning Journalist
Amanda Ruggeri
(She/her)
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Level Up Your Perinatal Practice: A Road Map to Building Confidence and Competence
seminar
Mallory is a Registered Psychologist in Edmonton, Canada, with over 15 years of experience supporting individuals from conception to parenthood. As co-founder of one of North America's largest perinatal clinics, she fosters a nurturing, evidence-based environment for clients and practitioners. Mallory’s commitment to education and supervision promotes professional growth within her team, while her expertise in perinatal and general psychology helps address diverse challenges, enhancing the well-being of families and communities.
Registered Psychologist, PMH-C, Co-Founder of Pine Integrated Health Centre
Mallory Becker
(She/her)
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Perinatal Suicidality: Mothers Experiences of Recovery Following Counselling
Mini session
Vanessa is a Canadian Certified Counsellor working as an Early Years Clinician in Northern BC. She offers individual therapy and workshops specializing in maternal mental health and parenting during the early years (ages 0-6). Since the birth of her first child, in 2016, she has been a passionate advocate for perinatal mental health. Her master’s thesis focused on mothers’ lived experiences of perinatal suicidality and their recovery following counselling. While this is a challenging and often underrepresented topic in research, Vanessa believes it is important to amplify these mothers’ stories to provide awareness and hope.
Canadian Certified Counsellor, Early Years Clinician
Vanessa Vandergaag
(She/her)
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Supporting Couples In the First Year of Postpartum Through a Narrative & Collaborative Lens
Live Workshop
Hazel Walker is a licensed marriage and family therapist with over a decade of experience who helps married moms prioritize themselves again, so they can stop carrying the load alone & build better partnerships with their spouse. Hazel is the founder of It's aPARENTly Time, LLC and has collaborated with many community providers such as doulas, OBGYN’s, and other mental health professionals to ensure that moms and couples feel more supported. Hazel also serves as an adjunct professor at UMass Global and feels privileged to help support the development of future systemic practitioners.
Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist
Hazel Walker
(She/her)
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The Power of Presence: A Moment to Close with Mindfulness
Live mindfulness practice
Carolyn has been educating others through yoga + meditation trainings, retreats & corporate events worldwide for over 15 years. She discovered yoga in 1999 as a ski bum in Whistler and went on to work for Environment Canada and in the non-profit sector raising funds for green initiatives. After completing dozens of yoga and meditation trainings around the world, she's now primarily a meditation and mindfulness guide and coach. Carolyn is passionate about breath, the nervous system and encouraging others to remember that it’s never too late to breathe deeply, to grow, and to change.
Meditation, Yoga & Breath Coach. Mentor to Teachers and Leaders
Carolyn Anne Budgell
(She/her)
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Factoring in Fathers: Paternal Perinatal Mental Health
Workshop
Dr. Singley, a San Diego-based psychologist, specializes in men’s mental health with a focus on reproductive psychology and fatherhood. As Director of The Center for Men’s Excellence, he leads trainings to promote father inclusiveness. Recognized as APA’s 2017 Practitioner of the Year, Dr. Singley is a Past President of the APA’s Society for the Psychology of Men and Masculinities. He also founded Basic Training for New Dads, a nonprofit, and the Padre Cadre social app for dads. Outside work, he enjoys cooking, surfing, reading, and spending time with his teenage sons.
Board Certified Psychologist, Founding Director, The Center for Men’s Excellence
Dr. Daniel Singley
(he/Him)
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Access Better Perinatal Health- Disability Inclusion in Your Practice
keynote
Robin Wilson-Beattie is a speaker, writer, and disability and sexuality advocate. As one of the first to address disability and sexuality in adult product marketing, she merges personal experience with research to explore how disability shapes sexual and reproductive health. The 2024 Carrie Buck Distinguished Fellow at Brandeis University, Robin has presented keynotes, panels, and webinars, including events for the U.S. Vice President’s Office. She’s published in JAMA and major media outlets, co-founded the SPM Disability Justice Fund, and holds certifications in sexual health. Robin is also a mom of two and renovates old houses in her free time.
Certified Sexologist, Speaker, Writer, Advocate
Robin Wilson-Beattie
(She/her)
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The Art of Holding Perinatal Women in Distress Model of Intervention
Interview
Karen Kleiman is a renowned maternal mental-health expert with over 38 years of experience. An advocate and author, she has written influential books like The Art of Holding in Therapy and Good Moms Have Scary Thoughts. In 1988, she founded The Postpartum Stress Center, and in 2022, The Karen Kleiman Training Center, LLC, focusing on perinatal mood and anxiety disorders. Her Art of Holding Perinatal Women in Distress™ model shapes advanced clinical training.
MSW, LCSW
Karen Kleiman
(She/her)
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Confronting White Supremacy Culture in Perinatal Mental Health Care
live workshop
Gabrielle Griffith is a dedicated leader in perinatal research, education, and advocacy. As co-founder of the Ontario Black Doula Society (OBDS), they focus on supporting Black doulas and families. With a background as a Full Spectrum Doula and a graduate student at McMaster University, Gabrielle leads initiatives on trauma-informed care and cannabis use during pregnancy. A Black, Queer, and Disabled parent, they champion equity, diversity, and inclusive care practices, working to improve healthcare access and outcomes for marginalized communities.
doula, educator, teacher
Gabrielle Griffith
(they/them, she/her)
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How guiding your clients through postpartum planning Improves their mental health
Mini session
Amanda Mitton is a Certified Postpartum Doula supporting clients in Winnipeg, Manitoba. She is dedicated to fostering a sense of community and care for the families she supports, believing that postpartum support is essential for everyone after birth. Amanda offers in-home emotional and practical support during the early stages of parenthood, gently guiding her clients and leaving them feeling empowered.
Certified Postpartum Doula (PCD)
Amanda Mitton
(She/her)
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Conceivable: Supporting 2SLGBTQ+ Mental Health in Family Building
Live workshop
Laine Halpern Zisman is a fertility support practitioner, lecturer, and adjunct assistant professor at the University of Victoria, where she also completed a postdoctoral fellowship in 2024. She specializes in communication, advocacy, and decision-making in family building. Founder of 2SLGBTQ+ Family Building Canada and a practitioner with Birth Mark Toronto, she supports diverse families. Her book, Conceivable: A Guide to Making 2SLGBTQ+ Family, offers practical fertility strategies.
PHD
Laine Halpern Zisman
(She/her)
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Obstetric Violence and Its Impact on Postpartum Intimacy
Seminar
Ashley Mariani, known as "The Rogue Therapist," is a registered social worker and founder of Mind Online, a therapy clinic offering holistic mental health support in Ontario, Canada. Specializing in sex, intimacy, childbirth, and postpartum relationships, Ashley empowers couples through these transitions. As an advocate against obstetric violence, she promotes autonomy in the birthing space. Ashley also pioneered a certification course for new fathers, equipping them to advocate and support during childbirth.
Registered Social Worker
Ashley Mariani
(She/her)
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Neurodivergent Affirming Practices
Seminar
Rise is a full-spectrum birthworker (birth, postpartum, grief & loss, abortion), yoga teacher, meditation facilitator, and educator specializing in gender-affirming, trauma-informed care, and disability justice. They're passionate about Black queer wellness, trauma education, and rest. Outside of work, they enjoy daydreaming, dancing, and time with their support pup, Jelly Ferocious. Rise founded Riotous Roots to unify their talents and passions for community care.
birthworker: birth, postpartum, abortion, grief & loss
Rise Osby
(They/He)
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How the brain changes with parenting
Interview
Dr. Jodi Pawluski, PhD, is a Neuroscientist, Therapist, and Author specializing in the neuroscience of motherhood and perinatal mental illness. Her research has been featured in top journals like JAMA Neurology and Nature Mental Health, as well as major media outlets including The New York Times and CNN. Jodi speaks globally about her findings and the impact of parenting on the brain. She is also dedicated to counseling, mentoring, and advocating for perinatal mental health improvements.
Neuroscientist, Therapist, Author
Dr. Jodi Pawluski
(She/her)
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What perinatal professionals need to know about supporting folks in alternative family structures
Seminar
Emma Devin (they/them) is a full-spectrum doula with 10 years of experience, specializing in 2SLGBTQIA+ families and doula agency structures. Co-founder of Brood, Western Canada's leading doula agency, they've supported over 500 births and are committed to training the next generation of doulas. A recipient of BC Business's 30 Under 30, Emma enjoys weekends at the farmers market with their four kids and dog.
Co-Founder, Chief People & Product Officer, Doula
Emma Devin
(They/Them)
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