Maternal Mental Health & Child Safety

The consequences of untreated maternal mental health disorders can be tragic. With a roster of distinguished speakers and thought-provoking breakout groups, this event addresses the legal, ethical, medical, emotional, social and economic impacts of maternal mental health and child neglect -- and the question of what should be done.

The cost is $25, and pre-registration is required. Click the button at the bottom of the page to register.

Featured speakers include:

• George Parnham, JD: Mr. Parnham was the criminal defense attorney for Andrea Yates. He will share his journey to advocacy in the recognition and effective treatment of maternal mental illness.
• Dr. Nisha AbdulCader, MD, FAPP: Dr. AbdulCader is board certified in Child Abuse Pediatrics. She will highlight the medical aspects of child neglect and the long-term health consequences of adverse childhood experiences.
• Supervisor Janet Wolf: Our Special Guest from the Santa Barbara County Board of Supervisors.

Choose from call-to-action breakout groups on the following topics:

• Legal Implications and Family Support
• Recognizing and Responding to Signs of Child Neglect
• Parent-Child Relationships and Intervention Strategies
• Peer-to-Peer Connection and Community Support for New Families

CEU's are available if desired, for a $5 processing fee.

• Nursing: 2.5 contact hours CEUs. Provider CEP 2553 (administered by Carmen Unzueta at PHD). CEU fee is waived for Public Health nurses.
• Mental Health Professionals: MFT & LCSW attendees may receive CEUs as well. Provider 1237 (administered by CALM). 

This event is sponsored by the Child Abuse Prevention Council, CALM, First 5 of Santa Barbara,
Public Health Department Perinatal Mental Health & Substance Use Coalition,
Postpartum Education for Parents, and the Office of County 2nd District Supervisor Janet Wolf.