Thrive Wellness’s Perinatal Mental Health Team Reflects on Their Experience Presenting at the 2022 Postpartum Support International (PSI) Conference

Thrive • July 29, 2022

Earlier this month, Thrive Wellness’s perinatal mental health team was given the honor to speak at the 35th annual Postpartum Support International (PSI) Conference in New Orleans – an influential industry event in the perinatal mental health field. The team presented on Thrive’s “It Takes A Village” Day Program , which was piloted at the Thrive Wellness Reno location and has since been implemented at Thrive Wellness Sacramento and Thrive Wellness Waco . The program offers interdisciplinary care to parents struggling with perinatal mood and anxiety disorders (PMADs) and aims to nurture parents as they navigate pregnancy and parenthood. Find out more about their experience, highlights, and insights in this Q&A with the presenters:

Thrive Wellness Reno Director of Perinatal Psychiatry Andrea Thompson, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP-BC, PMH-C
Thrive Wellness Reno Perinatal Program Clinical Lead and Therapist Amanda Boe, LMFT
Thrive Wellness Reno Perinatal Program Manager and Therapist Lauren Kalogridis, LMSW, PMH-C, C (DTI)

What did the team present on? Why is this an important subject matter?

Lauren: Our presentation was called, “Exploring an Interdisciplinary Team Approach to Perinatal Mental Health at the Intensive Outpatient Level of Care.” It was very exciting to share about the model of Thrive Wellness “It Takes A Village” program, which is one of less than 30 (that we know of) higher level of care programs for perinatal mental health in the country! We hoped it would inspire other professionals in our field to consider how working as an interdisciplinary team to streamline care, as well as creating programs specially tailored to pregnant and newly parenting folks, is important.

What were some highlights from the presentation experience?

Andrea: From my lens, it was incredibly validating to share our program experiences as a collaborative team, which is the real foundation of our program. It felt invigorating to be back in person, at a conference of like-minded people who are trying to move the needle in parental mental health. We received wonderful initial feedback on our content and what we are doing here in Nevada to support the mental health of our community. It felt great to know that others across the country wanted to learn from our experiences and implement similar programming in their own communities. I could really feel the ripple effect we were having in our professional community.

Amanda: I was amazed by the amount of interest in our “It Takes A Village” program. There were so many people engaged in the presentation. After the presentation, quite a few participants shared their gratitude and their own dreams of developing a similar program. Another highlight was watching my team flourish when talking about the “It Takes A Village” program and the passion that helps fuel it. Discussing the program that we pour our hearts and souls into on a daily basis was beautiful and inspiring. For the rest of the weekend, people stopped us to applaud our efforts in perinatal mental health.

Lauren: It was very exciting to meet other professionals in our field who want to share about their own programs similar to our “It Takes A Village” program, or who are hopeful about starting something similar in their own community. It was also amazing to see other innovative programs being piloted across the country, and how different kinds of professionals (therapists, OBGYNs, midwives, doulas, home visiting staff, etc.) are coming together to collaborate.

What are some insights from the conference experience?

Andrea: The overall conference was incredibly empowering, thought-provoking and also reassuring that the care we are providing to our clients is not only evidence-based but thoughtful in its approach. I am feeling inspired and excited to begin initiatives that may help to even further support our community in ways that we may not have thought of before.

Lauren: I gained insight into innovative programs across the country focused on using peer specialists, reaching parents via home visits, and closing gaps in health care . Peer specialists are individuals with lived experience of PMADs who receive specialized training to offer mentorship and support to other folks in a community needing care for similar issues. The Thrive Wellness team has been dreaming of incorporating certified peer specialists into our “It Takes A Village” program since its origin. I am feeling particularly inspired to find a way to make this happen in the future!

Amanda: I was energized by my team’s excitement for growing and evolving the “It Takes A Village” program. Throughout the conference, we each attended different training sessions. At the end of the day, we would share what we learned and discuss implementing new ideas into our program. One of the keynote speakers was a father who had experienced a PMAD. He emphasized the importance of broadening perinatal mental health messaging to include fathers, something that has been on our radar for a while and quickly became a main priority after hearing his presentation.

If I could sum up the experience, I would say it was inspiring and cup-filling. Everyone was so inviting, encouraging, and interested. The opportunity to learn and connect with others in the perinatal mental health space was pretty magical.

Anything else to add?

Andrea: I am very grateful for this experience. It was great to learn from others in the space, explore New Orleans, and connect with the Thrive Wellness perinatal team.

Lauren: After keeping things very close to home throughout the pandemic, it was really amazing to get a feel for our national community of perinatal workers. There is so much heart and spirit in this field, and I left feeling recharged and recentered. I’m so grateful to work with a team of people I respect and admire while doing work that is so fulfilling!

Amanda: When we shared that Thrive Wellness has locations in Texas and California in addition to our Nevada clinics , people actually cheered and clapped. The excitement was palpable.

INTERDISCIPLINARY, EMPOWERING PERINATAL MENTAL HEALTH CARE AT THRIVE WELLNESS

Thrive Wellness believes it takes a village to raise children, so we involve a multifaceted team of clinical specialists and cultivate a deep-rooted sense of community into our therapeutic programming for perinatal mental health . With the intention of fostering comprehensive healing from perinatal concerns and nurturing parenthood journeys, our “It Takes A Village” program offers physical, mental, and behavioral health care to expecting and new parents. Reach out to learn more.

While all Thrive Wellness locations offer interdisciplinary clinical teams who collaborate to treat eating disorders, perinatal mood and anxiety disorders (PMADs), and additional mental and behavioral health conditions, programs and services may vary by location.

About the Contributors

Thrive Wellness Reno Director of Perinatal Psychiatry Andrea Thompson, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP-BC, PMH-C

Andrea Thompson, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP-BC is a nurse practitioner whose background has stemmed in primary care, primarily working with under-served and under-insured populations. After several years in family practice, she completed a post-master’s certification as a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. In early 2019, she started a program the first of its kind in Northern Nevada to integrate mental health services into a women’s health/OBGYN practice where she had a focus on perinatal mood and anxiety disorder (PMAD) diagnosis and treatment which solidified her passion for perinatal/reproductive psychiatry. She has also completed a perinatal mental health certification through Postpartum Support International to even better serve her clients. As a postpartum depression survivor herself, she has a passion for helping other women throughout their journey to mental wellness. She and her husband moved to the Reno area several years ago from Seattle, WA to settle into a place to raise their family; they have three children. Aside from spending time with her family outdoors, Andrea is also active in the efforts to improve the sexual health education offered to the youth in our community as well as advocating at the state level to support nurse practitioner autonomy and maternal mental health.

Thrive Wellness Reno Perinatal Program Clinical Lead and Therapist Amanda Boe, LMFT

Amanda Boe earned her master’s degree in counseling from the University of Nevada, Reno. She has over nine years of experience working with children, individuals, and families who have experienced trauma. Her experience also includes working with clients who struggle with perinatal mood disorders, anxiety, and depression. Amanda is passionate about healing relationships among families and unresolved trauma using evidence-based practices. She is certified in Child-Parent Psychotherapy (CPP). Amanda offers individual, couples, and family therapy.

Thrive Wellness Reno Perinatal Program Manager and Therapist Lauren Kalogridis, LMSW, PMH-C, C (DTI)

Lauren Kalogridis, LMSW, PMH-C, C (DTI), earned her Bachelor of Social Work from New York University, and her Master of Social Work from Smith College School for Social Work. Lauren’s clinical approach is grounded in relational psychodynamic therapy, and incorporates elements from somatic, trauma-informed and cognitive-behavioral modalities. Her clinical experience has ranged from working with teens to older adults on issues including depression, anxiety, psychosis, trauma-related symptoms, relationship challenges, and issues related to identity and oppression. Lauren is passionate about working with teens and young people, as well as LGBTQIA+ identified folks. She is also actively practicing as a labor and postpartum doula, which has informed and deepened her commitment to working with individuals during the perinatal period. Lauren recognizes all humans have an intrinsic need to feel safe, to connect, and to belong. She believes in collaboratively building a trusting therapeutic relationship, which serves as a foundation for gaining new insight and accessing healing. You can expect her to bring warmth, humor and intention to your work together, as she supports you in envisioning new possibilities for your life and relationships.

The post Thrive Wellness’s Perinatal Mental Health Team Reflects on Their Experience Presenting at the 2022 Postpartum Support International (PSI) Conference first appeared on Thrive Wellness.

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Breaking Down Barriers: Debunking the Most Common Eating Disorder Myths

By Sage Tippie • February 14, 2025

This Eating Disorders Awareness Month, we’re focusing on fighting the misinformation and stereotypes surrounding eating disorders that so often create barriers to diagnosis and treatment. Myths about eating disorders can perpetuate harmful stereotypes and keep people from receiving effective and timely treatment when they need it. It’s no secret that the field of eating disorders is riddled with misinformation, leading to confusion, stigma, and shame for those struggling. In this blog post, we'll explore the common myths about eating disorders and fight them with concrete facts in the hopes of building a more informed and educated community when it comes to these serious mental health conditions. Eating Disorder Myths Versus Facts Myth: Only those who are medically underweight have an eating disorder. Fact: Someone can have an eating disorder at any weight. In fact, less than 6% of those diagnosed with an eating disorder are medically underweight. There is even a specific diagnosis for those who are not underweight showing the symptoms of anorexia called atypical anorexia. People of all sizes are at risk for serious complications from an eating disorder, not just those that are underweight. Myth: Only women have eating disorders Fact: Although often associated with teen girls, eating disorders can affect those of any gender and age. While stereotypes and stigma surrounding eating disorders may tell us that men are not commonly affected by them, research has found that nearly 25% of those who present for eating disorder treatment are male. Keeping an open mind around who can be affected by eating disorders allows for more accurate and timely diagnosis and treatment for those who need it. Myth: Eating disorders are just about food. Facts: While eating disorders always involve an unhealthy relationship with food or body image, they also are rooted in biological, psychological and sociocultural aspects. Eating disorders cannot be treated just by changing eating behaviors, but by addressing the mental aspect of the illness as well. This is why integrated treatment involving a team of social workers, primary care specialists, therapists, and in some cases occupational therapists or psychiatrists is so crucial: a holistic approach is needed to treat all aspects of an eating disorder. Myth: Eating disorders aren’t that serious. Fact: Eating disorders are extremely serious and life-threatening mental disorders that require dedicated treatment. In fact, anorexia nervosa has the second highest mortality rate of any psychiatric disorder. By taking eating disorders and their diagnosis and treatment seriously, we can save lives. Myth: Eating disorders are a choice. Fact: Just like any other illness, eating disorders are not a choice or a phase, nor is recovery from an eating disorder just a simple decision to start eating more or less. Recovery is not dependent on willpower, but on ongoing professional treatment and long-term support. The recovery process can be lengthy and challenging, requiring patience and a supportive environment and team on your side. It is a gradual, step-by-step journey, rather than an instantaneous decision made on one person’s part. Myth: Eating disorders always involve negative body image. Fact: Avoidant/restrictive food intake disorder (ARFID) does not have to do with body image. Those with ARFID may avoid many foods because of texture, taste, color, or smell, or feared outcomes of eating like choking or vomiting. Like any other eating disorder, ARFID is serious and requires specialized treatment like exposure-response prevention therapy. Myth: Eating disorders only affect White people. Fact: Although Black, Latina/o/x/e, Indigenous/Native, and Asian people are historically underrepresented in studies of eating disorders, large-scale studies have found that rates of eating disorders are the same or higher in all racial and ethnic groups as compared to white individuals (NEDA). Removing racial stereotypes around eating disorders can help to remove barriers that BIPOC individuals commonly face when seeking treatment. Dispelling the Myths: A Path Towards Understanding By addressing and dispelling these myths, we can create a safe space that promotes understanding and empathy. Eating disorders are not choices or phases, but debilitating mental health issues that can affect anyone. Recognizing the seriousness of these disorders is so important in reducing stigma and ensuring that those who are struggling receive the care and support they require. This month and every month, we encourage you to fight misinformation and stick up for those experiencing eating disorders, because knowledge and education can be one of the greatest assets to recovery for those who need it. If you or someone you know is in need of eating disorder support, don’t be afraid to reach out , our team of healthcare professionals are here for you. To learn more about eating disorders and the journey to recovery, download our free eating disorders guide .

Why Eating Disorder Awareness Matters

By Sage Tippie • February 6, 2025

Did you know that February is Eating Disorder Awareness month? Here at Thrive, we're passionate about educating our community and providing tools for eating disorder recognition while offering the specialized support and treatment that those with eating disorders deserve. Join us this month in the conversation around eating disorders and putting an end to harmful stereotypes and misinformation. Let's cover six reasons why building awareness around eating disorders is so crucial. 6 reasons why eating disorder awareness is important 1. Eating disorders are serious. Despite often being termed as a "choice" or a "phase," eating disorders are an incredibly serious psychological condition that require specialized treatment and support. Anorexia Nervosa has the second highest mortality rate of any psychiatric diagnosis in the United States, and every 52 minutes, 1 person dies as a direct consequence of an eating disorder (NEDA) . By spreading awareness and providing early intervention in eating disorder treatment, we can not only change lives, but save them. 2. Eating disorders are more common than you think. 9% of the US population will have an eating disorder at some point in their lives and 22% of children and adolescents worldwide show symptoms of disordered eating (NEDA). Since eating disorders can be challenging to detect, many go undiagnosed. Raising awareness for eating disorders and educating our community partners about their symptoms can allow us to catch eating disorders as early as possible and bring these statistics down. 3. Fight harmful eating disorder stereotypes. A common stereotype in association with eating disorders is that of the "thin, white, affluent female," however, anyone is at risk of an eating disorder despite their appearance or background. Stereotypes associated with eating disorders around weight, gender, age and race can create serious barriers to seeking care and major disparities in treatment. People experiencing an eating disorder can face challenges in seeking and receiving treatment or may feel unworthy of recovery when they don’t fit a stereotype, preventing them from gaining needed support and treatment. Promoting diversity and representation through awareness and education can help to break down the harmful stereotypes that have historically surrounded eating disorders. 4. Eating disorder recovery is not a one person job. Family and loved ones’ involvement in eating disorder treatment is crucial for recovery. Family-based therapy (FBT) has proven to be effective in 50% of patients being treated for anorexia nervosa, and is effective in the treatment of other eating disorders as well. A strong support system and steadfast relationships through the struggles associated with eating disorders can lead to more effective and long-lasting recovery. With more awareness and education, people will be better equipped to provide assistance to their loved ones in recovery. 5. You’re not alone. Eating disorders can be an isolating and painful disorder, making those experiencing it feel like they’re the only ones, or that no one understands what they’re going through. Building an informed community through awareness and education can be the first step towards diagnosis and treatment for those who need it. 6. Recovery is Real. Those with eating disorders are capable of long-term recovery through appropriate treatment. Research has found that the earlier intervention takes place in the treatment of eating disorders, the better the odds of long-term recovery are. Awareness and education around eating disorders helps the people that need support find it sooner, resulting in a repaired relationship with food and the body and a fuller life. How can I get involved in eating disorder awareness efforts? To get involved in eating disorder awareness efforts, start by educating yourself about the complexities and different types of eating disorders. By gaining a deeper understanding, you can become a more effective advocate. You can also consider participating in local or national events such as walks, trainings, or online webinars that aim to raise awareness, provide support to those affected, and offer education around eating disorders and their diagnosis. Another simple step for building awareness can be using your social media platform to share factual information, personal stories, or relevant resources that can help demystify eating disorders and reduce stigma. Additionally, supporting legislative efforts that promote mental health education and funding for eating disorder research can help in creating systemic change. By taking these steps, you can contribute to this important movement and work alongside us to foster acceptance, encourage early intervention, and ultimately save lives. Eating Disorder Treatment and Support Thrive offers a free eating disorder guide with more information about eating disorder symptoms and recovery. If you or someone you know is struggling with eating or body image, don’t be afraid to reach out to professionals for support. At Thrive Wellness, we offer a number of treatment options for all ages and genders, including a partial hospitalization program, an intensive outpatient program, outpatient therapy, occupational therapy, nutrition services, and more. Don’t wait to get started on treatment, contact us for a free eating disorder assessment today.

Alcohol and Mental Health: How Alcohol Effects Anxiety and Depression

By Thrive • January 24, 2025

You’ve probably heard of “Dry January” or are even participating yourself. More and more people seem to be experimenting with or embracing sobriety from alcohol, but what benefits are there from abstaining? In this article, we’ll explore alcohol’s effects on mental health, the symptoms of alcohol use disorder (AUD), and the benefits of cutting back on drinking. Alcohol's Effects on Mental Health Commonly consumed as a way to relax after a long day or to lighten up in social interactions, alcohol is a widely used and culturally accepted drug despite warnings of its dangers by health experts . When a person regularly drinks, it can result in a slew of complications for their physical and mental health. Although often consumed in an attempt to escape stress, sadness, or other unpleasant emotions, alcohol itself is a depressant that can contribute to negative feelings and exacerbate existing mental health conditions, especially with prolonged use. Alcohol influences thoughts, mood, and behaviors by impacting the central nervous system in a way that slows the communication between the brain and the body. Without the ability to process information effectively, the brain isn't able to regulate emotions and consider consequences effectively which may promote unhealthy behaviors, including drinking to excess. Ways that alcohol can affect cognitive functioning include: Lowering inhibitions Contributing to poor judgment Causing confusion Causing lapses in memory Disrupting sleep Contributing to shifts in mood Alcohol and Mental Disorders According to the Journal of the American Medical Association, 37% of people with alcohol use disorders also have at least one serious mental illness. Furthermore, alcohol abuse commonly occurs alongside depression and anxiety . Research has shown that those with major depressive disorder and those with generalized anxiety disorder were more likely to report life‐time moderate to severe alcohol use disorder than those without these conditions. Frequently, individuals struggling with depression or anxiety self-medicate by drinking alcohol. Although alcohol may provide temporary relief, it expends the chemicals in the brain which help ward off anxiety and depression. When the initial effects of the drug fade, individuals are typically left feeling more depressed or anxious than they did before they began drinking. Related: Eating Disorders, Substance Abuse, and Substance Abuse Disorders Alcohol Use and Depression The slowed functioning of the brain caused by alcohol can allow individuals to numb to their suffering. As such, those experiencing depression may be inclined to drink to avoid the sadness, pain, and hopelessness associated with depression. This maladaptive coping behavior is so prevalent that research shows a clear relationship between alcohol use disorder (AUD) and major depression. Using alcohol while depressed can be extremely dangerous. Not only can alcohol negatively interact with antidepressants, but it can also place individuals experiencing depression at an increased risk for suicidal thoughts and behavior . If you're experiencing suicidal thoughts or behaviors , you can reach the National Suicide Prevention Hotline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255). Alcohol Use and Anxiety According to a study on anxiety and AUD , a person with an anxiety disorder is two to three times more likely to develop an alcohol abuse disorder. When individuals with anxiety drink alcohol, they may feel an initial alleviation of their symptoms as well as a sense of euphoria. However, the symptoms of hangovers and alcohol withdrawal following heavy drinking can heighten feelings of anxiousness and interfere with ones daily obligations, contributing to even more agitation. This feeling of dread and anxiety associated with a hangover is commonly referred to as " hangxiety ," but for those with existing anxiety conditions, this side effect of drinking can feel unbearable. Individuals with anxiety may be driven to drink more to tamper their stress and re-establish the sense of euphoria, resulting in a dangerous cycle of alcohol abuse. Unhealthy Drinking Behaviors and Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD) Most who regularly drink alcohol don't have AUD, which develops when addiction is present. However, alcohol-related side-effects on mental health are still common, and they may still benefit from mental health support . Signs of unhealthy alcohol use include: Feeling a need to consume alcohol to make it through the day Feeling unable to stop consuming alcohol Progressively feeling a need to increase consumption of alcohol Drinking to prevent or alleviate symptoms of hangover or withdrawal Feeling ashamed of ones alcohol consumption Having loved ones express concern over drinking habits AUD is a condition that is often driven by genetics, abuse, trauma, or unhealthy family dynamics. Healing from AUD is possible and it can be treated with the help of mental health professionals and a dedicated treatment plan. Signs of AUD include: Alcohol use that interferes with the ability to carry out daily activities Drinking despite the behaviors adverse effects on their life Often drinking more or for a longer period of time than intended Persistent desire and unsuccessful attempts to curb alcohol use Revolving their schedule around drinking Experiencing strong cravings for alcohol Continuing to drink despite experiencing recurring illness or social issues as a result of alcohol use Giving up activities one used to enjoy in favor of drinking Using alcohol during situations where its physically hazardous to be impaired Continuing to use alcohol despite knowing that it exacerbates a known existing health condition Developing a tolerance for alcohol, or needing more alcohol to feel the same effects Experiencing alcohol withdrawal or drinking more to avoid withdrawal What are the Mental Health Benefits of Going Sober or Drinking Less Alcohol? Reducing or eliminating your alcohol consumption can lead to a variety of mental health benefits, improving your overall quality of life. When going sober or cutting back on your alcohol consumption, some of the benefits you can look forward to are: Improved mood stability, including reduced feelings of depression and anxiety Improved sleep quality Enhanced cognitive function Increased energy levels Improved concentration and productivity Increased self-esteem More authentic social interactions Improved relationships Limiting your alcohol consumption has the capability to change your life for the better, as it can help you establish a healthier mental environment, build better connections, and improve your physical health. Support for Alcohol Abuse and its Mental Health Impacts As humans, it can be uncomfortable for us to process difficult experiences and feel intense emotions. Therapy can help heal the source of your struggles driving alcohol abuse, while also guiding you in implementing healthy strategies for processing painful emotions. Through professional mental health support, you can be empowered to embrace life without having to rely on alcohol. Thrive offers outpatient therapy for substance abuse struggles in addition to other mental and behavioral health conditions. Reach out to learn more. Additional Resources SAMHSAs National Helpline : A free, confidential, and 24/7 service for individuals and families facing mental health conditions and/or substance use disorders, reachable by calling 1-800-662-HELP (4357) or texting 435748 (HELP4U). National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholisms (NIAAA) Treatment for Alcohol Problems : A guide for individuals and their loved ones who are looking for options to address struggles with alcohol use.