All of You Matters
At the SSM Health Cardinal Glennon St. Louis Fetal Care Institute we know that there is more to you than just the physical health of you and your baby. The overall well-being and mental health of you, your family and your baby-to-be are all critical components of your overall health.
The All of You Matters program at the SSM Health Cardinal Glennon St. Louis Fetal Care Institute is here to support you through what can be a challenging time. The innovative program provides complimentary counseling and mental health support services to our mothers and their partners. It is not uncommon for women and/or their partners to experience anxiety or depression throughout pregnancy, especially when your unborn baby is facing a confusing or complicated diagnosis.
Based on the results of a standard screening tool, we may refer you to this complimentary program, which can help parents-to-be assess their mental health and moods and identify symptoms that might impair daily functioning. Patients and partners are also welcome to request this service if they think it would be helpful.
Through the program, Valerie Akerson, MSW, LCSW, helps patients learn how to identify and cope with stressful life situations, especially those that might involve grief, trauma or loss. Valerie will also teach patients strategies for mindfulness, self-care and empowerment. Sessions, which last 50 minutes, are confidential and available either in-person or via telehealth.
The program also offers quarterly education and support sessions focused on topics including how to talk with siblings, mindfulness and other techniques to use when confronting perinatal anxiety, grief and loss, and tips for preparing for a possible NICU stay.
The program is generously funded through a grant from the St. Louis-based The Saigh Foundation.
If You're Experiencing a Mental Health Crisis
If you have thoughts of hurting yourself or someone else, are hearing voices, or thinking, “what if I weren’t here anymore?” please get immediate help at your nearest emergency room or call the St. Louis Behavioral Health Response Crisis Line at 314-469-6644. If it is between the hours of 9 a.m. and 7 p.m. you can also visit the SSM Health Behavioral Health Urgent Care center at SSM Health DePaul Hospital.
Related Reading About Well-being & Mental Health
At the St. Louis Fetal Care Institute, we understand the stress that come with the diagnosis of a prenatal medical condition. We share these stories to offer comfort, hope, and inspiration from others who have been where you are. Know that you are not alone - our team is here to support your mental health and well-being every step of the way.