HP206: Perinatal Mental Health in the NICU

Level: Intermediate
Duration: 2 hours
Assessment: MCQs, T/F
Chapters: 4

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This module aims to improve learner's ability to navigate the unique clinical, emotional, and relational complexities of working with families in neonatal intensive care (NICU) and special care nursery (SCN) settings. Through a focus on trauma-informed, culturally safe, and reflective practice, participants will learn to recognise distress, make appropriate referrals, and support parental agency and infant wellbeing in highly charged hospital environments.

Clinical and emotional complexities of working with families in NICU & SCN settings
Role of the MH clincians and the other members of the NICU & SCN care team
Nature of referrals to the mental health professionals when baby is in the NICU & SCN
Reflective practice skills to enhance clinical insight into common process issues and relational dynamics in the NICU & SCN
Consideration for the therapeutic frame in the NICU & SCN
Cultural safety, trauma-informed care, neuroaffirming, and inclusive practices to support NICU & SCN clients and their infants

Why this module is helpful

Key module information

This module is designed for qualified mental health professionals working in perinatal, primary, or mental health care settings. It assumes a solid working knowledge of healthcare practice, including familiarity with clinical communication, risk identification, and multidisciplinary care pathways.

While prior training in perinatal mental health is not required, a professional background in healthcare is essential to fully engage with the course content and assessment.

This course requires unique learner registration, and all assessment completions are recorded under the learner’s name. Certificates are automatically generated and include the learner’s full name, completion date, and assessment outcome.

To support and assess your learning we conduct assessments throughout the module using a combination of multiple-choice and true/false questions. These assessments are directly mapped to the module's learning objectives and are designed to reinforce key concepts and clinical applications. A minimum score of 80% is required to successfully complete each assessment. Participants are provided with up to three attempts to achieve the required pass mark before progressing to the next section of the module.

Gidget Foundation Australia
ABN 85 138 981 253
www.gidgetfoundation.org.au

Module Version: 1.0HP206
Date Published: January 2026

Review Date: January 2027

This microcredential is a professional development course. It is not part of the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) and Gidget Foundation Australia is not a Registered Training Organisation (RTO).

The module is designed to support evidence-based learning and skill development for qualified health professionals and may contribute to continuing professional development (CPD) requirements under relevant professional registration boards.

Gidget Training Institute is an initiative of Gidget Foundation Australia. We aim to provide evidence-based clinical services and resources to prevent, support and treat perinatal mental health challenges impacting new, expectant and potential parents.

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HP206: Perinatal Mental Health in the NICU

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What does this course cover?

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Why this module is helpful

Key module information

Prerequisites

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Assessments of Learning

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Accreditation Statement

Gidget Foundation Australia