ChildSavers is offering virtual and in-person therapy for pregnant and postpartum individuals through a new pilot program, It Takes a Village, in partnership with the Virginia Health Care Foundation.The initiative, funded by the VHCF and the General Assembly through the 2025 Momnibus package, aims to expand access to maternal mental health services across the Commonwealth at low or no cost. Untreated maternal mental health conditions can lead to poor outcomes, including maternal mortality, particularly for Black, Indigenous and other people of color, who face heightened health disparities. According to the Virginia Department of Health, pregnancy-associated deaths by suicide have been rising in recent years, while only 53% of women were screened for depression or anxiety in the 12 months before pregnancy. The VHCF reports that one in eight mothers in Virginia experience maternal mental health conditions. 

Stephanie Hammerk, program supervisor for outpatient services at ChildSavers, said the program addresses a critical need. 

“By serving the birthing person, we not only have the opportunity to support positive change for the individual, but also for their baby and their partners, which makes the potential for positive change grow exponentially,” she said. 

Pregnant and postpartum adults can connect with therapists for telehealth or in-person sessions by visiting ChildSavers’ website or by calling (804) 644-9590. Referrals and service requests can also be submitted online. For more information, visit childsavers.org and vhcf.org.