Annually, the Perinatal Mental Health Conference brings together the people working every day to support Montana moms, babies, and families. For the past two years, we’ve included coloring pages in our conference materials, inviting participants to color and reflect as they learn. Looking back at some of the completed pages, we’re reminded that each person contributes something unique. Individually, every page tells a different story. Together, they create a complex tapestry that reflects the many perspectives, lived experiences, and strengths needed to support Montana’s perinatal population.
This year, we were honored to welcome over 200 attendees to Billings, representing 10 states, 48 communities, 23 Montana counties, and six Tribal Nations and Reservations. From behavioral health providers and nurses to doulas, home visitors, public health professionals, educators, and nonprofit leaders, the conference brought together people from every corner of Montana’s perinatal system of care.
More than 40% of attendees joined us for the first time. Moving the conference to Billings helped us reach new communities, and we were grateful to welcome so many new faces alongside familiar ones.
Beyond the presentations, what stood out most was the sense of connection. Conversations continued between sessions, new relationships formed, and colleagues took time to learn from one another. We celebrated strong representation from Indigenous communities throughout the conference, which centered conversations around culturally safe care and Indigenous birthwork.
We’re already looking ahead to our milestone 10th Annual Perinatal Mental Health Conference, and we hope you’ll join us as we continue learning, growing, and strengthening the network of people supporting Montana families. We look forward to celebrating a decade of growth and change in the Montana perinatal landscape and remain committed to caring for the caregivers and incorporating the thoughtful feedback we’ve received along the way.
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- Marcy Hanson
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- Leigh Wagner
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- April Quinlan
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- Stephanie and Julianne
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- Indigenous Birthworkers
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- Team HMHB
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- Julianne Denny
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- Washington Attendees
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- Stephanie Morton
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- Mary Collins
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- Doulas and Birthworkers
Thank you to everyone who attended, presented, exhibited, sponsored, or volunteered. Your willingness to share your knowledge, experiences, and time is what makes this conference so special. Like the tapestry created by the coloring pages, our work is strongest when many unique voices and perspectives come together in support of Montana families.
 
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