Diploma in Post-Partum Depression and Care

Motherhood is often described as a joyful journey, yet for many women it comes with silent struggles that remain hidden and untreated. Postpartum depression (PPD) affects millions of women worldwide, with far-reaching consequences for mothers, infants, and families.

The Diploma in Postpartum Depression and Care at the Chartered Institute of Counseling in Nigeria (CICN) is a specialized program designed to train professionals who can provide compassionate, informed, and culturally sensitive care for mothers experiencing postpartum depression and related conditions.

This diploma is the first of its kind in Nigeria, bridging counseling, maternal health, and family support to ensure holistic care for women during the perinatal and postnatal periods.

Why Choose the CICN Diploma in Postpartum Depression and Care?

While childbirth is celebrated, the emotional and psychological realities of mothers are often overlooked. Many women experience postpartum blues, depression, anxiety, or even postpartum psychosis, but stigma, lack of awareness, and cultural pressures prevent them from seeking help.

This diploma equips professionals with the tools to break the silence around maternal mental health, intervene effectively, and provide holistic support for mothers, fathers, and families adjusting to parenthood.

What You Will Learn

The program combines clinical knowledge with practical counseling skills in maternal mental health. Topics include:

  • Foundations of Maternal Mental Health – Understanding emotional well-being during pregnancy and after birth.
  • Postpartum Disorders – Distinguishing between baby blues, postpartum depression, postpartum anxiety, and postpartum psychosis.
  • Risk Factors & Early Detection – Identifying biological, psychological, and social triggers of maternal mental health challenges.
  • Assessment & Screening Tools – Using evidence-based tools to assess maternal mood and functioning.
  • Counseling & Therapeutic Interventions – CBT, interpersonal therapy, supportive counseling, and culturally appropriate methods.
  • Family & Partner Support – Engaging fathers, partners, and family systems in postpartum care.
  • Impact on Infant Development – Understanding how maternal mental health affects bonding, attachment, and child growth.
  • Community & Public Health Approaches – Reducing stigma and raising awareness of postpartum depression.
  • Emergency Interventions – Managing crisis cases such as suicidal ideation or postpartum psychosis.
  • Supervised Practicum – Gaining practical skills in maternal counseling and family-centered care.

Program Outcomes

By the end of the diploma, graduates will:

  • Understand the spectrum of postpartum mental health challenges.
  • Apply evidence-based interventions to support mothers and families.
  • Use screening tools to identify postpartum depression early.
  • Create culturally sensitive counseling frameworks for maternal care.
  • Collaborate with healthcare providers (OB-GYNs, midwives, pediatricians) for holistic support.
  • Advocate for maternal mental health awareness in communities and policy spaces.

Who Can Enroll?

This program is ideal for:

  • Aspiring counselors specializing in maternal and family mental health.
  • Healthcare professionals: midwives, nurses, OB-GYNs, pediatricians, and doulas.
  • NGO and community workers supporting mothers and infants.
  • Faith-based and community leaders providing care to families.

Anyone passionate about maternal well-being, parenting, and women’s mental health

Program Details

  • Duration: 12 months (on-campus and online learning available)
  • Certification: Diploma in Postpartum Depression and Care (Chartered Institute of Counseling in Nigeria)
  • Progression: Graduates may pursue Higher Diplomas or advanced studies in Clinical Counseling, Perinatal Mental Health, or Family Therapy.

Career Opportunities After Graduation

Graduates of this diploma will find opportunities in:

  • Maternal Mental Health Counseling Practice – providing direct support to mothers.
  • Hospitals & Clinics – working alongside medical teams in OB-GYN, maternity, and pediatric units.
  • NGOs & Community Organizations – supporting maternal and child health programs.
  • School & Family Counseling Centers – offering family-focused postpartum support.
  • Government & Public Health Agencies – developing maternal mental health initiatives and advocacy.

Private Practice – specializing in postpartum depression and family adjustment counseling.

Why CICN?

As Africa’s pioneering hub for professional counseling training and licensing, CICN is committed to addressing overlooked areas of mental health. Our Diploma in Postpartum Depression and Care is taught by a blend of mental health experts, maternal health specialists, and counseling professionals, ensuring a holistic, culturally aware approach.

At CICN, we don’t just teach postpartum counseling — we raise champions of maternal mental health who can transform lives, families, and generations.

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The Chartered Institute of Counseling in Nigeria is a reputable Counseling Institute, the first of its kind in Africa; affiliated with other professional educational Institutions, Associations, and bodies both in Nigeria and Internationally.

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