Introductory Certificate in Prenatal and Perinatal Psychology
via Distance Learning

For MA/PhD degrees in Prenatal and Perinatal Psychology via Distance Learning, see Professional Specialty Programs.

To view a brief video introduction to the PPN Distance learning certificate program by Dr. B.J. Lyman, program chair, click on her photo > Quicktime 2.2 MB Download

This Prenatal and Perinatal Certificate Program gives students a foundation in this leading edge field within the discipline of psychology. It is designed to meet the needs of professionals (childbirth educators, lactation consultants, parenting coaches, doulas, nurses, midwives, caseworkers, infant/child/family therapists, psychologists) and individuals interested in learning a more in-depth psychological perspective on the prenatal and perinatal human developmental period. Students will gain an understanding of theory and pivotal research in this field.

This Certificate is an 8.5-credit introductory-level offering in a Distance Learning format. It is made up of 5 of the graduate-level classes in the MA and PhD programs.

Program Length
This offering was created for those who need a flexible schedule. This Certificate can be completed in as little as 3-6 months, or spread over a number of academic quarters. Students are encouraged to complete the Certificate within two years.

Program Delivery
This certificate is offered entirely at a distance by having access to the internet anywhere in the world. Various courses are offered on a quarterly basis, beginning any quarter: July 1, October 1, January 1, and April 1. It is primarily self-paced and focuses on self-directed learning and individual study, yet students are part of an online community with supportive individual and shared pages and discussion forum, read more here.

Program Tuition – Again, students in the certificate earn graduate credit that could apply toward a Master’s  or Doctoral degree program at SBGI.  Tuition is $435 per unit for the 2007-2008 academic year and is adjusted annually. Call Dr. B.J. Lyman for details.

Course Descriptions

PPN 510 Introduction to Prenatal and Perinatal Psychology 
This course provides an introduction to the field of prenatal and perinatal psychology and psychotherapy. Students study the foundational premises and the historical bases for the discipline, as evolving from, and integrated within, the several traditional fields of psychology. Also covered are the biological basics and of the development of the senses, prenatal learning and memory, prenatal communication, and evidence for emotion, intelligence, personality and cultural influences.

PPN 515 Prenatal Experience I
Prenatal Experience I explores human experience from preconception through uterine implantation when the all–important relationship with the mother is first established. It examines the implications of the conception constellation and the conception journey for imprinting and the development of the authentic self. The course considers the range of prenatal influences from the most favorable to the most traumatic and discusses how prenatal and perinatal practitioners can intervene to optimize the well-being and health of the conceptus and family.

PPN 516 Prenatal Experience II 
Prenatal Experience II looks at the middle and late pregnancy period of development (up to birth). It covers what we know about optimal health for the prenate (neurophysiologically, emotionally, mentally) while at the same time examining risk factors (maternal use of alcohol/drugs, prematurity, etc.). How to screen for or identify potential problems will be reviewed as well as what steps can lead to interventions to avoid lifelong problems in the developing child. Discussed also are the adjustments that can be identified for the family in preparation for the new child.

PPN 615 Birth and Bonding I 
This 2-course series begins with an overview of what is a “normal birth.” The class includes a review of the distinct stages of birth, babies’, mothers’ and families’ roles in the birthing process psychologically and emotionally. Discussed also is what constitutes a healthy self–attachment just after birth. A brief history of birth as a rite of passage is included, including multicultural wisdom around birth. Birth is examined from a holistic philosophy, namely what needs to occur for mothers’ and babies’ physical, emotional, intellectual and spiritual wellbeing. Then examined are the contemporary models or methods of birth from home births with midwives to hospital births with multiple interventions.

PPN 616 Birth and Bonding II
This second in this 2–course series covers what has been shown to be the most important psychological process in the course of human life, namely, early bonding and attachment. This course focuses on how parents and newborns develop an emotional bond. It explores what enhances the bonding process, what hinders it and what methods help heal the trauma surrounding it. Also reviewed is research evidence that supports the neurobiology of attachment during this sensitive period, and the literature on the amazing abilities of the normal newborn.

Contact: B.J. Lyman, Ph.D., Prenatal & Perinatal Psychology Program Chair
bjlyman@sbgi.edu
(805) 963-6896

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