Kimberly Fabian

This is a beautiful and digestible book that covers so many of the important topics in the field of perinatal and infant mental health. Dra. Velasquez does an incredible job of weaving anti-oppressive principles into all aspects of clinical practice. This book covers the basics of perinatal and infant mental health, reflective practice, assessments, relationship building, parental reflective capacity, play-based approaches, and transitions out of care - concrete guidance and considerations for practice are provided in each chapter. All throughout, Dra. Velasquez incorporates how clinicians can bring cultural humility, anti-oppressive theory, critique of dominant lens, and a relational, whole-person, healing-centered worldview to this work. Dra. Velasquez provides an incredible balance of referencing key components of the Western mental health framework (attachment theory, diagnostic manuals, screening tools, play therapy), while also illuminating the ways in which these tools are built on dominant ways of thinking, and providing ways to better incorporate them within an anti-oppressive practice. Case examples of diverse families are referenced throughout, which helps bring this book to life, and each chapter also includes reflective questions, which provides the reader with a reflective and active experience. The book also provides several resources, including a Wellness Plan template and Cultural Humility toolkit. All in the all, this book is simply an incredible reference guide for every perinatal/infant mental health clinician - whether you are just getting started or are looking to more deeply incorporate an anti-oppressive lens into your practice!