Perinatal Psychiatry | Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center
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Welcome to TTUHSC Perinatal Psychiatry Program

Approximately 1 in 5 women experience mental health conditions during the perinatal period—the time shortly before, during, and after pregnancy.

Untreated perinatal mental health conditions remain among the leading causes of pregnancy-related deaths in the U.S. They also affect infant development and family dynamics. Early identification, treatment, and strong collaboration between psychiatric specialists and primary care clinicians improve outcomes for mothers, babies, and families.

Optimal mental health is essential for physical health and overall well-being. Every woman deserves comprehensive mental wellness, and effective treatments are available to support recovery and well-being for both mother and child.

Supporting the Whole Person

At our Perinatal Clinic, we understand that a healthy mother requires attention to both mental and physical well-being. Supporting the whole person during pregnancy and the postpartum period is essential for a positive outcome. Our psychiatrists are medical doctors who provide thorough medical and psychiatric evaluations and can offer tailored treatment plans—including medication when appropriate. Every woman deserves compassionate support and effective mental health care to help her thrive during this important time.

Our Two Key Services

1) In-Person Perinatal Psychiatry Clinic (Lubbock)

We provide comprehensive psychiatric evaluations, treatment, and stabilization or continuity of care for individuals locally. Our clinic offers personalized care plans including education and medication management. We follow a shared care model, collaborating closely with your primary clinicians (PCPs, OBs) and therapists to ensure coordinated support throughout the perinatal period. Telehealth visits may be available depending on clinical appropriateness.

2) Perinatal Psychiatry Access Network (PeriPAN) — Statewide Consultation Service

PeriPAN is a state-funded, clinician-to-clinician consultation program designed to support healthcare professionals across Texas who care for pregnant and postpartum patients. It offers real-time access to perinatal psychiatry experts for peer-to-peer phone consultations, diagnostic guidance, personalized referrals, and behavioral health continuing medical education (CME) opportunities. When appropriate, PeriPAN psychiatrists can recommend and provide free, one-time telepsychiatry consultations directly with patients to clarify diagnosis and next steps in care. 

Service

In-Person Perinatal Psychiatry Clinic (Lubbock)

Perinatal Psychiatry Access Network (PeriPAN)-Statewide

Who It's For

Patients in and around Lubbock

Texas clinicians caring for pregnant and postpartum patients, including OB/GYNs, pediatricians, family practice clinicians, psychiatrists, psychologists, midwives, primary care physicians, nurses, and others

Type of Service

Comprehensive psychiatric evaluation, treatment, and continuity of care

Clinician-to-clinician phone consultations with access to a perinatal psychiatrist within 30 minutes. Also offers direct patient telepsychiatry consultations (one-time and by the psychiatrists recommendation only) to clarify diagnosis and treatment plans. Resource and referral information being provided to the treating physician to assist in the patient's care.

Referral Process

Referral from PCP, OB/GYN, or other clinician required.

Clinician-initiated only (no patient self-referral). Clinicians call or text (no PHI can be sent through text) PeriPAN to start consultation.

Can Patients Self-Refer?

No

No – service is for clinicians only

Care Format

In-person evaluation and ongoing care; telehealth follow-up visits may be available after initial visit

Phone consultations and one-time patient telepsychiatry consultations

Cost

Varies depending on insurance coverage

No cost to clinicians or patients — state-funded

Collaboration Model

Shared care model collaborating with PCP, OB/GYN, therapists, and other providers

Texas clinicians caring for pregnant and postpartum patients, including OB/GYNs, pediatricians, family practice clinicians, psychiatrists, psychologists, midwives, primary care physicians, nurses, and others. Services are based on a collaborative care model.

Contact Information

TTUHSC Perinatal Psychiatry Clinic Phone: 806-743-2800

PeriPAN Phone for Providers: 1-888-901-2726 (Option 4 → Option 1)
PeriPAN text for Providers: 806-599-5581

Email:
PeriPAN@ttuhsc.edu

 

Additional Services and Resources for Patients and Families

 

Resources

988 logo

National Suicide Prevention Lifeline Call or text 988

If you are in crisis and one of the following applies to you:

  • You feel you are in immediate danger of harming yourself.
  • You feel you are in immediate danger of harming someone else.
  • You have recently been assaulted or had a traumatic experience.

Please do one of the following:

  • Call 911 – you will be connected with the police who can help you get emergency services.
  • Call the StarCare Crisis Team 806.740.1414.
  • Go to your local emergency room.
National Rehab Hotline logo
National Rehab Hotline

Most hotlines are available 24-7, and calls are always confidential, so you can feel comfortable sharing the things you worry would change the way your family and friends see you. For many people, making this call is the first step in their journey to taking control of their mental health struggles and finding what they need to experience the happiness they deserve.To view more available crisis lines click here.