ARMC Employee Recognized For Work on Maternal Depression

COLTON>> Arrowhead Regional Medical Center Clinical Social Worker Kendra Flores-Carter was recognized for her work assisting women who are experiencing postpartum depression. Following an examination of evidence-based research, Carter developed and implemented a highly successful therapeutic support group for women experiencing symptoms of PPD. “I am honored to receive this award,” Carter said, who has been working at ARMC since 2007. “I learned through my research that one in seven women will experience PPD after giving birth and women who experience PPD are often stigmatized and can feel shame and embarrassment." “When I started this program about a year ago, it was just me providing the maternal depression educational materials to my patients, but now our whole team provides this education to our patients,” she added. Carter’s innovative efforts to educate and raise awareness also extend to collaborating with the San Bernardino County Maternal Mental Health Work Group and Children’s Network as a means to build and strengthen relationships with community partners. “Kendra truly embodies and carries out the mission of ARMC and the Countywide Vision, on a daily basis, as she conducts assessments, provides counseling and offers valuable education and resources for our patients, their families and our community,” said ARMC Director William Gilbert. “We believe that ARMC can serve as a model hospital for this type of education.” Carter, who has a bachelor’s degree in psychology, obtained her master’s in Social Work from California State University, Long Beach in 2007. She is currently working toward her Doctor of Social Work through the University of Tennessee and is expected to earn her doctorate in 2017.