Kristina’s journey into maternal mental health advocacy was profoundly shaped by her personal experience with postpartum psychosis (PPP), a condition that unexpectedly altered the course of her life and career. Her compelling story is a testament to resilience, compassion, and the unwavering commitment to supporting perinatal mental wellness.

After the birth of her second child, Kristina encountered an unforeseen episode of postpartum psychosis, despite having no prior history of mental health disorders. This harrowing experience, marked by hallucinations, delusions, and a distorted sense of reality, and an urge to take her own life underscored the urgent need for awareness and support surrounding perinatal mental health. It was her husband, also a healthcare professional, who recognized the severity of her condition and facilitated the emergency care that ultimately led to her successful treatment.

Kristina is a national Maternal Mental Health Hero 2024 recipient from the Policy Center for Maternal Mental Health. Recognized as a Community Hero from WJHL and ABC Trinities. She received the Health Care Heroes Award in 2022, was named 40 under 40 by the Business Journal in 2019, and has appeared on Dr. Phil to raise awareness about PPP. She currently lives in TN with her family and works to make the world a safer place for pregnant and postpartum moms.