The goal of Kaiser Permanente’s Early Start is to help you have a healthy pregnancy and a healthy baby

The goal of Early Start is to help you have a healthy pregnancy and a healthy baby.

Early Start counselors provide one-on-one education, support, and resources tailored to fit each patient’s individual needs. Patients are eligible for the program based on their lab results, their screening questionnaires or by direct referral from their medical care provider. Some patients are seen only once, while others continue to receive support throughout their pregnancy. The appointment times typically range from 30-60 minutes. The pregnancy counselors share prenatal and postpartum support resources in addition to reviewing the questionnaire about substance use before pregnancy.

The Early Start Program is an example of Kaiser Permanente’s holistic approach to health and wellness and is an important part of your comprehensive prenatal care.

Next: Meet Our Specialists

Meet Our Specialists

Early Start specialists provide one-on-one education, support, and resources tailored to fit each patient’s individual needs. Topics covered in Early Start appointments may include the importance of avoiding alcohol, tobacco, and other drugs as well as general pregnancy information, Kaiser Permanente classes, stress reduction techniques, pregnancy leave information, and mother/baby resources. For the patient’s convenience, Early Start appointments are available via Video Visit or in person.

» Meet your local Early Start specialists

Next: Helpful Resources

Resources

Next: Contact Us

The Early Start Regional Team

Carley Castellanos, LMFT, Regional Director
Deborah Ansley, MD, Medical Director
Elizabeth Schlein, LMFT, Clinical Lead
Karis Coleman, Program Manager
Allison Ettenger, Managerial Consultant
Linda Ely, Managerial Consultant
Journie Hurley, Department Secretary

Contact Us

For questions about the Early Start Program, send us a quick message: