How Can We Better Support Pregnant Women in Recovery? A Conversation With Michelle Gonzalez

In this episode of The Hanley Effect, we welcome Michelle Gonzalez, CEO of Healthy Mothers Healthy Babies (HMHB) of Palm Beach County. Michelle shares how HMHB provides critical resources, education, and support for pregnant women—regardless of income or background—helping ensure healthy births and stronger families.Joining the conversation is guest host Ali Jimenez, LMHC, NCC, CAP, Hanley Foundation’s VP of Program Development, who has been instrumental in launching Casa Flores, Hanley’s perinatal recovery program. Together, they discuss collaboration, community support, and breaking stigma for pregnant and postpartum women, especially those facing substance use disorders.Key Takeaways from This Episode:💜 The Mission of Healthy Mothers Healthy Babies:Serving 70% of pregnant women in Palm Beach County through education, care coordination, and maternal mental health support.Programs include teen mother mentoring, an infant pantry, peer support groups, and their culturally focused doula program.🤰 The Power of Doula Support in Recovery:Doulas provide physical, emotional, and informational support before, during, and after birth.Healthy Mothers Healthy Babies' specialized doula program trains and certifies women to assist mothers and at-risk populations.Now, Hanley Foundation’s Casa Flores program is offering doulas to every mom in treatment—a game-changer for recovery and bonding.👶 Centering Pregnancy: Changing Prenatal CareA group-based prenatal care model where 8-12 women meet with healthcare providers for two-hour visits rather than traditional short appointments.Encourages peer support, education, and improved birth outcomes (lower preterm birth rates, healthier babies).Hanley and HMHB discuss expanding these sessions to include mothers in recovery.🩵 Breaking Stigma & Encouraging Vulnerability:Many pregnant women struggling with substance use are afraid to ask for help due to stigma.HMHB staff build trusting relationships so women feel safe opening up about their struggles.The power of community support: "Every mom deserves to feel seen, supported, and valued."📞 Need Support?Healthy Mothers Healthy Babies: hmhbpbc.orgHanley Foundation: hanleyfoundation.org or call 844-502-4673