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Mother-Baby Interaction Therapy via MommaConnect: Strategies to Translate a Face-to-Face Intervention to a Digital Healthcare Platform
Abstract   Peer reviewed

Mother-Baby Interaction Therapy via MommaConnect: Strategies to Translate a Face-to-Face Intervention to a Digital Healthcare Platform

June Andrews Horowitz, Bobbie Posmontier, Pamela A Geller, Mary Rose McDonough, Mona Elgohail, Kayla Alvares, Yiqi Wang, Karie Chang and Tony Ma
Nursing research (New York), v 75(3), pp E50-E50
May 2026
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1097/NNR.0000000000000903#page=E50

Abstract

Background: Postpartum depression (PPD) affects up to 20% of women worldwide and often disrupts the mother-infant relationship, contributing to long-term developmental challenges among children. Although PPD treatment reduces depressive symptoms, it may not repair disrupted maternal-infant interactions. Mother- Baby Interaction Therapy (MBI) enhances these interactions by helping mothers recognize infant cues, reduce intrusive or withdrawn behaviors, and build sensitivity and responsiveness. We adapted the in-person MBI for MommaConnect, a clinician- directed digital platform that augments psychotherapy, expands access, visually reinforces baby cues and behaviors, and enables mother-infant interaction video uploads for review and coaching with the clinician. Theoretical Framework: The PRECEDE-PROCEED Model is a comprehensive planning and theoretical framework that incorporates epidemiological, environmental, behavioral, and social factors systematically to design, implement, and evaluate health promotion programs. As such, PRECEDE-PROCEED is a highly effective framework for addressing complex and significant public health concerns like PPD and its adverse health effects such as impaired maternal-infant interaction. Methods: Guided by the PRECEDE-PROCEED Model, we evaluated outcomes through qualitative feedback, findings from Coding Interactive Behavior (a validated observer-rated system for coding video-recorded interactions), the Maternal Postnatal Attachment Scale, and the System Usability Scale. Translation strategies included co-creation with mothers who experienced PPD through focus groups, iterative usability testing, and continuous evaluation of feasibility and acceptability. Results: Preliminary results show high acceptability, usability, and feasibility. Mothers value visual examples of infant cues and the ability to upload videos for feedback. Early findings indicate that digital MBI delivery via MommaConnect holds promise for replicating and augmenting the therapeutic components of in- person sessions, while enhancing convenience and engagement. Conclusions and Implications: MommaConnect offers an innovative, accessible approach to integrate MBI with psychotherapy for PPD and improve the quality of mother-infant interaction. Its digital adaptation may expand access and reach, reduce barriers to care, and inform the broader translation of evidence-based behavioral interventions into scalable, technology-enabled formats. Continued MommaConnect development will evaluate clinical outcomes and benefits for maternal-child mental health.

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