Roseman University’s EMPOWERED Program Expands to Northern Nevada to Support Pregnant and New Mothers Using Opioids and Stimulants

RENO, Nev. – August 13, 2024 – Roseman University College of Medicine’s EMPOWERED program is now providing essential services to pregnant and new mothers with opioid and stimulant use disorders in Reno, Carson City, and Churchill and Lyon counties. The expansion of the Las Vegas-based program into Northern Nevada was made possible by an $894,497 grant from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), facilitated by the Nevada Department of Health and Human Services.

The EMPOWERED program offers a range of wrap-around services to help clients in their recovery, including connection to medical and substance use treatment, access to community resources, educational services, advocacy, counseling, peer support, and essential supplies for both mothers and babies.

“Since 2018, EMPOWERED has significantly impacted the lives of hundreds of individuals in Southern Nevada, aiding their recovery and stabilization, and helping them achieve resiliency” said Andria Peterson, PharmD, EMPOWERED’s executive director and co-founder. “With our expansion to Northern Nevada, we have extended our reach in the state to support even more families in need. This is crucial, as drug overdose remains the leading cause of maternal mortality in Nevada, as highlighted by the Nevada Maternal Mortality and Severe Maternal Morbidity Report.”

The Northern Nevada branch of EMPOWERED operates from offices in Reno and Carson City, staffed by a dedicated team that includes a licensed clinical social worker, a program care manager, and peer recovery support specialists. The team provides non-judgmental support for pregnant individuals and new mothers, regardless of their stage in recovery. “Our mission is to guide them through their recovery, prepare them for childbirth, and help them thrive as caregivers,” added Peterson.

EMPOWERED’s services are available without the need for insurance or referrals. For more information, visit empoweredmoms.org.

“If you are pregnant, have recently had a baby, and are using opioids or stimulants for any reason, we are here to support you,” said Peterson.

About EMPOWERED

Established in Las Vegas in 2018, the EMPOWERED program at Roseman University College of Medicine provides vital resources and support to pregnant and postpartum mothers recovering from substance use disorders, primarily focusing on opioids and stimulants. EMPOWERED connects clients to medical treatment, counseling, peer support, community resources, housing, education, and basic living supplies. The program has recently expanded to serve Northern Nevada, including Reno, Carson City, Churchill and Lyon counties.

The “EMPOWERED Voices: Recovery to Resiliency” podcast sheds light on the challenges and triumphs of families navigating substance use during and after pregnancy. Through compelling stories, expert insights, and practical guidance, the series aims to foster understanding, compassion, and support. Each episode is designed to promote empathy, break down stigmas, and encourage healing within families and communities.

For more information about EMPOWERED, visit empoweredmoms.org.