Complex Conversations: Using Compassionate Communication in Perinatal Care
Dr. Christiane Manzella and OB‑GYN Dr. Babalola Jinadu join Mom and Mind with Dr. Kat to share how clinicians can navigate difficult conversations with empathy, clarity, and lasting impact.
In Episode 435 of Mom and Mind, “Complex Conversations: Using Compassionate Communication in Perinatal Care,” Dr. Manzella (Seleni Senior Psychologist) and Dr. Jinadu (Seleni Advisory Board Member) break down the high‑stakes emotional work of delivering life‑changing news with clarity, empathy, and respect.
From the Podcast
Perinatal loss and trauma aren’t just medical events. They’re deeply human experiences. What providers say in those pivotal moments shapes not only patient understanding, but also emotional recovery. Trust, tone, and presence can be as critical as the medical facts themselves.
The episode highlights how rapport isn’t a nice‑to‑have; it's essential, especially when grief overrides information. Connection becomes medicine.
From the psychologist’s chair — Dr. Manzella underscores how even when delivering devastating news, the provider’s presence, tone, and care can shape healing or deepen harm.
From the OB‑GYN perspective — Dr. Jinadu shares his dual role and responsibility in delivering both life‑affirming and tragic news, emphasizing that empathy and clarity remain constants.
Building trust matters — Building rapport is a clinical necessity when emotions override comprehension.
If your training has left you feeling unprepared for difficult encounters, this episode gives you a roadmap to stay human, stay present, and honor that patient or parent as a person, not just a case.
Why It Matters to Our Community
Listen to the episode. Reflect on how you show up in moments that change everything. Then take one step (whether it’s a pause, a phrase, or a shift in tone) that builds trust when it matters most.
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Related Training Opportunity
This episode draws on Seleni’s Complex Conversations in Healthcare course, which provides evidence-based frameworks for delivering sensitive or complex information to patients.
Designed for clinicians, mental health professionals, and support staff, the course offers 2 hours of CE/CME credit and practical tools to maintain trust, navigate difficult news, and support both patient and provider well-being. It equips participants to approach conversations around grief, trauma, and loss with intentionality, empathy, and care.
