Natalie Skowlund
Natalie Skowlund(she/her/hers)
News Reporter, Phoenix

Natalie Skowlund expects to graduate in December 2022 with a master’s degree in mass communication. Skowlund, a Southwest Health Reporting Fellow, has bilingual experience in audio and digital reporting with News21 and the Grants Pass Daily Courier in Oregon.

Latest from Natalie Skowlund

Statewide hotline to support mental health during and after pregnancy

TUCSON – A hotline expected to launch next spring seeks to help improve access to information and treatment options for perinatal mental health.

Allison, who asked that only her first name be used because of concerns about mental health stigma, sits in front of her home in Tucson on Nov. 3, 2022. Diagnosed with bipolar disorder at age 18, Allison sought help from a perinatal psychiatrist when she decided to start a family. A new statewide hotline aims to help more people like her. (Photo by Laura Bargfeld/Cronkite News)

Arizona taking steps to combat maternal mortality, one doula at a time

TEMPE – A new doula advisory committee in Arizona is developing certification procedures for the nonmedical labor professionals. It will bring the state one step closer to increasing access to doulas – who, research shows, can help prevent pregnancy-associated deaths.

Latisa Ratliff holds her daughter in her living room in Tempe, Arizona, on Nov. 16, 2022. As a birth doula and a mother of three, Ratliff encourages her clients to find a health care provider who listens to their individual needs. “Listen to that mother’s intuition,” Ratliff says. (Photo by Laura Bargfeld/Cronkite News)

Boys & Girls Clubs in metro Phoenix are helping youngsters access mental health services

The pandemic had devastating consequences for the mental health of many Americans. For youth the impact was particularly striking. Children who attend Boys & Girls Clubs in the Phoenix area often face disproportionate barriers to mental health care, from transportation and cost to cultural stigma.


Healing through culture: Increasing access to Native American practices to treat mental health

HOUCK – Traditional healing has always been a part of Indigenous culture, and it’s especially useful for treating mental health. But access often is limited. Arizona and other states are seeking authorization from the federal government to cover these services under Medicaid.

Wayne Wilson stands in a hogan at the Native American Baha’i Institute in Houck, Arizona, on Sept. 1, 2022. He is holding eagle feathers that he uses in traditional healing ceremonies. (Photo by Laura Bargfeld/Cronkite News)