Counselling in Pregnancy

Treatment of mental health concerns in pregnancy leads to better outcomes in birth and postpartum.

Pregnancy counselling can help you to feel;

  • confident to manage pregnancy-related stress, uncertainty, and emotional changes

  • prepared for the emotional and psychological adjustment to having a baby

  • engaged with your baby through understanding attachment and bonding opportunities in pregnancy

  • equipped for better communication and relationship skills with partners and support people during this significant life transition

  • confident that fears about labour, birth, parenting, or infant wellbeing have been processed and addressed in a safe, supportive environment

  • capable with emotional regulation skills to better manage the challenges of the postpartum period

  • prepared through developing an individualised wellbeing plan for the postpartum period

  • informed about the demands of early parenthood and the associated adjustments in identity, relationships and lifestyle

  • supported for decisions about mental health treatment, medication, and self-care during pregnancy

Pregnancy counselling provides an opportunity to address unresolved grief, stress or worry. You may benefit from perinatal psychotherapy in pregnancy if you are experiencing any of;

  • symptoms of anxiety, ambivalence (adjustment difficulties), or depression.

  • trauma background that could be activated through birth, medical intervention, or demands of caring for a baby.

  • stress in your relationship, financial situation or general overwhelm

  • neurodivergence whether formally assessed or not, you can be supported to develop plans that cater for your specific preferences in birth and postpartum.

  • recent loss / grief that may impact on baby-bonding and overall wellbeing in the future.

  • chronic health conditions that are additional complications.

  • expecting multiples as this is a factor for increased likelihood of postpartum challenges.

Perinatal psychologists treat the relationship between infant and parent as part of therapy and this can begin in pregnancy.