Perinatal Therapy
Our perinatal specialists, offer evidence based therapy during pregnancy and up to 24 months after birth. We understand the importance of supporting your mental health from conception to early years.
Why seek support?
Perinatal mental health (PMH) problems are those which occur during pregnancy or in the first year following the birth of a child. Perinatal mental illness affects up to 27% of new and expectant mums and covers a wide range of conditions.
If left untreated, mental health issues can have significant and long-lasting effects on the woman, the child, and the wider family. Specialist Perinatal practitioners can provide care and treatment for women with complex mental health needs and support the developing relationship between parent and baby. They also offer women with mental health needs advice for planning a pregnancy.
You are not alone—approximately 30,000 women each year experience birth trauma, which can lead to anxiety, depression, and symptoms of PTSD. Please reach out if you are seeking a compassionate and safe space to work through this.
How can therapy help?
Perinatal mental health problems can be brought on by factors such as traumatic pregnancy and childbirth, history of mental health problems, or lack of support. Therapy can help you gain perspective, work through any difficulties and draw upon the resources you have around you.
But, my healthcare professionals haven't mentioned any concerns
Perinatal mental health problems can sometimes go under the radar because of feelings of shame, embarrassment and fear of the consequences.
What can perinatal therapy help me with?
Many issues surrounding the wellness of mother and baby, as well as the father. Attachment, postnatal depression and PTSD following birth trauma are just some of the issues addressed in perinatal therapy
How many sessions will I need?
Therapy can be time limited and tailored to your individual needs and goals. The number of sessions will vary from person-to-person but 8, 16 or 24 sessions is typical. We also offer long-term therapy for anyone feeling the need for further support.
Who will I see?
Our registered and experienced perinatal mental health nurse and psychotherapist will offer you an initial assessment. You may continue to work with our nurse or in cases of infant loss or still births you may be seen by our trained, specialist psychotherapists.
What follow-up is needed?
You will usually be offered a follow-up appointment two to three months after your last session. This will give you the chance to review how things have gone for you after therapy has finished.
Unsure if perinatal therapy is for you? Talk to one of our experts.
Meet Our Experts
Gay Horvath
Perinatal Nurse and Psychotherpist
I am passionate about supporting women, and their partners if needed, who are struggling with mental health challenges during pregnancy or after the birth of their child. Parenthood is one of the most demanding jobs, but with effective support and treatment, the transition can become easier. This can help reduce feelings of shame and guilt. Birth trauma can have a significant impact on mental health and how you feel as a new parent. You are not alone—approximately 30,000 women each year experience birth trauma, which can lead to anxiety, depression, and symptoms of PTSD. Please reach out if you are seeking a compassionate and safe space to work through this.
Sidonie Herring
Accredited Infant and Still Birth Practitioner
Working with people that have experienced bereavements through miscarriage, still birth and infant loss is something I am passionate about. As a trained psychotherapist I work integratively to help you navigate the complexities of this grieving process. I understand the uniqueness of these experiences and offer a safe space to open up about your feelings.
Many people fail to get the support they need at this difficult time due to a focus on the physical recovery and medical interventions. Let me help you with your emotional recovery.
Rebecca Llewellyn
Sex and Relationship Therapist - Infant and still birth practitioner -
Birth trauma, miscarriages and infant loss can cause huge pressures in a relationship. The impact of these often the last thing on your mind is your sex life. I recognise the need for strength in a relationship and the importance of intimacy at this time. Some women may struggle physically to be intimate due to pain and often men can experience issues with erections and ejaculation following difficult experiences with conceiving, pregnancy and birth.
I can help you understand each other and work together to re-establish your relationship and a fulfilling sex life.
Your Journey Starts Here
Appointments available online or at our clinic
Or call — 01246 954005