Perinatal Mental Health Psychologist

The perinatal period refers to the time from conception to the end of the first postnatal year. While this can be a joyful stage of life, it is also a time of significant change. Many parents experience
adjustment difficulties while others may struggle with anxiety, low mood, or trauma associated with pregnancy, birth, or the transition period. In Australia, one in five mothers and one in ten partners experience perinatal depression and/or anxiety.

Perinatal mental health psychologists focus on emotional wellbeing during pregnancy and the year following birth. It includes a wide range of experiences such as:

– Feeling low or depressed
– Persistent or overwhelming anxiety
– Challenges bonding with your baby
– Relationship stress during the transition to parenthood
– Grief and loss, including miscarriage or fertility struggles
– Adjustment to parenthood

What Can Impact Perinatal Mental Health?

Perinatal mental health can be influenced by a combination of emotional, physical, and social factors. The transition to parenthood is often accompanied by major life changes and increased
demands. Common contributing factors include:

– Biological and hormonal changes: Fluctuations in hormones during and after pregnancy can affect mood and energy levels.
– Sleep deprivation and physical recovery: Fatigue, pain, or complications after birth can make coping more difficult.
– Psychological factors: A history of mental health difficulties, perfectionism, or unrealistic expectations of parenthood can increase vulnerability.
– Social and relationship stressors: Changes in relationships, lack of support, or conflict with a partner or family can heighten emotional distress.
– Practical and financial stressors: The costs and lifestyle adjustments of raising a baby can add significant stress.
– Trauma and loss: Experiences such as miscarriage, fertility challenges, or a traumatic birth can deeply impact emotional wellbeing.

How We Support you at Rose Park Psychology

We offer evidence-based therapy tailored to your age, needs, and experience of the perinatal period. Our approach focuses on helping you reduce distress and build confidence in managing
everyday life.
– Cognitive Behavioural Therapy  – helps identify and reframe unhelpful beliefs
– Acceptance Commitment Therapy  – Encourages flexibility in how you relate to thoughts and supports you to live in line with your values
– Psychoeducation – Understanding your mind and body in the perinatal context and helps reduce shame and empowers change.

Resources

For more information about perinatal health and practical resources, you may like to explore:
– Perinatal Anxiety and Depression Australia (PANDA)
– Centre of Perinatal Excellence (COPE)
– Raising Children Network

Book a session today

Managing the perinatal period can feel exhausting and isolating, but you don’t have to face it alone. Our team is here to provide guidance, therapy, and support.

Our psychologist, who have completed extra training in this field, who takes referrals is Mia Habel 

Call our friendly admin team or book an appointment online to connect with a perinatal-informed psychologist. Contact us by email

We offer in-person or telehealth sessions to provide flexibility to families.