From conception to the first few years of parenting

The time in our lives when we start to think about having a baby is often a time of huge adjustment. Many parents or expectant parents report that it can be rewarding, exciting and full of joy and at the same time, anxiety-provoking, difficult and stressful! These kinds of mixed feelings are really normal. For some, difficult thoughts and feelings start to interfere with daily life and regular activities.

Is it just me or is it normal to feel this way?

It can be hard to know if what you are feeling is normal or whether it’s worth reaching out for more support. If you have periods of anxiety, low mood, overwhelm or distress that last longer than a couple of weeks and start to interrupt your daily life, then it is probably a good time to seek help.

Studies have shown that depression affects up to one in ten women during pregnancy and up to one in five women postnatally. There is less research with fathers, but studies indicate that up to one in ten fathers are affected by depression in the perinatal period. Perinatal anxiety is also extremely common, with research indicating that one in five women are affected.

Jacqui specialises in supporting individuals and families navigating the complex emotions and challenges that can arise during the perinatal period. This time can bring a range of experiences, from anxiety and depression to adjusting to the transformative journey of pregnancy, birth, and becoming a parent.

She provides a compassionate space for those facing grief and loss, traumatic birth experiences, and difficulties with infertility or assisted reproductive technologies (ART). Jacqui also focuses on fostering healthy bonding between parents and their babies, offering effective parenting strategies to ease the transition into parenthood. Additionally, she addresses relationship strains or changes that may occur during this significant life stage, helping clients find understanding and connection.