Perinatal Counselling
What Is Perinatal Counselling?
Perinatal mental health counselling is specialized support for individuals experiencing emotional or psychological challenges during pregnancy, birth, or the early stages of parenthood. This period, often called the "perinatal phase," can bring a range of emotions, both joyful and often challenging or distressing. Leah is a certified doula and clinical counsellor that offers a safe space to address these feelings and navigate this life-changing experience with guidance and care.
How Does It Work?
Leah’s approach is gentle, non-judgmental, and tailored to your specific needs. Leah offers customized individual sessions for you to safely address your concerns. During these sessions, you’ll explore your feelings, develop coping strategies, and work through any difficult emotions. Whether you're dealing with anxiety, depression, relational challenges or simply the pressures of new parenthood, Leah is here to help you understand your emotions and build resilience. Leah understands the need for flexibility during this time of life and practices a “babies welcome” policy during counselling sessions.
What Can It Help With?
Perinatal counselling can help with a wide range of challenges including:
Postpartum depression
Anxiety and panic attacks
Birth trauma
Relationship stress or changes
Perinatal OCD (obsessive-compulsive disorder)
Adjustment to parenting
Grief and loss
Pregnancy and early-stage parenting can feel very isolating, especially when you are experiencing difficulties. You don’t have to go through this experience alone.
What Changes Do Clients See/Feel?
Clients often report feeling more in control of their emotions, better able to manage stress, and a stronger sense of connection to themselves and their families. Leah helps clients to develop more self-compassion and confidence as parents. By the end of their sessions, Leah’s goal is for clients to experience a renewed sense of hope, clarity, and emotional balance.
How We're Different
At Aluma Counselling we understand that perinatal mental health isn't just about "feeling sad"—it's about the complex emotional shifts that can come with major life changes.
Leah brings a deep personal and professional understanding of perinatal challenges and tailors each session to your unique experiences. Leah’s perspective is holistic person-centred designed to support you so that you aren’t just “getting through it” but feel empowered to thrive during this time of your life.
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Leah will meet with you and conduct an initial intake to get a full understanding of the challenges you face today and explore some of your history. She will share her feedback and expertise with you and describe how she understands your challenges through her lens and also where she sees your strengths. Together, you will develop a plan to move closer to your wellbeing goals.
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Yes, Leah offers flexible online counselling for your convenience. Whether you're at home or need support between feeds, you can access her virtually or by phone, allowing you to receive care no matter your location.
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Parenting is an amazing journey, but it isn’t easy! Going through this stage of life without support can be extremely challenging. If you're feeling isolated, overwhelmed, anxious, or experiencing emotional struggles that are affecting your well-being or your ability to enjoy parenthood, perinatal counselling may be helpful for you. It's ideal for anyone going through pregnancy, childbirth, or the early stages of parenthood who feels they could benefit from additional emotional support.
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Finding support can be daunting, but getting started is simple! Book yourself into a free consultation to get a feel for what it is like to work with her. If you decide the fit is right for you, Leah will guide you through next steps to get started on your support plan.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are We Right For You?
If you're feeling unsure, that’s okay! We understand that seeking help during such an intimate and challenging time can feel overwhelming.
Leah is here to answer any questions, provide clarity, and help you decide if perinatal mental health counselling is right for you. Whether you're struggling with specific issues or simply need a safe space to talk, we're here to help you navigate the emotional complexities of this important life stage.
Reach out today to see how we can work together for your well-being.
Ready to Start Your Journey?
If you're ready to explore how perinatal counselling can help you, book your free consultation. We’re here to support you every step of the way, ensuring you get the care and understanding you deserve.