Frequently Asked Questions (Postnatal & Parenting Support)
1. What makes a good therapist for parents?
Someone who understands that becoming a parent can turn your whole world upside down, emotionally, physically, and mentally. A good therapist listens without judgement, gets the messy, honest reality of parenthood, and makes you feel safe enough to show up exactly as you are… whether that’s calm, frazzled, tearful, or running on 3 hours of sleep.
2. How do I know if postnatal counselling could help me?
If you’re feeling overwhelmed, anxious, low, lost, or like you “should be coping better,” counselling can give you space to breathe and feel supported. Many parents come because they don’t feel like themselves, feel guilty for struggling, or are carrying birth experiences that still sit heavy.
3. What happens in the first session?
It’s a gentle conversation, nothing intense or pressured. We will complete an assessment form to gain some background information and we’ll talk about how things have been since your baby arrived, how you’re feeling in yourself, and what support might help. You can share as much or as little as you want. You’re in charge.
4. Can I bring my baby?
Yes, but you may find it distracting, and you may not be able to engage in the session fully.
5. I’m worried you’ll think I’m not coping, is that normal?
So normal. Many parents keep a brave face on the outside while struggling inside. Counselling isn’t about judging your parenting, it’s about supporting you so you feel more grounded, steady, and understood
6. Will counselling help with birth trauma or a difficult pregnancy?
It can. Many parents find it helpful to talk through birth experiences that were frightening, disappointing, or simply not what they expected. You can explore it at your pace, with no pressure to “move on” before you’re ready. Some parents want to go through the story; others just want to explore how it’s affecting them now. There’s no right or wrong way. We take it gently.
7. Is everything confidential?
Yes, privacy is really important. There are just a few safety exceptions (which I’ll explain clearly), but otherwise what you share stays between us.
8. What if I get emotional?
Honestly? That’s completely okay. Parenthood is raw and vulnerable enough without pretending everything’s fine. Tears, anger, frustration, numbness, whatever you’re feeling is welcome. This is a space where you don’t have to hold it together.
9. Can counselling help with intrusive thoughts or constant worry?
Yes. Many new parents experience scary “what if” thoughts or feel on edge all the time. It’s much more common than people talk about. You can share anything here without judgement, and we’ll work through it at a pace that feels safe.
10. What if I’m struggling with bonding?
It’s more common than people admit. There’s no pressure to feel a certain way at a certain time. You can talk about your experience honestly here, without shame, and we can work together to understand what’s going on underneath.
11. How soon after having a baby can I start counselling?
Whenever you feel ready. Some parents come within weeks because they’re struggling emotionally; others come months or a year later when things catch up with them. There’s no right time ,only the time that feels right for you.
12. Will you give me advice?
My role isn’t to tell you what to do but to help you understand what you’re feeling, why it might be showing up, and what you need. You’re the expert on your life, I’m here to support you and help you make sense of things.
13. How long will I need counselling for?
There’s no set number. Some people come for a handful of sessions, others stay longer because they find the space helpful. We’ll check in regularly so you always feel in control of how things are going.
14. Do I need to be a new parent to work with you?
Not at all. Many of my clients are parents of older children. If you’re struggling with anxiety, low mood, or feeling overwhelmed, you’re welcome here.
15. How do online sessions work?
We meet via Goggle Meet. I email you a link which you click on to connect. You just need a private space and a stable internet connection. Most people find online therapy surprisingly personal and easier to fit around family life.