Family Transitions
I am a perinatal counsellor and coach in Brentwood Bay, BC, Canada. I provide specific emotional, informational and, upon request, physical support to women and men for the stages of pregnancy, labour and birth and postpartum.
All stages of the perinatal year have their own unique set of emotional triggers, and each family has its own unique set of responses. These responses are created by past experiences, internalized messages received throughout life, and expectations.
Role expectations, spousal expectations, cultural expectations (specially if you are pregnant, birthing or parenting in a culture other than your own!), peer pressure, pregnancy after stillbirth or miscarriage, a previous traumatic birth or unexpected outcome, past or present abuse, one's own childhood and many more factors emotionally affect pregnancy, labour, birth and parenting, often regardless of "knowing better".
The vicious cycle of pain and fear can hinder your enjoyment of pregnancy, your well-being during pregnancy, the relationship with your partner, labour and delivery, and the bond with your baby. I apply my training and skills to offer emotional counselling and informational support to assist you and your family through these major transitions and into parenthood.
I have a background in family systems counselling, hold a BA degree in creative arts therapy and have worked with new parents and babies for 18 years. All this means that I am skilled and experienced in working with people going through major family changes, and facilitating a smooth transition. I can also function as a facilitator when your needs and your partner's needs or decisions around perinatal care seem incompatible. You would then both meet with me, whether together or individually in order to find a balance that works for both of you.
Disclaimer: I do NOT, under any circumstances, offer primary care. I do not replace your medical caregiver(s) in any way.