Counselling therapy for
Perinatal & Reproductive Mental Health
You deserve support.
First, a couple of definitions.
“Perinatal” means the space surrounding conception, pregnancy, birth, and the early years of parenthood. This is a period of significant transformation, shifting identity, growth, and conscious surrender. If you are finding this phase of life confronting, know that you are not alone.
“Reproductive” in this context, means the journey through challenges originating from the menstrual cycle, chronic health concerns like endometriosis and poly-cystic ovarian syndrome, uncertainty about whether you would like children, fertility challenges, and everything that comes with having a womb.
How do I know if perinatal or reproductive counselling would benefit me?
Working with a counsellor may be especially healing and supportive if…
—You’ve been experiencing health challenges such as endometriosis or PCOS and the associated impact on your life.
—You may be courageously trying again after loss, or feeling challenged by the changes and sensations in your body.
—You may be finding it more difficult than you thought to connect with the new life growing inside, or to accept the way your own independence is starting to shift.
—You may be navigating an unexpected fertility journey, or facing expectations from family, friends, or society.
—You are experiencing pressure to move on from your loss, and feeling alone as you walk this path.
—You are feeling disconnected, scared, isolated, or sad that this experience isn’t what you thought it would be.
—You would like to deepen your connection to yourself and the life you hope to grow, or are already growing, inside you.
All genders are welcome to inquire about this therapeutic focus.
How can I support you?
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Living with health issues often comes with both physical and emotional pain. It can feel isolating, scary, and hopeless at times. Endometriosis and Poly Cystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS), are two are examples of conditions in the reproductive health world that can be so difficult to navigate alone. For mental health support for these conditions and others, book a consultation call to get started today.
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There are so many feelings that go hand in hand with the journey to start or continue your family. Each one of them deserves space and acknowledgement. Having dedicated therapeutic time to explore the complexities of this life stage can reduce anxieties, cultivate clarity, and nurture an even deeper relationship to yourself and others.
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There are very few helpful words others can say when you go through a loss, but it can help to feel that you are not alone. The counselling relationship can offer a safe container to pour thoughts and feelings into, or we can use the time to gently tune into the mind and body to offer nourishment and gentleness.
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Symptoms of anxiety and depression can present at any stage, from early on in the fertility journey, through pregnancy, birth, and beyond. Big feelings and mood swings are common for periods of time, but prolonged discomfort from these symptoms may necessitate support from a counsellor and/or your doctor.
There should be no shame when it comes to these and other mental health struggles during the perinatal phase, but we often feel that shame anyway. It can be hard to connect with your child (whether in utero or postpartum) and added pressure can also impact close relationships with partners and loved ones.
There are often hormonal and/or situational factors that may contribute to perinatal anxiety and depression. We're learning more and more about these challenges all the time. Know that you are not alone, and you are not to blame. Postpartum Support International shares that, "Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders have been identified in women of every culture, age, income level and ethnicity." (FACT SHEET).
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Exploring options for support is an excellent place to start. Your partner may or may not feel ready to begin working with a counsellor or other support person, and that's okay. The feelings that come with struggling with perinatal anxiety and/or depression are strong and overwhelming. It may stake very small steps to move in the direction of support and recovery.
Encourage them to share their thoughts and feelings with you. What's going on inside their head may catch you off guard, bring up fears, or bring up judgements, but do your best to listen and support without judgement. No one wants to be feeling or thinking this way, and it is more likely than not a temporary experience.
Food, sleep, and water are key.
Encourage your loved one to be open their their doctors/midwives/care team about what is going on.
Explore these resources:
*Please note: If you have concerns about their immediate safety or the safety of your child, please reach out to emergency services.
I’m here for you.
No matter what you are feeling at this time, counselling can provide a non-judgemental, trusting, and supportive space to release and process.
I believe wholeheartedly in seeking support for both the mind and the body during this powerful time of life.
Would you like some additional support on your journey?
How do I begin?
First
Book a Free Consultation
I offer free 15-20 minute consultation calls for us to meet and see if it’s the right fit. I will answer your questions and invite you to share a little about what brings you to counselling at this point.
Second
Book Your First Session
If you’re feeling confident about working together, you are welcome to jump to this step and book a full session. Use my booking page to find a time that works for you. You are welcome to get in touch directly for help with booking. I will often have some availability that isn’t shown on the calendar.
Third
Whether you are interested in working together in the short-term (3-12 sessions), or the long term (1+years), it all begins at the same place. My goal is to offer you a warm, compassionate space that is all your own. Giving yourself this time to express, reflect, and process is a beautiful gift, and I am honoured to support you on your journey.
The Journey Begins
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Counselling offered by RCC’s (Registered Clinical Counsellors) is recognized by many Extended Health Benefit plans. Check your insurance package for details about the type of coverage you have. After each session you will receive a receipt which includes my license number. These can be submitted to your benefits company and they will reimburse if applicable.
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This will depend on your unique needs regarding mental health concerns, scheduling, and budget for counselling therapy. It can be helpful to schedule sessions on a weekly or biweekly basis in the beginning to develop the relationship and create a solid foundation for our work together. That said, booking every three to four weeks is also welcome. Working in a way that is comfortable and accessible to you is the priority. I would be happy to further explore what works best for you in a free 20-minute consultation call.
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Time and again research has shown us that one of the most important predictors of success in counselling is the connection and rapport built between client and therapist. Beyond any particular methodology or tool used in session, if you feel safe, heard, and respected, these are the qualities that lay the groundwork for positive change.
I encourage you to explore my website and if the words on these pages resonate, book a free initial meeting by phone or video. You’ll be able to ask questions and get a better sense of my energy and personality. I look forward to hearing from you.
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I offer all sessions online/virtually using the secure Jane platform.
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Sessions
Full Hour - 60 Minutes | $160
One Hour & Fifteen- 75 Minutes | $180
One Hour and a Half - 90 Minutes | $200
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My lower costs spaces are currently full, but please use the sign up box below to add yourself to the waitlist. I would love to work with you soon.
Frequently asked questions
Please note, there is currently no waitlist for regular fee counselling sessions.
From the Journal
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