Why Perinatal Psychotherapy?

The perinatal period is generally defined as the time including pregnancy and 12 months after childbirth.

Perinatal psychotherapy is helpful for any woman experiencing difficulties around issues of reproduction.

For many women, pregnancy and motherhood are times of joy and emotional well-being.

However, this is not true for every woman.

For women, the questions around reproduction are rarely straightforward and often challenging. The myriad and significant changes brought on by pregnancy and motherhood can be troubling, difficult or overwhelming. Miscarriage or perinatal death can be devastating experiences. The crisis of an unwanted pregnancy can be traumatising.

For expectant and new mothers, the perinatal period brings significant transformation: physical and biological changes; increased responsibilities; major adjustments in living patterns as well as changes in feelings, identity and role. While these transitions can offer opportunity for positive personal growth, they can also leave a woman feeling more vulnerable physically and mentally.

Psychotherapy is helpful for pregnant women, expectant and new mothers who find themselves in distress, in crisis or experiencing troubling thoughts, feelings and behaviours.

As psychotherapy provides psychological support without prescribing medication, it can be the preferred therapeutic choice for women experiencing perinatal mental health difficulties. If a woman is on prescribed medication, psychotherapy can provide additional psychological support.

I have experience working with women around issues of pregnancy and childbirth, including:

  • the decision to become pregnant
  • infertility/miscarriage
  • termination
  • antenatal & postnatal depression, anxiety and OCD
  • PTSD & working through traumatic pregnancy/birth experiences
  • perinatal death 
  • single parenting
  • transitions in lifestyle & identity
  • balancing work & family life

How Much Does It Cost?

An initial 20 min phone consultation is free of charge.

Subsequent sessions are €70.00.

Missed appointments or appointments cancelled without 48 hours notice will be charged full rate.

 

Please call me at 087 984 5997 or email me at elinpayne@yahoo.com to arrange a free initial consultation.

Your call and any communication will be confidential.