top of page

New Mums & Dads


Bringing a new member to your family can bring the most exciting and happiest moments to treasure. It can also bring challenges to manage. Counselling and Psychotherapy can help identify what is really going on for you, and explore ways to help you cope better.Learning Mindfulness and Deep Relaxation techniques can help you cope better, both physically and emotionally.


Relationships between parents might be affected when a new bub arrives due to increased stress, feeling tired or overwhelmed, and adjusting to the changes that occur.  Understanding what is happening and exploring ways to help cope better might include learning about the way we communicate and our own part in relationships. This can lead to more fulfilling relationships with our children, as well as our partner. We might exploring unmet expectations of yourself, your new bub, the experience of being a new mum or dad, or your support system.


The focus is on improving your experience, the way you want to.



Getting to know Post Natal anxiety (PND) and Depression

  • The "Baby blues" usually lasts 3-10 days. If symptoms last longer PND might be developing.
  • Symptoms of the Baby Blues include. teary, feeling anxious, moody.
  • PND develops between the first month and one year after giving birth
  • PND and the "Baby Blues" occur due to physical change such as changes in hormones.
  • Fathers of the new born can also develop PND.
  • New mums or dads who have depression in their family, or have experienced it themselves, are more at risk of developing PND.

Some helpful hints 

  • Ask and\or accept help from family and friends
  • Talk to a GP.
  • Be kind to yourself.
  • Resist comparing with others.
  • Find healthy ways to cope with stress, manage sleep and avoid overuse of drugs and alcohol.
  • The Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS) can help highlight any signs that PND might be developing. It is recommended to be with a health professional when used, but if used at home, a score of 10 or higher highlight the need to talk to your GP. This can found on sites such as  Black Dog Institute and COPE.
  • Dad stress can be measured on the Beyond Blue website.  https://healthyfamilies.beyondblue.org.au/pregnancy-and-new-parents/dadvice-for-new-dads
  • Be aware of your partners needs and how your actions or reactions are contributing to the relationship.
  • If you are feeling overwhelmed, make sure your baby is safe, take time out, ask for another adult to visit, and be kind to yourself.
  • Learning about your upbringing and experiences can help you be more aware of behaviours or patterns to continue or avoid. 

Contacts for support and Info






bottom of page