I've worked with a diverse range of individuals and families in various roles, including as an educator for 20 years. My qualifications include an M.A. in Cultural Studies, a Mindful Schools teaching qualification and NLP practitioner certification. I've also completed training at the Australian Doula College and Hypnobirthing International. I'm currently studying for my Postgraduate Diploma in Counselling to suppport my work in the area of perinatal counselling.
As a mum, I've experienced two births overseas, far from our support networks. Having faced many challenges during pregnancy and early parenting, I am now passionate about helping families to feel educated, informed and fully supported to have a positive experience, no matter where and how they decide to give birth. It's important that each decision and journey is respected, honoured and celebrated.
Perinatal stress can create high levels of anxiety and become overwhelming over time. However, medical interventions and emergencies don't always lead to trauma; it's often related to how safe and empowered a woman feels during her experience. When her voice is heard and she has the power of choice, it can encourage the natural process of trusting her own instincts, body and baby, enhancing her physical and mental health, and the wellbeing of the whole family.
My Story
Over the years I have developed a strengths-based approach centred on exploring the way our thoughts, beliefs, feelings, identity, relationships, experiences and environment influence our physical and emotional welbeing, both positively and negatively. My holistic practice involves sharing evidence-based information, self-care strategies, mindfulness activities and somatic techniques to promote awareness of the poweful mind - body connection, which can help to shift focus away from unhelpful stress and fear-based responses, and instead foster confidence when facing life's most challenging transitions.