Perinatal & Early Parenting Support

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The perinatal journey can be heavier than expected, but things begin to shift when you reach out for support.

The Bigger Picture

Becoming a parent is one of life’s biggest transitions. It’s where immense joy, responsibility and stress meet - and where mental health challenges like anxiety, depression or birth-related trauma can emerge. According to national screening data, many new parents experience mood and adjustment issues during pregnancy or within the first year after birth.

Getting early and evidence-based support makes a huge difference -for you, your baby, and your family’s long-term wellbeing.

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How we help

Comprehensive perinatal care

We offer a full suite of support through pregnancy, birth and postpartum including:

Mental health assessments tailored to perinatal stressors (sleep disruption, hormonal change, role shift, identity shift, fatigue, birth trauma)
Evidence-based therapies (e.g. structured psychological support, psychoeducation, therapy modalities adapted for perinatal period)
Parent-infant support and guidance for baby bonding, early parenting confidence and emotional support.
Flexibility: in-person or telehealth sessions depending on your needs and situation.

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Support for partners and families

We recognise perinatal mental health doesn’t just affect birthing parents. We offer care and support for partners, non-birthing parents and other family caregivers — because transition to parenthood changes lives for everyone involved.

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Aligned with best practice

Our perinatal services follow the latest national guidelines on perinatal mental health and psychosocial care. We assess and monitor risk, track outcomes thoughtfully, and integrate support with broader life and parenting needs.

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How Therapy Helps

Therapy isn’t about “just talking.” It’s a proven tool for real change in emotions, thinking and daily functioning. Good therapy helps by:
At our practice, therapy is tailored to your situation. That means you are treated as a whole person - not a case - with respect for your experience, background and current pressures.

Reducing symptoms of anxiety, depression, stress or trauma, and improving overall mental wellbeing. Many people who enter psychotherapy show significant improvements in mood and daily functioning.
Helping people understand and reshape unhelpful thought patterns, build healthier coping strategies and respond more effectively to life’s pressures.
Improving relationships, communication, self-esteem and resilience, which helps individuals navigate major life transitions - like becoming a parent or dealing with change- more confidently.
Reducing long-term risks: when clients stick with therapy and follow agreed plans, evidence shows lasting effects, not just short-term relief.
Offering access to specialised, clinically informed care - especially valuable during major transitions or periods of vulnerability (like perinatal stages), when standard life or medical support may miss the deeper emotional or psychological factors.

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At Unbound Minds, therapy is always tailored to your individual situation. That means, you're treated as a whole person - not a case - with respect to your experience, background and current pressures.

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Your Questions, Answered.

If you’re exploring perinatal support for the first time, it’s completely normal to have questions. Here are answers to the things parents and parents-to-be ask us most often.

What can therapy help with during pregnancy or early parenthood

Therapy supports you through the emotional, hormonal and identity changes that come with pregnancy, birth and life with a new baby. Many parents experience anxiety, low mood, overwhelm, intrusive thoughts, birth-related trauma or difficulty adjusting to the demands of caring for a newborn. Therapy provides a safe space to unpack what feels heavy, develop coping strategies and strengthen your ability to navigate this stage with confidence and clarity.

Do I need to be experiencing a crisis to seek perinatal support

Not at all. Perinatal therapy is just as valuable for early challenges as it is for more significant symptoms. Many people seek support because they feel “not like themselves,” are struggling with sleep, emotional swings, relationship changes or decision fatigue. Getting help early often prevents small issues from becoming bigger ones and improves overall wellbeing for both you and your baby.

Can partners or non-birthing parents also attend therapy

Yes. The transition to parenthood impacts everyone in the family, not just the birthing parent. Partners often face their own pressures — supporting the pregnancy, adjusting to changing routines, managing work demands and navigating new responsibilities. We offer therapy for partners and co-parents so the whole family feels supported.

Is telehealth an option if I am recovering, breastfeeding or caring for a newborn

Absolutely. Many parents find telehealth the most practical option during pregnancy and postpartum. You can access support from home without organising childcare, packing up the baby or dealing with travel. Our clinicians are experienced in delivering warm, effective perinatal therapy online.

What if I have a history of anxiety, depression or trauma

A previous mental health history can actually a reason to get support early - not a barrier. Our clinicians take the time to understand your history and create a plan tailored to you. We monitor risk carefully, ensure continuity of care and work collaboratively with your GP, obstetrician or midwife if needed. Many parents with previous challenges go on to have stable, healthy perinatal experiences with the right support around them.

Take TheFirst Step.

Becoming a parent is one of the biggest transitions you will ever experience. You do not need to carry it alone. Whether you are preparing for birth, adjusting to life with a newborn or navigating the emotional ups and downs of early parenthood, support can make this stage feel lighter and more manageable. Our perinatal clinicians are here to help you feel steady, supported and understood.

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Unbound Minds provides general mental health information and professional psychological services. This website is not a substitute for personalised medical or mental health advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you are in crisis or require urgent support, please contact Lifeline on 13 11 14 or seek help from your nearest emergency service.