Perinatal Mental Health
Perinatal Mental Health is a topic that Vicky is hugely passionate about. Being a parent can be a rewarding, but it is a huge life transition. A lot of parents feel pressure to feel that this is a joyous time, and suffer in silence.
One in five people struggle with their mental health in the perinatal period. Support in the right place at the right time can make a huge difference to you and your family.
Vicky works in the NHS as a Specialist Perinatal Clinical Psychologist. She is passionate about supporting people and families through pregnancy and parenthood.
You might be impacted by the following:
- Attachment difficulties
- Antenatal and postnatal anxiety
- Antenatal and postnatal depression
- Maternal obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD)
- Perinatal loss
- Difficulties arising from your own experience of giving birth
- A fear of giving birth
- Relationship struggles
- Baby bonding
- The transition to parenthood
- Struggles with identity
- Strong and overwhelming emotions
- Trauma (including birth trauma)
Attachment and Trauma Informed Therapy
You might be struggling to develop the bond you had hoped you would form with your baby, or feel so anxious that it is hard to just enjoy your little one. The perinatal period can put a spotlight on your own experiences of being parented, and your relationship with your baby. Therapy in the perinatal period has to be attachment and trauma informed, helping you think about this in relation to your baby. With the right support, parents can develop a wonderful bond with their little one.
Therapy Specific to Perinatal Mental Health
The perinatal period comes with specific challenges, meaning therapy needs to be adapted. You might be experiencing a loss of identity, a lack of sleep, or difficulties in feeding. You might have had a traumatic birth experience, or find yourself disagreeing with other family members about the best way to parent your baby. So many of these issues are unique to this period of your life, which is why having perinatal specific therapy is helpful.
Connecting With Other Support
Many practical challenges can arise during this period, including loneliness and a lack of practical support. Vicky has a knowledge of the different charities and services that can offer support and help for families in the perinatal period, and can support you through this process. She also has knowledge of the NHS services available, and can direct you towards these if it is something that she feels will help you.
Struggling to find the clarity you need? Get in touch.