Perinatal MentalHealth

Perinatal mental health generally refers to the emotional well-being of women during pregnancy and the postpartum period. It encompasses a range of issues including prenatal depression, postpartum depression, anxiety, and perinatal loss. The mental health of the father or partner/other parent is also important during this time. Common mental health concerns for the second parent may include depression, anxiety, and adjustment difficulties related to fatherhood/parenthood. Supportive interventions, such as therapy, peer support groups, and parenting education, can promote mental health and resilience for individuals and families during the perinatal period. Treating mental health of all parents’ issues is imperative.

At Reach Life, Dr Sabrina Pozzi-Langhi takes a keen interest in perinatal mental health. Alongside her work here, she extends her expertise to King Edward’s, treating mental health concerns of women attending there. Dr. Pozzi-Langhi is also authorised to write mental health care plans (MHCPs) for parents seeking individual therapy support before or after birth. Additionally, many of our therapists share a dedicated interest in this area, including Stephanie Johnson, Tahnee Witt, Shane Pasco (specifically focusing on fathers), Surita Stipp, Catherine Yates, Rachel Batten, Tania Bartnett, and Naomi Weir.

Can I bring my baby to therapy?

YES. We are happy for you to bring your baby to therapy. Consider what will be best for you in the therapy session and discuss it with your therapist. We can absolutely accommodate babies and we don’t want this to be a barrier to you getting help. If you and your therapist find that bringing your baby along is really impacting in an unhelpful way, then you can have a discussion and work out how to make the most out of therapy sessions. We are happy to get creative with how we work!

Discover perinatal mental health counselling services in Perth, Joondalup, and Osborne Park, with Reach Life. Our dedicated therapists are here to support you every step of the way on your journey to maternal and paternal wellbeing.