Service
Perinatal Mental Health
For mothers navigating pregnancy, the early years, and the enormous identity shift that comes with them.
Becoming a mother is one of the most profound transformations a human being can experience. The fact that billions of women have done it does not make your version of it any less disorienting, any less lonely, or any less worthy of care.
Perinatal mental health is the mental health of women during pregnancy and the first year or two after birth — but in our experience, the “perinatal period” can quietly stretch much longer. The woman you used to be has not simply been put on hold. She is being reassembled, and that takes time.
Safe Refuge is one of very few counselling practices in the Adelaide Hills with an explicit perinatal focus. Aana is herself a mother of young children and understands the particular loneliness of the early years in a small town where everyone else seems to be coping.
You do not need to be in crisis to come. You do not need to meet the diagnostic threshold for postnatal depression. If you are struggling, that is reason enough.
In Session
What We Help With
- Postnatal anxiety and depression
- Birth trauma and debriefing
- Pregnancy loss, miscarriage, and stillbirth
- The identity shift of motherhood
- Loss of self, career, or community
- Difficulty bonding with your baby
- Intrusive thoughts in the perinatal period
- Returning to work after maternity leave
Our Approach
Why Safe Refuge
Mothers in the Adelaide Hills have very few places to turn for specialised perinatal support. The nearest perinatal psychologist is often months away on a waiting list. At Safe Refuge we can usually offer you an appointment within the week.
We can see you during nap time. We are comfortable with babies in the room. We understand that some weeks you will need a quiet space for yourself, and other weeks you will need to bring the baby with you. Both are welcome.
Take the Next Step
Book a Discovery Call
A short, free conversation to explore what is troubling you and whether Safe Refuge is the right next step. No referral, no diagnosis, no pressure.