Perinatal Mental Health & Family Support
Professional Occupational Therapy for Parents and Families
Supporting Your Mental Wellbeing Through Parenthood
The journey to parenthood and early family life can bring unexpected emotional challenges. At Lifeworks Occupational Therapy, we provide experienced mental health support for parents and families during the perinatal period and beyond. Our approach focuses on practical strategies to help you thrive in your parenting journey while maintaining your mental wellbeing.
Who We Support
Expectant parents preparing for the emotional transition to parenthood
Parents experiencing perinatal mental health challenges, including:
Perinatal anxiety and depression
Postnatal OCD
Postpartum psychosis
Perinatal adjustment disorders
Parents adjusting to life with a newborn or young children
Individuals managing pre-existing mental health conditions during parenthood
Parents returning to work or study
Families navigating relationship changes and new dynamics
Parents with complex health needs
Rainbow families and diverse family structures
Single parents seeking additional support
Our Comprehensive Support Services
Evidence-based strategies for managing perinatal mental health
Practical solutions for emotional wellbeing during parenthood
Support for parent-child bonding and attachment
Strategies for managing mental load and daily responsibilities
Family-sensitive approaches that consider all family members
Techniques for maintaining identity and self-care
Support for workplace transitions
Home environment optimisation
Sleep and fatigue management strategies
Stress reduction and mindfulness techniques
Our Approach to Care
We understand that every family’s journey is unique. Our occupational therapists provide:
Individualised assessment and goal setting
Practical, real-world solutions
Evidence-based interventions
Flexible delivery options (clinic, home visits, or telehealth)
Collaborative care with your existing healthcare team
Regular progress reviews and plan adjustments
What to Expect
Initial Consultation: We'll have an in-depth discussion about your current challenges, goals, and unique circumstances. This is your opportunity to share your story and concerns in a safe, supportive environment.
Comprehensive Assessment: Our skilled therapists will evaluate your daily routines, home environment, and specific needs. We'll look at factors like sleep patterns, stress levels, physical comfort, and your support network.
Tailored Intervention Plan: Together, we'll create a practical, achievable plan to address your priorities. This might include strategies for time management, self-care routines, ergonomic baby care techniques, or methods to enhance your emotional wellbeing.
Hands-On Support: We don't just offer advice – we're here to guide you through implementing changes. This could involve practising new techniques, modifying your home environment, or working through emotional challenges.
Ongoing Support and Adjustment: Regular sessions allow us to track your progress, celebrate successes, and make adjustments as your needs evolve. We're with you every step of the way on your motherhood journey.
Every parent deserves to feel supported, capable, and fulfilled. Let us help you unlock your potential and thrive in parenthood. Our occupational therapists are passionate about helping you to navigate the challenges of parenthood with confidence and joy.
Real-Life Examples: Supporting Mental Health in Parenthood
Wondering how this service can make a difference in your daily life?
Here are some examples of how we can help parents just like you:
Supporting a Parent with Anxiety
Alex struggled with perinatal anxiety and found daily tasks overwhelming. Our occupational therapist helped them:
- Develop a flexible daily schedule that included mindfulness breaks
- Create calming routines for both parent and baby
- Learn grounding techniques for anxious moments
- Build confidence in parenting abilities through structured activities
Managing Depression During Early Parenthood
Jordan was experiencing postnatal depression and struggling to engage with daily life. We supported them by:
- Incorporating meaningful activities into their daily routine
- Teaching energy management techniques
- Gradually rebuilding social connections
- Creating achievable self-care practices
Supporting Parents with Complex Health Needs
Charlie lives with bipolar disorder and multiple sclerosis, making the journey through early parenthood particularly challenging. Our occupational therapist helped them:
- Create an accessible nursery setup that accommodated mobility needs
- Develop energy management strategies that considered both physical limitations and mood fluctuations
- Implement adaptive parenting techniques using assistive equipment
- Coordinate care with their mental health team and physical disability supports
- Build confidence in parenting while managing complex health needs
- Establish routines that provided flexibility for varying energy levels and symptoms
Transitioning Back to Work
Sam was anxious about returning to work while managing their mental health. We helped by:
- Developing strategies for workplace stress management
- Creating routines that balanced work and family life
- Building confidence through gradual exposure
- Implementing relaxation practices for work-home transitions
Our Evidence-Based Approach
We use proven therapeutic techniques including:
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy principles
Mindfulness and relaxation strategies
Sensory modulation for emotional regulation
Activity scheduling and behavioural activation
Sleep hygiene and fatigue management
Environmental modifications for wellbeing
Funding Options
We understand that accessing support should be straightforward. We accept:
Medicare (with GP referral)
Private health insurance
NDIS funding
WorkCover claims
Self-funded clients
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes your perinatal mental health support different from other services?
Our occupational therapy approach offers unique value compared to other perinatal support services:Perinatal Mental Health OT vs Psychology/Counselling:
While psychologists and counsellors focus primarily on emotional processing and therapeutic conversations, we provide practical, hands-on strategies for managing daily life with mental health challenges
We help you apply coping strategies directly to real-world parenting situations
Our support extends beyond the therapy room into your home environment
Perinatal Mental Health OT vs Community Support Programs:
Community programs typically offer general advice and group support, whereas we provide personalised, one-on-one care tailored to your specific family situation
We work with you in your own environment, offering customised solutions for your unique circumstances
Our evidence-based interventions are adapted to suit your family’s specific needs and cultural background
Perinatal Mental Health OT vs Midwifery/Nursing Support:
While midwives and nurses focus on physical health and baby care, we address how mental health impacts your daily functioning and family dynamics
We help you adapt your environment and routines to support both your mental wellbeing and your family’s needs
Our scope includes helping you balance parenthood with other life roles, such as returning to work or maintaining relationships
Perinatal Mental Health OT vs Doula Services:
Doulas primarily offer emotional and physical support during pregnancy, birth, and early postpartum, while our services extend throughout the parenting journey
We provide therapeutic interventions for mental health challenges, not just emotional support and education
Our focus includes helping you maintain your identity and self-care routines alongside your parenting role
We often collaborate with these other services to provide comprehensive support. Many parents benefit from combining different types of support, and we’re happy to work alongside your existing healthcare team to ensure you receive well-rounded care that addresses all aspects of your perinatal mental health journey.
How long does support typically last?
The duration varies based on individual needs and goals. Some parents benefit from 6-8 sessions, while others may need longer-term support. We regularly review progress and adjust our approach to ensure you’re getting the most benefit from our service.Do you provide support for partners and other family members?
Yes, we take a family-sensitive approach that recognises the importance of supporting all family members. We can help partners and other family members understand and adapt to changes, and provide strategies for the whole family’s wellbeing.Can you help if I’m struggling to leave my home?
Absolutely. We offer flexible support options, including home visits and telehealth sessions. We’ll work at your pace to gradually build confidence and develop strategies that work for you.Is this service covered by Medicare or private health insurance?
We accept various funding options:Medicare (with eligible referrals)
Private health insurance
NDIS funding
WorkCover
Self-funding arrangements
What happens in the first session?
Your initial session focuses on understanding your unique situation and goals. We’ll discuss your current challenges, explore what matters most to you, and begin developing a personalised support plan. It’s a collaborative process where you can ask questions and share your concerns in a safe, non-judgmental space.I’m not sure if I need this type of support. Should I still reach out?
Yes, we encourage you to contact us for an initial discussion. Early support can prevent challenges from becoming overwhelming. We can help you determine if our service would be beneficial for your situation.Do you work with other healthcare providers?
Yes, we often collaborate with GPs, psychologists, child health nurses, and other healthcare professionals to ensure comprehensive care. With your consent, we can communicate with your existing healthcare team.
Ready to Take the First Step?
Your journey to confident, fulfilling parenthood starts here. Contact us to book an initial consultation and discover how our perinatal mental health support can help you and your family thrive.
Call us on (08) 7082 0622 or email reception@lifeworksot.com.au to get started.