Postnatal Psychologist: Support for New Parents
Becoming a parent is a major life change, and it’s common to experience emotional ups and downs after having a baby. For some, these feelings can become overwhelming, leading to conditions like postnatal depression or anxiety. In Australia, postnatal psychologists offer specialised support to help new parents manage their mental health and adjust to the challenges of parenthood.
Table of Contents
What Is a Postnatal Psychologist?
A postnatal psychologist is a mental health professional trained to support mothers, fathers, and families during the first year after childbirth. They help with issues such as:
- Postnatal depression (PND) and anxiety
- Birth trauma and adjustment difficulties
- Grief and loss (including miscarriage or stillbirth)
- Parenting stress and changes in relationships
- Bonding and attachment with your baby
Common Issues Addressed by Postnatal Psychologists
Postnatal Depression & Anxiety: Feelings of sadness, worry, or hopelessness that last longer than two weeks after birth. These can affect your ability to care for yourself and your baby.
Birth Trauma: Emotional distress after a difficult or unexpected birth experience.
Adjustment to Parenthood: Struggles with identity, confidence, or relationship changes as you adapt to life with a new baby.
Grief & Loss: Coping with miscarriage, stillbirth, or the loss of a baby at any stage.
Parenting Stress: Feeling overwhelmed, exhausted, or isolated due to the demands of caring for a newborn
How Can a Postnatal Psychologist Help?
Assessment & Diagnosis: Understanding your symptoms and developing a treatment plan tailored to your needs.
Evidence-Based Therapy: Using approaches like Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT), mindfulness, and supportive counselling to help you manage symptoms and build coping skills.
Support for Couples & Families: Addressing relationship changes and supporting both parents through the transition to parenthood.
Telehealth & Online Counselling: Many psychologists offer online sessions, making it easier to access support from home, especially if travel or childcare is difficult.
How to Find a Postnatal Psychologist in Australia
Specialist Networks: The Antenatal & Postnatal Psychology Network and the Centre for Perinatal Psychology offer directories of experienced psychologists across Australia, with many providing telehealth services.
GP Referral: Speak to your GP about your concerns. They can refer you to a postnatal psychologist and help you access Medicare rebates for up to 10 sessions per year.
Helplines: PANDA (Perinatal Anxiety & Depression Australia) offers a free national helpline for parents and families needing support or referrals (call 1300 726 306)
When to Seek Help
If you notice ongoing feelings of sadness, anxiety, anger, or disconnection from your baby or loved ones, or if you’re struggling to cope day-to-day, reach out for support. Early help can make a big difference for you and your family.
If you or someone you know is having thoughts of self-harm or harming others, seek urgent help by calling Lifeline (13 11 14), your GP, or 000 in an emergency
Book a consultation with us today
Inclusive and Compassionate Care
Australian postnatal psychologists provide care that is compassionate, non-judgemental, and evidence-based. Many services are LGBTQIA+ inclusive and sensitive to diverse family structures and experiences.
You don’t have to face the challenges of new parenthood alone. With the right support from a postnatal psychologist, you can nurture your own wellbeing and give your baby the best possible start.