We know that birth is a big deal
At The Birth Counsel, we acknowledge the emotional impacts of being pregnant and having a baby. Research tells us that about a third of women come through these experiences feeling traumatised. Many, many women report that they, and their partners, are never given an opportunity to talk about what happens at birth. We give people the opportunity to have those conversations and to receive counselling & support from an experienced therapist, who also happens to be a midwife.
We acknowledge the emotional and psychological impacts of working up close to birth. Research tells us that the maternity care system is a challenging environment for midwives and doulas. And whilst they are very good at caring for others, it is not always clear where midwives and doulas can turn for help and support to meet their own needs. We give midwives and doulas the opportunity to talk, receive support and debrief difficult experiences with someone who understands the reality of their professions.
Our values
Diversity is to be celebrated and nurtured
“I have been lucky enough to work and play with a wonderfully diverse array of humans and this is reflected in the values of The Birth Counsel. In particular, we are a safe and supportive service for LGBTQI community.”
Every story is valid, real and important
“As a qualitative researcher, it is embedded in my professional DNA that every story, and every worldview, is valid and real. The Birth Counsel proactively explores your own unique way of seeing and experiencing the world.”
There is no one right way
“The approach of The Birth Counsel is focused on understanding what is valuable and meaningful for each individual. Ways of working are based on what is right for you. We make plans together and aim to work with high levels of transparency and flexibility.”
A compassionate approach
“Compassion plays a critical role in building relationships with ourselves and others. The Birth Counsel ethos is absolutely person centred and non-judgemental, and intended to provide practical, kind-hearted support.”
Evidence-based care
“As a midwife, evidence based care is business as usual. The work of The Birth Counsel is underpinned by current knowledge and research regarding trauma and traumatic stress, polyvagal theory, self-compassion and interpersonal neurobiology.”
