Perinatal & Postnatal Psychology | Support for New & Expecting Parents
Becoming a parent is one of life's most significant transitions — and for many people, it's also one of the most emotionally complex. Whether you're pregnant, newly postpartum, or navigating the challenges of early parenthood, it's common to experience a range of difficult feelings that go well beyond the ordinary stress of a new arrival.
At Inner Northern Psychology, we offer dedicated support for the perinatal period — the time spanning pregnancy through to the months and years after birth.
You don't have to just push through
Many parents feel pressure to appear coping, or worry that struggling means they're failing. In reality, perinatal mental health difficulties are very common and very treatable. Seeking support is a sign of strength — and the earlier you reach out, the more effective treatment tends to be.
What we can help with
We support parents experiencing:
Antenatal anxiety or depression during pregnancy
Postnatal depression and postnatal anxiety
Birth trauma and distressing birth experiences
Adjustment difficulties and shifts in identity
Relationship strain and changes in partnership dynamics
Grief following pregnancy loss or fertility challenges
Body image concerns during and after pregnancy
Carer stress and the emotional demands of caring for a newborn
Existential concerns about parenthood and life change
Our approach
Sessions are warm, collaborative, and tailored to where you are right now. We draw on evidence-based therapies including Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Compassion Focused Therapy, Mindful Self Compassion, and Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), as well as schema- and trauma-informed approaches. Your worldview, cultural background, and personal goals all shape the direction of your therapy — there's no one-size-fits-all here.
We understand that attending appointments with a young baby or during pregnancy isn't always straightforward. We offer both in-person sessions at our Fitzroy clinic on Brunswick Street and telehealth appointments across Australia, so you can access support in the way that works best for you.
Medicare rebates are available
If you have a Mental Health Care Plan from your GP, Medicare rebates apply to your sessions. Speak to your GP about a referral, or contact us directly and we can guide you through your options.
Meet Sarah
Perinatal mental health is an area of particular interest for Sarah Murgia Lewis, Clinical Psychologist at Inner Northern Psychology. With over 15 years of experience across community, private, and tertiary settings, Sarah brings a compassionate and curious approach to supporting parents through this life stage. Her style is warm and grounded, with a genuine respect for the humanity of each person she works with — and a good dose of humour when it's welcome.