Let’s be real!

Not every pregnancy is a blissful experience. So many things can and do go wrong - when the timing is out, the family work load is already overwhelming, illness prevails, the circumstances are beyond crazy or even dangerous, whatever the situation - pregnancy can sometimes feel like the straw that breaks the camels back. There is so much to deal with, so many feelings and emotions to process it can feel like you are drowning in it all.

Here at ESTHERS we get YOU and one thing that we know can help at these times is to talk to someone - but not just anyone. Talking to women who are trained counsellors and believe that you are capable of making the right decision for you - is really important at this time.

In addition to counselling we offer:

• Information - Being informed with relevant information for your personal circumstances is crucial at this time. The information we offer includes but is not limited to: family violence, child protection, reproductive health, abortion, kinship-care, adoption and parenting.

• Advocacy - Once you have found a solution that best fits you we can support you in that decision. This will look different in each circumstance but some of the things we offer are: court support, attending child safety appointments, attending health clinics or any appointment where you feel you would like our support.

• Referral - We work alongside perinatal mental health specialists, birth coaches, midwives, baby sleep experts and many other professionals who we can refer you too if required. Our service assists with the cost of initial appointments and in some cases up to 3 additional appointments. Many of these services are medicare subsidised.

• Practical help - We offer practical support during and immediately after pregnancy in many forms. For those challenged by ill health (including chronic morning sickness) or feelings of overwhelm with the pressures of life, our Mentors can come to your home, weekly or fortnightly. They are another set of hands to help with practical things, like transport, delivering home cooked meals for the entire family, light house duties, getting the kids out of the house, watching the kids while you shower etc.

We believe that pregnancy is a natural part of a woman’s life but, when it is done in isolation and help isn’t available it becomes something that it never should be - a burden. No matter what - we are for you and we are with you.