Vision
To prevent perinatal depression/anxiety (PNDA) in mothers who are at-risk, and to assist mothers with existing PNDA to become well.
Goals
- Prevent postnatal depression from occurring in mothers who are at-risk wherever possible
- Reduce the severity of postnatal depression
- Reduce the suffering of mothers and other resulting consequences to poorly treated maternal mental health including but not limited to psychiatric hospitalization (separated from baby), attachment issues with baby (and potential consequences of poor attachment for that child including delinquency, learning difficulties, mental illness, addictions, suicide), marriage/relationship breakdown, neglect/abuse of children, harm to baby/others or self, suicide, removal of children into child protection services
- Reduce the length of time a mother is depressed, or to work towards wellness with that mother
Values
The Symbol of our Logo Metaphor:Picture of an (open) hand holding a bird: “In order to fly we need support”
- The open hand represents Mothers Helpers. It is not closed tightly around the bird because we aim to empower the mother not cause dependency so as to impair her ability to “fly”
- The bird represents the mother that we are supporting. “Flying” might mean something different to every individual. Therefore, it’s important to understand a mother’s goals and to incorporate the whole person ie. physical, mental, spiritual, emotional and cultural wellbeing.
- The five fingers of the hand represents five areas we offer support based on our intrinsic values: Aroha, Family, Community, Knowledge, Resources
Our Services
Mothers Helpers services are available nationwide. Our aim is to provide support to mothers experiencing distress. Our counselling and group therapy services are low-cost and we fundraise to provide free options to those that cannot afford them. Our team of clinicians are qualified and receive special training and clinical supervision in Maternal Mental Health.
- Preparing for Parenthood course – A six week course for expecting parents to help them prepare for the psychological transition of becoming a parent. An opportunity to join a small group of expecting parents, form friendships, and talk through what is about to be one of the biggest changes you will ever experience in life. This program helps to reduce the overwhelm and conflict that comes up as a result of that change.
- Perinatal Depression Recovery Course – Our “Out of the Fog” 9-week therapeutic support group is facilitated by a qualiafied clinician. 10 years of data has shown that 65-90% of mothers are well by course end with Edinburgh scores reduced by 48% so it is very effective and mothers find it to be very supportive.
- Birth trauma or individual counselling
- Return to Work program – ideal for mothers currently on maternity leave or have returned to work within the last 12 months
To refer a mother to our service CLICK HERE
For enquiries leave a voice message at this number: 0800-002-717
