Birth Trauma Support
Service
Birth Trauma Support
Birth trauma is not always about what medically happened—it’s about how the experience felt to you. Even when everything appears “fine” on the surface, you may be left feeling frightened, powerless, unheard, or overwhelmed.
You might notice:
- Intrusive thoughts or flashbacks about the birth
- Anxiety, panic, or difficulty relaxing
- Feelings of guilt, shame, or disappointment
- Trouble sleeping or feeling constantly on edge
- Difficulty bonding or connecting as you expected
These responses are more common than many people realise, and they are valid. With the right support, healing is possible.
Call Us Anytime
021 2324503
Email Us Anytime
fiona.changeup@gmail.com
Right For You
Who This Support Is For
This service may be helpful if you:
- Feel overwhelmed, anxious, or unsettled after your birth experience
- Had a birth that was difficult, unexpected, or did not go as planned
- Feel unheard, unsupported, or out of control during labour or delivery
- Experience flashbacks, intrusive thoughts, or ongoing distress
- Struggle with feelings of guilt, shame, or disappointment
- Find it difficult to relax, sleep, or feel like yourself again
- Are finding it hard to connect in the way you expected
- Feel anxious or worried about a future pregnancy or birth
You do not need a diagnosis or a specific “level” of trauma to seek support—your experience matters.
Support You Can Trust
How I Can Support You
Process your experience safely
Talk openly without judgment
Reduce anxiety and overwhelm
Rebuild confidence and trust
Support connection and wellbeing
Support from Someone Who Understands
Why Choose Me
- 30+ years as a midwife
- Mental health & addiction expertise
- Trauma-informed approach
“I combine professional knowledge with genuine care and understanding”
Testimonial
What my clients have said
I have found Fiona to be absolutely wonderful She has helped me work through some challenges I have been facing and Fiona has given me helpful advice on how to overcome them Fiona has a great way of asking the right questions things I often have going through my head but don't always know how to express. I always feel so much better in myself after seeing her and I genuinely look forward to our catch ups I'm very grateful for her support and guidance
Sally
I’ve found Fiona through a school councillor she is very amazing to talk to very honest easy to chat to her about anything I’ve struggled with learning and she’s helped me work other ways around it and gave me opportunity’s to learn new things she’s there always to talk about literally anything she can help you find path and help you move on she is very dedicated and amazing
Drew
Find answers to common questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is birth trauma?
Birth trauma is the emotional and psychological impact of a distressing or overwhelming birth experience. It’s not only about what happened medically, but how the experience felt to you.
How do I know if I have birth trauma?
You may notice feelings such as anxiety, flashbacks, low mood, or difficulty processing your birth experience. If your experience is still affecting you, support can help.
Do I need a diagnosis to seek support?
No, you don’t need a diagnosis. If your birth experience continues to impact your wellbeing, you are welcome to seek support.
How can counselling help with birth trauma?
Counselling provides a safe space to talk through your experience, process difficult emotions, and reduce distress, helping you move forward with greater confidence and calm.
How many sessions will I need?
This varies for each person. Some people benefit from a few sessions, while others prefer ongoing support. We will decide together what feels right for you.
Is it too late to seek support?
It’s never too late. Whether your experience was recent or many years ago, you can still benefit from support and healing.
Will I have to talk about everything straight away?
No. You can go at your own pace. You are always in control of what you share and when.
Can this help if I’m planning another pregnancy?
Yes. Birth trauma support can help you process past experiences and feel more prepared and confident about future pregnancies or births.
Crisis Support
Please note that I am not a crisis or emergency service.
For any mental health crisis, or physical health emergency, or immediate safety concern, please refer to the crisis support options below. If you are feeling
overwhelmed, unsafe or in a life-threatening emergency, please reach out to the appropriate service that can support you now, they are available 24/7.
Healthline : 0800611116
Need to Talk? : Txt or call 1737
Emergency : 111
Mental Health Crisis Team
Wellington, Hutt Valley or Kapiti – 0800745477
Wairarapa – 0508432432
For other local crisis services, youth services, sexual harm support, family violence support, and mental health services across Aotearoa, please see page ten Mental Health Foundation National Helplines Directory

