Lively Lifestyles Psychology

Node Mothers and the Node Motherhood Centre were created with one big goal in mind to support mums, not just motherhood.

Founded by Melissa Decarli a mum, photographer, and someone who’s walked the highs and lows of matrescence, Node began as a simple idea: what if mothers’ groups were less about milestone checklists and more about real connection, honest chats, and feeling seen.

Since then, it’s grown into a beautiful community of women who meet weekly across Ballarat (and online), not just to talk about their babies, but to talk about themselves. Whether it’s a new mum with a six-week-old or a second-time mum with a busy toddler in tow, our groups and sessions focus on the woman behind the role.

The Node Motherhood Centre is a warm, welcoming space built for mums to take a breath and be held. We run 10-week mothers’ groups, toddler groups, workshops, and events, always with a focus on connection, community, and gentle encouragement to be exactly who you are that day.

Melissa brings a real, lived-in understanding of what it means to hold so much at once; motherhood, identity, relationships, business, and the in-between. Through her photography business Her Golden Point, she’s had the privilege of capturing thousands of motherhood moments and those honest, tender connections are at the heart of everything she creates with Node.

We’re not here to tell mums what to do. We’re here to walk alongside them. We talk about the messy middle of motherhood, the beautiful chaos, the doubts, the growth and we do it with humour, heart, and a whole lot of love.

If you’re a brand wanting to connect with mothers in a way that truly resonates, Node offers direct access to a trusted, engaged, and emotionally connected audience. We speak with and support our mums every week, and everything we do is built on trust, relatability, and genuine care.

At Node, we don’t just support mums – we see them. And that’s where real impact begins.

Jaclyn Carlson – Empowering Modern Mothers.

Jaclyn Carlson delivers expert services tailored for modern mothers. Combining breathwork facilitation, parent coaching, matrescence support and mother mentorship, Jaclyn offers dynamic in-person events, supportive community engagement, and specialised online courses. Embrace your journey of motherhood, confidently and armed with the parenting tools to help you thrive in every stage of motherhood. Services include breathwork sessions, Mum & Bubs events, motherhood mentoring, parent group programs, 1:1 Parent Coaching and Circle of Security Programs.

I’m Joanna, a mother of two and the founder of Sage Nest—a boutique wellness practice based in Newcastle, NSW. My work focuses on supporting women through the transformative stages of pregnancy, birth preparation, and postpartum recovery with care that is both holistic and deeply nurturing.

I’ve been in clinical practice since 2004 and bring together a unique blend of therapies to support the health and wellbeing of mothers and their families. My approach is integrative and evidence-informed, combining Acupuncture, Chinese Medicine, Naturopathy, Massage Therapy, Nutrition, Herbal Medicine, and the Body Ready Method® to offer well-rounded care tailored to each individual.

At the Sage Nest, I provide support that spans the entire motherhood journey—from managing early pregnancy symptoms and preparing for an empowered birth, to gentle, restorative care in the fourth trimester and beyond. Each session is personalised to address not just the physical, but also the emotional and energetic shifts that come with matrescence.

Birth preparation is a particular focus of my work. I help women feel physically aligned, emotionally grounded, and mentally ready for labour and birth. My sessions may include acupuncture, bodywork, breath techniques, acupressure, body alignment and partner-inclusive education to build confidence and reduce fear. Whether you’re planning your first birth or looking for support after a previous experience, I create a space where you feel informed, prepared, and supported.

For new mothers needing extra support, I also offer postpartum home visits across the Newcastle region. These sessions bring hands-on care, comfort, and therapeutic treatments to your doorstep during a time when leaving the house can feel overwhelming. It’s a beautiful way to receive nurturing support in your own familiar space while you rest and recover.

I love helping women feel more confident in themselves and their mothering. It’s a privilege to witness mothers reach their goals, feel more at ease, and reconnect with themselves during this powerful life transition. It’s an honour to support that process.