Motherhood can be both beautiful and deeply challenging, and within these challenges lies opportunities for reflection, healing, and growth.
Hi, I’m Rachael – developmental psychologist, mother of two, and founder of The Mama Well, a practice dedicated to maternal mental health and wellbeing. I am deeply passionate about supporting women and their families through the ups and downs of their mothering journey.
Whether you’re preparing for motherhood, pregnant, or adjusting to life with little ones, I am here to walk alongside and guide you towards a family life that is meaningful for you. I offer individual psychotherapy and can support you through:
• Feeling anxious, low, or overwhelmed in pregnancy or early motherhood
• Finding it hard to bond or connect with your baby or child
• Processing a difficult or traumatic birth, or preparing for birth
• Navigating matrescence; adjustment to motherhood, identity and relationship changes
• Recognising and connecting with your needs and values
• Understanding and softening feelings of guilt, shame, and/or anger
• Reflecting on your own childhood and creating new relationship patterns for your family
• Learning strategies for responding to your child’s feelings and behaviours
• Examining the social and cultural influences shaping your experience of modern motherhood
My approach to therapy brings a developmental and relational perspective that is grounded in attachment theory. I believe true healing happens through connection, and that a safe, supportive relationship is at the heart of meaningful change.
I have also completed additional training in Motherhood Studies and incorporate a sociological lens in my work with mothers. Rising rates of anxiety, depression and parental burnout are due, in part, to increased external expectations and pressures of mothering in a modern world. I often examine these and other influences shaping an individual’s experience of motherhood.
In addition to individual therapy, I also enjoy facilitating educational workshops and parenting groups. I offer the Circle of Security Parenting™ program which is a reflective group program aimed at strengthening parent-child relationships.
As a mother and a psychologist, I know how all-consuming and deeply transformative motherhood can be. Together, we will create a compassionate and non-judgmental space for you to tell your story, be witnessed in your motherhood, and grow as you learn who you are becoming.
Please reach out if you need support. I am available Australia-wide via Telehealth.
Educational and Developmental Psychologist
Maternal Mental Health
Circle of Security Parenting™ Facilitator
Motherhood Studies Practitioner
Accessibility
Diversity & Inclusion
Women Owned
Born Ready is a birth education course developed by Pelvic Health Physiotherapists. As physiotherapists we know the importance of both physical and mental preparation. Like all physical endurance sports preparation is KEY. We know how to educate well and help you get the best out of your body for the most important physical event of your life.
At MPS, we believe the postpartum period should be a time of deep connection, rest, and joy—not one of exhaustion and overwhelm. That’s why we provide premium, evidence-based in-home support tailored to your unique needs. From breastfeeding guidance and settling strategies to newborn education and emotional recovery, our care meets you exactly where you are.
We have cherry picked the most useful resources for your fourth trimester so that you don't have to waste precious hours searching.
Article - Elise Clement (Elise Clement Psychotherapy & Coaching)
Perfectionism is not a healthy habit. Even less so when it comes to motherhood, unless you’re keen to rub shoulders with overwhelm, resentment, rage and the feeling of never being satisfied, which can eventually lead to maternal burnout.
Article - Elisha Wildblood and Louise Barton (Not Another Onesie)
Discover how proactive postpartum planning can transform your journey into motherhood. This post outlines the critical benefits of preparing ahead—from organizing nutritious meals and setting up recovery systems to establishing clear boundaries with visitors and building a trusted support network. With practical tips and insights, you'll learn how a well-crafted plan can help you recover, bond with your new-born, and navigate the early days of motherhood with confidence.
eBook - Louise Barton & Elisha Wildblood (Not Another Onesie)
This recipe collection has been created with you in mind: quick to make, freezer-friendly, and packed with ingredients that fuel tired bodies and busy minds. Each one can be baked ahead of time for yourself or wrapped up and given as a thoughtful gift.
Article - Julia Jones (Newborn Mothers)
Today, a doula is typically someone who acts as a hub of support, referrals and resources for a person during a major life transition, usually related to birth. Doulas have a holistic approach that considers both mental and physical well-being. Services vary significantly but can include emotional reassurance, information based on scientific evidence, and comfort techniques like massage and nourishing food. The role is not medical, and doulas cannot treat, diagnose or cure any disease.
Article - Louise Barton & Elisha Wildblood (Not Another Onesie)
Every family experiences times when life feels a little fuller. For some, it's late pregnancy when everyday household jobs become physically difficult. For others, it's the newborn months, where every spare minute is spent feeding, settling and soaking up precious moments with a new baby. Many families reach out when returning to work, during school holidays or while juggling multiple children's schedules. And increasingly, Family Clean supports parents who are caring for both young children and ageing parents at the same time.
