Frequently asked questions.

Do I need my hospital notes for a debrief?

No - during a debrief, we go through your experience and unpack what needs to be unpacked. However, if you have specific questions about why certain things happened, about the timeframe or why certain decisions were made, I can help you sort through your notes to decode this if it’s in there. My background as a Midwife means that I often know where to look for particular answers - if they are there. Your notes will only be as helpful as the detail and accuracy of what has been documented. Some women find these unanswered questions distressing, and having some clarity around them can help them to find peace. But only you will know if you will need them for this.

Can my partner be there?

This is entirely up to you. If you feel more comfortable having your partner there to help share your story, or if they carry their own feelings about what happened that need processing, then they are welcome to be there. But if you prefer the space to be private, then what you say in the session will be completely confidential. I send a follow-up email each session with a summary of the main points that we discuss, and some women find that helpful to share with their partners instead where we unpacked certain points that we discussed and their potential contributing factors. I have also done follow-up sessions with partners, where after the two 90 minute sessions, we have the 30 minute follow-up with their partner present to answer any of their questions or concerns. I am happy to be flexible with how these sessions run if you would like your partner there for one session, all sessions, or none.

Can I have my baby there?

Yes of course! You can feed or attend to your baby’s needs as we go along, however when they start wanting to be on the move it can get more tricky, and only you will know if you are able to be fully present to get the most out of each session if they are there. During the sessions where we go through the emotional clearing process it is best if older babies and young children are being watched by another adult. However if you are seeking EMDR it is best to have someone watch your baby and/or older children.

Do you offer Medicare?

Yes! I can offer either of my packages (Birth Debriefing or Holding the Mother) under the Non-Directive Pregnancy Counselling Medicare item. This item is available to any women who is pregnant through to 12 months postpartum, for up to three sessions, to talk about anything relating to their pregnancy or postpartum. This means you will need a referral from your GP for non-directive pregnancy counselling addressed to me (Emma Snelgar). All I need is a copy of the referral and I can send you an invoice after each session, or and the completion of our sessions (whichever you prefer) for you to claim your rebate. Currently the rebate is $70.85 per session.

Do you have a clinic?

Not currently. This is something that I will be working towards, however I find that for women who are pregnant or in the early stages of postpartum, a home visit means that they aren’t stressed about leaving the house and the co-ordination that requires, often with a small baby or feeling extremely uncomfortable in the late stages of pregnancy. In your own home, the power sits with you - so many women feel the power imbalance between them and the healthcare professionals was a contributing factor to their negative experience, so this can help contribute to your feeling of safety within the session. Please keep in mind if this is a concern to you - I am there to see you and not your house. I too have had my own experiences in late pregnancy or in the depths of postpartum where the house was the lowest priority on my list. In short - please do not clean your house for me!

Do you have any testimonials?

As a registered health practitioner (under AHPRA), I’m not permitted to publish client testimonials. This is because of both privacy and the fact that no-one can guarantee results. If you’re unsure, book a free 30 minute chat to see if the space feels right for you.

Do you offer EMDR or longer-term therapy?

Yes, I offer EMDR for clients who want further support to process their experience. EMDR works by helping the brain “unstick” traumatic memories so they feel less intense and overwhelming. Many people find it reduces emotional triggers and brings lasting relief. You’re welcome to start with debriefing and decide later if EMDR is right for you. Currently EMDR is not available under Medicare.