Happy New Year!!

We are looking forward to seeing everyone at the first Counsellors Victoria (CV) online professional development Zoom session for 2026 on Saturday 14th February from 11.00am – 12.30pm.

CV Presents:
Parenthood & Perinatal Mental Health is an evidence-informed professional development session for practitioners working with parents during the perinatal period.

The presentation explores perinatal anxiety and depression (PNDA) in both mothers and fathers, the neurobiological and psychological transitions into parenthood, and the impact of these changes on identity, attachment, and emotional regulation.

Drawing on current research and clinical practice, the session examines early indicators of PNDA, barriers to help-seeking, and the importance of screening both parents.

Attachment-informed and compassion-focused approaches are integrated throughout, highlighting the role of self-compassion in supporting parental wellbeing and secure parent–infant relationships. This session supports reflective practice and enhances assessment and intervention skills in perinatal and family-focused work.

Cindy Cranswick is a registered Clinical Supervisor, Counsellor, Educator, and Author, and the Founder and Director of Therapeutic Lifestyle Changes. She provides professional supervision, training, and counselling to individuals, couples, families, and allied health professionals, with a particular focus on the Family and Domestic Violence (FDV) sector.

Cindy has a strong clinical and research interest in perinatal mental health and is the author of Self-Compassionate Motherhood, exploring the role of self-compassion in perinatal anxiety and depression. Her work integrates attachment-informed, compassion-focused, and evidence-based therapeutic approaches, supporting reflective practice and professional wellbeing across health and community services.

Cindy will discuss her experience on this topic, followed by a Q&A and the option to network with others in the industry in small groups, following the presentation.

This is a 90-minute presentation relevant to the Counselling / Healthcare industries, complete with an assessment component. The presentation meeting link will be provided via email and a ‘Certificate of Attendance with online assessment’ is issued to all members and registered visitors (expressions of interest welcome – reach out via our Contact Us page).