Clare Bellhouse Psychology

I am a clinical psychologist working primarily with women at all stages of their reproductive journey — from preconception and pregnancy through early parenthood, loss, and beyond. My work is grounded in a deep respect for the emotional complexity of becoming a parent, and the many ways this transition leads to vulnerability, grief, identity shifts, and growth.

I hold a PhD from the University of Melbourne, where my research focused on the development and evaluation of a group psychotherapy program supporting pregnant women during the transition to parenthood. This work reflects my longstanding clinical interest in the emotional and relational changes that occur during pregnancy and early parenting, and how early support can shape both maternal wellbeing and infant–parent relationships.

My therapeutic approach is integrative and relational. I draw primarily on psychodynamic, attachment-based, and relational frameworks, while also incorporating cognitive behavioural and mindfulness strategies where this is helpful. I aim to create a thoughtful, containing space where emotions can be explored at a pace that feels safe, and where present challenges  can be understood in the context of past experiences.

Individual therapy

I provide evidence-informed treatment for women experiencing a wide range of concerns, including perinatal anxiety and depression, reproductive loss, infertility, birth trauma, adjustment to motherhood, parenting stress, relationship changes, and identity transitions. Whether you are contemplating motherhood, pregnant, parenting an infant, grieving a loss, or simply seeking support as a woman navigating a demanding life stage, therapy offers a space to be held, understood, and supported.

Training

I also provide training to groups and organisations relating to the transition to parenthood, infant mental health and trauma-informed models for parenting and supporting development.