The mission of the Birth & Postpartum Support Centre is to create a safe place so no woman suffers alone and she will be supported in her journey of finding herself again so she can enjoy her baby and family.

The Birth & Postpartum Support Centre is located in the building of Mindful Movements in Belleville.

A Few Words from Mary Joan

Motherhood has challenged me in ways I had never anticipated and through this experience, I have learned that women need to be validated that mothering a child is incredibly hard work. They need to be provided with strategies to cope with the demands of motherhood. They need to be assisted to find creative tools to learn to parent while not completely losing themselves. They need to have a safe place to express their anger, sadness, loss, and frustration; to share their expectations, disappointments and dreams so they can begin this journey of learning and discovery. I feel compelled to provide that place for women to discover what they need to find themselves again within their role as a woman and mother.

Highlights of Mary Joan’s Experience & Qualifications

• Masters of Social Work, 1994 & Registered Social Worker with the Ontario College of Social Workers
• Six years experience working with children and family mental health
• Twelve years experience as a therapist in private practice with a specialization in women’s issues 
• Co-Director of Childbirth Quinte
• Ten years experience as a Childbirth Educator & Labour
  and Delivery Doula

Highlights of Committee & Membership Involvement

• Member of Postpartum Support International
• Postpartum Support International – Ontario Co-coordinator
• Member of the Quinte Midwifery Committee
• Member of CAPPA Canada (Childbirth and Postpartum Professional Association)
• Member of the Ontario Association of Social Workers