I am thrilled at the news of the opening of the Birth and Postpartum Support Centre!

As a survivor of a severe postpartum depression and subsequently, as a facilitator of support groups for women with postpartum mood disorders, I cannot state strongly enough how essential it is to receive knowledgeable professional support as soon as possible. The medications available to women now are fantastic. They work, and are often safe for pregnancy and breastfeeding, but medication is not enough!  Medication will not repair a broken spirit or damaged self-esteem; it won’t ease the guilt and shame or strengthen fragile relationships with spouses and families. The damage these illnesses cause affect whole families and can last a lifetime if left untreated.

Mary Joan is uniquely qualified to provide excellent support to women and families experiencing or recovering from childbearing mood disorders. She has shown her dedication to the wellbeing of families and her commitment to improving the childbearing process for women in her role as a doula and childbirth educator for the past 12 years. More importantly she is an experienced psychotherapist with a masters in social work and has received intensive training from a world renowned leader in the field of childbearing mood disorders.  Mary Joan is compassionate, intuitive and nurturing, exactly the qualities I believe, when paired with her professional knowledge, will contribute to far-reaching positive outcomes for women and families under her care.

I very strongly believe that the most effective way to treat these illnesses is by pairing any necessary medication and medical care with the support of a therapist who is knowledgeable in the intricacies and unique issues of the women struggling through childbearing mood disorders. Our community is so fortunate to have access to this new and so desperately needed resource.

Corrine Mahar-Sylvestre, Former facilitator of one of Canada’s first support services for women with postpartum mood disorders, Batawa, Ontario

After only our first session, Mary Joan not only made me feel better but gave me hope that I would be okay. She provided me with a compassionate and non-judgmental shoulder to cry on as I dealt with my postpartum issues. Mary Joan’s support and guidance helped me to feel better so I could start enjoying my new family.

Helen, Kingston, Ontario

For years, I was haunted by the memories of a traumatic birthing experience and cried when recalling the events.  I swore I would never have another child. Some years later, I found myself pregnant with our second child and was terrified of having another difficult birthing experience.  I began my search for a Doula. I had told my birthing story many times to many people, but talking to Mary Joan was different. She listened. She understood.  She was wise and caring. I realized during our first conversation that I was suffering from post traumatic stress. I realized that she could help me. Through several sessions of counselling, I learned to create images in my mind of a positive birthing experience. During labour, Mary Joan’s wise counsel kept my thoughts focused. Mary Joan helped me find the inner strength and courage to overcome my fears. I am forever grateful to Mary Joan for her support. Now when I remember childbirth, I cry with tears of joy. The memories of my first experience have been erased from my mind.

Lynda, Belleville, Ontario