The Waikato Family Centre supports Perinatal Mental Health in Mums and partners who are suffering anxiety or depression.
We have employed a Perinatal Clinical Nurse Specialist and an ACT (Acceptance Commitment) Therapist to support anxiety/depression at no cost to you.
Contact us at the Waikato Family Centre to make an appointment
Jacqui Coates-Harris
Perinatal Mental Health Clinical Nurse Specialist
Ko Jacqui toku ingoa, Ko hinengaro kamahi. I have worked in mental health for 40 years as a clinician and Charge Nurse Manager. In 2002 I had the opportunity to develop Te Whatu Ora’s, Perinatal Mental Health Service. In 2021 I moved on to work at Wintec/Te Pukenga to be a part time lecturer and Clinical Tutor. I now divide my work life between being the Te Kotahi Oranga Manager at Rotokauri campus, and a private Perinatal Mental Health Specialist for the Waikato Family Centre. I continue to be an active voice and participant in all things related to perinatal mental health.
My philosophy is to ‘make a difference’ in people’s lives, to impart my knowledge and skills to our future nursing workforce, to support mama, pepe, and whānau when their emotional and mental health wellbeing is suffering and to mentor and support perinatal providers in the primary health space.
He aha te mea nui o te ao
What is the most important thing in the world?
He tangata, he tangata, he tangata It is the people,
it is the people, it is the people
Jo Wall
ACT Therapist
Kia ora koutou,
I am a mental health clinician/registered occupational therapist and ACT therapist who provides support for the mental wellbeing of whanau at the Waikato Family Centre. I have worked in a variety of mental health and physical health settings since graduating as an OT in 1995.
My passion is for sharing practical skills for managing distress, adjusting to parenting, and becoming the kind of parent you'd like to be. Whether you've struggled with your mental wellbeing before pregnancy or not, expecting a baby and managing those first months together is often a time of stress and distress - for all caregivers of the baby. Experiences such as fertility difficulties, health concerns or experiencing a traumatic birth can add further distress.
I can offer sessions in person or online - babies under a year old are welcome to join you. Please talk to the nursing staff at Waikato Family Center if you think you could benefit from these sessions.
