My practice is me, Janine, I am an antenatal teacher, postnatal group leader, baby massage instructor, doula & parent coach – this unique range of professional training and experience means I provide classes and 1:1 sessions for parents from pregnancy and throughout life with babies and young children.
I am a mum of three, I have worked with expectant and new parents since 2002 and I have run my own business for several years. I have also experienced babyloss, which means I am in a unique position to be able to support grieving parents who are preparing for birth again.
I haven’t always – and still don’t always – find parenting easy and this is why being able to provide non-judgemental parent support is so important to me. Parenting is a constant learning curve, it can be pretty isolating, we can feel guilt and give ourselves a hard time for finding it hard and for not having all the answers. I am really open about my own parenting challenges and I don’t believe in quick fixes – I believe in looking after ourselves; getting support when we need it; laughter; being taken seriously; being honest; having realistic expectations and in making small tweaks and changes when needed.
“Janine has a rare gift, on the one hand down to earth and no-nonsense, while on the other kind and wise – coupled with sharp intelligence, fantastic knowledge and the ability to really listen. Did I mention she makes a mean pot of tea as well?”
Due to my training, experience and the range of services I provide, I possess excellent knowledge about birth, babies and early parenting.
Antenatal Education (University of Beds | three years)
I have worked with expectant parents across Tyneside since 2002.
Postnatal Education (University of Beds | three years)
I have provided postnatal courses and drop-ins across Tyneside since 2008.
Doula Training with Nurturing Birth
Since 2009 I have supported a number of parents throughout the birth of their baby and through those first few days and weeks with a new baby.
Infant Massage Instructor Training with International Association of Infant Massage
I have provided monthly baby massage courses in North Tyneside since 2010.
NCFE Level 3 Counselling Skills
I gained this qualification in 2001 and I use these skills in all of my sessions – they enable me to listen and to focus on the needs of parents.
SANDS Bereavement Support Training
I completed this training in 2016 to support my work with bereaved parents.
ASC Life Skills Coach
I completed this training course in 2016 to enhance my skills and to enable me to work with parents beyond the postnatal period.
A specialist in pregnancy, birth and early parenting
As a mum and a qualified practitioner, I understand the excitement and concerns of being pregnant, giving birth and being a parent and my work reflects this. I listen to and learn from every parent I work with and this has a huge impact on my practice.
I run small and informal groups and private consultations, which are welcoming, friendly and supportive. I provide a personal approach to focus on your individual need for information, support or reassurance.
My sessions are about a trusted professional perspective, being listened to and being heard, helping you to develop realistic plans and strategies and giving you a confidence boost when you need it.
And, through the posts and guides on this website, I aim to provide a range of information, tips, with parent and professional experiences for pregnancy, birth and early parenting.
If you have any queries please don’t hesitate to get in touch.
Janine
a specialist in pregnancy, birth and parent wellbeing
