"Made to feel comfortable, safe and validated"

I have recently finished my treatment with Dr. Carr and cannot express how great my experience was. From my initial appointment, I was made to feel comfortable, safe and validated.

I was apprehensive about attending appointments in the hospital due to my trauma, but luckily I was offered them locally in Hamilton which was much more convenient. I had heard some services in other areas only offered a set amount of sessions, however Elaine never rushed me to go through anything, everything was at my pace. I was only discharged when we both agreed I was ready. 

Without this service, I don't think I would have been able to fully heal from my traumatic experience. I cannot emphasise enough how crucial the service has been to my recovery, allowing me to fully immerse myself in motherhood. Elaine also provided me with tools and wisdom that have benefited me in other areas of life. I am a more confident, self-reflective and stronger person for it.

My only criticism would be not of the service, but the lack of awareness of it with other health professionals. I had engaged with several health professionals within the first 9 days postpartum including midwives, paramedics and GP who were in agreement I had some form of trauma. I was never referred for any psychological intervention until 4 months postpartum when I told my health visitor I needed some help, who swiftly referred me for a debrief with the obstetrician who made the MNPI referral. Engaging with the service earlier would have made a crucial impact on me in those early stages of motherhood.

That said, I am still extremely grateful that I was able to access that help, and I can only hope every health board provides such a fundamental service to women, particularly given the recent birth trauma inquiry.