Ostara OT Services
Work with me
Ostara Occupational Therapy offers support that focuses on the early years of Motherhood. This includes the time from pre-conception, conception, pregnancy, birth and beyond (up to 8 years).
I aim to support you with the complex adjustment, growth and transformation that occurs during this time of life. So you may navigate Motherhood YOUR way!
Our Services
Maternal Mental Health Support
As an Occupational Therapist, I consider the interplay between what’s happening for you physically, emotionally & spiritually; the circumstances in which you live; and the things you do throughout your day. I work to understand how these factors influence your overall mental health.
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I can support you with:
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Your transition to motherhood or mothering rites of passage.
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Difficult feelings like depression, anxiety, anger, burnout, guilt or shame.
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Navigating sensory overwhelm.
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Reconnection to self.
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Difficult or traumatic births.
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Adjustment to mothering responsibilities.
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Identity shifts.
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Improving self-care.
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Confidence and self-worth.
And so much more!
My aim is for you to feel heard, held and supported and walk away with practical tools that enable you to live a life which feels aligned and fulfilled.
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All mental health support sessions are provided 1:1 via telehealth.
Rebates may be available through Medicare or your Private Health Insurance.
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Occupational Therapists are recognised providers with Medicare Australia.
I am endorsed to provide mental health support under the
Better Access to Mental Health scheme (BAMH).
Using BAMH, you can access up to 10 rebated sessions by requesting a mental health care plan from your GP.
1.
Perinatal Support
Preparing for motherhood can feel daunting and overwhelming. With a heavy focus on baby and birth, the needs of a Mother can sometimes be overlooked.
Has anyone talked to you about the ways you might change as a person?
Are you currently pregnant and wanting to prepare for labour, birth and postpartum?
Are you familiar with how baby sleep develops?
How will you navigate this to maximise your own rest?
Have you considered a postpartum plan?
Consider me your guide and mentor as you prepare to welcome your baby earthside.
I can support you both antenatally or postnatally with:
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Understanding Matrescence - the journey to and through Motherhood.
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Infant sleep and behaviour.
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Establishing postpartum care support.
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Ways to maximise your own rest, recovery and sleep.
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Breastfeeding education and resources.
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Recovery following a birth injury.
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Relationship dynamics and division of labour.
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Developing infant care skills (including tailored support for parents navigating disability or chronic illness).
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Establishing boundaries with family or friends.
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Bonding with baby.
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Expectations of motherhood.
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Home and nursery set-up.
Or anything else you wish to discuss!
I provide a safe space for Mothers (new to OR re-entering Motherhood) to debrief and develop parenting skills/strategies that are in alignment with their values.
Perinatal support is provided 1:1 via telehealth or face to face, following further consultation.
Rebates may be available through Medicare or your Private Health Insurance.
2.
Circle of security parenting group
Have you ever felt lost in your parenting journey?
Or unsure what your child might be asking of you?
Are you struggling with your child's big feelings?
Or wanting to grow your own confidence as a parent?
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Circle of Security Parenting ™ is an internationally acclaimed, evidence-based program that offers tools to strengthen the bond with your child/ren and help them feel more secure. As your facilitator, I will help you to identify the ways children signal their need for greater connection and emotional support, and how you can meet those needs effectively.
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Who is it for?
Circle of Security Parenting™ is designed for parents and caregivers of children aged 0-6 years and who would like to develop a secure relationship with their child/ren to help them thrive.
What we will cover:
• Understand your child’s emotional world by learning to read their emotional needs.
• Support your child’s ability to successfully manage emotions.
• Enhance the development of your child's self-esteem.
• Honour your innate wisdom and desire for your child to be secure.
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Through information, group discussions and self-reflection you’ll see how your child’s behaviour reflects their needs, and build skills to support those needs during the easy and not so easy times.
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Want to learn more?
Check out this video from Circle of Security International.
What to expect:
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Small, intimate group of 6 to 8 participants.
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Weekly workshops of 90mins, held online for 7 consecutive weeks.
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Workbook and handouts provided with key concepts and prompts for further reflection.
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Certificate of completion following attendance to all 7 sessions.
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Investment: $349 (partners attend for free)
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Payment plans available.
Upcoming COSP Dates 2025:
May 7th - 18th June
Wednesdays from 1.00pm to 2.30pm.
Online via zoom - link will be provided prior to commencement date.
(NDIS funding may be available).
3.
Functional capacity assessment reports
Are you wanting to apply for the National Disability Insurance Scheme?
Or are you requiring a plan review?
I offer holistic and detailed Functional Capacity Assessment Reports for self and plan managed participants. These reports aim to provide information and recommendations that advocate for the right level of support and funding you need to achieve your goals. This service includes the following:
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Thorough initial assessment, including goal development.
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1 to 2 functional capacity assessments (home/community).
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1 to 2 standardised assessments.
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Report writing.
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Emails, paperwork, correspondence, telephone calls etc as required.
This service is provided 1:1 via telehealth or face to face.
Face to face consultations are available as/if required (within the City of Maroondah and following further consultation).
Travel fees may apply.
Please reach out to discuss your referral needs and to request a formal quotation.
4.
Discovery Call
As with any relationship, the fit between therapist and client is unique. I believe that each individual deserves a therapeutic experience that resonates with them personally. I encourage open, honest and authentic communication to ensure we are the right match. So if you are wondering if these services are right for you - I offer FREE no obligation 15 minute discovery calls to discuss any questions you might have. I hope to hear from you soon!
Make An Appointment
"If Mothers are well, families can be well. And if families are well, then society has a much better chance of being well."
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Are you ready to make an appointment with Tess? You can book online (click below) or please feel free to get in touch using our contact form for more information.