Service - Birth Debriefing
Birth Debriefing is for everyone who has experienced or witnessed birth.
Birth debriefing is a valuable process for anyone who has experienced or witnessed birth, whether it was recent or many years ago.
I've been facilitating birth debriefings for over 6 years, initially within Mother Honouring Ceremonies, and now, as a standalone service. All of our stories deserve to be heard.
What is birth debriefing?
It's an opportunity to reflect on your birth experience, express your emotions, and process any lingering feelings. Birth debriefing is about filling in the missing pieces, reclaiming your voice, honouring your journey, and finding healing amidst the complexities of childbirth. I provide a nurturing environment where you can feel seen, heard, and validated. Together, we'll explore your birth story (this can also include your fertility, pregnancy, postpartum and early parenting journey), address any unresolved emotions, and guide you towards healing, empowerment, and compassionate understanding.
Who is this for?
Birth debriefing is for everyone who has experienced or witnessed birth. Whether you gave birth recently or years ago, whether your experience was straightforward or challenging, your feelings are valid, and your story matters. I am here to offer support throughout this process. If you're ready to embark on a journey of healing and transformation, I invite you to reach out. Let's navigate this path together, with kindness, compassion, and a commitment to your well-being.
Can I bring someone with me?
Those who support us during birth can also be deeply affected by the experience. You're welcome to have your birth support people present during your debriefing, or they may like to book a separate session.
What preparation is needed?
There's no preparation required for a birth debrief. You do not need medical notes for example. You're welcome to come as you are. I trust your timing and what you will bring to the session.
Where does it take place?
Most sessions are conducted online. For those in the Tasman region it may be possible for our sessions to take place either in my office in Golden Bay, or in your home, depending on where you're located.
What are the benefits?
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Gain clarity and understanding of your birth experience
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Process emotions in a safe, supportive environment
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Reclaim your voice and sense of empowerment
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Find healing and peace with your birthing journey
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Move forward with a deeper understanding of your experience
What else do I need to consider?
It's really important to leave some time after your session to be able to go gently with yourself before launching back into kindy pick up, parenting or work. You might also feel some tenderness (similar to postpartum) in the days following, so we'll discuss how to get your needs met at the end of our session together.
Do I need more than one session?
It really depends on the individual. Sometimes one session can be enough and sometimes more feelings can come up to be heard once the first layer has been lifted. This can be especially so when we come up to birthdays, or subsequent pregnancies. I offer a discount for subsequent sessions.
Your birth story is significant, and you deserve to be heard. I'm here to support you in this important process of reflection and healing.
Your investment:
NZD$165 for a 1.5 hour session.
NZD$315 for 2 x 1.5 hour sessions.
If cost is a barrier for you, please get in touch with me as it's likely funding is available for local Golden Bay clients.
Podcasts
To get a feel for my style and the way I like to support parents, here are a few, free and accessible podcasts that I have been interviewed on:
"I had a beautiful healing session with Kirsty, unpacking and processing the trauma that my partner and I experienced with the birth of our first child. Kirsty was gentle and warm in her approach, she encouraged me to lead the session and most importantly offered validation and a sincere listening ear to my story. I felt safe, heard and not alone in my experience. Kirsty also provided some more practical advice on ways to continue to heal from my birth trauma, inspiring me to feel more empowered as we prepare for another baby. I look forward to doing another session with Kirsty, she is a natural at what she does." - Bessie, a wonderful Māmā, after a birth debriefing session.
"Thanks Kirsty, it was such a beautiful ceremony. It touched my soul and gave me a lot of healing especially around my child's birth story." - Amazing Māmā of 1, debriefing a birth story from 3 years ago in a Group Ceremony.

