Gemma has specialist training designed to offer quick and effective relief from the hugely debilitating symptoms of perinatal trauma, traumatic grief and Tokophobia. During a session treatment will activate the natural ability of a person's brain to heal by using tools and techniques that help turn a trauma memory into an ordinary functioning memory and rebuild your life after the trauma.
Frequently asked questions
How many sessions will I need?
Birth Trauma Scotland do not provide counselling but solution focused perinatal trauma therapy. Combining proven therapeutic techniques with an understanding of neuroscience we offer a holistic and scientific treatment to heal trauma and grief safely and quickly so you can move on with your life. As we work powerfully with the subconscious an average of three session is normally all that is needed. You do not need to have fully diagnosable PTSD to receive treatment but if any aspect of your pregnancy, birth or postnatal period needs closure we can help you.
What happens during a session?
- We will listen to your experience in a sympathetic and non judgemental way
- Formulate a treatment plan
-Teach you simple breathing techniques to help you relax and reduce symptoms of anxiety straight away and for daily use
-Offer a totally unique and personalised guided visualisation and relaxation download to listen to after the session
-Dissolve the strong negative emotions attached to the memory so that you can remember what happened without feelings of anxiety or panic
-If once we have dealt with your birth trauma, other previous traumas surface we are able to release these too
-Help you rebuild confidence & wellbeing after the trauma
-Help you rebuild your relationships and get your life back on track, symptom free
-We use a number of techniques tailored to the needs of each individual including the REWIND technique, Birth Trauma Resolution (BTR), Thought Field Therapy, Neuro Linguistic Programming, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), mindfulness, guided visualisation and applied Human Givens techniques.
Do you treat fathers, birth companions and staff?
Yes. We are trained to work with mothers, fathers and birth companions. We also offer treatment to health care practioners such as midwives, obstetricians and any healthcare professionals who may be suffering from vicarious trauma after witnessing or listening to the horrors of a traumatic birth and experience.
Can everyone receive treatment?
It is contraindicated for anyone with a diagnosis of schizophrenia or psychosis to be treated for perinatal trauma using our methods. In addition we would need to discuss treatment with the clients General Practitioner for people suffering from bipolar disorder or epilepsy.
What if I am unsure if I have trauma?
Miriam and Gemma can assess for trauma & PTSD so please get in touch if you are unsure.
Will I receive midwifery advice as part of the treatment?
No. Whilst we are qualified and practising midwives, we do not offer any midwifery advice or care as part of our service. Please refer to your midwife, obstetrician or health visitor if you have any clinical concerns about yourself or your baby.
Where do the sessions take place?
Gemma practise’s in Edinburgh. She also offers services via Zoom. Please contact us so we can find a date and venue between us that suits you best.
What is the cancellation policy?
Please note that once an appointment has been confirmed, we request at least 48 hours advance notice for any cancellations. The full cost of the appointment will be charged for all appointments cancelled under 24 hours including missed appointments without notice, appointments will be charged at 50% with 48 hours notice. Whilst we would love to waive this fee we have a cancellation policy so we are able to continue to do the work we do however if the cancelled appointment is filled, a full refund minus admin costs will be offered. In special circumstances, requests for a refund will be considered on a case by case basis, subject to any venue or travel costs and after administrative costs. Evidence of these circumstances may be asked for and any refund is at the sole discretion of Birth Trauma Scotland.