Our Mission

Our mission is to provide awareness, prevention and counselling of parental mental health issues related to childbearing years, specifically during your pregnancy and first year after babies birth.

If you are a new mom or an experienced mom, we understand that everyone has their unique needs and with the right help you will be ok. Perinatal mental health issues do not discriminate. Speak to us today should you feel you are experiencing any symptoms or feel you may be at risk.

Some Facts

Did you know?

Baby Blues only lasts between 2 days to 2 weeks after birth – therefore anything after that is more serious. Baby blues presents itself with tearfulness, reactivity, and exhaustion.

Should you be feeling overwhelmed, lack of connection with baby, are anxious, aggitated, irritable and have increased somatic symptoms (headaches, backaches) then please seek help.

How to know if you need help?

If you are on this website, then it is the right time to seek help.
You are so brave and you are not alone!

Workshops

  • Educational workshops for groups on awereness of perinatal issues which could be experienced during pregnacy or after birth.
  • What are the signs of needing help
  • What to look out for in your loved ones
  • Risks of not getting help
  • Assumptions of motherhood

Counselling Mothers

I provide a safe counselling space for mothers who feel that they are experiencing any struggles with the transition into motherhood.
Social support is essential to assure mental health of women, men, children and their family during pregnancy and the pospartum period.

If mom is ok, then baby is ok.

About Me: Dedicated Life Coach and Supportive Counsellor for Children

I am a passionate life coach specializing in supportive counselling for children. My mission is to provide a nurturing environment where young minds can explore their thoughts, feelings, and experiences. As a freelance life coach, I offer personalized counselling services tailored to meet the unique needs of each child.

What is Supportive Counselling?

Supportive counselling is a primary healthcare intervention designed to assist individuals who may not require the specialized skills of a psychologist but still need help navigating life's challenges. As a supportive counsellor, I serve as a first point of contact for children struggling with everyday issues, providing a safe and supportive space for them to express themselves.

How Does Supportive Counselling Work?

Supportive counselling involves forming a helping relationship between the counsellor and the client (in this case, the child). This relationship is built on trust, empathy, and mutual respect. The aim is to lend support and assistance while respecting the child's autonomy and freedom to make their own decisions.

My role as a counsellor is to act as a facilitator and sounding board, helping the child to understand their emotions and experiences, and to motivate them to take charge of their lives. Importantly, supportive counselling is not about giving advice but about empowering the child to find their own solutions and paths forward.

A Creative and Individualized Approach

Supportive counselling is not a one-size-fits-all solution. It is a creative process that adapts to the specific needs of each situation and the unique skills of the counsellor. I strive to provide a personalized approach to each child, ensuring that their individual needs and circumstances are met with compassion and understanding.

Thank you for considering my services.

Together, we can help your child navigate their challenges and achieve their full potential.

If you experience any feelings of absolute dispair, please seek help immediately

Sadag office:

011 234 4837

destiny helpline:

0800 41 42 43

hdi “you decide” youth helpline:

0800 33 33 37

adcock ingram depression and anxiety helpline:

0800 70 80 90

Melissa Barnard

BSocSci Psych/Couns (SACAP)

BSocSci Psych Hons (SACAP)

C4CSA REG NO: CO 3035

As a holistic counselor and life coach specializing in helping moms adjust into motherhood, I found my passion through my personal journey. Becoming a mother brought forth emotions and challenges I had never experienced before. Through this transformative process, I discovered a deep-seated desire to support other mothers on their unique and beautiful journeys.

I am dedicated to empowering mothers by providing compassionate guidance and practical resources to navigate the complexities of motherhood. My mission is to help mothers understand and embrace their experiences fully, fostering their well-being and confidence every step of the way. Together, we can create a nurturing environment where mothers can thrive and find joy in their role.

contact us

info@aluz.co.za | 083 281 8658

contact us online

Mums Support Network

I am affiliated with

Mums Support Network

WhatsApp Groups

Our local WhatsApp groups are available 24/7 - Many mums are awake at odd hours with their babies; there is usually someone available at any time of the day to offer advice, encouragement and a sense of solidarity.

Support Group Meetings and Coffee Mornings

We have a number of face-to-face get-togethers across KZN and Benoni where mothers can meet up to chat openly and without judgement. It is tremendously comforting to be in the company of other people who are going through similar trials and to know that they are not alone.

Online Support

For those mothers who do not live in an area close to any of our meetings, we have a ‘remote’ group which holds regular chats online.

Facebook Page

The Facebook page offers useful articles, links and gropu news. giving mums the resources to tackle their mental health or motherhood challenges.

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