4BabyMinds
Counseling & Support
Early parenthood is a unique, intense journey filled with tender moments, countless questions, and the pursuit of connection. At 4BabyMinds, we understand the intricacies of this phase and offer a gentle, supportive presence for couples wishing to become parents, expectant parents, and those with questions about their baby or parenting journey. Our mission is to provide tailored guidance, share insights, and create a space where your questions find answers, making your parenting journey smoother and more joyful.
At 4BabyMinds we take a holistic approach in our counselling, rooted in the principles of Infant Mental Health (IMH). IMH is an internationally recognized perspective on the development of young children, and it guides our approach with the following key principles:
For whom?
4BabyMinds is here for couples wishing to become parents, expectant parents, and those with questions about their baby or parenting journey.
We provide support to parents of babies or toddlers aged 0-4 years who are facing challenges related to regulation, including:
Moreover, we are here to support parents of children who have:
Our ultimate goal is to ensure that your (unborn) child continues to develop optimally, even in the face of illnesses or challenges, while simultaneously reducing symptoms and unrest. We’re committed to fostering a nurturing and supportive environment where you and your (unborn) child can thrive, no matter what challenges may arise on your parenting journey.
What can I expect?
When you schedule an appointment with us at 4BabyMinds, we want to encourage your curiosity and foster a deeper sense of awareness about your (unborn) child’s needs. Here’s how our sessions work:
Intake Session
Our initial conversation is an opportunity to gain insights into your child’s unique experience and your family’s specific circumstances, focusing on questions concerning their development and well-being. This awareness forms the foundation of our approach. Based on this discussion, we create a personalised treatment plan tailored to your child’s needs.
Child-Centric Approach
Your little one, no matter how young, is an active participant in our sessions. We encourage parents to bring their child along. During these appointments, we engage in discussions about your child’s concerns and symptoms. Together, we focus on understanding your child’s unique signals and needs.
Comfortable Setting
Our sessions often take place on the floor, so wearing comfortable clothing is recommended. We create a relaxed environment where both you and your child can feel at ease.
Video Recording (Optional)
Prior to the session, we’ll inquire if you’re comfortable with recording the session on video. These recordings are meant for joint review and can also be used for educational purposes with your consent. However, please know that your decision to decline video recordings or fill out questionnaires will not impact the quality of treatment provided.
Our goal is to enhance your connection with your child and improve your parenting journey. We prioritize your family’s comfort and your child’s well-being, providing a space to explore your parenting concerns and work towards positive outcomes together.
Mindful Parenting for Babies and Toddlers
This training helps parents of 0-36-month-olds find balance and mindfulness amid the parenting journey. You’ll learn to:
Designed by Eva Potharst from UvA Minds, this program is rooted in research that shows it can ease parenting stress and improve family dynamics. Join us to cultivate mindfulness, reduce stress, and enhance your family’s well-being.
Here’s a streamlined summary of the "Mindful with Your Baby/Toddler" training:
Training Overview
Duration
8 weekly sessions, 2 hours each, for a consistent learning curve.
Active Learning:
Direct child involvement in sessions for real-time skill application and bonding.
Professional Insight
Guidance from a mindfulness trainer and an IMH specialist to address parental concerns and child interaction.
Diverse Techniques
Exercises include meditations, observation tasks, and stress management strategies to deepen the parent-child connection.
Community Support
Group discussions for a shared learning experience with other parents.
Home Practice
Homework to integrate mindfulness into daily routines.
This program offers an all-encompassing approach, combining expert-led guidance with practical exercises and community support, fostering mindfulness in parenting.
Mindful With Your Baby or Toddler Training: Nurturing Connection from the Start
Bringing mindfulness to parenthood means forming a stronger connection with your child, taking things at a comfortable pace, understanding non-verbal cues, and recognizing and expressing your own boundaries as a parent. Join the ‘Mindful with Your Baby or Toddler’ training—a practical and accessible approach tailored to address the challenges faced by parents of young children. It’s a down-to-earth journey, suitable for any parent looking to navigate the joys and trials of raising a little one.