About Me
Birth, Babies and 'Uncool' Music
Your local trusted expert in antenatal, postnatal and feeding support - 20 years of calm, compassionate guidance
Hello, I’m Joy, and I’ve spent the last 20 years helping thousands of parents across West Lothian and beyond prepare for the exciting and sometimes overwhelming journey of parenthood. I’m not just someone who talks about birth; I’m someone who’s lived it, felt the challenges, and now I’m here to help you feel confident, calm, and completely ready for your birth experience, whatever that looks like.
I believe every parent deserves honest, evidence-based support that’s as much about emotional confidence as it is about practical information. I’m here to offer you more than a course. I’m here to offer clarity, connection, and the peace of mind that comes with knowing you’re fully prepared for whatever lies ahead.
Why I Do This Work
When I was pregnant with my son, I found myself drowning in conflicting advice and fear of the unknown. I was overwhelmed and, quite honestly, lost in the sea of information and I didn’t have the support system I needed when things got tough. I went on to experience severe postnatal depression, which left me feeling isolated and uncertain of how to navigate those early, challenging months of motherhood.
That’s why I do this work, to make sure you never feel the way I did.
I’m passionate about empowering parents with the tools, knowledge, and support they need to feel confident and connected, whether it’s during pregnancy, birth, or beyond. I’m not here to tell you what to do. I’m here to help you explore your options, build your confidence, and create a community of support that makes the journey ahead feel manageable and exciting.
What I Offer
As an antenatal educator, I run in-person antenatal courses in Linlithgow, designed for parents who want to feel more than just “prepared” you’ll feel empowered, confident, and connected to the birth process, your baby, and the local support network around you.
In addition to the core antenatal course, I also offer support as a perinatal therapist and breastfeeding counsellor through:
Feeding workshops: helping you navigate breastfeeding, formula feeding, or a combination of both.
Pregnancy, birth and feeding trauma support using gentle techniques to help you overcome anxiety and build resilience.
Whether you’re expecting your first baby or returning to parenthood, my work is tailored to give you the most up-to-date, evidence-based advice, while supporting you emotionally every step of the way.
My Approach: Evidence-Based, Compassionate, and Personal
I believe that knowledge is power, but feeling emotionally supported throughout the process is just as important. That’s why my courses are designed to be interactive, engaging, and welcoming.
I’m trained in adult education, and I know that discussion, hands-on activities, and real-life examples are key to making sure you leave with the confidence and clarity you need.
You won’t find a traditional, lecture-style class here. My focus is on active learning, practical skills, and creating space for open conversation. Whether you’re a solo parent, part of a same-sex couple, or bringing a partner along, everyone is welcomed, supported, and given the tools to thrive.
My Community Roots
In addition to supporting parents through my courses, I’m also actively involved in shaping local maternity care as part of the NHS Lothian Maternity Voices Partnership (MVP). This role allows me to represent the voices of local families and ensure that your needs and concerns are heard at a community level.
I’ve also had the pleasure of working with local initiatives, including running Dads2B workshops at St John’s Hospital, helping dads-to-be feel confident, involved, and fully prepared for parenthood.
These experiences keep me connected to local families and the healthcare system, so I’m always up-to-date on the best practices and services available to you.
A Little About Me
When I’m not supporting parents through their pregnancy journey, you’ll find me wandering the countryside with my dog, whipping up something in the kitchen (usually while listening to my uncool Spotify playlist), or diving into a true-crime podcast. I may or may not have a secret crush on Matt Bomer (yep, I’m owning it), and my shoe collection might be a bit more extensive than necessary - but hey, it keeps life interesting!
I believe that joy is in the little things, and that’s the energy I bring to my courses. Life is often messy, unpredictable, and beautiful, and I’m here to help you embrace it all with confidence.
![🌿 Your Birth, Your Voice — Together 🌿
There’s no one “right way” to give birth.
But there is a right to understand your options and to feel confident using your voice to make choices that truly fit you.
✨ Whether it’s deciding where to give birth, exploring pain relief, or making quick calls about your care during labour, feeling informed and involved matters.
Not just for mums, but for partners too.
🫶 Research shows that when women feel heard and respected during birth, outcomes are better both physically and emotionally. One UK study found that women who felt listened to were 45% less likely to experience birth trauma. [Birthrights, 2020]
💪 And partners? You’re not just a plus-one.
You can be a calm presence, a strong advocate, and a real voice of support in the room ... if you feel prepared.
🤰That’s why I do what I do.
💯 In every antenatal course I run, we talk about using your voice, knowing your rights, and navigating decisions with confidence and calm. It’s not about ticking boxes. It’s about you — your values, your needs, your choices.
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A Foundation of Trust
DipHE Antenatal Education
Certified TBR 3 Step Rewind Practitioner
Hypnobirthing Practitioner
Breastfeeding Counsellor (NCT)
Cert. Counselling Skills
Certified Aromatherapy for Childbirth
Doula Training Nurturing Birth
Level 2 Babywearing Peer Supporter
BD (Hons) University of Glasgow
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