About Me
Birth, Babies and 'Uncool' Music
Local expertise. Real empathy. Support that feels like a deep breath.
Hi, I'm Joy, thanks for being here
I’m an antenatal teacher, perinatal hypnotherapist and breastfeeding counsellor with over 20 years’ experience supporting families across West Lothian and beyond.
But long before that, I was a brand-new parent trying to find my feet.
I expected birth to be the hard part. No one prepared me for the intensity of the weeks that followed - the feeding struggles, the identity shift, the “am I doing this right?” moments, and the quiet worry that I should be coping better.
When my baby arrived, I experienced severe postnatal depression with very little support. That changed me and it’s the reason I do what I do.
This isn’t just work for me. It’s personal. I’ve built the kind of support I needed back then: calm, clear, honest and truly inclusive, the kind that makes things feel more manageable, less overwhelming, and a lot more hopeful.
However you’re feeling today - excited, anxious, overwhelmed or a mix of everything, you’re welcome here.
My Community Roots
For over two decades, I’ve supported families not just in groups and sessions but directly inside local maternity services.
I’ve:
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supported brilliant dads in the Dads2B programme at St John’s Hospital
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championed parent voices through NHS Lothian Maternity Voices Partnership
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taught for the NCT, the UK’s largest parenting charity
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and yes, even chatted birth with curious primary school kids
My work isn’t a job, it's a joy and a privilege.
What I Offer
I run relaxed, small-group antenatal courses in Linlithgow, ideal if you’re craving something more grounded and meaningful than a short NHS class.
I also support parents online with:
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antenatal education
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hypnobirthing
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birth or feeding trauma support
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anxiety in pregnancy or early parenthood
Support that meets you where you are, not a standard checklist, powerpoint or script.
How I Work
My background is in adult education, perinatal mental health and trauma support.
But what matters most is how I show up.
No pressure.
No assumptions.
No “right way.”
Just someone who knows the science, understands the system, and can hold space for whatever you bring, - from a detailed feeding plan to the fact you cried three times before 10am.
You’re human.
You don't need to be perfect ...
... and I’ve absolutely got you.
A Little About Me
When I’m not talking birth, you’ll probably find me:
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out with my dog in muddy boots
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singing badly in the kitchen while baking
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listening to a true crime audiobook
My shoe collection is unnecessary.
My crush on Matt Bomer is fully justified.
I believe in small joys, swearing when needed, and support that feels like a deep breath.
That’s what I bring to every space I hold.
A Foundation of Trust
DipHE Antenatal Education
Certified TBR 3 Step Rewind Practitioner
Student Perinatal Hypnotherapist
Certified Hypnobirthing Practitioner
Certified 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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