Supporting families through the transition to parenthood

SHAPE Psychology is a Geelong-based private psychology practice supporting individuals and couples experiencing anxiety, perinatal mental health challenges and relationship difficulties.

Psychologist Tilly Ambler works at the intersection of these areas, focusing on helping families navigate the early years of parenthood.

It’s 3am and the baby is crying and unsettled. One partner feels exhausted and anxious, the other frustrated and disconnected. In these moments, relationships can feel stretched to their limits, even in loving families.

“Parenthood changes people – and with the right support, those changes can bring couples closer,” Tilly said.

Welcoming a new baby is one of life’s most joyful milestones, but it can also be one of the most challenging.

Research shows that within three years of a baby’s birth, around two-thirds of couples report a decline in relationship satisfaction, alongside increased conflict and stress.

Through her work in perinatal mental health and couples therapy, Tilly has supported many parents navigating the emotional, relational and identity shifts that come with early parenthood.

Anxiety, depression, birth trauma and sleep deprivation are common challenges. Many parents also describe a quieter sense of loss – of independence, identity or the life they once knew – feelings that sit uneasily alongside idealised portrayals of parenthood in the media.

Couples can begin to feel like teammates managing logistics rather than partners in connection. Communication may become strained, misunderstandings increase and intimacy can take a back seat to the needs of a baby. These experiences are common and reflect the magnitude of the transition, not failure.

To support families during this stage, Tilly is offering the Bringing Baby Home program in Geelong. Developed from decades of research into relationships and family wellbeing, this evidence-based program is designed for expectant couples and families with children up to three years of age.

Rather than waiting for difficulties to escalate, the program focuses on prevention and early support.

Couples learn practical tools to strengthen communication, manage conflict constructively and maintain emotional connection while adjusting to new parenting roles.

The program also helps partners understand the emotional changes that often occur during pregnancy and the first years after birth.

When a couple relationship feels secure and supported, the benefits extend beyond the partnership. Parents feel more confident and emotionally resourced, and children thrive in environments where caregivers are connected and attuned.

Research consistently shows that children raised in stable, emotionally responsive families demonstrate stronger social adjustment, improved school outcomes and better long- term wellbeing.

For many Geelong families – balancing work demands, limited extended family support and the pace of modern life – structured guidance during this transition can make a meaningful difference.

Tilly’s training in perinatal mental health and couples therapy allows her to deliver the program with warmth, clinical insight and a deep respect for the vulnerability of early parenthood.

Shape Psychology is proud to bring Bringing Baby Home to the Geelong community, helping couples strengthen their relationships during one of life’s most significant transitions.

Registrations for the 2026 programs are now open. Head to the Shape Psychology website to learn more.