BUPA Parent and Baby Wellbeing Program

Psychological therapy sessions for expecting and new parents

Bupa, in association with PIRI, have developed the Parent and Baby Wellbeing program. This national program provides psychological therapy sessions for expecting and new parents with Bupa hospital cover. All sessions are available to eligible Bupa members with no out-of-pocket expenses.

Please note: due to the COVID-19 restrictions, services in some areas are only available via telehealth.

Reasons to contact this service

Individuals contacting this service might experience difficulties adjusting to pregnancy and parenthood, as well as low mood, anxiety and other mental health problems during this time. This service is open to mothers and fathers during pregnancy until baby turns 2 years of age.

What this service provides

  • An assessment of your needs to understand your situation and the most appropriate treatment options.
  • Individual antenatal or postnatal treatment for difficulties, including:
    • Worrying about becoming a parent
    • Worrying about your baby
    • Not feeling bonded to your baby
    • Feeling depressed, anxious or struggling to cope
    • Coping with a premature birth
  • Group treatment programs for perinatal mental health concerns (e.g., postnatal depression)

How to access this program

If you’d like enquire about support from this program, you can email pbwp@austin.org.au or call the friendly PIRI team on 1300 360 913. Simply advise you are a Bupa member and provide us with your member number, name and date of birth. Be sure to give us contact details including mobile, and email address.

You’ll be able to speak confidentially with an experienced professional about what you are experiencing and how you are feeling.

If you need more support and the program is suited to meet your needs, you may be invited to attend sessions with a psychologist (in person or via telehealth). Psychology sessions include further assessment of your current difficulties and the development of a personalised support plan. Psychology sessions may include individual counselling sessions, group programs or sessions for you and your baby.

Alternative crisis support services

Please note that PIRI operates within business hours 9am – 5pm, Monday to Friday AEST(except public holidays) by appointment.

If you require urgent or after-hours assistance please contact your GP, child and family health nurse, or one of the following services in your state. See below or click here for a detailed list.

Bupa exists to help its members live longer, healthier, happier lives. And as a healthcare leader in Australia, they’re well placed to support and look after you and your family’s health. Bupa takes pride in delivering high quality cover that is affordable and represents real value. They have been part of Australian life for over 60 years and today, they proudly look after the needs of more than three million Australians. Bupa understands its members and the importance of helping to manage your health for the long term. That’s why they aim to provide you with the best advice, support, care and treatment to help you find what’s right for your needs. They have a range of healthcare services to help you live a healthier life.

If you require crisis support, please contact your nearest emergency service as outlined below:

  • Emergency Services 000
  • Emergency Department at your local Hospital
  • Lifeline 13 11 44
  • Beyond Blue 1300 224 636 (for depression and anxiety)

Additional state-based supports

VICTORIA:

  • Maternal and Child Health Line — 24 hour a day, 7 days a week — 13 22 29
  • Parentline VIC — 8am to 12am Mon-Fri,10am to 10pm Weekends — 13 22 89

NEW SOUTH WALES:

  • Karitane Careline — 24 hours a day, 7 days a week — 1300 227 464
  • Parentline NSW — 24 hours a day, 7 days a week — 1300 130 052

ACT:

  • healthdirect Australia — 24 hours a day, 7 days a week — 1800 022 222
  • Parentline ACT — 9am – 9pm Monday to Friday (except public holidays) — (02) 6287 3833

QUEENSLAND

  • Child Health Line — 24 hours a day, 7 days a week — 13 43 25 84
  • Parentline QLD & NT — 8am to 10pm, seven days a week — 1300 30 1300

SOUTH AUSTRALIA:

  • Child and Youth Health Service — 9am – 4.30pm Monday to Friday — 1300 733 606
  • Parent Helpline SA — 24 hours a day, seven days a week — 1300 364 100

WESTERN AUSTRALIA:

  • healthdirect Australia — 24 hours a day, 7 days a week — 1800 022 222
  • Parent Help Centre WA — 24 hours a day, 7 days a week — 1800 654 432

NORTHERN TERRITORY:

  • healthdirect Australia — 24 hours a day, 7 days a week — 1800 022 222
  • Parentline QLD & NT — 8am to 10pm, seven days a week — 1300 30 1300

TASMANIA:

  • Parenting Line TAS — 24 hours a day, 7 days a week — 1300 808 178
BUPA Parent and Baby Wellbeing Program