Strength In Mothers

FAQs

What is matrescence?

Dr Aurelie Athan Ph.D. is a reproductive psychologist, theorist and educator in maternal psychology & matrescence. She is the first person to liken matrescence to adolescence. Her working definition of matrescence is: “The process of becoming a mother, coined by Dana Raphael, Ph.D. (1973), is a developmental passage where a woman transitions through pre-conception, pregnancy and birth, surrogacy or adoption, to the postnatal period and beyond. The exact length of matrescence is individual, recurs with each child, and may arguably last a lifetime! The scope of the changes encompass multiple domains: biological, psychological, social, political and spiritual, and can be likened to the developmental push of adolescence.”

Who do you provide support to?

Strength In Mothers is inclusive of all mothers – adoptive, biological, foster, and non-birthing mothers, as well as those that have experienced pregnancy loss. As per the definition above, matrescence “spans pre-conception, pregnancy and birth, surrogacy or adoption, to the postnatal period and beyond”, I support mothers at any stage of their matrescence experience.

What is matrescence coaching?

Matrescence coaching is focused on the important life transition and identity shift that a person experiences as they become a mother. Coaching mothers through the lens of matrescence ensures that, similar to a teenager moving through adolescence, we acknowledge the many changes and challenges a mother experiences, as well as the social and cultural expectations at play in society.

What does Matrescence coaching involve?

Matrescence coaching involves first understanding your individual situation, needs or concerns. We will explore the issue/s you are having and if needed, I can assist you to determine what is of the highest priority to begin with. Some of the issues you may wish to focus on include:

• Changes to your physical body
• Changes in your relationships with your partner, family, and friends
• Emotional changes
• Negative self-talk
• Issues with work-life balance and career changes
• Increasing mental load and feeling overwhelmed
• Cultural, social, and personal expectations of motherhood
• Burnout and post-pandemic depletion
• Finding additional supports

Matrescence coaching can involve guiding you to relevant information and resources, but it can also be helping you unlock your own answers to the difficulties you are experiencing. Talking issues through with someone who asks the right questions can help you see concerns in a new light. 

Matrescence coaching works best when you set aside the time and space where you can be free of interruptions, and be fully present to participate in the process. 

What are your qualifications?

I am a qualified Social Worker, having completed my Bachelor of Social Work and a Bachelor of Arts at The University of Melbourne in 2006. Since then, I have practiced as a Social Worker in Melbourne and London (U.K.) and worked in both the government and non-profit sectors.

I am also a Mama Rising® Certified Coach & Facilitator, a program developed by Amy Taylor-Kabbaz to support women through matrescence.

Where are you located?

Matrescence coaching is currently provided online via video conferencing.

What are your fees?

Owning Your Matrescence (Coaching Package) $840
This coaching package includes:
– 6 x 60 minute coaching sessions, held over 12 weeks
– Voice and text messaging access via the Voxer app every Thursday and Friday