ASK KT V

Importance of Intake and Assessment in Pre- and Perinatal Therapy: This class emphasises the significance of thorough intake and assessment in establishing a strong foundation for therapy, particularly in the context of pre- and perinatal care.
Establishing Relational Field: The intake process is crucial for establishing a relational field between the therapist, the baby, and the primary caretakers.
In-Person Intake: Conducting the intake in person, rather than over the phone, is essential for building rapport and observing non-verbal cues.
Initial Meeting Without the Baby: It is recommended to have the first meeting with the mother alone to avoid distractions and focus on building a connection.
Oblique Tracking: This skill involves monitoring subtle cues from the mother such as body language and breath rate, while maintaining a social interaction.
Tools for Therapy: Essential tools mentioned include back jacks for sitting on the floor, a yoga ball for various therapeutic uses, and a soft pelvis model for demonstrations.
Floor-Level Interaction: Engaging on the floor, where the baby therapy will take place important as it aligns with the baby's perspective and environment.
Compassionate and Businesslike Approach: The therapist should maintain a balance between being compassionate and professional, setting clear boundaries and expectations.
Handling Sensitive Topics: Karlton discusses the importance of addressing sensitive topics, such as abortion ideation, with care and without judgment.
Stage of Discovery: This phase refers to the moment when the mother realises she is pregnant, which can vary significantly in emotional and practical terms.
First Trimester Significance: The first trimester is noted as a critical period that can leave significant imprints on the baby's development due to the baby's vulnerability and rapid physiological changes.
Emotional Regulation During Pregnancy: The emotional state of the mother during pregnancy, particularly in the first trimester, is crucial for the baby's development.
Birth Story Details: Collecting detailed information about the birth, including any interventions and the mother's feelings, is essential for understanding the baby's experience.
Parental Birth Stories: Understanding the birth stories of the parents can provide insight into their approach to childbirth and potential emotional influences.
Rapport Building: Building a strong rapport with the mother through active listening, non-judgmental responses, and empathetic curiosity is vital for effective therapy.
Cultural and Personal Sensitivities: Being mindful of cultural and personal sensitivities, such as shame or religious beliefs, is important when discussing sensitive topics.
Use of Birth Records: Reviewing birth records can provide additional insights and help create a comprehensive understanding of the baby's birth experience.
C-Section Surgery: Details about a possible C-section procedure, including whether it was scheduled or an emergency.
IVF Considerations: Special attention is needed for babies conceived through IVF due to their heightened vulnerability and the unique circumstances of their conception.