2001 Conference

ANTENATAL SUPPORT GROUP FOR WOMEN WITH A HISTORY OF ABUSE

Elke Andrees, BA, MA Appl. Psych., Manager Early Intervention Program, The Benevolent Society. 24a Ocean Street, Bondi, 2026. E-mail: elkea@bensoc.asn.au Ph: 02-9365 7999

In conjunction with the Royal Hospital for Women The Benevolent Society's Early Intervention Program is conducting pilot groups for pregnant women who report a history of childhood abuse at the time of booking into the hospital. The aim of the group is to prevent postpartum distress.

The paper will describe the underlying rationale and aims of the group, issues addressed during the group and the experiences of participants. A postpartum follow-up group of initial participants will also be discussed.