Ways to work together
Support that’s practical, personalised and tailored to your family.
You don’t have to navigate parenting challenges alone.
Ask Alison
When you don’t need a full consultation — just a trusted professional to answer a question, reassure you, or help you decide your next step.
- 15 minutes — $55
- 30 minutes — $95
- Individualised, evidence-based advice
- Practical next-step recommendations
Alongside Consultation
Personalised guidance for the questions that matter most — sleep, feeding, settling, behaviour or simply reassurance you’re on the right track.
- 60-minute Zoom consultation
- Comprehensive assessment of your concerns
- Individualised recommendations
- Written consultation summary
- Relevant resources & handouts
Calm Starts
Your first months, supported. Rather than a single appointment, we work together as your baby’s needs evolve and your confidence grows.
- 60-min initial consultation + action plan
- Two 30-min follow-up consultations
- Four weeks of email support
- Feeding, sleep, settling, cues & wellbeing
Sleep & Settling Intensive
A personalised, responsive approach to understanding your baby’s sleep and building realistic strategies that support the whole family.
- 60-min initial sleep assessment
- Written, individualised sleep plan
- 30-min follow-up consultation
- Two weeks of email support
Newborn Foundations
Feel prepared before birth and supported after. Three sessions across pregnancy and the early weeks — feeding, sleep, settling, cues and wellbeing.
- Session 1 — Preparing for baby (60 min)
- Session 2 — Newborn support, 0–4 weeks (45 min)
- Session 3 — Growing confidence, 4–12 weeks (45 min)
Home visits & travel
Home visits within 20km of Melbourne CBD are included in the consultation fee. Beyond that, a travel fee applies — 20–40km +$30, 40–60km +$60, 60km+ quote on request.
Not sure if you’re in range? Get in touch and I’ll provide a quote before your appointment is confirmed — no surprises.
Cancellations & rescheduling
Appointments can be rescheduled free of charge with at least 24 hours’ notice. Cancellations within 24 hours incur 50% of the fee; within 4 hours or non-attendance, the full fee.
Babies and families can become unwell unexpectedly — where genuine illness or emergencies occur, please get in touch as soon as you can and fees may be waived at my discretion.
Good to know
Frequently asked questions
Who do you help?
I support expectant parents and families with children from pregnancy through to around five years of age. Whether you’re preparing for your first baby, navigating the newborn months, introducing solids, struggling with sleep, or managing toddler behaviour, I’m here to provide calm, evidence-based guidance tailored to your family.
What can you help me with?
Some of the most common reasons parents book with me include:
- Breastfeeding and bottle feeding
- Mixed feeding and expressing
- Newborn sleep and settling
- Understanding normal baby behaviour
- Reflux and unsettled babies
- Introducing solids
- Establishing routines
- Developmental milestones
- Toilet training
- Toddler tantrums and behaviour
- Parenting confidence
- Preparing for life with a newborn
If you’re unsure whether I can help, simply get in touch.
What happens during a consultation?
Every consultation is personalised. We’ll spend time understanding your concerns, discussing what’s happening within your family, and developing practical strategies that suit your parenting style and your baby’s temperament. You’ll leave with clear, realistic advice — not a one-size-fits-all plan.
Will you tell me to leave my baby to cry?
No. My approach is responsive, gentle and evidence-informed. I believe babies communicate through their behaviour, and together we’ll work to understand what they’re telling us while helping everyone get more rest.
Do you follow one particular parenting philosophy?
No. Every family is different. Rather than following one rigid method, I combine current evidence, over 20 years of clinical experience, and your family’s goals to create practical strategies that work for you.
Is this only for first-time parents?
Not at all. Many experienced parents seek support because every baby is different. Whether this is your first or fourth child, it’s completely normal to need guidance.
Do you offer virtual appointments?
Yes. Most consultations are available via Zoom or phone, allowing families across Australia to access support from the comfort of home. Where appropriate, home visits may also be available for families in Melbourne.
How long are appointments?
Appointment lengths vary depending on your needs. Current options include:
- 15-minute Quick Support Call
- 30-minute Support Call
- 60-minute Comprehensive Consultation
- 90-minute Sleep & Settling Intensive
If you’re unsure which appointment is right for you, I’m happy to help.
Will I receive a written plan?
For longer consultations, yes. You’ll receive a personalised summary of recommendations, practical strategies, and helpful resources so you don’t need to remember everything we discussed.
Is your advice evidence-based?
Absolutely. As a Registered Nurse, Midwife and Maternal & Child Health Nurse with more than 20 years of experience, all advice is based on current evidence, professional guidelines and extensive clinical experience.
Do you replace my GP or paediatrician?
No. My service complements — not replaces — your existing healthcare team. If I have concerns that require medical assessment, I’ll recommend that you see your GP, paediatrician or another appropriate healthcare professional.
Can my partner join the consultation?
Absolutely. I encourage partners, grandparents and other caregivers to attend where appropriate so everyone feels confident and supported.
I’m embarrassed to ask such a simple question.
Please don’t be. One of the most common things parents tell me is, “I probably should know this already.” There are no silly questions when it comes to your baby. My role is to provide a safe, judgement-free space where you can ask anything.
My baby doesn’t fit the textbook. Can you still help?
Yes — babies don’t read textbooks! Every child is unique. Together we’ll work through what’s happening in your individual situation and develop strategies that are realistic for your family.
When should I book?
Many parents book during pregnancy to prepare for those first few weeks at home. Others book whenever challenges arise — whether that’s in the newborn period, around sleep changes, starting solids, or toddlerhood. You don’t need to wait until you’re overwhelmed.
What makes Alongside Alison different?
Alongside Alison was created to bridge the gap between routine health appointments and the day-to-day realities of parenting. Parents often leave appointments thinking of questions later or feeling unsure about what is “normal.” I provide the time, reassurance and personalised guidance that helps parents feel informed, confident and supported — walking alongside you, rather than telling you what to do.
How do I book?
Choose the consultation that best suits your needs and pick a time that works for your family. If you’re unsure which service is right for you, get in touch before booking.
Not sure what support you need?
If you're unsure which option is right for your family, get in touch and we'll find the best fit together.
Alongside Alison (ABN 24 398 422 992) provides education, guidance and support and does not replace medical care from your GP, paediatrician or maternal & child health service.