Circle of Security

We’re proud to offer the Circle of Security™ program — a gentle, evidence-based workshop series designed to help parents understand their child’s emotional world and build secure, trusting relationships that last a lifetime.

Parenthood brings incredible love — and moments that catch us off guard.

No one tells you how deeply parenting can stir your heart

Circle of Security™ is a compassionate parenting program grounded in attachment research. It helps caregivers better understand their child’s needs and their own responses — so you can feel more confident, connected, and emotionally available as a parent.

What You’ll Learn:

  • The Circle of Security™ map — a visual guide to your child’s emotional world

  • How attachment shapes behaviour and needs

  • What your child is really asking for when they’re upset

  • How to provide comfort, connection, and support

  • How your own experiences influence your parenting responses

  • Practical strategies to repair connection when things feel hard

Who is Circle of Security for?

Circle of Security™ is for parents and caregivers of infants, toddlers, and young children (0 to 12 years old) who want to:

  • Understand their child’s emotional needs more deeply

  • Respond to behaviour with greater connection and confidence

  • Grow secure attachment in their relationships with their children

  • Increase joy, connection, and emotional attunement

  • Feel more calm and confident during challenging moments

All parents, caregivers and couples are welcome.

Why Secure Attachment Matters

When children experience a secure, consistent relationship with their caregiver, it shapes their emotional wellbeing for years to come.

Children with secure attachments are more likely to:

  • Develop healthy, trusting relationships with peers and family members

  • Regulate and manage their emotions more effectively

  • Show greater resilience and confidence when facing challenges

  • Explore, learn, and engage more positively in school and social settings

  • Grow into adults who form secure, fulfilling relationships

Secure attachment doesn’t mean perfect parenting. It means being “good enough” — consistently available, responsive, and willing to repair when things go wrong.

Upcoming Groups – 2026

Circle of Security™ groups run throughout the year, offering parents a supportive space to deepen their understanding of their child’s emotional needs and strengthen their relationship. Many parents choose to attend during their child’s first year, as they adjust to life with their baby and begin laying the foundations for secure, lifelong relationships.

Each group runs over 8 sessions (2 hours each) and is held at Newcastle Perinatal Place.

The program is $100 per session. Participants with a valid Mental Health Care Plan and referral from their GP may be eligible for a Medicare rebate of $41.05 per session.

Places are limited to keep groups small and supportive, so we encourage parents to register early.

Circle of Security™ Group – Registrations Open

Saturdays | 1:00–3:00pm
Held at Newcastle Perinatal Place

The program runs over 8 weekly sessions:

Session 1 – 2 May 2026
Session 2 – 9 May 2026
Session 3 – 16 May 2026
Session 4 – 23 May 2026
Session 5 – 30 May 2026

No session on Saturday 6 June due to the long weekend

Session 6 – 13 June 2026
Session 7 – 20 June 2026
Session 8 – 27 June 2026

When children feel secure, families flourish — and relationships strengthen across generations

Frequently Asked Questions

Wondering if this is right for you? Browse the FAQs or reach out to us directly — and when the time feels right, we’re here to walk alongside you.

  • Circle of Security™ is an 8-week group program

    Eight sessions, over eight weeks
    Two hours per session

    Group workshops offer the added benefit of shared learning and connection with other parents navigating similar experiences.

  • Yes — we warmly welcome partners to attend. Parenting is a shared journey, and many families find it incredibly valuable to learn this framework together. When both caregivers understand the Circle of Security concepts, it can strengthen consistency, communication, and teamwork at home.

    Attending together often creates space for meaningful conversations about your child’s needs, your own parenting experiences, and how you want to show up as a family. It’s not about doing everything perfectly — it’s about growing in understanding and connection, side by side.

    If you’re unsure whether it’s the right fit for your family, feel free to reach out — we’re always happy to talk it through.

  • The Circle of Security™ program is $100 per session, delivered over 8 weekly sessions.

    Private Health Insurance rebates may apply depending on your level of cover — we recommend checking directly with your provider to confirm eligibility. Medicare rebates may also be available for participants with a valid Mental Health Care Plan (MHCP).

  • In person at Newcastle Perinatal Place

    1A Chapman Street, Charlestown NSW 2290