A doula is a trained professional who provides continuous physical, emotional, and informational support to a mother before, during, and shortly after childbirth to help her achieve the healthiest, most satisfying experience possible. Doulas are dedicated to supporting women and their families, ensuring they feel empowered, informed, and cared for throughout their journey.The essence of doula care is to provide non-medical, non-judgemental support and guidance to individuals and families through times of critical, transformative life changes.

Doulas nurture, inform, support, guide, empower, and comfort.

Doulas work in tandem with other caregivers as a team.

Doulas foster self-determination in their clients by assisting in the gathering of information and encouraging them to make informed choices that are right for them.

For client needs outside of the doula’s scope of practice, the doula makes referrals to appropriate professionals and community resources.

Doula support is focused on, and adapted to, the unique needs and requirements of each family served.

See my Scope of Services for more information on what a doula does and does not provide.

During birth, I provide unwavering support, helping to create a calm and positive environment. I assist with pain management techniques, such as breathing exercises, massage, hypnosis and positioning, and provide continuous emotional encouragement. I also facilitate communication between the birthing mother, the birth partner, and medical professionals, ensuring the mother’s preferences and needs are respected and met.

In the postpartum period, I provide essential support to the new mother and family. This includes practical help with newborn care, breastfeeding support, sleep coaching and assistance with household tasks. I also offer emotional support and referrals to help new mothers navigate the challenges and joys of early parenthood, ensuring they and their partner feel confident and well-cared-for during this transformative time.

For those experiencing pregnancy loss, I offer compassionate and personalized support through a dedicated Cacao ceremony. This ceremony honors the loss and provides a space for grieving and healing. I offer guidance to the family emotionally, helping them to process their grief and find comfort, while also offering resources and guidance for coping with their loss. The ceremony is a meaningful way to acknowledge and honor the life that was lost, fostering a sense of peace and closure.