Birth with Me!
I'm a mom and birth enthusiast! I am consistently fascinated and awe struck by the entire pregnancy and birth journey. As a single woman, I had a friend who was studying to become a midwife. She shared how throughout her studies she felt like she could see me working in the birth work world. That was a seed, among many, that eventually inspired my decision to pursue becoming a doula. I've often found myself in supportive roles throughout my life, so taking this step to walk with others and help them to succeed makes perfect sense to me! Walking with families, helping them to envision and pursue the birth experience they desire, and champion them to see it realized, is a deep honor that gives me great joy!
My Training
I'm a Certified Birth Doula and Breastfeeding Counselor through the International Doula Institute.
I pursued these certifications in the midst of getting married, having my first child, and working. My training focused on these five core competencies:
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Physiology of Childbirth
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Common Interventions and Evidence Based Care
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Comfort Measures for Childbirth
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Breastfeeding
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Communicating with Medical Care Providers and Clients Utilizing Emotional Intelligence
Most of my training was virtual, therefore I personally desired more in-person training and development. I sought out the help of an experienced and successful local doula, here on the central coast, who has become a mentor to me and can continue to walk with me in my journey. This has helped me immensely, and I continue to get insight and guidance from her so that I can improve the way I serve my clients. In my free time I am often reading articles, researching topics around birth, and reading books or listening to podcasts to expand my evidence-based knowledge and practices, while growing my resource library!
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I also hold a BLS Certification in CPR & AED through the American Heart Association.
What is a doula?
The International Doula Institute defines a birth doula as a professional support person trained in the needs of the family during pregnancy and childbirth. The doula offers non-judgmental support, guidance, evidence-based education and practical hands-on support during childbirth including comfort measures. Doula originates from the Greek word meaning woman servant. A birth doula recognizes the profound impact of childbirth on the mother. The birth doula does not provide medical care, clinical tasks such a cervical checks or fetal heart tones and does not speak on behalf of the client.
What I offer?
I offer quality, personal, and comprehensive support to you throughout your birth experience. I provide an experience of safety, empathy, and calm presence throughout the birthing process. You, as well as your partner (if you have one), will feel me being fully "for you," as I am with you. I'm able to flow and adapt to support what you need most from moment to moment. In all of the ebbs and flows, I'll be ready to serve you directly, while also being available to help in practical ways.
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CLICK HERE to find out more about my services and choose what's right for you!
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