My journey
From a young age, I was drawn to babies, caregiving, and the healing arts. After high school, I immersed myself in alternative healing, women’s studies, and herbalism. Around that time, I discovered midwifery and homebirth—and felt an undeniable calling. When a friend mentioned she was hiring a doula, something lit up inside me. I knew instantly: this was the work I was meant to do.
I trained as a birth doula in 2000, just before becoming pregnant with my first son. Despite all the books, classes, and trainings I had consumed, birth humbled me from the very first contraction. I learned quickly that true strength in labor comes from surrender—trusting the body, instincts, and the sacred rhythm of birth.
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But what struck me even more deeply was how unprepared I felt for postpartum. Despite all my studies, no one had really talked about the raw, vulnerable weeks after birth—what mothers truly need, and how neglected they often are in a culture that prioritizes “bouncing back” over genuine healing. It was then that my focus shifted. I knew I wanted to walk alongside mothers during this tender season, offering the care, presence, and support that every new family deserves.
After pausing doula work to raise and homeschool my three children (using the Waldorf method), I returned with both renewed training and the lived wisdom of motherhood. Today, I bring not only academic knowledge but also decades of personal experience into my work with families.
My Approach
In every visit, I bring a calm, reassuring presence, meeting each family exactly where they are. I see my role as creating space for mothers to feel safe, deeply nourished, and honored—so they can step into motherhood with confidence, peace, and newfound strength. I also support partners and siblings as they grow into their new roles alongside the mother. This is heart work, sacred work, and it is a privilege to serve families in this way.
Beyond Birthwork
When I’m not supporting families, you’ll often find me outdoors soaking up the beauty of the California coast—at the beach, hiking, camping, or playing volleyball and tennis. I love moving my body, dancing to reggae music, and spending time with my family. To me, health is our greatest wealth, and life is a gift meant to be lived fully.
Qualifications
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5+ years work experience as a Camp Counselor, Private Nanny and Daycare Provider
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Herbal apprenticeship - University of Vermont
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Herbal coursework - California School of Herbal Studies
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Certified Herbalist - Sage Mountain Herbal Center
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Labor Support Workshop - Kymm Ann Wallin
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Birth Doula Training - DONA
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Birth Network of Santa Cruz Professional Member
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Birthing From Within Workshop - Kymm Ann Wallin & Molly Cruz
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Postpartum Doula Training - Twin Lakes College of the Healing Arts
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Postpartum Doula Training - DONA
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Volunteer Doula at Sienna House
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Aromatouch Technique Bodywork Certification - Maria Fahrner
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Employment with Born Doulas
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Postpartum Herbs, Care & Practice Training - Postpartum University
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Childbirth Educator Certification - Birthworker Academy
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Postpartum Doula Certification - Birth Arts International
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Adult & Infant CPR Certification - American Heart Association
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Seminar with Partera Angelina Martinez Miranda
