I received my training and education through both Twin Lakes College of the    Healing Arts and DONA International. I received my certification through DONA International in the fall of 2009. I have 3 children, and have 3 grandchildren. My first birth was a vaginal delivery that took place in a hospital, the end result was a beautiful little girl. I was fortunate enough to have a midwifery student attend my birth who helped me tremendously, more than she'll ever know. My second child was delivered by cesarean section due to a medical emergency. Unfortunately due to the placement of the internal incision I was unable to have a VBAC (vaginal delivery after a cesarean section) for the next two deliveries. These experiences helped to pave the way to my career choice of becoming a doula. In 1995 I went to school and became a medical assistant. The first three years I worked in Urgent Care, the following 7 years I worked in OB-GYN I knew I was on the right track, but something was still missing. It was during this time that I was introduced to doula work. It was then that I realized I had so much passion for this work! In 2006 I began taking courses to become a birth doula. It seemed however that life had other plans for me. I had the wonderful opportunity to help raise two of my grandchildren. So, I took some time to fully concentrate on this blessing that I received. When things settled down and returned to normal I was able to put all of my attention on my doula work. Currently I am working on receiving my hypno-doula certification as well as beginning my training with placenta encapsulation. I am very excited to incorporate these studies into my doula work. I keep my fee schedule at the lower end of the scale because  I believe every woman should be able to have a doula attend her birth (should she want one), no matter what her financial situation.  I draw on my professional training, knowledge and experience to provide emotional support, physical comfort and access to all the current research and information to help you make an informed decision as the need arises. If you have any questions or would like to contact me about me services please feel free to contact me at any time.  Congratulations on your pregnancy! 

~ My Birth Philosophy ~

I believe that birth is a natural, life transforming, rite of passage. Women have been giving birth since the beginning of time. We are amazingly strong, courageous, capable beings that intuitively know how to create and bring forth life. Our bodies where made to open both physically and mentally to this amazing process. It is a miraculous experience that involves pain, pleasure, excitement, love, euphoria (for some), and patience. It should not be viewed as a medical condition, that needs to happen in a specified amount of time, or certain way.  Every laboring women has their own experience. It may go quickly or slowly, it may be painful or orgasmic, it involves a number of emotions sometimes several at the same time. Women are incredible beings who (if we listen to our bodies and our babies) know exactly what to do and how to do it. What a beautiful gift we have been given. 

~ What I Will Bring to Your Birth ~

I will bring a sense of peace, calm, knowledge and experience, so you and your partner can relax. Your partner can participate at his/her own comfort level without the pressure of having to remember everything you have learned in birthing class, or read that they may have done.  I will gently remind your partner, if needed, and introduce new techniques as needed. I will provide comfort measures using hydrotherapy, visualization, massage, aromatherapy, acupressure, homeopathy, and various comfort techniques as the need may arise.  My hope for you and your partner is that you have the best birth experience possible, according to your plans.