I discovered my passion for birth over twenty-six years ago, with the transformative experience of the birth of my third child. Since then, I have taken that passion into a lifelong journey of learning how I can best share the joy and empowerment of that experience with others.

I had the privilege of attending my first birth in a support role in 2002 – and eventually decided to certify as a birth doula. Since then, I have had the privilege of supporting clients from homebirth to hospital, through unmedicated births and cesareans, VBACs and pregnancy after loss, and after many stories of trauma (and redemption). These beautiful clients have confirmed what I knew to be true in my own life – that birth has the power to not just change lives, but to also show us who we are.

Whether it’s with a doula client or in the classroom, I believe that creating relationship, sharing knowledge, showing compassion, and bringing a gentle, caring spirit to the families I work with makes a difference – not just now but for the future as well. I believe firmly that every birth should be attended by a doula because of the many ways that doula care is part of creating a more positive world.

I am certified as a birth doula with Doula Canada and as a childbirth educator through BirthWorks International. I have completed additional training in breastfeeding support, PAL support, holistic support and advanced comfort measures. I attended a Spinning Babies® foundational workshop in 2022, and work to support birth physiology with every client – from pregnancy through postpartum. I am a member of the Association of Ontario Doulas.

I am currently certifying as a lactation counsellor through Childbirth International.  

What is a doula?

A doula is a support person who provides one-on-one, personalized care during pregnancy, labour and postpartum. A doula does NOT provide medical care, but forms an important part of the birth team, together with the birthing person, care providers, partner and family members.

What are the benefits of adding a doula to my birth team?

The one-on-one support that a doula provides is irreplaceable. Evidence has shown benefits to the birthing person, baby and partner. Some of those benefits are: fewer cesarean births, better breastfeeding outcomes, less need for pitocin, less need for pain medication, shorter labours, more positive birth experiences and lower rates of postpartum mood disorders.

Why would I hire a doula when I have a nurse, midwife or OB?

Doulas provide care that is different from your medical care provider. While your medical team focuses on the clinical and medical aspects of the birth, doula support is relational - you build connection and trust; it is continuous - your doula supports you from early labour through to the birth of your baby; it is one-on-one - your doula is there just for you, providing hands-on comfort, .

Does a doula replace my partner or other support person?

Definitely not! In fact, doulas seek to provide information and encouragement that help a birthing person’s partner or other support person feel more confident in their involvement with pregnancy, labour and birth and the postpartum period.

When is the best time to add a doula to my birth team?

You can add a doula to your birth team whenever it feels right for you. Some clients hire doulas early in their pregnancy and others much closer to their estimated due date. The benefit of starting earlier in your pregnancy is that you can find a doula that suits your personality and situation and you have time to meet and build relationship before going into labour.

Does a doula make decisions for me or try to force their view of birth on me?

No! A doula’s role is to support you in your birth journey, listening to you and getting to know your thoughts, dreams and hopes while providing you with informational, emotional and physical support. A doula is a professional who wants to help you have the best birth possible for you.

What if I want a doula but can’t afford the cost?

I believe so firmly that a doula makes a difference, that I offer The Gentle Doula’s services on a sliding scale, based on what you feel you can afford to pay (from $850 to $1250). The same full service care is provided to everyone, regardless of fee.