Birth Doulas
HVBN is a membership network only and not responsible for the opinions, practice, or health care services provided by individuals listed on this site. We recommend that clients confirm that a provider’s beliefs and practices are consistent with their own.
ELISE ALAHAKOON, CD, CPD, CBE, CPNE, CLC
Pronouns: She/Her
Certified Sound Healer
elledoulaservices.com
elledoulaservices@gmail.com
ig: elledoulaservices
ELISE ALAHAKOON is a certified Birth Doula, Postpartum Doula, Childbirth/Perinatal Nutrition Educator, & Lactation Counselor. She is also a certified Sound Healer. With her background in childcare and teaching, she aims to educate and empower people in her community when it comes to starting a family. She believes that education and support are the keys to living a higher, elevated life. Elise is based in Yonkers, NY, but her scope of practice ranges from New York City to Westchester County, Putnam County, Rockland County, Orange County, Bergen County (NJ) & Fairfield County (CT). It would be her pleasure & honor to help you have a positive birthing experience!
KATHERINE ANDERSON, CCE, CD (DONA)
(914) 844-1660
kathpooch@gmail.com
www.birthclasseswestchester.com
*Serving families in Westchester and Southern Connecticut*
KATHERINE ANDERSON, childbirth educator and labor support doula, is a Northern California native residing in Dobbs Ferry with her husband Calvin and their two children, Rebecca and Gabriel. The birth of her daughter was a defining moment for Katherine. "I knew at that instant that I wanted to be with and help guide expectant women in the amazing journey of pregnancy, labor, and birth. I believe that when women are allowed to trust in the innate wisdom of their bodies, giving birth can be an experience that is both empowering and life- changing." Katherine's philosophies and beliefs about pregnancy and birth are inspired by the works of Sheila Kitzinger, Dr. Michel Odent, Ina May Gaskin, Gayle Peterson, and by the many wise women she has trained with through the International Childbirth Education Association. In addition to her work as a childbirth educator and doula, she is a violist with the Metropolitan Opera in New York City.
JULIET ANTELMI (CD:DONA) CLC
Certified Birth & Postpartum Doula
Home Birth Midwife Birth Assistant
Certified Lactation Counselor
Prenatal Yoga Instructor
Reiki Master/Practitioner
Certified Havening Technique Practitioner
JulesCareBirthServices@gmail.com
JulesCareBirthServices.com
914.473.2514
Jules Birth philosophy
Juliet earned a degree in Hospitality Management. She also has a Montessori Early Childhood Education degree; she taught at Hudson Montessori prior to having her family. She is a Birth and Postpartum Doula, Certify Yoga instructor, Reiki Master, Havening Practitioner, and has been practicing meditation for over 25 years with Self Realization Fellowship. She considered herself a light and co-worker on this planet during this transitional earth period and knows her calling is to work with women during the sacred birthing journey. She worked with the Caribbean Women's Health association, Lower Hudson Valley Perinatal Network as a Certified Lactation counselor at Rockland Baby Cafe, under the umbrella of Children’s Health & Research, Inc.
Juliet was born in St. Elizabeth, Jamaica, West Indies, a beautiful Island in the Caribbean. This is where her approach and philosophy to birth, family, life and living was influenced. This makes her embracing and sensitive to all cultures in her approach to birth as she is guided by the Jamaican motto “Out of many, One.”
Juliet’s philosophies and beliefs about pre-pregnancy, pregnancy, birth and after birth are also based on her personal experiences in birthing her 3 children, whom she breastfed exclusively. She is very supportive of breastfeeding and understands that the work for a successful breastfeeding experience begins prior to giving birth. Juliet is supportive of your team even after the baby's birth and offers postpartum services. Creating a healthy nutrition program, doing prenatal yoga, visualization, and mindfulness are all a part of how she approaches the journey of pregnancy, and breastfeeding with the birthing parent/parents prior to birth and after.
If this speaks to you, then you have found your birth doula your co-worker on your birthing journey if:
You’re feeling a deep conviction to be true to yourself in this present time
Are you making choices from a place of love and not fear, feeling the shift to a higher way of thinking and living, already feeling the presence of your unborn baby supporting your choices, becoming more mindful of the energy around you, feeling an inner strength that you know is innate to you!
Do you envision birthing in a place and space surrounded by love and empathy from your team?
Your mind is powerful beyond measure! Your body and your baby are working in sync for this birth, you got this!
I feel you, and I will hold that space for you to move with that beautiful majestic feminine energy to birth your baby as nature intended it to be devoid of fear regardless of the path this birth journey may take.
Juliet strives to make every birth an empowering experience. She supports women who have a different approach to birthing, as being culturally, spiritually, or intuitively listening in and tapping into the energy of the sages of their ancestors. Juliet supported births at home, and within a hospital setting that held spaces for the birthing woman to experience the birth that she envisioned.
HILARY BAXENDALE
Childbirth Educator
Birth Doula
New Parent Support
(401) 743-0814
www.westchesterbirth.com
hilary@westchesterbirth.com
After the birth of her first son in a large New York City Hospital, Hilary was drawn to childbirth education as a way to help pregnant woman have a satisfying and positive birth experience in any setting. Hilary’s classes are evidenced based and non-judgmental. They incorporate many coping techniques, including pain medication, to help each family find what approach is going to best support them. She teaches group classes at several Westchester locations. She also offers private classes and refreshers by request.
In addition to being a Childbirth Educator, Hilary is also a birth doula, Certified Lactation Counselor and helps woman transition to parenthood through newborn care and breastfeeding basics classes. She also runs a drop-in new mom group, Rivertown Mamas, and visits new parents at home to assist in the early weeks with a new baby. She feels very honored to be able to empower new parents to welcome and care for their babies with knowledge, confidence and a good dose of humor.
Raised in Rhode Island, educated in Boston and married to an English charmer, Hilary currently calls Hastings-on-Hudson home with her family that includes two young sons.
EMILY BERNINGER, MSW
Birth Doula
Certified Doula (DONA)
Masters in Social Work (Columbia University)
Human Rights Degree (Bard College)
www.hudsonrootsny.com
hudsonrootsny@gmail.com
Serving Ulster County, Duchess County and beyond
EMILY is a DONA certified birth doula serving families in the Hudson Valley Area. With a decade of experience as a social worker, 7 years an herbalist, and her own journey through motherhood, she brings compassion and authenticity to her role as a birth companion. Emily's holistic and personalized approach combines diverse training in Spinning Babies techniques, lactation support, Hypnobirthing, and perinatal mental health.
Emily offers physical comfort techniques, emotional support, and can create personal herbal recommendations (to be discussed with healthcare providers) throughout pregnancy, birth, and postpartum. She draws on her clinical social work background to help families process their birth experience and navigate the transition to parenthood. She additionally offers individualized care which may include newborn care guidance, nursing assistance and resources and strategies for physical healing.
Emily acts as a steady, calming force, advocating for her clients' preferences and fostering a partnership beyond scheduled appointments. This reflects her broader philosophy about the significance of the birthing experience. She believes that how we birth matters - not because there's one right way, but because it's a profound journey of becoming.
She assists all types of births, from home to hospital, unmedicated to medicated, always prioritizing the wishes and well-being of the birthing person. Emily joyfully works with diverse families, including LGBTQ+ families and single parents. Her practice is body-positive, trauma-informed and culturally competent.
When not at a birth, Emily enjoys throwing ceramics on the wheel, testing ideas in the kitchen, playing board games no one wants to learn and going on nature walks with her two kids, husband and pup.
VICKI BLOOM
Birth Doula
Certified Lactation Counselor
Postpartum Doula
Full Spectrum Doula
Placenta Encapsulator
www.wholeselfdoula.com
www.westchesterplacenta.com
wholeselfdoula@gmail.com
914-450-9574
I believe that you don’t become a different person when you become pregnant, begin labor, enter your birthing space, or bring your baby home for the first time. As your doula, I take the time to learn who you are and what will help you and your family to feel comfortable, informed, prepared, and ready to engage with your birth, both in advance and through the ever-changing moments of the birth process.
I am passionate, flexible, and comforting, but also grounded, no-nonsense, and strongly evidence-based. My clients come from all walks of life, but I am especially drawn to support people who can fall through the cracks of the medical system or feel unheard through the process of standardized birth, such as younger and older parents, single parents, LGBTQIA+ parents, people in non-traditional careers, families in transition, and parents of size. I also specialize in supporting alternative parents who want a professional with whom they can share their family dynamics openly, such as polyamorous families and people in power-dynamic relationships. I bring a full-spectrum background that sees all of of the aspects our reproductive lives as connected, and additional training as a certified lactation consultant and Hypnobabies doula. My fascination with the placenta, the only organ that the human body creates for a temporary purpose, leads me to offer placenta encapsulation, photography and art.
TIFFANY CALLEGARI, CBD, CPD, CFD, CBE
Holistic Full Spectrum Doula
Certified Fertility Doula
Certified Hypnobirthing Childbirth Educator
718-781-0798
tiffany@birthdoulabestie.com
IG: your.birth.bestie
Tiffany is a mama of two and a passionate birthworker, living in Orange County, NY. She absolutely loves birth and all the phases that lead up to birth. Full-heartedly supporting mamas for a fearless, life-changing birth is one of her favorite things to do!
Tiffany first knew that she wanted to support women as a doula over ten years ago, after having her first-born. She was in massage therapy school at the time, working, and adjusting to being a new mom. It was challenging to balance it all, so as God would have it, many years went by until she pursued that dream of hers. She was planning to have her second child when she finally became a doula in January 2021. There were no mistakes made in the way things unfolded because little did she know that God would plan it this way so that she could also prepare herself for a life-changing birth that she would have just 10 months later. Through the journey of becoming a birthworker, she was able to work on her own fears and insecurities around birth. This laid the foundation for the work Tiffany does with all of her pregnant mamas. She also created a birth workbook called Fearless Mama Birth, which is given to all of her birth doula clients as a birth prep guide.
Tiffany's own health challenges led her on a holistic path since 2011. She was able to heal from endometriosis and fibroids. She realized that she wanted to help other women who struggle with fertility challenges. Her education in holistic health, herbs, and homeopathy has allowed her to help women trying to conceive and who struggle with fertility challenges.
Tiffany is honored to be a part of each and every birth experience she’s invited into. She looks forward to connecting with more mamas in the Hudson Valley!
CHRISTINA CARINO-FORREST, (CD)DONA, CPD, CLC
Belly to Birth Doula Services
bellytobirthny@gmail.com
(914) 772-0506
CHRISTINA CARINO-FORREST is a DONA-trained doula, and has been attending births for the past three years. Christina is the mother of two beautiful children and lives with her loving husband in New Rochelle. She is passionate about being a doula and believes women have the innate ability to give birth and to care for their babies. Her goal as a doula is to help parents discover their own voices, their own strength, and their own unique capacity to give birth and be amazing parents.
Christina is certified in many comfort measures including Rebozo, Spinning Babies and Red Cross CPR. Her experience includes: VBAC clients, mothers over the age of 40, twin vaginal birth, high risk, inductions, home birth and unmedicated births. She has initiated skin-to-skin and breastfeeding during a C-section. She offers birth photography, acupressure in labor, and essential oils during labor.
TESSA CATTO, CBD, CPD, CFD, CBE
Certified Birth Doula
917-838-8711
tessa.catto@gmail.com or Birthartandbeyond@gmail.com
www.birthartandbeyond.com
TESSA CATTO, founder of Birth Art and Beyond, is an artist and doula whose passion for birth work was sparked during the pregnancy and birth of her first daughter. She believes deeply that the support a birthing person receives throughout their pregnancy and birth profoundly shapes their transition to motherhood and their postpartum experience. She is open minded and kind.
Tessa combines her love of art, her dedication to encouraging others, and her commitment to providing doula support and childbirth education to create Birth Art and Beyond. In addition to offering doula support, she also she offers a nurturing, creative space for both new and experienced mothers, along with their families, as they navigate the transformative journey of welcoming a child into the world.
A strong advocate for community, Tessa enjoys sharing her unique birth art experiences within the birth community. If you’re a birth worker and would like to collaborate, or if you’re like Tessa to host an art-infused workshop in your space, feel free to reach out. If you are looking for doula support please reach out; I would love to see if we are a fit.
SILVIE FALSCHLUNGER, Ph.D, CCE, CLD (CBI)
(914) 522-6980 cell
(914) 686-3477 home
scfalschlunger@optonline.net
www.birth-in-motion.com
SILVIE FALSCHLUNGER is a certified labor support doula and childbirth educator with a strong psychological background. She trained with Childbirth International focusing on evidence-based care, natural comfort measures, and an emphasis on communication skills to find your best possible birth place and care provider. She views pregnancy and birth as a natural process and a rite of passage. She believes that there is not only a baby conceived and born but also a mother and a father initiated and a community invited to welcome and raise a child. She believes that the birth process has a strong first imprint in our lives and that it matters how we are born. She feels honored to support women, their partners and families, and be part of their journey. Sylvia is a native Austrian and lives with her husband and daughter in White Plains, NY. She offers her services in English and German.
Postpartum services and overnights available.
JACQUI FEINSTIX
Birth Doula, Childbirth Educator, Lactation Consultant, Prenatal Yoga Teacher
(914) 420-1866
born-to-love.com
info@born-to-love.com
JACQUI FEINSTIX is an Ulster County based birth doula, childbirth educator, lactation counselor, and prenatal yoga teacher servicing Westchester and Ulster county parents.
While completing her yoga teacher training in 2012, Jacqui was drawn to the magical energy of pregnant yogis and was inspired to pursue prenatal yoga. She found her true calling to support people during their journey to parenthood and the universe opened its doors.
She empowers birthing people with the information their minds need, the movement and breath their bodies crave, and her protective energy and big heart. She believes that there is no one right way to birth, that each experience is unique and special.
If Jacqui is not supporting a birth, teaching a yoga class, or guiding a hands on childbirth education class, you will find her hosting her bimonthly new parent’s feeding circle (Nurture Café) and monthly women’s gathering (Kula Luna) to help foster a beautiful sense of community.
Jacqui is a baby-wearing, cloth-diapering, magical mom, who she lives in New Paltz with her wife Katie, young son Zander, and a rescue dog named “Zeppelin” (yes, after Led Zeppelin!). Jacqui has a “whole lotta love” to give.
DENA GOLD, L.Ac., LMT, MSAc, MSCH, CD, CLC
917-719-2728
https://www.innernature.co/
Dena@innernature.co
Habla español
מדברת עברית
بتحكي العربية
說國語
DENA GOLD is a licensed acupuncturist, herbalist, massage therapist, DTI-certified full-spectrum doula (covering fertility, birth, postpartum, and abortion), certified lactation counselor, Spinning Babies®-aware practitioner, and certified Hypnobirthing® childbirth educator.
Dena holds masters degrees in both Acupuncture and Chinese Herbology. While she treats a wide range of imbalances and concerns, her specialties in her acupuncture practice include women's/uterine health, psychoemotional concerns, trans health, fatigue syndromes, and pain management. She is trained in a wide array of acupuncture styles and techniques, and is in long-term study with a master practitioner. Her herbal training included considerations of the interactions of herbs with medications and/or particular health conditions to support safety and further enhance patient health. She is trained in customizing herbal formulations for each individual presentation.
Dena is trained in a wide array of massage techniques including trigger points release, deep tissue, shiatsu, Thai yoga massage, Arvigo® abdominal massage, and craniosacral/dynamic body balancing (for adults and infants). She has a wide range of experience in different areas, including pain management and prenatal massage. She also offers sessions particularly oriented towards breech body balancing, which incorporate a mix of massage therapy, acupuncture, moxibustion, craniosacral, and spinning babies techniques.
As a doula, she brings her years of clinical experience to her clients, using hands-on support to help enhance physical comfort during birth. She is able to keep a calm presence, while helping parents understand what their providers present and supporting them as they navigate potentially changing terrain. Dena is passionate about preserving agency and bodily autonomy throughout the birthing process, which she knows looks different for each individual. In her postpartum work, her approach is to follow parents' lead, while offering education and resources to support infant safety and comfort, as well as family bonding. For those who feel uncertain she is happy to offer as much support as needed to help them learn and feel confident in their new role. This period can be a big transition and she values being able to help families navigate this sometimes unpredictable period.
Dena focuses on evidence-based lactation solutions grounded in high level research and a physiological understanding of the science of lactation, while keeping in touch with the emotional and intangible aspects of the bodyfeeding experience. She brings her detailed clinical eye to the diagnosis of any issues, and offers clear solutions, helping families find ways to implement them that fit their unique needs.
SHARIFA GRANT, RN, CLC, LMT
Birth Support
Registered Nurse
Certified Lactation Counselor
Licensed Massage Therapist
Certified Traditional Herbalist
718.306.9410 (call/text)
info@sharifagrant.com
*Serving families in Westchester, Orange, Rockland, Dutchess and Putnam County*
SHARIFA GRANT provides holistic birth support services. She is a birth doula, registered nurse, certified lactation counselor, licensed massage therapist and certified herbalist. She serves Westchester, Orange, Rockland, Dutchess, and Putnam counties.
Sharifa was born and raised in the Bronx, to a large and loving family. Her Caribbean-American upbringing informs her natural approach to birth work, herbalism and holistic healing. Sharifa believes a healthy pregnancy begins prior to conception and lasts well beyond delivery. Empowering birthing people, building community and compassion are at the heart of her work. In this vein, Sharifa also provides natural fertility counseling as well as postpartum nutrition and healing support. Virtual support is also available for parents living in remote locations.
ELIZABETH “LIZ” GUERRA, MS, CLC
Pronouns: She/Her/Ella
Full Spectrum Doula (birth, postpartum, abortion, pregnancy loss)
Certified Lactation Counselor
Childbirth Educator
Placenta Encapsulator
Spinning Babies Trained
Fluent in Spanish
info@inti-quilla.com
www.inti-quilla.com
Supporting families with love & dignity
LIZ GUERRA is a Full Spectrum Doula/birth worker, Latina social justice warrior, Queens native, and farmer with nearly 20 years of experience as a community organizer, educator, and birth keeper. Over the course of her career, Liz has amplified the fight for reproductive justice, worker, and economic rights with a conflict transformation lens.
Liz uses her activist background to teach birthing people and parents to stand in their own power and advocate for themselves through the birthing process and postpartum. Liz is a Certified Lactation Counselor, Full Spectrum Doula, soon-to-be certified HypnoBirther, CPR/First Aid certified, childbirth educator and placenta encapsulator. She incorporates traditional postpartum support into her birth work. Liz is fluent in Spanish and offers birth support for folks whose native tongue is Spanish.
Liz lives on a farm in Fairfield County, Connecticut with her partner, three kids, two dogs, goats, and bees.
Her approach to birth and postpartum is rooted in her own family’s traditions “we create space for parents, honoring them and their bodies, during la cuarentena, a 40 day period postpartum, where community members offer complete support for the new parent. Throughout pregnancy, we create support, we prepare, we celebrate, we laugh, we cry – we embrace everything that comes with this new chapter in your life."
Currently working families in Connecticut, New York: Westchester, Dutchess and Putnam Counties & the Mid-Hudson Valley.
EMILY HARDING, LMT, CLC, CD, PCD, CBE, NCS
Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
Birth & Postpartum Doula
www.WellWombn.com
Hi@WellWombn.com
Well Wombn (formerly Harding Hatchling’s Birthwork & Bodywork) is the private practice of Emily Harding, LMT, CLC, CD, PCD, CBE, NCS predominantly serving expecting parents, however they identify. Her practice is inclusive of non-pregnant clients who identify as women, transgender, non-binary, and gender non-conforming.
Emily attended the Finger Lakes School of Massage in Mount Kisco and has been a New York State Licensed Massage Therapist for over a decade, specializing in women’s wellness as well as prenatal, postpartum, and infant massage. Well Wombn is is located within Wellnest alongside Well Collaborative Acupuncture at 145 Palisade Street in Dobbs Ferry. Clients may schedule bodywork, lactation support and energy healing appointments online by clicking “Book An Appointment” on the Well Wombn homepage.
SARINA HARTY, M.A. (she/her | ella)
Certified Birth & Postpartum Doula
Integrative Lactation & Feeding Specialist
Reiki Practitioner
Mariposa Doula Care LLC
www.mariposadoulacare.com
hello@mariposadoulacare.com
IG: @mariposadoulacare
SARINA HARTY discovered her passion for supporting expectant parents on their unique paths to parenthood during her own birth journey. With a background in higher education, counseling and guidance and a deep commitment to holistic well-being, she seamlessly blends her knowledge with a gentle, empathetic approach. Sarina understands the significance of creating a nurturing environment for both the birthing person and their partner, fostering a sense of security and empowerment.
Sarina is originally from Laredo, Texas, a city on the Texas-Mexico border. Raised in Mexican-American upbringings, she grew up on the frontera, minutes from the border. Sarina moved to New York City in 2009 to attend New York University’s Steinhardt’s School Counseling and Guidance program. After living in Manhattan and Queens, she moved to the suburbs, Peekskill, NY in 2020.
Sarina’s birth and postpartum doula journey began during 2022 when she recognized the need for comprehensive, inclusive and compassionate support for expectant parents. Drawing from her personal birth experience as a woman of color, a mother and extensive knowledge as a certified doula, she set out to create a space that celebrates the beauty and strength of childbirth. Thus, Mariposa Doula Care was born in 2022.
Outside of her doula work, she is an avid advocate for immigration, holding space for the BIPOC community and dedicating time to community education. Sarina’s devotion to fostering a positive birthing experience extends to empowering families with knowledge and resources, ensuring they embark on their parenting journey with confidence. When not immersed in the world of birth and postpartum care, Sarina enjoys spending time with her husband and daughter and discovering new outdoor spots in Westchester County.
Sarina aims to provide doula care to all families, all backgrounds including but not limited to: BIPOC, single parents, LGBTQIA+ and neurodivergent families. Sarina is also a certified level 2 Traditional Usui Reiki Practitioner. Doula support is currently offered in Westchester, Putnam, Dutchess, Orange and Fairfield counties.
JOYCE HAVINGA-DROOP CD (DONA)
Westchester Doula Care
(914) 207-5511
joyce_havinga@hotmail.com
www.birthambassador.com
*Serving families in Westchester, Putnam, Rockland, (parts of) Orange, Bronx, Manhattan, Queens, Long Island, NY and Fairfield CT*
JOYCE HAVINGA-DROOP is a Certified Professional Holistic Birth Doula, Home Birth Assistant, AHA CPR Instructor, Spinning Babies® Provisional Parent Educator. She lives in Larchmont with her husband and three daughters. Her passion for pregnancy and birth started when she was a girl growing up in Africa. Joyce’s strength as a birth doula is that she grew up in a world where labor and birth were considered normal, and pregnancy and birth were celebrated. Joyce has worked within many different cultures. She speaks English, Dutch, French, and German.
Joyce will educate and inform you from prenatal to postpartum stages to take your baby’s birth into your own hands. Joyce’s philosophy is that birth is normal and our bodies know what to do. With adequate support, women can let go of fear, manage pain, and have a positive birth.
JULIE HARTMAN, CD (DONA)
Beautiful Births Labor Doulas
(914) 262-8991
www.beautifulbirthsdoulas.com
info@beautifulbirthsdoulas.com
I am a DONA-certified birth doula who really cares about you and your birth. I will provide exceptional, judgement free support for your pregnancy, labor, birth and postpartum period. I am honored to work in hospital, home birth and birth center environments. I will consider it my deepest honor to journey with you and be part of making your birth a beautiful experience.
SYDNI JOHNSON
DONA-Trained Birth Doula and Newborn Care Services
LABOROFCHOICE.COM
sydni@laborofchoice.com
SYDNI JOHNSON is a DONA-trained birth doula and overnight newborn care provider with over 5 years of experience working with laboring and postpartum mothers.
LEAH KATZNELSON
Birth Doula
www.leahkatznelsondoula.com
646-284-5944
I am a DONA international certified birth doula and mother of two. Having used a doula at both of my own births, I learned first-hand how important it is to have a supportive, knowledgable, intuitive birthing team around you to help shape your pregnancy and labor. I approach every birth as its own unique experience. By providing emotional and physical support as well as evidence-based information, I hope to instill confidence and to empower my clients. I live in Westchester, NY and provide services in Westchester, New York City and southern Connecticut.
KELLIE KOTALIK
Certified Birth & Postpartum Doula
Certified Holistic Pregnancy & Birth Practitioner
www.divinewithindoula.com
kellie@divinewithindoula.com
203-417-5499
Hi! My name is Kellie Kotalik and I’m a holistic birth and postpartum doula serving the Hudson Valley region of New York, as well as parts of Westchester NY and Western CT. My goal is to support women through their birth and postpartum journeys. I believe that all women regardless of your race, identity or beliefs deserve the most empowered, safe and beautiful birth story.
Having several friends go through very challenging birth and postpartum journeys, I witnessed a great need to offer support and encouragement for women during their transition into motherhood. I owe a lot of my growth and who I am as person to the fulfilling connections, friendships and sisterhood I have created with the incredible women in my life. I want to continue to share this connection and support of women, and there is no better way of doing this than honoring and serving women during the most sacred moment of their lives.
My goal is to provide momma’s with the tools, education and resources they need to achieve their ideal birth and postpartum experience. I will provide you with the emotional, spiritual and physical support to allow you to have a birth experience that you’re proud of. A woman’s body was built for birth and I want to encourage and allow women to entrust in the divine being that they already are and are creating.
Connection is power and I believe at the root of childbirth is connection. Through a grounded & empowered birth and postpartum experience with the right support, grows a beautiful relationship between momma and baby that is rooted in love and abundance.
NICOLE KRISTENSEN
Birth & Postpartum Doula
Childbirth Preparation
Prenatal/Postnatal Fitness, AFPA
Certified Soulcore Leader
www.holysticmaternitycare.com
Holysticmaternitycare@gmail.com
845-363-4809
My mission as a doula and wellness coach is to help care for the whole mother, empower her through her birthing experience, and give her the tools and confidence she needs to be a whole and healthy mom.
After the birth of my two sons, I trained as a postpartum doula (DONA), as well as working towards certification with Madriella. I am a certifying pre/postnatal wellness and fitness coach. My college education includes an Associates in Human Services, Bachelor of Anthropology, and Master of Catechetics.
I have extensive experience in human services and Church ministry. Those who work with me are usually looking for a Christian or Catholic birthing experience.
I hope to walk/journey with you from pregnancy through postpartum. Focusing on prayer and spirituality (if you choose), fitness and appropriate movement, birth and labor support, postpartum support in the home, newborn care, feeding support, organization, and much more.
I create breastmilk jewelry and offer belly casting. My special services include baby shower and registry planning, baptismal planning, hosting support groups and retreats. I am based out of Brewster.
SARAH LUDWIG, CPST, LCCE
(914) 999-BABY (2229)
baby-to-go.com
facebook.com/BabyToGo
sarah@baby-to-go.com
SARAH LUDWIG loves helping families on their path to parenthood, and providing tools for an easier journey. Her classes will help you feel informed and empowered as your big day approaches. In a relaxed atmosphere, you'll learn about the process of labor, physical and emotional coping strategies, and get hands-on practice with comfort measures. Classes are small and personal, so there's plenty of time for questions, discussion, and individual instruction. As a doula, it is Sarah’s goal to provide your family with tools that will help you have the birth you want through support, education, and informed choices. Beyond birth, she assists during the postpartum period as you make your transition to parenthood. Sarah is an experienced babywearer, a Child Passenger Safety Tech, and an Infant CPR instructor.
NUBIA EARTH MARTIN
(914) 513-8808
numartin107@gmail.com
www.birthfromtheearth.vpweb.com
NUBIA EARTH MARTIN is a Certified Childbirth Educator, Birth and Postpartum Doula, Certified Lactation Counselor (CLC) and Student Midwife. I have been supporting and empowering women and their families since 2008.
I am the proud mother of 4 children (hospital and home births) and my experiences have opened my eyes to the incredible ability of our bodies to birth our babies naturally. I incorporate a variety of relaxation and natural pain management techniques, including massage, meditation, visualization, accupressure, gemstone healing and aromatherapy.
My services include at least one prenatal visit, continuous support during labor and delivery, and breastfeeding assistance postpartum. Childbirth and lactation classes are also available. I would be honored to be present as support for your birthing experience.
Peace and Blessings
BELLA MAURO
Birth Doula
Postpartum Doula
Reiki Practitioner
MysticBeeHealingArts.com
MysticBeeHealingArts@gmail.com
IG: @Mystik.Bee
Rooted in a deep reverence for the sacredness of birth and the inherent wisdom of the body, Bella approaches her work from a space of intuition, empathy, and evidence-based knowledge. She embraces a holistic approach to birthwork, recognizing the interconnectedness of mind, body, and spirit.
At the heart of her practice lies a commitment to trauma-informed care, recognizing the unique experiences and needs of each individual and family she serves. Through her nurturing presence, Bella creates a safe space for growth and empowerment throughout pregnancy, birth, and postpartum. Beyond the birthing room, Bella continues to walk alongside individuals on their healing journey, offering gentle, intuitive Reiki. She honors each individual's experience, empowering them to tap into their own inner strength and wisdom. Being a doula is a sacred opportunity to bear witness to the miracle of birth and support individuals as they navigate the profound journey of parenthood. I look forward to supporting families through this deeply transformative time!
Bella is a certified level 2 Traditional Usui Reiki Ryoho practitioner and a holistic, full-spectrum doula pursuing certification with Cornerstone Doula Trainings. Doula support is currently offered in Westchester, Putnam, Dutchess, and Ulster Counties.
SOPHIA MEDINA
Birth and Postpartum Doula
(508) 560-5525
sophia@auspiciousbeginningsdoula.com
www.auspiciousbeginningsdoula.com
*Serving the Bronx, Manhattan, Queens, Brooklyn and lower Westchester County*
SOPHIA MEDINA is a birth and postpartum doula, and Integrative Feeding and Lactation Specialist. She recently completed a year-long Manhattan Birth Mentorship Program to deepen her doula practice. Her own doula was such a powerfully positive influence in her birth journey with her toddler that she was inspired to do the same work of supporting birthing people. Sophia came to understand how truly divine and sacred the journey to parenthood is, and she developed a deep respect for procreation and all that goes with it.
Sophia's hope is to be a source of comfort, encouragement, and information during your birth journey. Whether you are planning to birth at home, in a hospital, or you haven't decided, she will facilitate educated decision-making for you and your partner. Always, the question at the center of her mission is "How will they remember this?". Your birth experience will stay with you for the rest of your life. Together, let's make it as empowering and joyful as you deserve.
In addition to birth and postpartum doula support, Sophia offers:
Lactation and Feeding Support
Postpartum Meal Delivery Service
Cloth Diapering Consultations
TAYÉSHA MELY
Holistic Birth Doula
Postpartum Doula
Herbalist
Placenta Specialist
www.TyTheDoula.com
Ty.TheDoula@gmail.com
I am Tayésha "Ty" Mely and I have a true passion for maternal health and holistic healing. As the eldest of 4 children I have acted as my mother’s doula and was present for the birth of my two youngest siblings when I was just 15 and 21 years old. These sacred experiences were the start of my birth work journey; Providing support during labor and postpartum is second nature for me. In addition to working in the medical field for over 5 years I have extensive experience working with infants and adolescents; both my personal and professional experiences will assure you that you are in the right hands. After learning about the dangers of birthing in a hospital from coerced labor inductions, high cesarean rates and medical malpractice it had inspired me to fully commit myself to becoming a doula so I can help women safely deliver their babies the way they desire in the comfort of their own home.
I completed my doula training through Ancient Song Doula Services in Brooklyn, New York and received my certification in Herbalism through The Herbal Academy. I have worked with over 25 families and have experience with home births, VBAC, natural births in a hospital setting, C-sections, and inductions. I am dedicated to supporting and educating families’ on their choices, resources and long term plans. In my practices I approach birth and postpartum holistically while offering both physical and emotional support to the mother and her family.
If you are located in Upstate New York in the Ulster County, Hudson Valley, or Dutchess County areas, please feel free to contact me for more information in regards to receiving doula care during this beautiful new chapter in your life.
COLLEEN MYATT, CD/PCD(DONA), CLC, PES, ICCE
203-435-6695
gentlebirth4u@gmail.com
beautifulbirthsandbeyond.com
Rights-in-childbirth activist, mother of four, certified doula and founder of BB&B! I had been a stay at home mother since the birth of my first son in 1995. Since then I had three more babies and loved being pregnant and giving birth. Every aspect of motherhood comes very natural to me and being a stay-at-home-mom had been the perfect fit. I live in Bethany, CT, with my husband and children.
As your birth doula, I will help you achieve a calm and gentle birth. I will provide continuous emotional, physical, and informational support. I will gently remind you of your birth plan. In labor it is easy to lose focus. I will help you with visualization and to stay as calm and relaxed as possible in between surges. I will provide comfort measures during surges. After the birth I will help you with skin-to-skin and baby self-latching if you plan on breastfeeding.
I am DONA International Certified in Birth & Postpartum Care, a Certified Lactation Counselor (CLC) Healthy Children, Spinning Babies™️ Certified Parent Educator, Evidence Based Birth™️ Instructor, and I hold an ICEA Childbirth Education Certification. I also have a lot of experience with clients using Hypnobirthing techniques and am looking forward to helping you achieve your dream birth!
ALEX NAHORNIAK-SVENSKI
Birth Doula and Professional Photographer
alexthebirthdoula@gmail.com
alexthebirthdoula.com
Drawing from over a decade of professional photography experience, I've transitioned into the profound realm of birth work driven by an unwavering passion for supporting and empowering individuals during labor. My pivot into this deeply fulfilling field stems from a heartfelt commitment to aiding mothers in embracing their strength throughout the birthing process. Alongside this, my fervor for collaborating with people fuels my dedication to crafting an environment that fosters positivity and empowerment during this transformative journey. I am DONA-trained and wholeheartedly devoted to partnering with you to ensure your birthing experience is one of empowerment, dignity, and lasting fulfillment.
NICOLE PELUSO, IBCLC, CD
Birth Bungalow, LLC
(203) 529-1533 (office)
(323) 595-4006 (cell)
nicole@birthbungalow.com
www.birthbungalow.com
NICOLE PELUSO, IBCLC, CD, AATH is a lactation consultant, birth doula and certified attachment parenting educator based in Greenwich, CT. The scope of her practice extends from New York City to New Haven.
Nicole was certified as a doula through the National Institute of Midwifery, as lactation consultant through the International Board of Lactation Consultation Examiners, and as a parenting educator through Attachment Parenting International.
Beginning her journey in the birth world in 1997 as La Leche League Leader, Nicole has assisted thousands of mothers believing that each family is unique and education and support are the keys to empowered birth and early motherhood experiences. Nicole is the mother of three children, all born peacefully with the help of midwives and nourished with breastmilk and lots of love.
REV. MARITDAY RODRIGUEZ
Amaritday- The Sacred Health Doula
(978) 480-0773
info@amaritday.com
www.mhvdoula.info
www.facebook.com/MHVDoula
IG: amaritday
REV. MARITDAY RODRIGUEZ is a resident of New Paltz, NY and has been assisting births since 2011. She is a holistic childbirth educator, Birth Spirituality and Healing Coach and full spectrum doula providing antepartum, labor and postpartum support to women in Mid Hudson Valley, Westchester County and NYC area. Maritday specializes in natural (including VBAC) births whether at home, in birthing centers or within hospital setting. Her belief is that healthier pregnancies, outcomes and above all healthier babies and families come from a mother who feels supported and encouraged throughout her pregnancy. Her journey in supporting mothers began during pregnancy with her son, Michael. Her lack of support and education as 15 year old mother throughout her own pregnancy, negative birthing experience and postpartum period, resulting in postpartum conditions of depression, anxiety, panic and rage inspired her to assist other women in receiving menstrual, fertility and physiology/anatomy education, adequate support, self-care options and guidance. Maritday uses modalities such as meditation, breathwork, energy work, natural and holistic support modalities during pregnancy and labor and is passionate about providing traditional resources for the women she supports. Her goal is to create a safe and sacred space for a mother’s birth to be a transformational experience!
Maritday’s doula training was heavily based in womb wellness, anatomy and physiology, as well as women’s reproductive rights/ birth justice. In addition to her private clients she also serves as a Matrona community doula for high need and low income women in NYC. Maritday is also a certified Level 1 Moon Mother focusing on womb wellness and women's teachings. Her practice allows for continuity of care by offering expectant and new mom support space while encompassing menstrual, fertility, prenatal and momma self care into her repertoire. Maritday’s practice is based in New Paltz, NY, however she also supports clients 1:1, virtually, in your home, semi-private and public venues.
Certifications:
NYS Registered Ordained Minister
Institute for Integrative Nutrition - Certified Holistic Health Coach
Hypnobabies Childbirth Hypnosis Doula
The Matrona Full Spectrum Holistic Doula Training
The Matrona Advanced Holistic Childbirth Education (180 hours)
Integrated Energy Therapy Master instructor/Practitioner
Integrated Energy Therapy Master instructor/Practitioner
The Matrona Tending the PostPartum Psyche
Certified Birth Spirituality and Healing Coach - Gena McCarthy
Women’s Herbal Intensive with Aremisa, known as the Indigenous Doula of Indigenous Remedies
WOMB BLESSING™ Attunement - Female Energy Awakening - Level 1 Moon Mother
Yoni Steam Institute® Yoni Steam For Personal Care
Traditional Postpartum Practitioner - Valerie Lynn - The Mommy Plan
Steamy Chick Vaginal Steam Facilitator Certification
LISA SCHOENHOLT, CMA, CD(DONA)
brooklynembodied@gmail.com
www.brooklynembodied.com
917-282-3513
IG: @brooklynembodied
Lisa is a DONA-trained birth doula and attends births in both Westchester and New York City. She became interested in birth work after she experienced a traumatic emergency C-section birth with her son. She furthered her education and began specializing her pilates business into prenatal/postnatal services. After she became certified as a doula, she was able to have a successful VBAC with her daughter.
As a birth doula, she helps educate families as they navigate this journey and acts as an advocate for them during labor and delivery. She is committed to supporting clients throughout their pregnancy. Her services are available to everyone, whether seeking an unmedicated birth, VBAC, planning on using an epidural, or having a planned C-section. With education, emotional support, and physical comfort, she strives to help families have a fulfilling birth experience. She also offers auxiliary doula services, with pre/postnatal consultations in addition to phone/text support.
Lisa holds a BA in Dance from University of Arizona, MA in Dance Education from NYU, and is a certified movement analyst (CMA) from the Laban Center of Movement Studies. She owns her own pilates business, where she specializes in prenatal/postnatal fitness and diastasis recti repair.
ZARO BATES SILVERWOLFF
zaro@wolfpackdoula.com
www.wolfpackdoula.com
Zaro is passionate about informed care during the perinatal time. As an aspiring midwife, she seeks to support clients in finding the knowledge and empowerment they need to have the birth of their dreams and navigate any obstacles that may arise. Under her care you will feel confident in your choices and be free to surrender to the flow. Birth and postpartum support offered. She is also trained in restorative yoga and guided meditation.
LATOYA SOUTHWELL, CD:DONA
~Blessed to be a Blessing!!~
Doula Assistant Coordinator for Lower Hudson Valley Perinatal Network (LHVPN)
Certified Birth Doula
Pediatric CPR Certified
Trained Lactation Counselor
Certified Reiki Practitioner
347.878.8910 (call)
845.598.7101 (text)
LATOYA is a Certified Birth Doula, Trained Lactation Counselor, CPR Certified, and a Certified Reiki Practitioner. She serves Lower Hudson Valley, Rockland County, Connecticut, upper and lower Westchester County, the Bronx and Manhattan.
LaToya is the doula assistant manager at Children's Health and Research Foundation CHRF/Lower Hudson Valley Perinatal Network (LHVPN) in Westchester. She co-hosts a biweekly virtual baby cafe for Westchester County Baby Cafe. LaToya studied nursing, culinary arts, accounting, theology, and she worked in the banking industry for over 14 years.
She worked in a pediatric ward for over 2 years, as well as other side jobs. She has taken training to become a nurse and is exploring midwifery. She aims to educate and empower people in her community as well as anyone she connects with especially when it comes to starting a family. She believes that education, support and healthy boundaries are the keys to living a higher, elevated life.
LaToya was born in St. John’s, Antigua, West Indies, a gorgeous island in the Caribbean. LaToya then migrated to the beautiful island of St. Thomas in the USVI. Growing up in the islands is where her approach and philosophy to birth, family life and living was influenced. This makes her embracing and sensitive to all cultures in her approach to birth. LaToya’s knowledge, wisdom & gratitude for her journey through life is wowing. Her favorite saying is “ Life will either make you, or it will break you… choose your hard. Look for gratitude in the chaos.” She lives in New York State with her husband and 4 children (ages range from 21 to the age of 5) and Vinny, their quite handsome tuxedo cat. “Always remind yourself that someone else’s story is just exactly that…. Someone else’s story. Do not make it yours!! You can either tell someone your story, or someone else can tell your story. However whenever someone tells your story, it is then no longer your story but their story.”
SAMANTHA STENGLE
Holistic Birth & Postpartum Doula
Reiki Practitioner
Ceremony Facilitator
mossandmoonlighthealing@gmail.com
www.mossandmoonlight.com/womb-birth
instagram.com/mm.wombandbirth
facebook.com/mossandmoonlighthealing
SAMANTHA STENGLE is a holistic birth and postpartum doula serving the mid and lower Hudson Valley. She has a focus on connecting with clients who aim to acknowledge birth as a spiritual experience and rite of passage.
Samantha has a passion for womb wellness and education on physiological birth. She believes that each being has a deep well of power that can unfold when they are held in sacred, safe space with nurturing and comforting support. During postpartum, Samantha can provide support with infant care, feeding, recovery/healing after birth, emotional and spiritual offerings, cooking, housekeeping and pet care. During birth, Samantha offers strength and presence, using comfort measures of your choice such as gentle touch, reiki, affirmations, visualizations, movement, birth ball, sound healing and more. Samantha also has a wellness space located in Hopewell Junction, NY, where she hosts women's circles, support groups, and facilitates mother blessings, postpartum ritual, prenatal yoga, and energy work (virtually or in-person).
NEISHA STREETE
Certified Birth Doula
Trained Postpartum Doula
Certified Lactation Counselor
Spinning Babies® Aware Practitioner
CPR Certified
www.streetetherapy.com
streetetherapy@gmail.com
NEISHA STREETE, a laid-back birth doula, skilled massage therapist and certified lactation counselor, is dedicated to reviving the wisdom lost in our connection to intuition during childbirth and infant care. Her fervor lies in empowering families through education, ensuring they actively shape their care plans. Neisha excels in fostering constructive dialogue between providers and families, bridging gaps in the medical system to cultivate beautiful birth stories and improved outcomes and even offering support for home births.
Blending her diverse skills, Neisha tailors each experience for individual clients. As a licensed massage therapist, she utilizes touch and relaxation techniques, accompanying you through one of life's most vulnerable moments. Neisha is adept at assisting with feeding plans, belly binding, understanding infant behaviors, counseling, confidence reinforcement, addressing prenatal discomfort, and providing referrals.
Neisha is based in Westchester but also services Orange, Putnam, Rockland, NYC and Nassau counties in NY as well as Western and Metropolitan Connecticut.
BRIANA VIZZI TRESOVA
Certified Birth and Postpartum Doula
Fertility & IVF Support Person
On Demand Doulas
ondemanddoulas@gmail.com
ondemanddoulas.com
914.414.1115
I am a Certified Birth and Postpartum Doula and Fertility Support Person. I am a IVF mother of three, including twins. I became passionate about women's health and advocacy while in the the trenches of unexplained infertility. I felt my success in having my children was solely based on my personal research and advocation. When my first daughter, Siena, was born, I suffered from birth trauma which lead to postpartum anxiety. I knew instantly that my purpose was to help women to have a more prepared and positive birth and postpartum experience. I was further motivated and eager to become educated in birth, postpartum and family support as I found the resources available to new parents are limited but very much needed.
I took the last three years to be a stay-at-home mom and take the necessary courses, workshops, and hands-on experiences to be fully prepared to help others. I hold a wealth of knowledge in preconception care and IVF for those looking for someone to educate them on the process while offering emotional support. In addition, I am a safe sleep ambassador who assists new parents with newborn sleep safety and training. Each of my services include candid photography for parents to have fond memories of their birth or early days with baby. I look forward to serving the families of Hudson Valley!
ALEX VAN INWEGEN
Birth & Postpartum Doula
(845)-768-3442
www.rootedhandsdoula.com
alexrootedhands@gmail.com
Alex is a birth and postpartum doula who serves Ulster County and surrounding areas in the Mid-Hudson Valley. After she did her first training in 2018, she was pulled into this work when she realized the fundamental need of community care for growing families.
Alex’s educational background is in biology, with a focus in ecology. The teachings of ecology make one thing clear: we need each other. As the childbearing years are perhaps the most energetically demanding chapter of a lifetime, it is a time for all hands on deck.
Alex stands in reverence of the process of pregnancy and birth. She supports you on your own unique journey, and nurtures your parental intuition and confidence. Overall, Alex’s priority is that you are heard and held. In birth support, she makes sure you know your options each step of the way. In postpartum support, she strategizes ways to simplify the whirlwind of demands so that you have more spaciousness for bonding as a family.
When Alex is not doula-ing, she is probably walking her dog, making herbal medicine, or knitting and thinking about sheep.
You can learn more about her services at www.rootedhandsdoula.com
SHELLY WIERMAN
Certified Advanced Practice Doula (Manhattan Birth)
Certified Lactation Counselor (CLC)
Prenatal Yoga Instructor - RYT 200
914.261.7184
shelly.wierman@gmail.com
www.shellywiermanbirthservices.com
I am a mom, grandmother, birth and postpartum doula, prenatal yoga instructor and certified lactation counselor located in Northern Westchester County. My passion is supporting birthing families throughout pregnancy, childbirth and early parenthood. In addition to creating strength, flexibility and stamina, prenatal yoga can build an understanding of the relaxation and breathing techniques that can help ease the common discomforts of pregnancy, labor and birth. I understand that birth is a powerful, natural process unique to each person/birth, and that people benefit from nurturing support during pregnancy and labor. As a CLC who has nursed four babies, I have firsthand knowledge of human lactation and the nutritional needs of infants and nursing humans as well as the skills to understand and formulate potential solutions for feeding issues.
CHRISTINE JUDE WINUS, LMT, CST, RM
Rising Earth Healing Arts
www.risingearthhealingarts.com
Christinejude@risingearthhealingarts.com
(845) 288-3006
CHRISTINE JUDE WINUS is a New York State Licensed Massage Therapist specializing in somatic women's wellness. Christine is a craniosacral therapist, a somatic wise woman educator, Arvigo Techniques of Maya Abdominal Therapy Practitioner and holistic birth doula. Christine has been supporting women in all stages of their life from menstruation to menopause for over a decade. Christine offers natural approaches for fertility support through bodywork, shamanic womb healing, somatic practices, education, and herbal support.
She supports those who are seeking a natural approach for fertility support or seeking complimentary care to IVF or IUI treatments through bodywork and somatic therapy. She is a certified prenatal massage therapist and weaves her expertise into her birth doula education sessions. Christine offers integrative prenatal massage treatments as it is cooperative in providing a foundation of care and support during pregnancy integrating massage, craniosacral therapy, breath work, meditation and visualization practices to support pregnancy and birth plans. She welcomes partners into treatment sessions as their participation is important not only in the birthing process but throughout pregnancy and the postpartum period. Christine’s trauma informed practice positions her as an ally to those who have experienced uncomfortable or mismanaged births and fertility issues, miscarriages, and lack of ob/gyn affirmative care.