“A society that places a low value on its [parents] and the process of birth will suffer an array of negative repercussions for doing so. Good beginnings make a positive difference in the world, so it is worth our while to provide the best possible care for [birthing people] throughout this extraordinarily influential time of life”
— Ina May Gaskin

After spending a summer working as a hospital chaplain, I became interested in the spiritual, emotional and mental aspects of pregnancy, birth and postpartum care. The stories we tell ourselves, both individually and collectively, about our reproductive choices and experiences shape our lives for generations. Empowering women and other queer people who give birth is an extension of my ministry, part of God’s work to build a more loving, just, and resilient world.

What I can offer:

  • Comprehensive non-medical support during pregnancy, labor, and the early postpartum phase.

    • At least two antepartum meetings to discuss your needs, questions, and birth preferences

    • On-call phone support leading up to your due date.

    • Dedicated in-person support for the entire duration of labor or c-section. This can look like rubbing your back, corralling your family members in the waiting room, fetching water or snacks for you and your partner, praying, holding hands, suggesting new positions, etc, etc, etc!

    • Immediate postpartum support for early breast/chest-feeding, skin-to-skin, cord clamping, prayers or blessings, and photos.

    • At least one postpartum meeting to process and record your birth experiences, develop a plan for your support needs, and celebrate the amazing new form your family has taken!

  • Pastoral care and support as a supplement to that provided by your medical team and family.

    • Let’s look at birth preferences. What questions can we think about together?

    • Tell me about your birth story. Where did you see God? What are you struggling with?

    • Help arranging volunteers for logistical tasks (meals, cleaning, etc)

    • Referrals for longer-term postpartum mental health care or support groups

    • Pastoral support and ritual-building if your experiences include abortion, miscarriage, stillbirth, or traumatic birth.

Training completed:

  • DONA International Birth Doula Workshop

    • Including Intro to Childbirth and Breastfeeding courses

    • Completed with Birthing Gently in 2021

  • Making Birth Work Queer and Trans Inclusive

  • Understanding LGBTQ Family Building

Because I still need birth support experience to complete my DONA certification, I am able to provide doula services for a low cost or for free, especially for birthing people and families of color, as well as those who are low-income, or queer/trans!