About Me
First of all congratulations!
I am a DONA trained and certified birth doula. I began my professional career as a Respiratory Therapist and am currently employed at Methodist Hospital. In addition to working at Methodist Hospital, I am also part of their volunteer birth doula program. For me, childbirth has been the most important experience of my life. I have two very spirited and adventurous children. Each day I am grateful to have them. Both of my labors were natural, un-medicated, and positive. However, I have to admit that my second was the most peaceful. The experience of the first helped me to understand the process and my body much better. I labored at home for as long as possible and was proactive about body movement throughout my pregnancy and labor as well as learned how to engage my baby.
Another incredibly powerful tool I found useful was the mind. My mindset was positive, filled with courage, and my disposition was peaceful. Labor has been portrayed as something painful, fearful, and destructive to a woman's body. However, I believe with the right mindset, education and willingness to prepare; mentally as well as physically, you can achieve your desired birth with tranquility and positivity. One of my favorite sayings is "Pain with Intention". Intentional since we have the capability of knowing what may and can happen as well as anticipating what the labor journey will be like, whether it be the first, third, or sixth delivery.
I have completed my required training through a DONA International Approved Birth Doula Training and Childbirth Education course.
My passion and enthusiasm for movement and further understanding of the body and how we can manipulate it to our advantage during labor has led me to attend amazing programs such a
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Spinning Babies® which I attended in June 2024
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Body Ready Method® for Birth Professionals which is a 9 month course and am now certified making me a Body Ready Active Pro.
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Lactation trained and currently enrolled in The Thompson Method for Health Professionals. The Thompson Method is an evidence-based approach to breastfeeding, grounded in an anatomical understanding of the breastfeeding mother and her baby.
I look forward to getting to know you and how I can support you and your family. Please fill out the contact form so we can move forward together as a team.
Advantages of Tender Hands as Your Labor Partner
Prenatal Support
Discuss vision for birth and expectations of me and support system during the labor process. Education on the pelvis and which positions can be done at specific times during the various stages of labor. We will discuss past birth history, provide evidence based information, pain reducing methods and discuss questions and concerns to ask with provider. My goal is to make information and support as accessible as possible.
Lactation Consultant
Lactation Support can be utilized before and after birth. Prenatally we can discuss the different types of breast pumps, correct fittings for flanges as well as how and when to change out breast pump parts. Explain some of the complications that can arise with breast feeding and pumping. As well as describing how much milk can be anticipated based on where you are at in your journey.
Postpartum Lactation Support we establish a good latch as well as test out pump and make setting adjustments.
Postpartum Support
Includes a home vist after birth to check on your mental well-being and transition into parenthood or additional family member. Recounting and processing your birth with you and your partner. Adressing any lingering questions or concerns you may have had about labor process, postpartum healing, breastfeeding, or newborn care.
Discuss plan for postpartum and the 5/5/5 rule. Any referrals based on topics discussed.
