Annie
During the summer of 2005 I lived in Guatemala studying Spanish and Public Health. I had the wonderful opportunity to shadow a midwife who worked in a rural village up in the mountains. It was there that I witnessed my first two births. I was awestruck by the beauty of birth- how natural the process was and what incredible capabilities women have to bring life into the world! I was also surprised to note that throughout this experience I felt very calm and present, fully able to comfort the mothers (who were laboring alone while their families waited outside) and be of assistance to the midwife.
When I returned to the Bay Area I decided that becoming a doula would be a perfect role for me. In May 2006 I completed my training to become a birth doula through Doulas of North America (DONA). The workshop was taught by Debbie Lavin, ICCE, CD (DONA) and included instruction on child birth education as well as training for doulas. I went to my first birth as a doula in September 2006 and continue to take about 2-3 clients per month. I am also a volunteer doula through St. Luke’s hospital and at the Homeless Prenatal Program.
I look at birth as a very special marking point in every in individual’s life and feel that it is truly an honor to be invited to attend such an event. As your doula I will help you achieve the type of birth that you are envisioning and provide physical, emotional and information support from the end of your pregnancy, through labor and delivery and postpartum. I will work with you and anyone else you wish to be present at the birth, both in your home or in the hospital, with a doctor or a midwife. My role will be to support the decisions you make and be your advocate when needed.
Other training/Education
2006-2007 Studying for certification in Massage Therapy at the National Holistic Institute in Emeryville, CA
2005 Shadowed a midwife in rural Guatemala
2004 Graduated from Carleton College in Minnesota with a B.A. in Psychology and minor in Spanish
Membership Coordinator for the San Francisco Doula Group
Future Goals
Complete certification in Massage Therapy at NHI with a focus on prenatal and infant massage.
Masters/PhD in Pre and Perinatal Psychology (planning to attend the Santa Barabara Graduate Institute starting Fall 2007).
Work abroad as a doula or possibly a midwife through Doctors Without Borders
Fee
$750
Payment plans and flexible fee schedules are available for those who need them.
For Membership Inquiries for the SF Doula Group please email: membership@sfdoulagroup.com