• I am currently working on my certification through DONA International and plan to be fully certified by summer 2011. DONA International is “the world’s premier doula organization.”  DONA is known as “the oldest, largest and most respected doula association in the world” and their doulas serve families in more than 20 countries.

• Bachelor of Social Work, Saginaw Valley State University, 2000, summa cum laude

• I have six years of professional breastfeeding experience and many years of personal experience.  I attend yearly trainings related to helping breastfeeding mothers and work hard to stay up-to-date on the latest parenting-related research.

• References are available upon request

I enjoy learning about various topics related to parenting.  These are just a few areas that I have studied or used within my own family. 

infant sleep issues and promoting healthy sleep habits

infant colic and calming techniques

breastfeeding and infant feeding
whole food and traditional cooking

baby sign language
infant massage
baby wearing
baby equipment and car seats
natural home cleaning methods
cloth diapering and elimination communication
adult, child, and infant CPR
home organization
kangaroo care

gentle parenting
postpartum depression and baby blues
herbs and herbal postpartum baths

Some families do not need the physical support of a postpartum doula, but would like to learn about one of more of these topics.  In this case, I do individual consultations that are an hour or more in length.  I am especially interested in assisting parents dealing with breastfeeding issues, colicky babies and/or sleep issues.  Please contact me for my rates.