Our care experts
Briana Oden is a full spectrum doula located in Chicago, IL, who has a passion for helping new and expecting families. After supporting family and friends throughout their pregnancy and feeding journeys for the past eight years, Briana decided to make it official by certifying as a birth and postpartum doula. She prides herself on being patient, respectful, reliable, and emotionally present for her clients.
Briana’s journey into doula work was deeply influenced by her own experience with pregnancy and birth trauma in 2014. This personal experience fueled her goal to help families gain the appropriate knowledge and support surrounding pregnancy, birth, feeding, and the postpartum period. She is dedicated to ensuring that her clients feel supported and heard in all birthing scenarios, helping them adjust to the changes that newborn life brings with as much rest and confidence as possible.
Briana’s approach to doula work emphasizes providing comprehensive support to her clients, from pregnancy through the postpartum period. She aims to empower families with the knowledge and resources they need to navigate their unique journeys confidently. Her dedication to birth justice drives her to advocate for her clients, ensuring they receive the care and respect they deserve.
When not fighting for birth justice, Briana is busy homeschooling her two young boys, ages 6 and 8, and being a dedicated soccer mom. She also runs her own handmade bath and body business, as well as an event space. Briana’s multifaceted life reflects her commitment to her family, her clients, and her community.
Dr. Camille Humes is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) in the state of Illinois, a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in the state of Michigan, and a credentialed Infant and Early Childhood Mental Health Specialist (I/ECMH-C). She also holds an endorsement from the Michigan Association for Infant Mental Health (MIAIMH), where she currently serves on the Board of Directors. Dr. Humes has dedicated over twenty years to working as a leader in the mental health profession, advocating both nationally and internationally to inform policies that support young children and their families.
Throughout her career, Dr. Humes has been a writer, professor, and regular grant reviewer for the United States Department of Education. Her extensive experience in the field has made her a respected voice in mental health, particularly in the areas of infant and early childhood mental health. She is committed to promoting the well-being of young children and their families through her work and advocacy.
Dr. Humes enjoys speaking to diverse audiences about various topics, including the social and emotional health of mothers, fathers, and children. Her presentations are known for their depth of knowledge and practical insights, making her a sought-after speaker at conferences and events. She believes in the power of education and advocacy to create positive change in the lives of families.
With her extensive background and dedication to mental health, Dr. Humes continues to make significant contributions to the field. She is passionate about supporting the social and emotional development of young children and their families, ensuring they receive the care and attention they need. Dr. Humes looks forward to continuing her work and expanding her impact through teaching, writing, and advocacy.
JoLona Martin is an advanced certified Doula based in Chicago, IL. As a devoted wife and mother, she is passionate about supporting new families as they embark on the incredible journey of parenthood. Her journey into Doula work began with a deep-seated fascination with child development, nurtured through years of dedicated study and hands-on experience.
For over a decade, JoLona worked closely with autistic children in Michigan, honing her skills in empathy, communication, and patient advocacy. Upon relocating to Chicago, she embraced the role of a stay-at-home mom while welcoming her third child into the world. During this transformative period, JoLona encountered unexpected challenges following childbirth, which gave her firsthand insight into the invaluable importance of having a supportive advocate by your side during pregnancy, labor, and postpartum.
As a Doula, JoLona believes that pregnancy and childbirth, while profoundly joyous, can also present significant hurdles, leaving individuals feeling vulnerable and in need of compassionate guidance. She is committed to offering unwavering support, personalized education, and advocacy every step of the way. JoLona’s approach centers on listening to and understanding the unique needs of each family, ensuring that they feel supported and confident throughout their journey.
Clients can expect not only a warm and welcoming presence but also a wealth of knowledge and expertise to navigate this remarkable journey with confidence and peace of mind. JoLona looks forward to embarking on this adventure together, ensuring that the transition into parenthood is as smooth and empowering as possible. Her compassionate approach and dedication to her clients make her an invaluable partner in the journey of parenthood.
Ilana Kahn is a Lactation Consultant at Partum Health based in Chicago, IL. She is a wife and a proud mother of four and has been an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) since 2016. Ilana began her career as a Registered Nurse, working on the postpartum floor with moms and their new babies. In this role, she often assisted and educated moms about breastfeeding, which inspired her to dedicate more time to supporting new moms and their families on their unique breastfeeding journeys.
Ilana earned a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the University of Maryland School of Nursing after completing a Bachelor of Science in Biology from Touro College in New York. With her extensive experience as a nurse, Ilana realized the importance of individualized care in breastfeeding support. She is honored to connect with diverse families, listening, observing, and ultimately creating care plans tailored to each family’s specific needs and breastfeeding goals. Ilana values the uniqueness of every mom and baby and is committed to providing personalized support that aligns with each family's objectives.
Ilana looks forward to offering professional support as a Lactation Consultant, as well as lending a listening ear, empathizing, encouraging, and helping moms trust in their own bodies. Her compassionate approach and dedication to her clients ensure that every family feels supported and confident in their breastfeeding journey.
Kara Alexander is a Newborn Care Specialist, CAPPA-trained postpartum doula, lactation educator, certified childbirth educator, and baby-wearing educator based in Chicago, IL. With twenty years of experience caring for children, Kara has dedicated her career to supporting families in the first year of life. She enjoys creating a loving environment, providing non-judgmental support and guidance, and leaving families feeling confident on their journey through parenthood.
Kara's extensive professional experience includes working in daycare settings and serving as a nanny for twelve years, primarily with infants and toddlers. Her focus has always been on meeting the needs of each unique family and baby. Kara is a Newborn Care Specialist certified by Newborn Care Solutions, a CAPPA-trained postpartum doula, and a Safe Sleep Ambassador. These credentials reflect her commitment to providing the highest level of care and support.
Kara specializes in newborn care, lactation education, childbirth education, home births, and caring for multiples. Her approach centers on understanding the individual needs of each family and baby, ensuring that parents feel supported and confident. Kara believes in the importance of being part of a team that helps guide families through the exciting and sometimes nerve-wracking journey of new parenthood. Her passion for helping families start their new journey is evident in her dedication and the joy she brings to her work.
"I just really enjoy helping families start their new journey. I can imagine how excited and nervous families are, but I love being part of a team helping to guide you through this experience," Kara says, highlighting her compassionate approach to care. Outside of her professional work, Kara continues to expand her knowledge and skills to better serve the families she works with, always aiming to provide the best possible start for new parents and their babies.
Annika Cowen (they/any) is a Full Spectrum Doula and Birthworker, supporting individuals through the prenatal, birth, postpartum period, abortion, and grief & loss stages. Living and working on occupied Peoria land in the Northwest suburbs of Chicago, Annika provides client-centered care that looks at the whole individual and actively practices being open and aware of the diverse reproductive needs and experiences people have in light of their identity, background, preferences, and lived experiences.
Annika graduated from their training with For the Village, guided by the revolutionary Sabia Wade. Before becoming a doula, they worked extensively with young people in various capacities, from babysitting and nannying to coaching and running after-school programs. This background, combined with their continuous development of healing and spiritual practices, made the transition into doula work a natural progression for Annika.
In their doula practice, Annika centers informational, physical, emotional, psychological, and spiritual support. They aim to bring autonomy, safety, and presentness to each interaction, meeting clients exactly where they are. By listening intentionally, Annika collaborates with clients to cultivate a vision and create the experience each individual desires. With over 10 years of experience in healing practices, Annika uses every resource available within their communities to broaden what their clients can access, ensuring knowledge, wisdom, and healing experiences are accessible.
Annika’s areas of expertise include reproductive justice, trauma-informed care, queer and trans birthwork and lactation, culturally respectful practices, babywearing, womb healing, herbalism, somatic movement, meditation, breathwork, shadow work, and holistic living. They also have extensive experience working with young people using restorative practices and serve as a life mentor and mentor for alternative structures of love. In their free time, Annika enjoys juicing, nurturing their plants, reading, learning, long nature walks, and spending time with their energetic orange cat, André Leon Diablo.
Eriga Otagba is a postpartum doula based in Richmond, TX, with five years of experience as a babysitter and nanny. She is comfortable with pets, meal prep, overnight stays, kids' laundry, light housekeeping, and helping out with homework. Eriga has extensive experience working with children of different ages and those on the spectrum, making her a versatile and reliable caregiver.
In her role as a postpartum doula, Eriga extends her nurturing skills to new parents, helping them navigate the early stages of parenthood. She provides emotional support, practical advice, and hands-on assistance, ensuring that parents feel confident and supported. Eriga's approach and warm demeanor make her an invaluable resource for families, helping them create a welcoming environment for their new addition.
Eriga has built strong relationships with the families she has worked for in the past, who can provide glowing references on her behalf. Her commitment to her work is reflected in the trust and appreciation of the families she serves. "I love watching kids learn and contributing to their growth," says Eriga. Her passion for childcare and her goal of becoming an Occupational Therapist highlight her dedication to supporting children's development and well-being.
Currently a senior at the University of Houston, Eriga is planning to become an Occupational Therapist. She loves watching kids learn and contributing to their growth, creating engaging activities both indoors and outdoors. Her dedication to fostering a nurturing environment helps children thrive, and her comprehensive care ensures that all aspects of the family's needs are met.
Jahlisa Murphy is a certified advanced trained Birth Doula through Gifted Hands International, a community lactation educator, and CPR certified, based in Chicago. At her core, Jahlisa loves to serve, nurture, and hold space for others. Her mission as your doula is to affirm, serve, support, advocate, and empower you and your partner on your birth journey and during your postpartum recovery. She is devoted to minimizing health disparities and optimizing maternal health outcomes for all mothers and birthing individuals.
Jahlisa graduated from Southern Illinois University with both a bachelor's and a master's degree in social work. With over 20 years of advocacy experience within child welfare, she has also worked in crisis intervention, supporting children and adolescents experiencing mental health crises. Throughout her career, she has been dedicated to advocating for, empowering, and encouraging others.
As a birth doula, Jahlisa provides emotional and physical support to birthing individuals and their partners and families during labor and delivery. She facilitates communication with care providers to ensure that clients have the information needed to make informed decisions regarding their baby’s birth. Jahlisa offers reassurance and perspective, makes suggestions for labor progress, and helps with relaxation, massage, positioning, and other techniques for comfort.
Jahlisa is a professional aunt to 30+ nieces and nephews, a title she holds most dear. Raised on the south side of Chicago by her “sacred village,” including her beloved maternal grandmother Janie B, Jahlisa strives to honor her legacy in her work caring for mothers and families. When she is not attending to birth work, she finds joy in cooking, crafting, learning about plant care, and spending time with her family.
Tonya Schieler began working with children and families at a young age. After becoming a mother to three children, her passion grew to include supporting parents as they welcome life-changing tiny humans into their lives and homes. Tonya started her doula career as a birth doula and loves supporting parents through the awe-inspiring process of bringing a baby into the world. She chose to continue her training to include postpartum care, allowing her to extend her support, care, and encouragement into the amazing new world of bringing babies home.
Tonya is a certified Birth Doula (Well-Rounded Maternity), certified Postpartum Doula (CAPPA), and a Hypnobabies trained Hypno-Doula. Her additional trainings include Spinning Babies training and a Breastfeeding Workshop for Doulas. Tonya's comprehensive training and experience equip her to provide exceptional support to families during both birth and the postpartum period.
Tonya loves to see parents empowered, supported, encouraged, and informed, so they can make their own choices and be themselves as they experience both birth and the adjustment to bringing a baby home. "Babies are miracles, no matter how they get here, and I love being a tiny part of their story," she says. Tonya's dedication to her clients and her passion for supporting families make her a cherished part of many birth stories.
Tonya enjoys cooking homemade food and loves the challenge of sneaking in extra veggies and healthy ingredients while still making it taste great. She truly can’t imagine anything greater than loving on babies and spending time with her no-longer baby children. In her free time, she enjoys running and reading a good book. Tonya's hobbies reflect her commitment to health, wellness, and family.
Jennifer Prazak is an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) and registered nurse based in Chicago, Illinois. With experience since 2015, including four years in labor and delivery, she is passionate about empowering women and providing crucial support during their most significant moments. Her approach centers on assisting mothers through the journey of childbirth and motherhood, ensuring they feel confident and supported in their choices regarding infant nourishment.
With extensive experience in maternal healthcare, Jennifer has developed a deep understanding of the challenges and joys that come with childbirth and early motherhood. Her professional background includes comprehensive training and hands-on experience in labor and delivery, lactation support, and maternal wellness. This diverse expertise allows her to offer personalized, empathetic care that meets the needs of each mother and baby she works with.
In her practice, Jennifer Prazak emphasizes the importance of informed choice and steadfast support. She provides tailored guidance and assistance, helping mothers navigate breastfeeding, infant care, and postpartum recovery. Her warm, trustworthy approach fosters a nurturing environment where mothers feel heard and empowered. Jennifer's commitment to supporting mothers through their journey ensures they have the resources and confidence needed to thrive.
Kirby Walter is a Registered Dietitian and International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) based in Chicago, with experience since 2016 in maternal healthcare, eating disorders, and general wellness. She spent five years working in a maternal health clinic before starting her private practice in 2019. Kirby is passionate about helping families and individuals feel vibrant and energized through sustainable dietary changes. Her care philosophy revolves around creating individualized, flexible nutrition plans that meet clients where they are and ensure long-lasting results.
With three young daughters of her own, Kirby understands the challenges of balancing busy lives with healthy eating. She recognizes that food and meal choices are influenced by many factors and never happen in a vacuum. This insight allows her to provide practical and empathetic nutrition counseling tailored to each client's unique situation. Kirby aims to empower her clients with knowledge about food and supplements, incorporating habits and changes gradually to fit their lifestyles.
Kirby's counseling style is characterized by thoughtful discussion, active listening, and empathy. She believes in empowering clients with the information they need to make informed decisions about their health and nutrition. By fostering a supportive and understanding environment, Kirby helps clients achieve their wellness goals and develop sustainable, healthy eating habits. Her dedication to individualized care makes her a trusted and invaluable resource for those seeking to improve their overall health and well-being.
Mia Whitehead is a birth and postpartum doula based in Chicago, Illinois. She is a Chicago native, A Northside College Prep alumna with a Psychology major, Mia is committed to providing a safe and supportive space for her clients. Mia's care philosophy centers on providing personalized, compassionate support to families during pregnancy, birth, and postpartum.
Mia's extensive experience as a doula is complemented by her educational background in psychology. This combination allows her to offer unique and supportive care tailored to the individual needs of every family, addressing both the physical and emotional needs of each patient. She strives to empower parents, ensuring they have the resources and support necessary to parent at their best. Mia's approach is characterized by her dedication to providing personalized care, helping families navigate the transformative journey of childbirth and early parenthood with confidence.
Outside of her professional role, Mia enjoys spending time with her family. She is the wife to her amazing husband and the mother to her little ballerina. In her free time, Mia loves creating memories, exploring art, embarking on adventures, and trying new recipes with her family. This balance between her professional dedication and personal life highlights Mia's commitment to living a fulfilling and compassionate life, making her a trusted and invaluable resource for the families she supports.
Michelle Humbert is a dedicated birth doula and a Licensed Masters Social Worker based in Chicago, specializing in primary care mental and behavioral health interventions for veterans. She firmly believes that our life experiences can manifest in our bodies through medical conditions and ailments. Michelle emphasizes the importance of mental and nutritional health in shaping our life experiences, particularly during the birthing process. Her care philosophy revolves around empowering families, ensuring they experience warmth, compassion, and a sense of control during birth.
With extensive experience in providing mental health support, Michelle brings a unique focus to her doula practice. Her goal is to help families reclaim their power and reassure them that birth can be a beautiful experience, regardless of the type of birth they have. Michelle is committed to educating families on self-care while maintaining their roles as phenomenal parents. She provides education, affirmation, empowerment, and compassion in all her services, helping families navigate the complexities of the birthing journey with confidence.
Michelle's background in mental health allows her to offer additional support to parents with concerns about perinatal mood disorders, helping them identify and manage symptoms. She aims to empower parents through their journey, providing comprehensive support that addresses both their physical and emotional needs. Michelle's warm, professional approach ensures that families feel supported and understood, making her an invaluable resource for those navigating the transformative experience of birth and early parenthood.
Shantel Powell is a birth and postpartum doula trained through Doula Training International, based in Chicago, Illinois. Shantel’s care philosophy focuses on empowering birthing individuals to feel safe and in control. While also providing comprehensive and compassionate support tailored to each family’s unique needs, particularly during the postpartum period and in handling specialized areas such as spinning babies techniques, placenta encapsulation, and lactation counseling.
Since 2013, Shantel has gained experience working with children in daycare and camp settings, as well as supporting families as a nanny. Shantel brings a wealth of knowledge and compassion to her birth and postpartum doula practice. She offers both daytime and overnight care, assisting with cooking, cleaning, errands, and breastfeeding support. Her extensive experience with children and families ensures that parents receive reliable and empathetic support. Shantel's doula journey began after recognizing the challenges faced by pregnant individuals in hospitals and being inspired by the widespread use of doulas in Europe during her studies in England. She is committed to elevating the standard of care for families in the US.
Her mission is to help the birthing person feel safe and have full autonomy over their body as they give birth, as well as support pregnant people and parents through their journey welcoming a new baby. She allows families to be heard and will always put the birthing person’s and the baby’s needs first to ensure the birthing and postpartum plans are met.
In addition to her postpartum and labor support, Shantel is knowledgeable in spinning babies techniques, placenta encapsulation, and lactation counseling. She prioritizes the needs of the birthing person and baby, ensuring that families feel heard and supported throughout their journey. Shantel’s warm and professional approach helps families achieve their birthing and postpartum goals, providing a solid foundation for their new chapter.
Antonesha Carter is a Postpartum Doula and Newborn Care Specialist based in Houston, TX. Her passion for women's health, pregnancy, and caring for babies began in her early years growing up in Milwaukee, WI, where she started her journey as an infant teacher. After relocating to Houston in 2015, she returned to her interests in women's health, gaining extensive knowledge in reproductive justice, healthcare rights, and pregnancy. Her care philosophy centers on spreading love, compassion, and education, providing personalized support to each family's needs.
In 2018, Antonesha pursued formal training to become a Birth and Postpartum Doula, mastering childbirth education, labor and birth comfort measures, interventions, newborn care, postpartum care, and cultural competency. This comprehensive education allowed her to focus primarily on the postpartum period and newborn care, ultimately earning her the title of Newborn Care Specialist. Her professional experience, combined with her dedication to continuous learning, ensures that she provides exceptional support to new families.
Antonesha Carter is committed to bringing confidence, compassion, and ease to homes during the postpartum period. She believes that having education and hands-on support with a newborn can make a significant difference for new parents. Her approach is warm, trustworthy, and professional, designed to inspire confidence in the families she serves. Antonesha cherishes the opportunity to support parents in navigating the challenges of the postpartum period, making her an invaluable resource for new families.
Rachel Crompton is a Birth and Postpartum Doula in Chicago with a deep love for children and a passion for supporting families. Rachel’s care philosophy centers on empowering parents with the knowledge and skills needed to nurture their children confidently, blending her extensive experience with infants, support for teen moms, and expertise in infant massage and doula services.
Her journey began in 2012 when she moved to Chicago and volunteered at children’s hospitals, engaging with children and holding infants in the NICU. This experience inspired her to become an infant teacher at an early learning center, working with infants aged 6 weeks to 15 months. Rachel’s approach focuses on compassionate and informed support to help families thrive during the early stages of child development.
To enhance her ability to serve families, Rachel earned her Master’s Degree in Child Development with a specialization in Infancy. While in school, she interned with a program supporting teen moms, providing developmental information, home visits, and community resources. She co-facilitated a newborn group alongside a lactation support group and became a certified Infant Massage Educator to facilitate parent-child bonding.
After graduating, Rachel attended a DONA International workshop, starting her journey to become a Postpartum Doula. In 2022, she further expanded her skills by training as a birth doula with DONA. Rachel is committed to equipping parents with the tools they need for healthy familial relationships and child development. Her holistic and continuously evolving approach ensures exceptional care, helping families navigate the challenges of parenthood with confidence and support.
Dr. Brenda Papierniak is a Licensed Clinical Health Psychologist and is certified in Perinatal Mental Health. She is based in the Chicago area, specializing in the understanding of the mind/body connection and perinatal mental health. She is dedicated to collaborating with professionals and families to ensure comprehensive care that addresses both psychological and physiological needs. Dr. Papierniak advocates for equitable perinatal mental health care, enhancing hospital-based programs, and educating medical providers on improving patient care and outcomes.
Dr. Papierniak has extensive experience in providing specialized individual and family consultations, assessments, and therapy. She focuses on perinatal and postpartum mood disorders, trauma related to pregnancy complications, NICU stays, infertility, pregnancy loss, chronic illness, pain management, multicultural issues, and life transitions. Dr. Papierniak has worked for several different hospital systems, most recently working for Ascension Saint Alexius Women & Children’s Hospital in Hoffman Estates, IL. as part of the Pregnancy and Postpartum Mood & Anxiety Disorder Program. With Ascension, she created the Perinatal Health Psychology program where she led program development and management, supervised doctoral and masters level students, provided consultation services to hospitalized patients, and supported families with a variety of medical and mental health needs as they navigated complicated pregnancies and NICU stays.
Dr. Papierniak has contributed to the field of perinatal mental health through speaking at conferences, co-authoring book chapters and serving on a variety of advisory committees and boards including the National Network of NICU Psychologists and Postpartum Support International. Her contributions to hospital committees display her commitment to bridging the gap between medical and behavioral health teams.
Dr. Papierniak provides a person-centered, holistic approach to therapy that ensures that both the physical and emotional needs of her patients are met. With young families she combines their medical and mental health needs, and assists with understanding bonding, attachment, and the developmental needs of infants and children. Dr. Brenda Papierniak is passionate about empowering families and ensuring they receive the highest standard of care. Her dedication to continuous learning and improving patient outcomes inspires hope and confidence in the families she serves.
Laura Steiglitz is a CAPPA Certified Postpartum Doula and an Elite Newborn Care Specialist based in Chicago, Illinois. Whether she is helping to establish healthy sleep patterns, assisting with baby gear selection and setup, or managing sets of multiples, her first priority is making sure that the newborns in her care are given the best start in life. Through parent education, she strives to create a sense of calm and confidence for the family, especially for first-time parents who may need additional guidance.
She finds true joy in empowering new parents with the knowledge and confidence they need to start their journey with their children. Laura believes in being a proactive partner with parents, adapting to the family’s individual needs and applying her many years of training and experience to handle any challenge.
With experience in caring for premature babies, managing orthopedic conditions, special dietary needs, reflux, allergies, feeding challenges, colic, and eczema, Laura brings a wealth of knowledge to her role. Laura is committed to continuous learning, always seeking educational opportunities to expand her skill set and stay up to date on best practices in newborn care. Additionally, Laura is a Child Passenger Safety Technician and can assist families with keeping their little ones as safe as possible during their travels.
Families appreciate Laura's calming presence, often dubbing her “the baby whisperer.” Her passion for working with newborns and families is evident in every aspect of her work. Laura’s dedication and expertise inspire trust and make her an invaluable resource for new families.
Katie Kenoe is a Registered Nurse (RN) based in the Chicagoland area, with a specialty in lactation and feeding. She is dedicated to providing empathetic, evidence-based care, specializing in breastfeeding support with a focus on individualized care for underprivileged communities and expertise in addressing concerns such as latch pain and tongue ties.
Katie received a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) from Virginia Commonwealth University in Richmond, VA. Her passion for women's health began during her clinicals, where she served underprivileged communities and participated in community health programs. With 12 years of nursing experience, she specializes in working with breastfeeding mothers in an outpatient setting, providing support and education throughout their feeding journeys.
In a session with Katie, you can expect her to educate parents on what to expect and address concerns such as latch pain and weight monitoring to ensure each baby is thriving. She prides herself on offering flexible feeding schedules and multiple paths to successful breastfeeding, believing that there is no single right way to achieve this. Her particular interest in tongue ties has led her to attend several conferences and collaborate with local dentists and ENT specialists, enhancing her ability to support families dealing with this issue.
Katie lives in the northwest suburbs of Chicago with her husband and three children, who all had unique breastfeeding journeys. She enjoys gardening, spending time with her family and their dog, Wren, and engaging in pottery during her free time. Her diverse experiences, both professional and personal, make her a trusted and empathetic resource for new and expectant parents. She hopes to ultimately inspire confidence and provide comprehensive support throughout the prenatal and postpartum journey.
Tamarra Merrick is a Birth and Postpartum Doula, certified by DONA, based in Chicago, Illinois.
Since 2019, she is passionate about supporting families as they transition into parenthood. Tamarra focuses on providing attentive and individualized care, ensuring that each family feels supported and well-prepared for the journey ahead.
Drawing from her training and experience, Tamarra offers emotional and practical support specialized to each family's unique needs during the prenatal, birth, and postpartum periods. Her guidance and care help parents feel supported every step of the way, fostering confidence and well-being in new and expectant families.
Outside of her professional work, Tamarra enjoys homeschooling her children and exploring nature with her family. These personal interests reflect her commitment to nurturing and education in both her professional and personal life. Her passion for birth and postpartum care, combined with her dedication to her family, makes her a trusted and invaluable resource for new and expectant parents.
Daneita Hudson is a Certified Birth Doula through DONA, providing both birth and postpartum doula support since 2016, based in the Chicago-area. Daneita believes that families should be provided the safe-haven and community that empowers, equips, and allows them to thrive. She has developed specializations in supporting birth parents of all ages, families with past infertility challenges, and those navigating substance abuse.
Prior to finding her true passion in birth work, Daneita earned a Certificate in Surgical Technology and worked in customer service in corporate America. Daneita actively serves her community and has been the connection of many community resources. She and her husband were foster parents for over 10 years, which led them to adding to their family by adopting 4 amazing, beautiful, and highly resilient children.
Daneita finds immense joy in witnessing the miracle of life and aiding families in their transition. Her care philosophy centers on empowering families, teaching them that they have a voice and that they are their greatest advocate, not only for themselves but for their baby and future families. Daneita also brings a wealth of knowledge and experience working with diverse family dynamics. She emphasizes serving the family as a unit, valuing each member in a way that fosters teamwork and unity.
When not working, Daneita cherishes time with her five children and husband, creating new memories and stories. She also enjoys shopping and is an avid couponer, a skill that brings her and her family great pride. Daneita’s dedication to her community, her extensive experience, and her passion for empowering families make her a trusted and invaluable support for those navigating the journey of parenthood.
Dr. Nicole Tefera is a Licensed Clinical Psychologist based in Chicago, Illinois. Her specialized work includes infant mental health, maternal mental health, working with children, adolescents and families, emerging adults, developmental trauma, complex trauma, anxiety disorders, depression, adjustment to chronic illnesses, medical traumatic stress, stress induced illness, grief and loss, and relationship concerns. Dr. Tefera's approach is centered on providing compassionate, individualized care, drawing on her extensive experience to support clients through various life stages and challenges.
Dr. Tefera earned her doctorate in Clinical Psychology from The Chicago School of Professional Psychology in 2004. She works part-time as a Pediatric Psychologist at Advocate Children’s Hospital Behavioral Health Services and as a Supervising Pediatric Psychologist at La Rabida Children’s Hospital. Additionally, she is a national Child-Parent Psychotherapy (CPP) trainer, an evidence-based treatment for young children (birth-5)and their caregivers who have experienced trauma. Dr. Tefera is also an Affiliate Member of the National Child Traumatic Stress Network (NCTSN), frequently providing mental health training, consultation, and reflective supervision.
Dr. Tefera utilizes a tailored treatment approach for each individual, incorporating a variety of therapeutic methods such as Child-Parent Psychotherapy (CPP), Trauma-focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), Solution-focused Brief Therapy (SFBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Play Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and psychodynamic and relational therapies. Her diverse training allows her to adapt to the unique needs of her clients, ensuring they receive the most effective and supportive care. Dr. Tefera's dedication to her field and her compassionate approach inspire hope and resilience in her clients, guiding them toward healing and growth.
Brittany Hayes, a Registered Nurse and International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC), is based in Chicago, Illinois. She has dedicated her career to supporting families as they transition into parenthood and beyond. Brittany's philosophy centers on active listening and understanding of each parent's unique journey, ensuring they feel supported and empowered during this crucial time and providing personalized and empathetic care.
Brittany started her career in NICUs across the Chicagoland area, has fueled her passion for all aspects of lactation. While breastfeeding often looks different for NICU families, this setting sparked her love for the field and shaped her holistic approach to lactation support. While raising her own family, she started teaching prenatal classes and has been an IBCLC since 2019. Her extensive experience allows her to create personalized, evidence-based feeding and care plans that cater to each family's unique needs and circumstances.
Educating families and providing customized care are of utmost importance to Brittany. She engages in active listening to understand parents' desires and needs during such an influential time in their lives. Recognizing that a breastfeeding journey can take many paths, Brittany prides herself on helping families navigate both smooth and rocky pathways. She understands the importance of a multidisciplinary team in breastfeeding success and uses her experience to know when additional healthcare professionals are needed for support. Brittany’s warm, empathetic approach ensures that every family feels heard, supported, and empowered throughout their breastfeeding journey.
Ariel Wynne is a dedicated physical therapist specializing in pelvic floor therapy located in Chicago, Illinois. Ariel is passionate about expanding access to this impactful specialty, providing care that significantly enhances the quality of life for her patients. Her approach emphasizes creating an informed and accepting environment where patients feel understood and respected, regardless of their background.
Ariel graduated from the University at Buffalo with her Doctorate of Physical Therapy (DPT) in 2018. She became interested in treating the pelvic floor after a friend told her about their struggles with vaginismus. Her friend's challenges, particularly as a queer, non-binary person, motivated Ariel to ensure that all patients receive high-quality, empathetic care. This commitment to continuous learning and training translates into a deep, evidence-based understanding of pelvic floor issues, which she uses to provide effective and compassionate treatment.
In her practice, Ariel focuses on educating patients about their conditions, helping them understand their bodies, and empowering them to achieve their highest quality of life. She creates a stigma-free environment where patients of all races, genders, sexualities, and religions can ask questions and receive the support they need. Ariel’s dedication to her specialty ensures that every patient feels heard, valued, and confident in their care journey to achieve the highest quality of life.
Lita Simanis is a Perinatal Mental Health Certified Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in Chicago, Illinois. An expert in maternal mental health, she is dedicated to pioneering comprehensive care solutions for perinatal mood disorders.
Lita has been the Coordinator of the Pregnancy and Postpartum Mood and Anxiety Disorder Program since 2014. Based in Illinois, she collaborated with Ascension Illinois/Alexian Brothers staff and other stakeholders to develop the state's first perinatal intensive outpatient program, which opened in August 2015.
Lita's extensive professional experience includes her role as a Perinatal Crisis Counselor for the Illinois Mom’s Line and serving on the Board of Directors for Postpartum Support International. As the co-coordinator of the Postpartum Depression Illinois Alliance, she has lectured on perinatal mood disorders at local, state, national, and international levels. She collaborated with stakeholders to develop the state's first perinatal intensive outpatient program, which opened in August 2015. This extensive background translates into a rich, evidence-based foundation for the care she provides, allowing her to offer well-rounded, effective support to her clients.
Lita's approach to care is rooted in a strengths-based and trauma-informed perspective. She believes in transforming distress into positive growth. Her sessions incorporate mindfulness, cognitive behavioral therapy, and the philosophy of stoicism, offering a supportive and respectful environment for clients. While Lita specializes in working with parents and parents-to-be, she welcomes all adults and couples, collaborating on treatment plans that facilitate the lives they seek for themselves and their loved ones.
Her advocacy work includes providing expert testimony for Illinois House Bill 1764, which considers perinatal mood disorders as factors in sentencing. Lita also contributes to the Illinois Department of Public Health Maternal Mortality Review Committee on Violent Deaths and helped develop the Perinatal Mental Health Certification exam.
Amanda is a well loved CAPPA postpartum doula on our team. She is a natural caretaker who loves to jump in and support families wherever they need. Prior to becoming a doula, she enjoyed caring for families as a nanny and babysitter.
She believes caring for families and women during pregnancy, birth and postpartum is a calling for her. When she is not supporting families she is dedicated to her studies as she is a Healthcare Leadership graduate who aspires to become a Physician Assistant.
Working with children is part of her ministry. She passionately cares for babies, children, families, and households. As a doula, she provides the family with a sense of peace as she jumps right in and cares for the entire family. She ensures that families feel completely comfortable entrusting their babies and children with her. She values the upkeep and safety of infants and children under her care, she is very experienced with many children as she has had the privilege to take care of many families. She also has a very calm and sweet character which establishes strong bonding with children, babies, and parents.
Amanda works and Volunteers at Church, she works for the children’s ministry and also in the choir, Ministrant songs in Bible teachings to both the congregation and the kids in the children’s ministry have given her the ability to communicate clearly to her audiences. She also loves caring for her nephew, niece, and cousins.
Chloe is a registered dietitian who helps others make realistic lifestyle changes through nutrition education and counseling. After over six years of clinical practice, Chloe decided it was time for a change and jumped into the private practice setting. She is passionate about building long-term relationships with families to best support their progress and journeys.
Chloe provides individualized nutrition therapy that is tailored to each family’s unique needs and goals during pregnancy, postpartum, and when trying to conceive or undergoing fertility treatment. She believes evidenced-based nutrition counseling should be accessible and convenient especially during these vulnerable phases when proper nourishment is so critical. Chloe loves collaborating with families to create nutrition plans that are nourishing, effective, and enjoyable.
Chloe's approach is holistic, considering not only nutrition but also lifestyle factors that impact health. She emphasizes the importance of flexibility and enjoyment in dietary changes, ensuring that the plans are practical and sustainable. By offering continuous support and adjustments as needed, Chloe helps her clients navigate challenges and celebrate their progress, fostering a positive and empowering experience.
Vasvija Tricic (Vee) is a certified postpartum doula based in Chicago, Illinois. Vee joined the Partum Health team around 2022 with a passion for supporting new families. Her dedication to nurturing and empowering parents is evident in her approach, which blends her extensive hands-on experience with a warm, compassionate touch.
With eight years of experience as a full-time nanny, Vee developed a deep understanding of family dynamics and the needs of newborns and young children. This knowledge was further complemented by her certification as an OBGYN nursing tech at a Swedish hospital, where she has worked for the past three years. In this role, Vee has gained experience in the newborn nursery and delivery rooms, enhancing her skills in providing specialized, attentive care to both mothers and infants.
Vee's sessions are characterized by her personalized care and her commitment to creating a supportive environment for families. Whether she is assisting in the delivery room or offering guidance and support as a doula, Vee’s clients can expect a professional yet warm experience. Outside of her professional commitments, Vee enjoys reading, doing puzzles, and spending time with her two beloved fur babies, reflecting her nurturing nature both at work and in her personal life.
Alaya Jones is based in Houston, Texas as a certified doula dedicated to assisting women in every stage of their journey to motherhood including conception, pregnancy, birth and postpartum. After experiencing womb complications such as Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), Alaya was inspired to heal her body through a holistic lifestyle, diet changes, and natural remedies. Her personal success in reversing her womb issues fueled her passion for helping other women facing similar challenges.
Alaya’s professional journey includes certification as a Birth Doula from Harmonious Birthing and as a Holistic Birth Doula from Secrets Kept in Nature, both during the year of 2022. Her comprehensive training provides her with the skills and knowledge to provide exceptional care and support at every stage of motherhood. Alaya’s unique approach combines her personal experiences with her professional expertise, offering a compassionate and understanding perspective to the women she assists.
In her practice, Alaya creates a nurturing and empowering environment for her clients. She is deeply committed to educating and supporting women, ensuring they feel confident and informed throughout their motherhood journey. Alaya’s sessions are tailored to meet the individual needs of each woman, providing holistic care that addresses both physical and emotional well-being. Alaya looks forward to continuing to support and educate women, guiding them towards a healthy and empowered experience in motherhood.
Kalyn Jones is a dedicated birth and postpartum doula based in Chicago, with experience in maternal and child health since 2018. A passionate advocate for improving women and children's health and wellness, Kalyn provides education and resources to encourage a healthy environment in the home for families. Her holistic approach, combined with her expertise and keen attention to detail, ensures an enhanced client experience.
With a strong background in maternal and child health, Kalyn offers comprehensive support to families during the significant moments of birth and postpartum. She leverages her experience and specialized training to deliver personalized care that addresses the unique needs of each family. Kalyn's commitment to empowering families through education and resources translates into practical and emotional support that helps families thrive.
Kalyn Jones looks forward to helping your family navigate this momentous time with confidence and ease. Her warm, professional approach fosters a nurturing environment where families feel supported and empowered. Whether providing hands-on assistance during labor and delivery or offering guidance during the postpartum period, Kalyn is dedicated to ensuring that each family experiences a positive and healthy transition.
Hannah Cartwright is an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) and registered nurse located in the great city of Chicago, Illinois. Her unique blend of professional expertise and personal experience allows her to connect deeply with families, offering compassionate and informed support during their breastfeeding journey.
Hannah holds a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from The University of Akron. With experience as a registered nurse since 2012, she has spent the majority of her career in postpartum and labor and delivery settings. This extensive background has given her a thorough understanding of the challenges and joys that come with welcoming a new life into the world. Her personal breastfeeding experiences with her three children have further enriched her empathy and ability to support other mothers.
In her practice, Hannah steps away from the distractions of the inpatient world to focus on providing individualized support and guidance. Her sessions are tailored to meet the specific needs of each family, creating a safe and supportive environment. Hannah’s approach combines her professional skills with her personal understanding, ensuring that mothers receive the best possible care to achieve their breastfeeding goals. She believes in empowering families through education and compassionate support.
Hannah also has experience as a certified stretch therapy instructor, which complements her lactation consulting by promoting overall maternal health and well-being. She is dedicated to helping families navigate the complexities of breastfeeding and early parenthood, offering a hopeful and reassuring presence throughout their journey. Hannah looks forward to continuing her work, providing the support and encouragement that families need to thrive.
Briana Nicol Venters is a dedicated full-circle birth worker, birth and postpartum doula, located in Houston, Texas. Since 2018, she has been passionately serving birthing people and their families both locally and internationally. Briana’s approach to doula and birth work centers on education and service. She is committed to advocating for her clients, ensuring they have the tools and confidence to make empowered, informed decisions throughout their birthing journey.
Before becoming a doula, Briana spent many years providing childcare and sharing her expertise as a certified stretch therapy instructor. This background has enriched her ability to support and understand the needs of her clients. Her varied experience allows her to offer comprehensive care, addressing both physical and emotional aspects of childbirth. Briana’s dedication to her work is evident in her ability to hold space for women during intimate birthing experiences, providing unwavering support and advocacy.
Briana has a deep appreciation for nature and a passion for holistic living. She believes that thorough preparation is key to a successful birthing experience and has made it her mission to ensure that every birthing person and their family feel fully supported throughout the prenatal, labor, and postpartum journey. She is devoted to her calling and looks forward to continuing to share her expertise and compassionate care with the birthing community.
When she is not serving birthing families, Briana enjoys reading, cooking, writing, roller skating, and spending quality time with her loved ones. She enjoys nature and has a great appreciation for all things holistic and untampered with.
Peace Popoola is a certified perinatal mental health specialist and a Licensed Professional Counselor Associate based in Houston, Texas. With a compassionate and collaborative approach, she is able to combine proven techniques and is tailored to specific needs, whether as an individual, couple or family. As a certified perinatal mental health specialist, she can also address mental health care needs during pregnancy and postpartum periods. Her goal is to create a safe and supportive space where clients can feel truly heard and work towards nurturing their well-being.
Peace holds a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology and a Master’s degree in Clinical Counseling and Marriage & Family Therapy from Hardin-Simmons University. Over the past decade, she has gained extensive experience working with youth in various capacities. While completing her degree, she worked at the University Counseling Center as well as a behavioral hospital. Peace is a National Certified Counselor, Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, and Licensed Marriage and Family Therapy Associate. She specializes in a wide range of issues, including premarital, couples, and family relationship challenges, perinatal mental health, trauma, mood, and anxiety disorders.
In her practice, Peace combines proven techniques with a holistic, tailored approach to meet each patients unique needs. She employs a variety of interventions and research-supported methods to help clients achieve their goals, gain insight, and develop coping skills. Whether addressing mental health care needs during pregnancy and postpartum or navigating relationship issues, Peace is dedicated to fostering resilience and personal growth within a safe therapeutic relationship. Her commitment to her clients' well-being inspires them to prioritize their mental health and take courageous steps toward a healthier future.
Monioluwa Otubaga is a dedicated and compassionate Pelvic Floor Physical Therapist located in Houston, Texas. With a strong passion for pelvic health, fertility awareness, and fitness, Monioluwa is committed to supporting women throughout their healthcare journeys. She provides personalized care tailored to each patient’s unique needs, ensuring they feel empowered and supported.
As a doctoral student and Student Physical Therapist, Monioluwa Otubaga gained valuable experience in pelvic floor rehabilitation, treating conditions such as incontinence, organ prolapse, bladder dysfunction, and endometriosis. Her diverse clinical background includes both hospital and virtual care settings, allowing her to effectively adapt to various patient needs and environments.
In her practice, Monioluwa focuses on creating a nurturing and supportive environment where patients feel comfortable discussing their concerns. She develops individualized treatment plans and emphasizes patient education, helping them take an active role in their recovery. She is dedicated to continuous learning and professional growth, striving to offer the highest standard of care and positively impact the lives of the women she serves.
Paris Morris is a birth and postpartum doula and a student midwife based in Chicago, Illinois. Her journey into birth work began with the profound experience of delivering her first child, which inspired her to support and empower other women in their birthing choices. Years later, during her second pregnancy, she discovered the role of doulas and was inspired to become one herself, aiming to provide the same empowering experience she had.
Professionally trained through Doula Training and DoulA Certification (DONA) International and currently pursuing certification, Paris has gained valuable knowledge and experience from both DONA and Chicago Volunteer Doulas (CVD). She is also trained in placenta encapsulation and CPR/NRP. Her approach is grounded in the belief that every family deserves a supportive and empowering birth experience. She is committed to providing personalized care that respects each family's unique needs and preferences.
As a student midwife, Paris Morris is expanding her skills and knowledge to further support families during pregnancy, birth, and postpartum. Her goal is to become a midwife, using her extensive doula experience to enhance her midwifery practice. She finds immense joy in being part of the birth and postpartum journey, and her dedication to empowering women and supporting families shines through in every aspect of her work. With a deep commitment to helping others, she looks forward to continuing her journey in birth work and making a positive impact on the lives of the families she serves.
Joyce Hopkins, Ph.D., is a licensed clinical psychologist based in Chicago, Illinois. Dr. Hopkins specializes in women's mental health during pregnancy and the postpartum period, as well as infant and early childhood development. She combines her extensive clinical experience with a deep commitment to supporting parents and young children.
Dr. Hopkins holds esteemed academic positions, serving as Co-Director of the Parent-Infant Development Service at the University of Chicago Medical Center and as a Professor of Clinical Psychology in the doctoral program at Illinois Institute of Technology. Her research on women's mental health during pregnancy, the postpartum period, and the first year of an infant's life has led to over 30 publications in scientific journals. This wealth of knowledge and experience enhances the care she provides, making her a trusted expert in her field.
In her practice, Dr. Hopkins takes a personalized approach, first gaining an in-depth understanding of their expectations and individual needs to provide support that is individually tailored. She consults with parents on common developmental issues, such as establishing positive sleep routines and managing eating and separation concerns. Her dedication to early childhood mental health is further displayed by her current project, co-authoring a book on the topic. Dr. Hopkins is passionate about fostering mental and emotional health in families, and her work continues to inspire and support parents and their children on their journeys to brighter and healthier futures.
Nadia DeLeon is a dedicated Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) based in Chicago, Illinois. Whether navigating fertility challenges, or supporting individuals through parenthood, Nadia provides personalized guidance to help clients reclaim their strength and find a path towards healing. Her empathetic and client-centered approach ensures that each person feels understood, respected, and supported throughout their therapeutic journey.
Committed to supporting individuals facing diverse challenges, Nadia has worked extensively with survivors of domestic violence, offering them a safe space for healing and empowerment. Nadia has also personally navigated the complex journey of fertility issues, in which she understands the unique emotional struggles that individuals and couples may encounter. This personal experience fuels her empathy and provides a strong foundation for guiding others through similar paths. In 2012, Nadia and her husband welcomed their first child, an experience that deepened her understanding of the complexities surrounding parenthood. This joyous event further motivates her to support individuals and families in their search for emotional well-being.
Nadia’s comprehensive approach to counseling combines cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) strategies with a strengths-based and solution-focused approach. She is dedicated to fostering resilience and positive growth in her clients, whether they are navigating fertility challenges or adjusting to parenthood. In her sessions, Nadia provides personalized guidance to help clients reclaim their strength and find a path towards healing. Her genuine commitment to fostering mental resilience inspires clients to reach out and take the first steps toward a healthier, more fulfilling life.
Deb Torres is a DONA certified birth and postpartum doula and a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW), offering services in Chicago, Illinois. With several years of experience, Deb has had the privilege and honor of supporting women and their partners through the birthing process.
Deb’s passion for birth support began in the United Kingdom, where she lived and worked as an expat. She delivered both of her daughters at the Royal Surrey Hospital in Guildford, England. These moving and powerful birthing experiences ignited her determination to support other women and their partners, helping them navigate the many layers and components of birth. Deb’s personal journey fuels her commitment to offering encouragement and guidance to families, making their birthing experiences as positive and empowering as possible. Her compassionate approach and dedication to providing holistic support make her a trusted ally for families during this transformative time.
In her free time, Deb enjoys taking long walks by any location close to the water, savoring a cup of coffee or tea outdoors, traveling, playing tennis, and indulging in panang tofu curry. Her love for nature and adventure complements her professional life, where she brings warmth, empathy, and expertise to every family she supports. Deb is dedicated to helping families feel confident and cared for, ensuring their journey through pregnancy, birth, and postpartum is a truly an enhanced experience.
Kyla Conner, a dedicated doula based in Chicago, Illinois, is committed to providing unwavering support to families throughout their pregnancy, birth, and postpartum journey. With a warm heart and wealth of knowledge, Kyla empowers parents to make informed decisions and advocate for their needs and desires. Her compassionate and gentle demeanor creates a safe and supportive environment where families feel heard, valued, and respected.
Driven by her passion for women’s health, Kyla is furthering her education in nurse midwifery. Her extensive training and experience as a doula have equipped her to deliver comprehensive and empathetic care. Kyla’s professional journey is marked by continuous learning and a commitment to excellence, in order to provide the best possible support to her clients. Her approach to care is both professional and heartfelt, making her a trusted ally for families navigating the complexities of parenthood.
In her sessions, Kyla develops personalized support plans that address each family's unique needs. Kyla’s supportive presence and expertise make her an invaluable resource during the transformative period of pregnancy and postpartum. She tailors her support to meet the unique needs of each family, offering emotional guidance, physical comfort measures, and practical assistance. As Kyla remains dedicated to guiding families with compassion and respect, she wants to ensure they embark on their journey to parenthood with confidence and peace of mind.
Sarah Langthorne, L.Ac, MSTCM, is a licensed acupuncturist and board-certified herbalist based in Chicago, Illinois. She received her master's degree in Science and Chinese medicine from Pacific College of Health and Science and has over a decade of experience in the healthcare field. Sarah is dedicated to educating and empowering individuals to improve their health by understanding Chinese Medicine in scientific and relatable terms.
Sarah's professional journey includes extensive training and practice in both clinical settings and educational roles. Her understanding of Eastern and Western theories enables her to effectively communicate the principles and benefits of Chinese Medicine to patients as well as healthcare providers.
In her practice, Sarah takes a personalized approach to each session, ensuring patients feel understood and supported. Sarah finds deep fulfillment in working with diverse populations, including those experiencing pregnancy and parenthood, providing relief for symptoms that are often overlooked. Her commitment to holistic care and patient education ensures that every individual she works with can take the best possible care of themselves and achieve balance in their lives.
Along with being an acupuncturist and board-certified herbalist, she is also a practitioner and clinician, writer and teacher. Her specialties as a practitioner include gynecology/fertility, mental and emotional issues, asthma, and working with athletes at all levels, both for injury prevention and developing specialized plans for recovery. Sarah's dual specialization ensures that her patients receive comprehensive care that targets both the underlying causes and symptoms of their conditions. She looks forward to providing hope and healing through the combined wisdom of Eastern and Western medicine.
Ning Malabanan, PT, DPT, is a dedicated physical therapist specializing in pelvic floor rehabilitation and women's health located in Houston, Texas. She is passionate about helping women understand the vital role of pelvic floor muscles in their sexual health and addressing issues such as chronic pelvic pain, bowel and bladder disorders, prenatal/postpartum musculoskeletal concerns, and coccyx pain.
Ning holds a Doctor of Physical Therapy degree in pelvic floor rehabilitation with over 21 years of experience. Along with her extensive knowledge in multiple physical impairments, Ning has worked in multiple settings including hospitals, home-health and private practice. Her expertise translates into effective and personalized care, characterized by empathy, patient education, and evidence-based techniques. Ning’s approach ensures that each client receives the best possible care tailored to their unique needs.
In her sessions, Ning creates a supportive environment where clients feel comfortable discussing their concerns. She uses hands-on techniques, education, and collaborative goal-setting to develop individualized treatment plans in order for patients to achieve their goals. She is committed to making a positive impact on her clients' lives, helping them achieve overall better health and well-being through understanding and empowerment.
Akiwele (Aki) Burayidi is a birth doula based in Chicago, Illinois. Aki brings to her work a passion for the mind-body connection, social justice, and evidence-based birthing practices.
Aki has a long-standing dedication to improving maternal health outcomes. A certified Full Spectrum Doula, Childbirth Educator, and Yoga Instructor, Aki is a graduate of the University of Wisconsin-Madison with a degree in Health Promotion & Health Equity. She has worked with families in Chicago since 2023, and previously taught childbirth classes to expecting parents at a hospital in Madison. Aki has taken additional coursework through Birthing Advocacy to provide a birth experience that is trauma-informed, culturally appropriate, and inclusive. Her approach includes a focus on community and somatic awareness.
In addition to her birth work, Aki is a certified yoga instructor with a strong background in mindfulness.This experience allows her to coach birthing people and their partners to deepen connection to their own bodies and needs during pregnancy, labor, and the postpartum time.
Aki has a unique ability to keep people calm and make people feel cared for, even in stressful situations. She is committed to giving her best in every situation to provide the best possible care!
Marci Gray is a resourceful and personable Registered Dietitian based in Houston, TX. With five years of experience in clinical and outpatient medical nutrition therapy, Marci is highly motivated and possesses strong communication skills. She is dedicated to educating clients on heart-healthy living, weight loss, and diabetes management. Her approach is results-oriented, focusing on individualized patient care through active participation in multidisciplinary medical teams.
In her role at Partum Health, Marci provides Medical Nutrition Therapy for complex nutritional diagnoses in an outpatient setting. She collaborates directly with healthcare team members to implement individualized patient care plans. Her responsibilities include documenting nutrition assessments using electronic health records and the Nutrition Care Process, monitoring patients' nutrition status, and motivating them to adhere to dietary recommendations. This approach ensures that patients receive high-quality care tailored to their specific needs.
In Marci’s time at Harris County Public Health, she was able to deliver engaging, evidence-based nutrition education to individuals and groups within the community. She also assisted in developing and creating nutrition and physical activity curricula, trainings, and presentations to meet the needs of the target population. Her dedication to community health is evident in her documentation and program tracking, as well as her commitment to providing regular program reports. Marci's holistic approach and expertise make her a valuable asset in promoting health and wellness in the community.
Allison Yura is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker serving clients in-person in Chicago and throughout the state of Illinois via telehealth. Allison has dedicated her career to working with parents and young families, and is skilled in supporting hopeful, expectant, and new parents through the changes, challenges, and joys that many encounter throughout the transition to parenthood.
A seasoned psychotherapist, Allison first began working with new parents in 2010 as a NICU social worker, and later provided in-home early intervention services to families with infants and toddlers. Allison has since completed advanced training in Perinatal Mental Health through Postpartum Support International, which is the gold-standard in peripartum mental health care. Her background in medical settings provides a strong foundation to help parents navigate issues such as medically complex pregnancies, fertility challenges, infant loss, as well as postpartum depression, anxiety, and shifts in identity and relationships.
In session with Allison, clients can expect to feel deeply seen and heard through a patient-centered, holistic approach. Allison blends skills-based approaches that focus on the here-and-now and empower clients to use cognitive reframing, mindfulness skills, and emotion regulation tools. Allison is also certified in Yoga Informed Psychotherapy, bringing somatic awareness and stress reduction techniques to increase mental and physical wellness.
Beyond the professional, Allison was met with her own complex journey to motherhood, experiencing infertility and pregnancy loss before welcoming a healthy baby in 2019. This personal experience has affirmed her passion to support families as they adjust to parenthood and face both the joys and uncertainties that come along.
Marneshia Hiner is a full-spectrum doula specializing in birth and postpartum support based in Chicago, Illinois. With a passion for empowering and nurturing birthing parents and their families, she provides comprehensive care for both physical and emotional needs. Her approach is supported by over a decade of experience in Early Childhood Education, with a special dedication to supporting diverse families and advocating for pregnant teen mothers.
Marneshia began her journey working in a childcare program, which sparked her passion for education and support. Since 2013, she has held roles as a childcare teacher, trainer, director, education specialist, and advocate. She is certified and trained through Sokana Collective, blending her technical knowledge with genuine care. Her background displays personalized and well-rounded care for each family she supports.
In her doula practice, Marneshia aims to create a nurturing environment where parents feel safe and empowered to advocate for the birthing experience they envision. Her sessions focus on holistic support, offering guidance and reassurance. As a Quality Assessor for a nationally accredited Early Childhood Education organization, Marneshia applies her attentive approach to enhance the quality of her doula services. When not supporting families, she enjoys spending time outdoors, traveling, and watching engaging series on Netflix.
Marneshia is excited to work with you and your family, helping to create a beautiful and empowering birthing experience. Her commitment is to be of service to her community, providing the best possible support during this transformative time.
Abigail Boursiquot, MA, CCC-SLP, CLC, IBCLC Candidate, is a speech-language pathologist and Certified Lactation Consultant based in Chicago, Illinois. Her care philosophy centers on a compassionate and holistic approach, more specifically in managing dysphagia and feeding issues in both adults and infants. Abigail is deeply committed to helping medically complex infants, addressing challenges such as prematurity and breast/bottle feeding efficiency, including tongue ties.
Abigail earned her Master’s degree in speech-language pathology from George Washington University. She has extensive experience in both inpatient and outpatient settings, working with pediatric and adult populations to treat speech, language, swallowing, and cognitive disorders. Abigail's professional journey includes significant experience in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU), where she specialized in infant feeding management. Her expertise as an infant feeding specialist is complemented by her focus on supporting mothers with a wide range of different nursing systems, aiming to create feeding routines that also allow for bonding time.
In her sessions, you can expect Abigail to take a personalized and holistic approach. She creates a welcoming and supportive environment, ensuring clients feel comfortable and understood. Abigail uses a variety of evidence-based techniques tailored to each individual's needs, focusing on practical solutions and outcomes. Abigail's dedication to client-centered care ensures that each session is both effective and nurturing, promoting progress and well-being.
Abigail has been accepted to sit for the board examination to be recognized as an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant in September 2023. This additional certification will enhance her ability to provide comprehensive care and support to mothers and infants, continuing her commitment to serving her community. Abigail looks forward to making a positive impact on the lives of the families she works with, helping them achieve successful and fulfilling feeding experiences.
Tamiko Kelly is the Advanced Newborn Care Specialist, Certified Postpartum Doula, and Sleep Expert for exhausted parents who want their babies to sleep all night so they can feel like themselves again.
She helps moms enjoy motherhood and have time for themselves once the baby is down for the night. Dads have reported waking energized with a new pep in their step after implementing Tamiko’s strategies.
Since 2008, she has worked 24/7, rotational shifts for families who value privacy and discretion. She understands the unique needs of these families and the great finesse required to succeed in these positions.
She enjoys working with families from all backgrounds and providing them with both daytime and overnight support as they transition into parenthood.
She's excited to meet you and learn more about your family.
Raissa is a trained and certified birth and postpartum doula based in Houston, Texas, with experience connecting with families and providing exceptional support. Known for her friendly attitude and empathetic nature, she excels in building strong, supportive relationships. Fluent in French, English, and several Western African languages, Raissa effectively communicates with diverse populations, empowering families to create healthy and safe environments with calm and non-judgmental support.
Raissa’s professional journey includes extensive experience in newborn care, nursery organization, and postpartum family support. Her skills encompass swaddling, soothing, diapering, tummy massages, and aiding babies in releasing gas. Additionally, Raissa is adept at screening for postpartum mood disorders, implementing day and night routines, and offering ongoing breastfeeding and bottle-feeding support. Her hands-on experience and training enable her to tailor her approach to meet each family’s specific needs.
Working with Raissa means receiving comprehensive, personalized care. She provides services such as cleaning and folding baby’s laundry, washing and sterilizing bottles, and preparing snacks and light meals for the family. Raissa also supports mothers throughout their pregnancy journey, offering essential assistance before and after the due date. Her dedication to fostering a nurturing environment makes her an invaluable asset to any family, inspiring confidence and peace of mind.
She embarked on her doula journey driven by her passion to empower mothers during one of the most significant moments of their lives: childbirth. After experiencing her own wonderful natural births, she pursued her DONA certification in 2022, equipped with firsthand knowledge of how meaningful and transformative a positive birth experience can be.
Her goal is to help moms achieve their ideal birth experience in a hospital setting, ensuring it is both beautiful and peaceful. Elissa believes every mother deserves to have her birth plan respected and supported. Whether it’s through emotional encouragement, advocating for the mother’s wishes with the medical team, or simply being a calm presence, she is dedicated to providing holistic support through labor’s highs and lows.
With her compassionate nature and expertise, Elissa has helped numerous families turn their birth stories into cherished memories.
