Thank you for asking! It’s “jen-EEL” (as opposed to jan-el).

The sooner we start working together the better! I like to take time to build a relationship with my clients, and I also limit the number of clients I work with each month to ensure that I am providing the best quality care possible. That being said, as long as you haven’t had your baby yet it’s not too late. Let’s connect to talk more about how I might be able to support you.

I’ve found that when my clients take a childbirth education class it only serves to enhance our work together in service of achieving the birth that you desire. Some of the benefits of taking childbirth education classes include:

• learning more about the physiology of pregnancy and birth

• gaining evidence-based knowledge on birth practices (and how these may differ from routine practices at some birthing facilities)

• learning about your birth options

• reducing fear and anxiety about birth

• increasing confidence in your body and its abilities

And, childbirth education classes often offer an introduction to comfort measures for labor, which we’ll build on in our work together. Need help identifying a Childbirth Education Class? Send me an email, and I’d be happy to provide recommendations.

Absolutely not. My goal is to support you in achieving the birth that you desire, whether you are giving birth vaginally or via cesarean (whether planned or emergency), and regardless of whether you choose to use pain medications during labor.

A doula is always a valuable addition to your birth team, even with the most supportive of partners! A doula’s presence can strengthen the partner’s role and confidence by providing encouragement and guidance as to how best to support you—before and during labor. Having a doula on your birth team can also allow your partner to recharge during labor without the associated guilt. Additionally, having an extra pair of hands can go along way with comfort measures during labor. As your doula, I will provide reassurance, affirmation and clarify for both you and the partner, and will work together with your partner to ensure that your needs are met.

Hiring a doula is definitely a big investment, and one that pays dividends. I am committed to making my services as accessible as possible for folks. Please schedule a free consultation to discuss payment plan options. I’ve also seen many people lean into community support by including an option to make a donation towards doula services on their baby registries. BeHerVillage is a great option to raise funds for service-based registry gifts like doula care, lactation support and more!

The first step to adding me to your birth team is to schedule a free consultation. If you decide to retain my services, I’ll send you a contract outlining the terms of our agreement and we’ll begin our work together.

​​Some—but not all—insurance companies will cover all or part of the cost of a doula. Check with your insurance company to find out what’s covered and reach out to me with any questions you may have. Additionally, it may be possible to use funds from a Health Savings Account (HSA) or Flexible Savings Account (FSA) to cover doula services. Check with your HSA or FSA plan administrator for more information.

Yes! As of 2024, both doula services and Childbirth Education services can be paid for with HSA and FSA funds. Woohoo!