Your Questions, Answered

  • A doula provides continuous emotional, physical, and informational support throughout pregnancy, labor, and the immediate postpartum period. My role is to help you feel supported, informed, and confident in your choices — from comfort measures during labor to helping you understand your options and supporting your partner.

  • I typically work with families within about 1.5 hours of Grand Rapids, Michigan. If you’re outside that area, feel free to reach out—I’m happy to discuss options and see how I can support you.

  • I don’t replace your partner or support person. My role is to guide them in providing comfort while giving them breaks when needed. Many partners say having a doula actually helps them feel more confident and involved in the birth.

  • No — I support all types of births, whether unmedicated, epidural, induced, or cesarean. Every birth is valid and deserves respectful, compassionate care. Currently, I am allowed to go into the OR for cesarean births at Corewell, Grand Rapids and Trinity, Grand Rapids.

  • Most families book between the end of the first trimester and the beginning of the third trimester, but you can reach out at any time during pregnancy. Booking earlier gives us more time to connect and build a supportive plan. I’ve even had clients book me while in labor — and I still showed up!

  • Birth photography documents the real moments of your baby’s arrival — the strength, emotion, and connection during labor and those first precious minutes. Many clients find it helps them process and piece together their birth experience afterward.

  • Yes! Many families choose to combine doula support with birth photography. Being both your doula and photographer lets me support you while naturally capturing meaningful moments — without adding another unfamiliar person to your birth space.

  • Yes — hospitals, birth centers, and home births. Every setting has its own rhythm, and my focus remains the same: helping you feel supported, informed, and cared for throughout your birth.

  • Yes, I accept Medicaid for doula services. Coverage varies by plan, so I’m happy to help you navigate your options.

  • In the rare event I’m already supporting another family, I work with a trusted backup doula who shares my approach. You’ll still receive continuous support, and I’ll connect with you as soon as possible. My priority is always making sure every family has the support they deserve when labor begins.

  • Absolutely. Donations to the August Fund can be made in honor of your baby, a loved one, or any baby who has passed. Grandparents, family members, and friends are all welcome to give. Your gift helps provide compassionate, free bereavement doula and photography support to families experiencing loss, ensuring they receive care when they need it most.