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WELCOME

 

pronouns: she/they

My name is Melissa and I am a queer full spectrum doula, birth and death companion, herbalist, ceremonialist, writer, and facilitator. My family has roots in Boriken/Puerto Rico and Poland and I am a guest on Unceded Lisjan Ohlone Territory (Oakland, CA). I have been called to a healing path through the steady guidance of my ancestors, the whispers of my dreams, and the teachings of the plants. With over 21 years of experience in the healing arts, I am committed to reproductive justice and offer loving, trauma-informed, and culturally conscious care. My goal is for you to know what your options are and to make sure you feel safe and respected along the way. With reverence for ancestral wisdom, I work with all birthing people and specialize in supporting Queer, Non-binary, Trans, and Black Indigenous and People of Color (BIPOC). I am deeply grateful for the many mentors who support me along the way and share their medicine and sacred traditions for my own healing and growth on this journey.

What is a doula?

A doula is a non-medical trained professional who supports the physical, emotional, and spiritual needs of a birthing person. Doulas also offer support to partners and/or other members of the birth team. Traditionally the role of the doula was played by family members and community healers, though colonization and the medicalization of birth has interrupted these roles in many communities. As a doula, I see my work as a continuation of the ancestral wisdom of the healers and midwives that have come before me.

The word “doula” comes from the ancient Greek word, meaning “a woman who serves.” I will often use the words birthworker or birth companion in an effort to decolonize language and ways of thinking.

How do I approach my work?

I believe that birth is transformative. I believe that birth is sacred. As your doula, I am committed to supporting you in feeling safe, respected, and empowered. I am here to hold space for you and other members of your team. During prenatal visits we will get to know each other, discuss your vision for your birth, answer questions, and explore fears that might come up along the way. I will provide you with information so that you can make informed choices and help you in advocating for yourself & your family. During your labor I will offer physical, emotional, and spiritual support via breathing techniques, massage, rebozo work, herbal allies, etc. In your postpartum time, I will support your healing and adjustment to life with your newborn. Whether you choose to birth at home, a birth center, or the hospital, I will be a steady, grounding presence. I have various packages to choose from for birth and postpartum support. Please feel free to look through them to find one that is right for you.


Selected Trainings & Certifications

Celebrating after facilitating a doula training with the Roots of Labor Birth Collective.