VBAC Doulas in Brooklyn, NY

Planning a vaginal birth after cesarean? These providers list VBAC support as a specialty, from preparing for labor to helping you talk through your options with your care team.

84 VBAC Doulas near Brooklyn, NY

Francesca Thompson-Phillip

Brooklyn, New York

5.0 (3 reviews)

Francesca Thompson-Phillip

Hello! My name is Francesca (Fran, for short), and I am a DONA trained birth doula based in Brooklyn, NY. I serve the 5 boroughs and some parts of Long Island. Reproductive justice is the backbone of my practice and the reason I became a birth worker. I believe that everyone has the right to a safe birthing environment, free of any judgment and discrimination from anyone. I prioritize empowerment through gaining knowledge, building confidence, and reminding families of their autonomy. My goal with each family I serve is to be the doula they need and to create the environment they desire.

Recent review

Francesca was an absolute godsend in our birthing process (vaginal, epidural, in hospital, low risk pregnancy with minimal complications) and we couldn't recommend her highly enough. Our connection to Francesca was unusually late - we were matched to her at 38 weeks of pregnancy but she made up for that rapidly. She used a quick virtual meeting to establish our birth preferences, and then used an in person meeting and offline content to give us techniques and guidance to feel prepared and supported in the short timeframe. During labor, Francesca struck a great balance between being there when we needed her guidance and support, but also knowing when we needed space either for mom herself or for the two of us. She helped with breathing techniques and positioning, reminded us to take time and not feel pressured in making decisions, and instilled confidence in us throughout. We couldn't be more grateful to have had Francesca for this life changing event, and would recommend her to any expecting couple.

- Erin O’Neil

Jen Ballew

Brooklyn, New York 11 years of experience

5.0 (3 reviews)

Jen Ballew Popular: among the most-viewed doulas in New York, last 60 days

Responds within a few hours

I'm Jen Ballew, a birth and postpartum doula, childbirth educator and pediatric sleep coach and the founder of The Parenthood Project USA. For over a decade I've helped exhausted families find real, sustainable rest, supporting more than 250 families along the way. My approach to sleep is warm, biology-first, and led by your child's nervous system, never cry-it-out or leaving a baby to cry alone. I work with everything from newborn sleep shaping in the early weeks to responsive coaching for older babies and toddlers, always building rhythms that fit your family rather than forcing a rigid method or anything not developmentally appropriate. My practice began in Southern California, where I spent ten years supporting local families through birth, postpartum, and sleep. Today the work is nationwide and fully virtual, and I'm expanding in person into New York City as I put down roots in Brooklyn. Wherever you are, my care can meet you there. My offerings reach across the whole journey into parenthood. Alongside sleep, I offer birth preparation through my program The Threshold, blending somatic practice, evidence-based education, and nervous system support, with a specialty in VBAC (vaginal birth after cesarean). My postpartum care supports recovery and the tender early weeks, including nourishing meal prep with healing foods rooted in traditional care, placenta encapsulation, and gentle postnatal bodywork. At the heart of it all, I believe bringing new life into the world is a profound rite of passage that deserves reverence, preparation, and care. I hold each family's path with deep respect, and I would be honored to walk alongside yours.

Recent review

My husband and I are so thankful to have worked with Jen through my first pregnancy. She worked with us through a series of educational sessions in our home which really worked for us. We were looking to get a hands-on learning experience to walk us through everything to expect for labor & delivery but really we got so much more. Yes, you will get insights on pregnancy, birth and postpartum but Jen gives you undivided support and care - it really feels like a personal journey. I felt comfortable being myself and sharing with her about my life and preferences which was crucial in creating my birth plan. Her sessions were so impactful. I recalled a lot of her key notes while I was in labor and was able to make decisions that felt right for me in the moment. Outside of this, my husband felt really confident and empowered in his role for me as well. I also found that everything she taught us on partner advocacy has gone beyond the delivery room and strengthened our relationship overall which has been a huge plus! It was amazing to have had her support and wealth of knowledge in preparation for the birth of my son. I highly recommend working with her if you’re looking to experience an informed, supported, and empowered journey!

- Francheska M.

Simone Toomer

Brooklyn, New York 15 years of experience

5.0 (8 reviews)

Simone Toomer Popular: among the most-viewed doulas in New York, last 60 days

NPI verified Responds within a day Accepts insurance

I am a mom of 2, birth and postpartum doula, IBCLC, childbirth educator, infant and family educator and infant sleep educator. I have been supporting families in pregnancies, postpartum and through the first 5 years for almost 2 decades. I also train and mentor aspiring doulas and IBCLCs.

Recent review

I cannot say enough good things about Simone as our night doula and lactation consultant. From the moment she entered our home, she brought a sense of calm, compassion, and expertise that made an immediate difference in our postpartum experience. As a second-time mom navigating recovery, sleep deprivation, and feeding challenges, her presence was nothing short of a gift. She supported our entire family with such gentleness and professionalism. Her overnight care allowed us to get desperately needed rest, knowing our baby was in kind, capable hands. Her lactation guidance was equally invaluable. She offered evidence-based support with zero judgment—troubleshooting tummy issues, providing reassurance, and giving practical tools that worked. Thanks to her help, I went from overwhelmed and in pain to confident and empowered. I did not feel a bit of judgment when I chose to go from breastfeeding to formula due to my baby's tummy issues. She listened deeply, responded thoughtfully, and truly respected our parenting values. She didn’t just care for our baby—she cared for us. If you're looking for someone who is not only highly skilled but also emotionally attuned and reliable, I wholeheartedly recommend Simone. She’s an absolute gem and a vital part of our early parenting story.

- LeeAnne Thompson-Forte

Joan Sherwood

Brooklyn, New York 31 years of experience

5.0 (6 reviews)

Joan Sherwood Popular: among the most-viewed doulas in New York, last 60 days

Responds within a few hours

I am Joan Sherwood, founder of Peaceful Beginnings To You. My calling to become a doula was born from a personal experience. During the birth of my child, I was left alone in a hospital room without any support. My spouse and brother were sent home because I was not in active labor. My water had broken, so I was admitted, and I faced the daunting process of labor alone, in a secluded area until it was time to push. This experience, where I delivered a 9 -pound, 2-ounce baby without my loved one's present, ignited my passion to ensure that no other person would have to endure such solitude. My journey as a doula began 25 years ago when I assisted a family member through labor. Since then, I have been a source of support and guidance for family and friends, which eventually led me to pursue certification as a birth doula through DONA International. I am deeply committed to holistic birth and postpartum care, and my extensive training reflects this dedication. My education includes a Family Development Credential, studies at the Institute of Integrative Nutrition, the Center for Homeopathic Education, and the Swedish Institute College of Health Sciences. I am also a certified Calm Birth Instructor, Infant Massage Instructor Trainer, Womb Sauna Practitioner, and have received postpartum training from Indigemama, BirthMama, Traditional Postpartum Practitioner, and Birth Arts International. My approach to doula care is centered on the needs of the laboring person. I come with no preconceived notions, and I remain as fluid and flexible as possible to meet the evolving needs of each individual. In addition, to running my private doula practice, I have provided doula care to underserved communities as a doula and doula mentor for a federally funded program in Brooklyn.

Recent review

Joan was my doula for both my pregnancies, one in 2014 for my now 8 year old and again during the pandemic for my 2 year old. I highly recommend Joan she provided such consistent support during both pregnancy, while birthing and postpartum. I was so fortune because Joan is just naturally resourceful and intuitive and she was right by my side every step the way. To this day I consider her such an empowering and beautiful human being and I am thankful that she was with me on my journey into motherhood -- I would choose her again and again and again!!!

- Donauta S.

JACQUELINE SANTIAGO

New York, New York 4 years of experience

JACQUELINE SANTIAGO

Hi, I’m Jacqueline, but you can call me Jacqui. I’m a full-spectrum doula who believes birth is both sacred and deeply human — not something to “manage,” but something to be supported with care, humor, and grounding energy. My background as an esthetician, medical assistant, and ordained minister means I show up with a calming presence, steady hands, and the ability to connect with just about anyone. I see each family as unique, and I honor every birth plan, every emotion, and every cultural layer that shapes the journey into parenthood. I’m here to hold space, advocate when needed, and help parents feel informed, respected, and genuinely cared for. My philosophy is simple: YOU deserve a birth experience that feels safe, supported, and authentically yours. I show up as both a guide and a teammate — someone who listens first, encourages often, and helps you tap into your own strength. Whether it’s breathwork at 2 a.m., a good laugh when things get intense, or quiet reassurance in the moments that matter most, I’m committed to walking alongside your family with compassion and confidence. My goal is to help you feel prepared, empowered, and never alone during one of the most transformative moments of your life. My hobbies are reading, crafting, hosting karaoke nights at local bars, helping my partner run a part-time catering business and cuddling with our Beagle-mix Emo. I look forward to meeting you!!

Aisolen Marcial

New York, New York 12 years of experience

5.0 (1 review)

Aisolen Marcial

Greetings, my name is Aisolen Marcial and I am a certified Full Spectrum Holistic Doula located in New York City area. I have minimal limits in supporting folks and their families, having done this work already for over 10 years. Birth & postpartum support is not a cookie-cutter stencil and should not be treated as such. I am a mom of 2 beautiful girls and enjoy traveling, plants and self-care.

Recent review

A Truly Exceptional Doula Experience Hiring Aisolen Marcial was hands down one of the best decisions we made during our pregnancy journey. From the moment we met her, we felt instantly at ease. Her calm presence, deep knowledge, and genuine care created a sense of trust and safety that carried us through every step of labor and delivery. Throughout our prenatal visits, Aisolen took the time to really understand our hopes, fears, and birth preferences. She offered evidence-based information without pressure and helped us feel empowered to make informed decisions. She was always just a text away when we had questions or needed support. During labor, Aisolen was our anchor. She brought such a peaceful energy into the room, offering physical comfort, emotional reassurance, and quiet encouragement exactly when we needed it. Whether it was helping with breathing techniques, massage, or just being a supportive presence, she anticipated our needs before we even voiced them. Even after the birth, she continued to check in with us and made sure we were adjusting well. Her postpartum support was incredibly helpful, and we felt like she truly cared about our wellbeing as a family. We can’t imagine going through this experience without her. If you're looking for a doula who is compassionate, knowledgeable, and deeply committed to supporting families, we wholeheartedly recommend Aisolen Marcial.

- Aisis B.

Vicki Bloom

New York, New York 16 years of experience

5.0 (10 reviews)

Vicki Bloom

I have been helping to improve birth experiences in NYC and Westchester County for over a decade. This is my philosophy: You don’t become a different person when you become pregnant, begin labor, enter your birthing space, or bring your baby home for the first time. You’re still you, having an intense and transformative life experience. As your doula, I take the time to learn who you are and what will help you and your family to feel comfortable, informed, prepared, and ready to engage with your birth, both in advance and through the ever-changing moments of the birth process. I am passionate, flexible, and comforting, but also grounded, no-nonsense, and strongly evidence-based.

Recent review

First of all, I must commend the Doula Project itself as an invaluable advocate. Sometimes the medical establishment views us within categories--especially when we are unusual as a result of identity--while the Doula Project listens to us as individuals in order to advocate for us to have the birth closest to our ideal within the context of medical wisdom. From the start I really appreciated Vicki's encouraging me to ask questions, to determine what the range of choices was, and to understand the benefits and risks of each decision. In my own case, I did decide because of advanced maternal age and medical advice to have an induced labor. Vicki was there to meet me at the hospital when I checked in, and she made sure that between her and her Doula Project partner on my case, I always had a doula to advocate for me from start to finish, through 27 hours of labor and beyond. Indeed, Vicki took the first photo of my baby, within minutes of her birth! From our first pre-birth meeting, Vicki correctly identified me as a physically fit person who would benefit from maintaining a physically active relationship to my labor and delivery. I brought a yoga mat and pilates ring to the hospital, and Vicki advocated for my being able to use them, even though my baby had to be monitored throughout the induced labor: we set up my yoga and pilates equipment right next to the bed, and Vicki advocated for periodic breaks from the monitor, especially in light of the fact that my baby was doing so well throughout. When I delivered my daughter, I surprised a number of the doctors, including one who thought a C-section would be a foregone conclusion, by delivering vaginally, after only about five minutes of pushing. I am very grateful to Vicki for her steadfast advocacy that led to such a positive birth experience for me and my daughter.

- Georgette F.

Brielle Davis

New York, New York 10 years of experience

5.0 (8 reviews)

Brielle Davis

Hello, my name is Brielle, and I am a birth worker supporting families through both home and hospital birth experiences. All aspects of comprehensive birth support are my passion, and I believe deeply in empowering families to make informed choices that align with their values and circumstances. Coming from a background that honors both traditional wisdom and evidence-based practices, I believe birth can be a transformative experience when families feel genuinely supported, heard and empowered in their chosen birth setting. My practice serves as a bridge between different approaches to birth, bringing personalized, mother-centered support into all birthing environments. I'm guided by three core principles: Trust in women's innate capacity and their ability to make the best decisions for their families, Presence that creates calm space for families to process and navigate their birth experience, and Respectful Witnessing - being fully present for families without imposing my own agenda on their journey. With almost ten years of experience as a doula beginning in New York City, I've supported families across diverse settings and circumstances. My understanding of birth support has been enriched through studying with traditional practitioners internationally, and I come from a family lineage of midwifery that spiritually informs my approach to this work. I remain committed to empowering families to access their own strength and wisdom wherever they choose to birth, combining time-tested support techniques with respect for modern medical care when needed. I believe every family deserves compassionate, knowledgeable support that honors their unique path to parenthood. Reach out if you'd like to connect on an intro call!

Recent review

I met Brielle before even trying to get pregnant and knew that if I took that path, without a doubt, I wanted to have Brielle as part of my support system and as a guide. The knowledge she shared in just the minutes when we met showed me the depth that there is to know about pregnancy and birth. It was important for me and my partner to work with Brielle because of her spiritual and indigenous perspectives. After each session with her, we were overwhelmed with awe at the magic of life and thanking the universe for connecting us with Brielle. The word "enlightening" came to me alot when talking to friends and family about our doula sessions. My partner and I felt very supported by Brielle on a knowledge level and an emotional level through the whole process. We're so grateful!

- Lexy

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Austin, TX

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