Carley Rice

Beaver, Pennsylvania

Carley Rice

My name is Carley Vernon-Rice. I’m a mom, full-spectrum doula, and Nurture Neuroscience Practitioner, with a background in early childhood education, culinary arts, and western herbal medicine. When I look back at all of the jobs I’ve held throughout my life, I feel as though this spiralic path has led me perfectly and imperfectly to becoming a doula. I’ve cared for people, cooked for them, loved them, and really want to understand them. I make a great doula because I take this work very seriously, but I don’t take myself too seriously. I approach my clients with respect and adaptability. I know when to be lighthearted and when to stay grounded.

Natatia Peterson

Canton, Ohio

Natatia Peterson

6 years of experience

Natatia Peterson, a lifelong resident of Stark County, recently completed her studies at the National Midwifery Institute in January 2024. Her unwavering commitment to addressing healthcare disparities within African American and other marginalized communities is evident in her current role as the Founder and Owner of yourWOMBllc Holistic Midwifery and Doula Services, where she serves as a Direct Entry Midwife. Actively pursuing her Certified Professional Midwife (CPM) certification, Natatia is positioned to drive significant advancements in the field of midwifery. Natatia holds a Master’s Degree in Education with a specialization in Family and Consumer Sciences from the University of Akron. As a certified Family Self Sufficiency Specialist, she brings a wealth of experience in working with low-income and underserved communities. Her role as the Health and Wellness Coordinator at the Alliance for Children and Families since October 2020 underscores her unwavering dedication to enhancing the well-being of those in need. With over six years of experience as a DONA-certified birth and postpartum doula, Natatia has played a pivotal role in providing essential support to expectant mothers and families. Her active involvement as a member of the Alliance Family Health Centers Board of Directors and Strategic Planning Committee highlights her commitment to improving maternal health outcomes and increasing access to quality care. Furthermore, her esteemed memberships in the Black Midwives Alliance and the Birth and Breastfeeding Leadership Institute showcase her dedication to advancing the fields of human lactation and midwifery. Beyond her professional accomplishments, Natatia holds certifications as a Red Cross Certified First Aid and CPR Instructor, Certified Children's Vision Screener, SOARS Works Representative, Fourth Trimester Fitness Instructor, Lamaze certified childbirth educator, prenatal yoga instructor and is certified in Mental Health First Aid. Natatia has been happily married to her husband, Darryl, for over 14 years, and together they are proud parents of four children: Darryl III, Darryn, Daylon, and Dior. In her leisure time, she enjoys supporting her children in their sports activities.

Jesse Rosen

Louisville, Ohio

5.0 (1 review)

Jesse Rosen

2 years of experience

Certified Labor and Postpartum & Infant Care Doula serving NE Ohio. Here to protect the magic of birth ✨

Recent review

I can't thank Jesse enough for the incredible support during my pregnancy, labor, and postpartum period. From our first meeting, she made me feel comfortable and informed. During labor, she was a calming presence, using techniques that truly helped manage my pain. Her postpartum support was invaluable, assisting with breastfeeding and newborn care. She was always available to answer questions and provided the emotional support I needed. I highly recommend her to anyone looking for a compassionate and knowledgeable doula!!

- Maddy H.

Amy Julian

Canton, Ohio

Amy Julian

13 years of experience

I am an RN and Lamaze Certified Childbirth Educator. I teach Confident Childbirth in groups and privately to expecting parents in the Canton/Akron area.

Katijo Makin

Uniontown, Ohio

Katijo Makin

12 years of experience
Accepts insurances

Innovative Therapy Center was founded by Katijo Makin in order to make a difference in the lives of those in her community by providing the treatment she would want for her own family. The clinic began by offering speech, language, voice, feeding and swallowing services to both adult and pediatric clients. As the clinic grew, there become an overwhelming need for Occupational Therapy services as well, which were added in the fall of 2019. In the summer of 2021, our clinic will begin offering counseling services to continue to meet the needs our families. ​ As we've grown, we continue to strive to support your therapy goals through individualized treatments based on your specific needs in friendly, family focused environment. Once the personal one-on-one evaluation is completed, treatment is initiated with one or a team of our experienced and compassionate clinicians. At Innovative Therapy Center, we want to see you and your family attain your goals.​ All services are provided at our clinic location in Uniontown, Ohio. We also service some select daycare centers/schools in the surrounding areas. Ask about these options when you call to schedule your initial assessment.

Alexandria LaMarca

Uniontown, Ohio

Alexandria LaMarca

5 years of experience
Accepts insurances

Aly graduated from Gannon University in 2020. She has experience with preschool and elementary aged children as well as at an oncology based hospital.

Alisa Testa-Finelli

Uniontown, Ohio

Alisa Testa-Finelli

14 years of experience
Accepts insurances

Alisa is a Licensed Professional Counselor through the Counselor, Social Worker and Marriage & Family Therapist Board of Ohio and a licensed School Counselor through the Ohio Department of Education. She also holds a Certificate in Parent and Family Education from The University of Akron. Prior to coming to Innovative Therapy Center, she spent her professional career working with adolescents as a School Counselor and working in the early childhood setting as a Behavior Specialist. She has additional training and counseling experience within the chemical dependency field and in college admissions.

Bethany Regner

Akron, Ohio

Bethany Regner

5 years of experience

Bearing Beside Doula Services LLC provides education, techniques, and comfort measures for your birth, nurturing care for your postpartum period, and support for your transition into parenting. Consultations and prenatal visits with Bethany will educate, inform, support, and empower you as you prepare for your labor, birth, and postpartum recovery. First Aid/CPR/AED classes are available.

Jessica Swiger

Akron, Ohio

5.0 (1 review)

Jessica Swiger

5 years of experience

Hi I’m Jess! I am a wife to Cody, mom to five girls, and a Certified Birth Doula. I have worked for three years with families. Grace-filled Birth Doula Services was created out of my desire to see families supported, empowered and advocated for during their pregnancy, labor, delivery, and postpartum.

Recent review

I don't think I would have gotten my natural birth as well as I did without Jess. It was my very first pregnancy and Jess was keeping me from panicking all throughout my 10 hours in active labor in the hospital. She was quite literally there for me to lean on. Her affirmation cards were so helpful at keeping me calm through the pains. She never ceased to help me by making sure I always had hot water on my back in my tub, water tp drink, and snacks. She never let up on helping the whole time! Not only that, her follow up leading up to and after birth makes you really feel supported and cared for. She always had great advice for exercises and mindset practice leading up to labor. I know my husband was also so grateful to have her support as well as it is very scary to be the strong one for your wife in the most pain of her life. We are so blessed to have her as our doula.

- Kayla K.

Ranada McLaughlin

Akron, Ohio

5.0 (1 review)

Ranada McLaughlin

6 years of experience

Hi I’m Ranada McLaughlin. I’m a Holistic Herbalist, Certified Doula, Certified Placenta Encapsulator and Lactation Specialist. I have a Master Degree in Business & Healthcare Management with specialties in Mental Health. an a birth and postpartum doula is my passion because I wholeheartedly believe in the power of providing physical, emotional, and informational support to expectant and new parents. The journey of childbirth and early parenthood is a momentous one, and being able to be a steady and knowledgeable presence during these pivotal times is incredibly fulfilling. The trust that families place in me to help them navigate the challenges of labor, birth, and the postpartum period is both an honor and a responsibility I hold dear. Whether it's offering comfort during labor, assisting with breastfeeding, or simply being there to listen and reassure, I find immense joy in helping families embark on this transformative journey with confidence, support, and compassion.

Recent review

I had the privilege of working with Ranada McLaughlin during my pregnancy and postpartum journey, and I can't recommend her enough! Ranada is a true expert in her field, combining her doula expertise with her herbalist knowledge to provide holistic care that's second to none. Ranada's support in postpartum lactation was invaluable. Her guidance and encouragement not only helped me establish a strong breastfeeding relationship with my baby but also ensured my own physical and emotional well-being during this crucial time. She made a significant difference in my postpartum experience. Ranada's placenta encapsulation service is a unique offering that I found incredibly beneficial. It provided me with an extra boost of energy and helped with my postpartum recovery. Ranada's expertise in herbal remedies and her personalized approach made all the difference. As a prenatal mental health counselor, Ranada's compassionate and empathetic nature shone through. She provided a safe space for me to express my thoughts and concerns, making the prenatal journey much smoother. Her guidance and support were instrumental in maintaining my mental health during this time. Ranada's dedication, knowledge, and genuine care for her clients set her apart. She's not just a doula and herbalist; she's a holistic support system for your entire pregnancy and postpartum experience. I can't thank her enough for her exceptional services! If you're looking for a doula and herbalist who excels in postpartum lactation, placenta encapsulation, and prenatal mental health counseling, Ranada McLaughlin is the perfect choice!! You won't find a more caring, knowledgeable, and dedicated professional to guide you through this life-changing journey. Thank you, Ranada, for being the support I needed during this incredible time in my life. Best Regards, Melani Baker

- Melani B.

Maddison Johnson

Akron, Ohio

Maddison Johnson

2 years of experience

Hello! My name is Maddi, and I am a passionate Doula, Licensed Practical Nurse, and Midwifery student committed to providing compassionate, faith-led support to women and families throughout their reproductive journey. My calling to birth work began after the home birth of my first baby in 2021. Although it wasn’t the right season to dive in at that time, everything shifted in 2023 when the Lord led me into the field of Nursing. Halfway through school, during prayer, I was given a beautiful vision of my daughter’s birth—only this time, I was the midwife. I asked the Lord if it was finally my time, and since then He has guided my steps so clearly and purposefully. I am now training under the very Midwife who supported me during my daughter’s birth, and it has been an incredible journey of learning and growth. While continuing my training, I felt called to begin serving families as a Doula of my own—and I have loved every moment of it. I am truly grateful for the opportunity to walk alongside families during one of the most sacred seasons of their lives, and thankful for the calling the Lord has placed on my heart.

Kara Figueroa, CD, CBE(BAI), MCPD

Akron, Ohio

5.0 (1 review)

Kara Figueroa, CD, CBE(BAI), MCPD

17 years of experience

Hello! I'm Kara, owner and certified doula, childbirth educator and postpartum doula behind Smile Doula, LLC. I am a lover of Jesus, my husband, my 4 kids and all things birth! My work in serving and supporting the Akron area as a childbirth professional began over 15 years ago. I have a passion for developing relationships, working through fears, educating, helping families to know their options and supporting the entire team. I love to teach and also host group childbirth education classes and mentor local doulas. I 100% believe being a doula is a calling over my life, and I don’t take for granted the gifts God has allowed and doors He has opened.

Recent review

Ive used Kara for both of my pregnancies/labors/deliveries and highly recommend Kara. I had two very different birth experiences and both Kara helped me through. Everything from being informed about what to expect, child birth and child care education, advocating for myself, thinking through birth preferences and answering any/every question i had. Kara was/is like a birthing best friend. Anything that came up with fears, challenges etc she helped talk through with me. Kara is so knowledgeable, kind, compassionate, i honestly could not imagine either experience without her.

- Andrea K.

Taylor Buchanan

Akron, Ohio

Taylor Buchanan

2 years of experience

Hello, I’m Taylor. I am a mom of 4. Two biological and two bonus loveys. During the day I am a program manager at a student center. I enjoy reading a good book and comedy. Huggy Lovey was intended to support empower and encourage woman and families to have a voice in one of their most vulnerable moments. I’ll walk with you through prenatal, labor, delivery, and postpartum.

Dana Petrella

Akron, Ohio

Dana Petrella

5 years of experience

Hi there, my name is Dana Petrella and I'm a Birth/Postpartum Doula and Childbirth Educstor in in Akron, Ohio (I support clients in NE Ohio and virtual). I provide a judgement-free zone for you and your family to thrive by providing emotional support, evidence-based information, and a listening ear. In my free time, I enjoy hiking with my son and husband, biking around my neighborhood, reading fantasy novels, and frequenting farmers' markets.

Sophie Smith

Akron, Ohio

Sophie Smith

5 years of experience

Non-diet dietitian ✅ I especially love helping pregnant and postpartum women/people! I believe food and eating is deeply personal and I’m here to help you feel your best while honoring your food preferences! Would love to help you on your journey!

Tiffany Becton

Akron, Ohio

5.0 (2 reviews)

Tiffany Becton

4 years of experience

Hi I’m Tiffany Becton. I’m a Certified Birth Doula. I support women throughout pregnancy and during labor and delivery. I support at home births as well as hospitals. With my services I provide 3 prenatal visits, day of delivery and a postpartum family follow up. I give mom a nesting party to prepare for the baby. Mom receives a gift bag with my No Cramps tea to drink after birth to help with the bleeding and cramping. I also bengkung bind mom the day after delivery to help with posture and prevent diastasis recti.

Recent review

Tiffany was my doula for my second pregnancy. She attended a few prenatals and was available via phone and text for any concerns I had. When I went past my due date she came over to exercise with me. She hosted a nesting party and provided herbs for pregnancy and postpartum support. During the birth she used her skills and knowledge to assist me through labor. She was a source of great support and affirmations throughout labor. She goes above and beyond for her clients and I am so lucky to have had her as my doula!

- Erica P.

Ryann Keenan

New Philadelphia, Ohio

Ryann Keenan

11 years of experience

Hello! I am Ryann. I am currently looking into night nanny, postpartum doula area of work. I have experience as a nanny for two different families, babysitter for many, and I am a mom of two. Right now I am working in a program that serves families from pregnancy to age 3. I have worked on degrees towards Early Childhood Education and most recently, Licensed Social Worker (although not licensed yet!)

De’Ann Cobbs

Cuyahoga Falls, Ohio

De’Ann Cobbs

2 years of experience

Hello! My name is De'Ann C. and I'm a certified Postpartum Doula. I have over 2 years of doula experience and have supported dozens of mommy's in their fourth trimester. With over 7 + years of childcare experience, I am dedicated to creating a safe and comforting environment for your baby and you. At The Afterglow Co., we believe in the quiet power of postpartum. Founded with first-time and all time mothers in mind, we provide nurturing support and education in the early weeks after birth. Whether you're feeling overwhelmed, under-supported, or just craving someone who gets it, we're here to help you rest, rise, and find your glow again. Through postpartum doula care and gentle guidance, we hold space for your healing, your softness, your strength. In my free time I enjoy reading, traveling, spending time with friends and family, and experiencing new things!

Susan Facemire

Wadsworth, Ohio

Susan Facemire

13 years of experience

My name is Susan Facemire, PT, DPT,CPPC. I am women's health physical therapist and have a passion for treating women during their childbearing years, especially in those special times of pregnancy and postpartum. I pride myself in providing men and women with comprehensive care surrounding pelvic floor dysfunction. While I love treating in the clinic, I have recognized in this day, sometimes it isn’t quite as easy to get out to clinic based therapy. Especially with new babies and/or multiple children, finding dependable child care is hard. From this, stemmed my home based care services. My goal and promise is to provide women with the same high level of care within the comfort and safety of their own home.

Cheryl Steiner

Wooster, Ohio

5.0 (1 review)

Cheryl Steiner

16 years of experience

Hello and congratulations on your upcoming birth! Birth is a gift. Working a birth doula since 2009 has been a great joy in my life. I love walking the journey with couples - providing caring support, calm confidence, and years of experience to help make birth the best it can be. Other than supporting birth, my favorite days include time with my family (4 grown children and one grandson), being out in nature, prayer, and reading a good book.

Recent review

We were so thankful to have Cheryl with us during the birth of our son! My husband and I both said we didn’t know what we would’ve done without her! During my long labor, she stayed by my side the entire time and helped with any decisions that arose. She gave us honest answers, making sure we knew the pros and cons of each decision. We appreciated that Cheryl was very conscious of the kind of birth we wanted and did her best with helping us achieve that as much as was in our hands. She worked very well with the other staff during delivery which meant a lot to us. We loved her soft, confident manner. Thank you so much, Cheryl!

- Lenni Y.