Therese Van Heuveln

Fairview Park, Ohio

Therese Van Heuveln

32 years of experience

I am a career nanny and newborn care specialist with 30+ years of experience. I have a passion for families in need of support and encouragement from a compassionate and experienced care specialist. My experience with infants is well documented and comes with current references from happy parents.* I have an Associate of Arts Degree in Early Child Education and related specialty courses** in infant/toddler care and development. I am INFANT/CHLD/ADULT certified and have an Associate of Arts Degree in Early Child Education. In addition, I have a complete list of related specialty courses.* I am fascinated with the subject of infant brain development and the ways we as caregivers and families can nurture this process! * A full list of references, certifications, and specialty courses available.

Margaret Bates

Cleveland, Ohio

Margaret Bates

11 years of experience

Hi there! I'm Margaret. I'm a mom, strength coach & pre/postnatal fitness specialist, & I'm passionate about helping you experience a more comfortable & confident pregnancy, birth & postpartum experience by strengthening your body & building deep trust in yourself. The body transformation of pregnancy & postpartum is REAL, and can be tough to navigate at any ability level. It's my goal to make these changes easier for you, before, during, and after pregnancy by providing 1-on-1, online fitness & mindset support based on YOUR background, needs & goals. I have expertise in weightlifting, athletics, the pre/postnatal body & psychology. Strong As A Mom coaching emphasizes strength training, balanced fitness & a compassionate approach to mindset & behavior change to improve our long-term physical & mental health... for your strongest life ahead. I'm so glad you're here!

Bridget Bowling

Cleveland, Ohio

5.0 (1 review)

Bridget Bowling

11 years of experience

I was once a sleepy parent, which is why I’m now so passionate about helping families achieve the healthy sleep they need. I love working closely with families, formulating a plan unique to to their child(ren), respecting their parenting style, and supporting them throughout the process!

Recent review

Sleep is an essential part of human life, and this is particularly true for babies. Studies show that babies who sleep well have better cognitive development, are healthier, and are happier. However, not all babies find it easy to sleep; some find it difficult to fall asleep, while others wake up frequently at night; then there’s my first baby with COLIC. Enter Bridget Bowling!! Bridget is an expert who helps parents teach their babies healthy sleep habits. She came to the rescue and implemented a program that folded best practices into my own needs for sleep for both my baby and myself. Colic was real, scary, and lonely, Bridget did not try to sell me a magic potion, but she knew when it was time to sleep train: it was life-changing. Her method worked so well that we were ahead of the game for baby 2! Before sleep training there was no plan for baby #2.

- Maggie M.

Gwen Mack

Cleveland, Ohio

Gwen Mack

5 years of experience

It can be hard to navigate the vast amount of information about infant and toddler sleep. I can provide you the information and help you learn about sleep. We will work together to build a personalized plan for you and your baby to meet your sleep goals! Let me help you & you can say GOODBYE to the overwhelm!

Imani Abdul-Zahir

Cleveland, Ohio

5.0 (8 reviews)

Imani Abdul-Zahir

28 years of experience

I am a labor support specialist—“doula”—who is with you during childbirth to help you stay calm and comfortable as you move through your birthing process, give you information about your care and help you achieve your goals. My Background, Education and Philosophy I am Imani Abdul-Zahir. I was born and raised in the inner city of Cleveland Ohio. I am a doula with 27 years of experience and was trained by Birthing Beautiful Communities (a 501c3 non-profit). My philosophy about birth is that it is a normal bodily function governed by biological and psychological mechanisms, and is not a medical condition. Many communities of color have historically been built and maintained around the concept of “it takes a village”. Caring for mother and baby throughout pregnancy and during childbirth is essential for successful societies. Those with knowledge, experience and expertise have an obligation to educate, support and assist. My core values are commitment, compassion, & knowledge. I have a strong commitment to serving the needs of pregnant people in our community through compassion and evidence-based practices. My priorities as a doula are four, to ensure, educate, reassure & elevate. 1. to ensure that my clients receive the best hands-on care, comfort, and assistance during pregnancy, labor, delivery, and recovery. 2. to educate my clients regarding pregnancy, labor, delivery & recovery as well as what they may expect from hospitals and medical staff. Also to provide connections and access to other beneficial resources. 3. to reassure clients that their birth is their own and they have what they need, within themselves, and at their disposal to secure a healthy, safe and positive birth experience. 4. to help elevate clients above their fears, insecurities & expectations using positive encouragement and emotional support. My goals are to help reduce the maternal and infant mortality rate, to help people to have the safest, healthiest birth possible, and to restore a sense of well being to those who are childbearing through careful postpartum care. The first step in getting you the support you deserve is to schedule an intake meeting. During the intake meeting, I will answer any questions you might have, learn about your family needs and how I can best support you.

Recent review

My experience with doula Imani was beyond wonderful, from the very beginning to the very end of my pregnancy she was kind, caring, understanding and patient throughtout. Considering the fact that this was frist pregnancy, she always made herself available and approahcable about any concerns I may have had regarding issues such as labor, breastfeeding, and the way my body was changing. Due to COVID-19 most of our meetings had to be done via zoom during which she always showed up on time and would discuss various things such as doctor's appointments, birthing plans, and even her own birthing experiences which made me feel less uncomfortable about certain issues. I was in labor for 3 days and from my house to the time we went to the hospital she was by my side making sure everything with me and the baby was alright. Overall, choosing Imani to be my doula was probably the best decision I could have made during my pregrancy and I would definitely chose her again!

- Muniyya Muhammad

Te’Jah Green

Cleveland, Ohio

Te’Jah Green

5 years of experience

Hi! I am a Certified Full-Spectrum Doula. I believe in being a client’s village by providing emotional and physical support, as well as resources.

Daneé Haynes

Cleveland, Ohio

5.0 (3 reviews)

Daneé Haynes

8 years of experience
Accepts insurances

I believe that as humans we must be “Healthy & Whole” physically, mentally and emotionally. This mantra should apply to expectant mothers as well. Black mothers especially have a higher maternal mortality rate than any other race. My mission is to help close the gap on this disparity so everyone on this journey is left feeling healthy and whole. My personal journey of both pregnancy loss and carrying full term pregnancies was the catalyst that led me to become a birth doula. My Sweet Cadence Doula Services is here to empower, support and educate those who are in their pregnancy journey by creating a space so each birthing person can birth with knowledge and confidence.

Recent review

Daneè is amazing. I couldn't imagine going through this journey without her. The knowledge and support she provided both my partner and I was invaluable and we'll be forever grateful. This was our first healthy pregnancy so our anxieties were understandably high. Not only did she hold space for us emotionally but she took her time to make sure we understood what to expect throughout the journey; the questions to ask and the options available to us. She's equal parts soothing and empowering and I couldn't recommend her more.

- Breanna L.

Brianna Balogh

Cleveland, Ohio

Brianna Balogh

7 years of experience

Brianna was born to be a doula. For as long as she can remember she had one goal; she wanted to nurture and support a child of her own. Becoming a mom was everything to her. As she grew, her “need to nurture” placed her on an educational path toward social work with a counseling Major, but, after the birth of her own daughter, it was doula work and teaching childbirth education that spoke the loudest to her. Brianna holds the following prestigious certifications: ProDoula Certified Labor Doula Doulaversity TENS Certification Additionally, Brianna is a ProDoula Pre-Certified Childbirth Educator and is excited to complete certification by Dec. 2021. Brianna also earned, and maintains Red Cross CPR/AED/FirstAid Certification. When working with clients, Brianna reminds them to give themselves grace; to listen to their bodies and offer themselves the same patience they would give to some else if they were having a baby. Brianna opened her doula business in 2020 and has never been more personally, or professionally rewarded. Admittedly, she loves taking care of others and quite frankly… She’s really good at it! When not working with clients, Brianna loves to explore the Metroparks in her area with her family. Brianna supports families in the Cleveland and Northeastern Ohio areas and is thrilled at the opportunity to support yours!

Jena Ashwill

Cleveland, Ohio

5.0 (1 review)

Jena Ashwill

4 years of experience

Hi! I’m Jena, a holistic birth doula serving greater Cleveland and Northeast Ohio. I believe that everyone deserves a birth experience where they feel respected, heard, safe, and empowered. I am an inclusive and affirming doula for all people and families. I believe that everyone who wants a doula should have one. You deserve all the support! Birth is a transformation, an event that has a lifelong impact. As a holistic doula, I believe that pregnancy can be a sacred time to connect with our intuition and our whole selves. I believe that our bodies know how to give birth, and as a supportive guide, I will encourage you to tap into your inner source of power. I am a yoga teacher, and I teach prenatal yoga weekly. As your doula I include a one on one prenatal yoga session. My yoga practice helped me so much during pregnancy, and I love to share what helped me with others! Additionally, I am a placenta encapsulation specialist. This is a wonderful way to nourish and restore postpartum, and I love helping birthing people to feel their best!

Recent review

Jena is an incredibly caring doula. She spent as much time as we needed before I gave birth to answer all of our questions, even some we didn't know we had! I loved the various comfort items she brought to the hospital to help set a serene vibe. I loved going to her pre-natal yoga classes on Saturdays in Lakewood, they were amazing. I would recommend Jena to anyone, home or hospital birth!

- Alex P.

Lexx Johnson

Cleveland, Ohio

Lexx Johnson

6 years of experience

My name is Lexx J! I am here to help your beautiful seed blossom! I am a certified perinatal, birth and postpartum doula. I also offer breastfeeding support along with many other services. I am passionate about birth work because each and every time a baby is born, so is a mother. My goal is to not only educated and support, but also help create and achieve ideal birthing plans and goals that will allow my client to be comfortable, happy and excited about the journey and overall experience!

Kristen Bindel

Cleveland, Ohio

Kristen Bindel

9 years of experience

Hi! I’m Kristen Bindel. I’m a dedicated Birth Doula, Postpartum Doula and Lactation Counselor who has devoted her career to supporting families in the Cleveland area during the transformative journey of childbirth and Postpartum. I provide invaluable assistance, both emotional and physical, to expectant families navigating the challenges and joys of labor and early parenthood. Additionally, my expertise as a Lactation Counselor offers guidance to new parents in establishing and maintaining breastfeeding, ensuring both parent and baby start their journey with optimal health and connection. I am committed to holistic well-being and empowering families during their most precious moments.

Tomesha Walker

East Cleveland, Ohio

Tomesha Walker

21 years of experience
Accepts insurances

Hello Love! Allow me to introduce myself. I'm Tomesha D. Walker, a certified doula, childbirth educator, lactation consultant, author, and speaker. After 18+ years of guiding women through pregnancy, birth, and postpartum journeys, I'm known as the “Godmother to Millions." My mission is to help you feel confident, peaceful, and empowered during your journey to motherhood. As you grow and shift with me we welcome you into the Fearless Moms community where you'll discover: - A sisterhood of support to cheer you on and answer questions - Insider tips to prepare your mind, body, and spirit for birth - Breastfeeding and newborn care classes to set you up for success - Affirmations, meditations, and exercises for pregnancy, labor, and beyond - My personal guidance every step of the way Consider me your birth companion, educator breastfeeding bestie, family friend, and biggest fan. We'll tackle any worry, obstacle, or doubt TOGETHER. You deserve to feel strong, capable, and excited as you step into this new chapter. Together let's do this, mama! I care about you. Let’s get started, schedule to let me know you’re ready to join the Fearless Moms family today! With so much love, Tomesha ❤️ Birth Specialist | Doula | Speaker | Int'l Bestselling Author | Educator The Godmother to Millions, your Birth Specialist, delivering the birth of your dreams with peace and power. "Your life is on purpose with a purpose, live it out!" - H. E. Amb. Dr. Tomesha D. Walker (h.c.), LCCE, CD (DONA) Let’s connect socially @TomeshaWalker and #AskTomesha. For booking connect at www.TomeshaWalker.com

Lexi Tabor

Lakewood, Ohio

5.0 (3 reviews)

Lexi Tabor

7 years of experience

Setting up parents for success in their important journey has always been my passion! My degree in Early Childhood Development led me on a path to becoming a professional nanny for ten wonderful years. As I’ve helped many families along the way I’ve learned a thing or two. On top of these experiences, I’ve expanded my expertise with DONA International and Birth Arts International training in postpartum doula work, as well as becoming a Certified Lactation Support Counselor in order to know the latest evidence-based practices on infant care and feeding. With compassion, calm, and caring, I’m there to aid in supporting families in the first year following birth. My role includes educating on responsive baby care and supporting the family through encouragement, feeding, tidying up, and holding space. Whether it’s baby feeding methods or the best safe-sleeping practices, I want to help guide and nurture your family. My goal is to partner with you as parents in order to help your growing family feel as rested and confident as possible.

Recent review

I received help from Lexi regarding lactation and breastfeeding, which has been an anxiety inducing area as a first time mom. Lexi’s consultation and support helped me tremendously. She is personable, supportive, and holistic, and looked at our situation in the whole picture, not just one portion. I would highly recommend her.

- Bori M.

Lisa Falkenstein

Lakewood, Ohio

5.0 (2 reviews)

Lisa Falkenstein

18 years of experience

Lisa graduated from Kent State University with a BA in Family Studies. After working in various social work positions and working with many families in various capacities, she has found her calling. Lisa’s love for families, motherhood, parenthood, and breastfeeding/chestfeeding led her career choice as a postpartum doula in Cleveland. Helping build families, establishing breastfeeding and empowering people is her passion, and as a result she completed her certification as a Certified Postpartum Doula, Certified Breastfeeding Educator, Certified Lactation Counselor (CLC), Certified Newborn/Infant Massage Instructor, Newborn Care Specialist and Certified Pediatric Sleep Consultant. She is also a Board Certified Holistic Health Practitioner through the AADP. Lisa also is the Director of Education for Summer’s Sleep Secrets. She coaches and mentors newborn care specialists and sleep consultants throughout the world. She believes that birth and parenthood are a sacred time in a family’s life. Every parent deserves to be cared for postpartum. Her goal for every family is to provide them with resources, education, empowerment, and confidence to work herself right out of a job! Lisa is a happily married mother of two young adults and has an amazing husband. They reside on the westside of Cleveland. After working for over 8 years part-time through mostly referrals and full-time since 2013, Lisa founded Nurtured Foundation Doula & Newborn Care Agency in 2014.

Recent review

When I think of nurture, I think of Lisa. I was a scared, first time mom of twin girls. I had no female role model in my life. Then we met Lisa. She not only helped care for my girls, she cared for me and taught me so much on how to be a good mother to my girls, while also being good to myself. I owe so much to her for all her support and love.

- Diane A.

CLEbaby Birth & Parenting Services

Rocky River, Ohio

5.0 (4 reviews)

CLEbaby Birth & Parenting Services

11 years of experience

Who we are and what we do… We are a modern, full-service agency, specializing in birth and postpartum doulas, childbirth education, and in-home sleep training. We provide physical, emotional, and informational support to help you navigate your journey into and through parenthood. Our agency model ensures you will receive consistent, reliable support from our team of expert doulas. We pride ourselves on our professionalism and our compassion. At CLEbaby we believe that growing your family is beautiful and transformative. We want you to experience firsthand how doulas can improve your birth and postpartum experiences in positive and meaningful ways. Through our educational classes we can equip you with the tools to be knowledgeable, confident parents. We are here for you, every step of the way. At the heart of our business is our love for all things CLE. Parenthood can be overwhelming and isolating. But with our expert support and access to local resources, you can stay connected to the things you already love. At CLEbaby, we believe that happy, active parents translate to happy, active kids which translate to a happy, active city. Why choose us… We have over 85 years of combined experienced working with babies and families, over 32 years of university education under our belt, 18 doula trainings completed, and have served over 150 Cleveland families. This business is our passion, and we have the expertise and experience to prove it.

Recent review

I hired Christian through CLEbaby to care for my baby while I was in town for a wedding. She was only 9 weeks at the time, so I was naturally very nervous about leaving her! However, Christian made me feel so at ease and is really a pro with babies. She did such a wonderful job and kept me updated throughout the night. Additionally, she went out of her way to help me troubleshoot some of the feeding issues we'd been experiencing. I highly recommend CLEbaby, and especially, Christian!

- Ellie R.

Jarriel Campbell

Westlake, Ohio

5.0 (1 review)

Jarriel Campbell

7 years of experience

I'm a birth and postpartum doula supporting families in Northeast Ohio. I specialize in helping first-time parents discover the joy in childbirth. I'm also a mom and wife.

Recent review

Jarriel is compassionate and informative. I’ve learned a lot working with her. She’s knowledge about pregnancy, childbirth, newborn care and community resources. She’s patient and kind. Jarriel is reliable and amazing at providing comfort when need.

- Lorene W.

Shauna Rich

Chardon, Ohio

Shauna Rich

24 years of experience
Accepts insurances

I am a social worker and therapist focusing on women’s & maternal mental health. I serving all of Ohio virtually and in person the Cleveland, Ohio area including Cuyahoga, Lake, Geauga, and parts of Ashtabula, Portage & Summit Counties. I also provide emotional, & informational support to mothers, their partners and their families during pregnancy and postpartum. I help prepare families for all types of births, natural or medicated, hospital or home birth. Your birth, your choice. I believe access to mental health, perinatal education, support and informed health care is a right, not a privilege. I am an advocate for mental health, education, women, babies, all families, and informed birthing. I have spent my entire career working with mothers and families as a health and sexuality educator, teen parent educator and mentor, birth doula, childbirth educator and now a therapist focusing on perinatal mental health.

Christine  Cassella

Willoughby Hills, Ohio

Christine Cassella

9 years of experience

Christine Cassella, M.S., is a mother of two young girls and has a broad background including training as a behavioral biologist, certified herbalist, and birth doula. Christine has been passionate about reproductive health and natural living throughout her life, but truly began to see the importance of an empowered pregnancy and childbirth when she was pregnant with her first child. It is her belief that birth is a pivotal time during a childbearing person’s life to claim their power, find their truth, and emerge as a new parent prepared to face all the challenges and joys that arise. Christine’s diverse skill set allows her to provide client care that is both evidence-based, intuitive, and parent-centered. Christine has special interests in teaching birthing people and their families how they can thrive using herbal remedies, and she is particularly interested in supporting parents desiring natural birth at home or hospital. She is a safe and inclusive doula for parents of all backgrounds and orientations.

Victoria Liotta

Elyria, Ohio

Victoria Liotta

3 years of experience

Hi, my name is Tori and I’m actively seeking training to become a doula!

Kristin Wandra

Elyria, Ohio

Kristin Wandra

3 years of experience

I'm Kristin, the founder and doula for Little Lotus Birth Services. During my fourth pregnancy, I discovered my passion for childbirth and began my studies to become a doula. Having six children of my own, I have my own deeply seeded calling to provide support for birthing people of all walks of life.