Beth Polanik

Pinehurst, North Carolina

5.0 (2 reviews)

Beth Polanik

2 years of experience

Hi, I’m Beth…a DONA-trained Birth & Postpartum Doula with a heart for empowering women and supporting families as they grow. While I may be “newer” to the formal doula world, my passion and experience run deep. For decades, I’ve walked alongside families through pregnancy, birth, and the tender early days of parenthood—helping mamas feel seen, supported, and confident in their strength. I’m the proud mother of one amazing adult human who has flown the nest to the fresh air and beauty of the NC mountains. My journey into birth work began more than twenty years ago during my own pregnancy, when I discovered the transformative power of being truly supported and held in that sacred season. Since then, I’ve continued to learn and grow—earning my B.A. and M.Ed. in Education and gaining a wealth of hands-on experience nurturing families and little ones. My deep interest in natural health, social–emotional development, and attachment has inspired me to pursue further training in infant mental health, dyadic relationships, children’s yoga, and herbalism. I believe in caring for the whole person—mind, body, and spirit—and in meeting each family exactly where they are. When I work with families, my goal is to hold space for birth and postpartum experiences that feel calm, connected, and empowering. I blend evidence-based practices with a gentle, holistic approach that honors each mother’s intuition and journey. One of my favorite quotes beautifully reflects what I believe: “Whenever & however you give birth, your experience will impact your emotions, your mind, your body, & your spirit for the rest of your life.” ~Ina May Gaskin

Recent review

Beth provided doula services for our first labor that was intended to be a home birth but turned into a hospital transfer. Beth was great and stuck with us for the whole entire 3 day process. She checked in multiple times before labor started as well and was super thorough with making sure she undersetood my husband and I's desires for our birth. During the actual labor Beth was great support to not only me but my husband as well, trying to protect our energy as much as she could, and during our transfer, Beth was super encouraging and made me feel supported even though it wasn't in our original birth plan. Thank you again Beth, we are so grateful for you! 

- Taylor G.

Emmabele Hodges

Thomasville, North Carolina

5.0 (3 reviews)

Emmabele Hodges

2 years of experience

Hi there! My name is Emmabele and I am a childcare provider/doula/newborn care specialist! I know that’s quite a lot of specialities, but I’ve worked with children and families since I was 18 years old. I have a passion for loving on little ones and helping families in anyway I can. In 2023, I decided to pursue a doula career, along with becoming a newborn care specialist! I’ve worked in hospitals as a pediatric/emergency department CNA, so I believe combining my skills in childcare and the medical field will make me the best doula possible. It is my goal to make labor, birth, and postpartum a smooth transition for the families I work with.

Recent review

Emmabele is extremely reliable and really good at communicating needs with the parents or caregivers she works with. She’s very flexible and understanding. She is always so willing to help anyone she knows because she has such a big heart and is so caring. I met her through working together in childcare and she and I immediately hit it off as friends because we both have a love for children but she just has that bubbly personality that you can trust! I know she will be an amazing fit for your family!

- Jordan D.

Kaye Walters

Fayetteville, North Carolina

Kaye Walters

3 years of experience

As a passionate, outspoken, and empathetic birth and postpartum doula, I am deeply committed to walking alongside my clients through every stage of their journey. I provide unwavering support, advocacy, and compassionate care, ensuring that each family feels seen, heard, and empowered. My role is not only to guide and inform, but also to stand beside you with confidence and empathy—every step of the way.

Olivia Hoynes

Chapel Hill, North Carolina

Olivia Hoynes

5 years of experience

I support people of all genders and sexual orientations during birth and honor the resilience and wholeness of all bodies. My doula practice affirms that all people are whole and human and adopts an empowerment model of support.

Emily Chaffee

Chapel Hill, North Carolina

Emily Chaffee

10 years of experience

Emily is the founder and owner of Carolina Birth and Wellness. She is passionate about advancing maternal care throughout the Triangle and North Carolina as a whole. She started Carolina Birth and Wellness to fill this missing link in maternal care in the Triangle and has since grown a business that includes a team of 10 plus individuals that range from fertility, birth and postpartum doulas, childbirth educators, in home massage therapists, lactation consultants, yoga teachers, and other services to help pregnant and newly postpartum families. Her specific areas of interest include fertility support, postpartum planning, and the ways in which support can lessen the stigma of high risk pregnancies and postpartum periods.

Oceanstar Concannon

Chapel Hill, North Carolina

Oceanstar Concannon

2 years of experience

Hello!! My name is Ocean, and I am a passionate birth doula based in Chapel Hill, NC. I am part of UNC Hospital’s ‘Birth Partners’ program, which is where I was trained. I feel centered and fulfilled when I am able to support people during this transformative, vulnerable, beautiful time. I love to approach the birth space from a mental wellness perspective to help create positive birth experiences! I love being very hands on, providing physical and emotional support. I want to help support and advocate for YOU to have the birth experience you are hoping for. Outside of my doula role, I am currently deciding on whether to pursue Nursing or Clinical Mental Health schooling. When I am not exploring these options, I love to read, explore outside, and play with the families I nanny for. All the best!

T.Luna Imhotep

Chapel Hill, North Carolina

T.Luna Imhotep

10 years of experience

Greetings!! It's such a pleasure to support families both locally and globally as a Global Maternal & Infant Health Specialist. As a Naturopath and Learning Midwife, I use my experience to support families with various needs (primarily virtual). I am available to provide virtual Holistic Childbirth Education to families, Maternal Health Education workshops, Newborn education and Perinatal Emotional Support.

Elizabeth Bracey

Durham, North Carolina

Elizabeth Bracey

10 years of experience

Hi! I'm Elizabeth! I have been a doula since 2015. I am a mother of two boys. I love to serve women in education, labor and delivery. My belief is that women were created to birth. You are capable and empowered through preparation and your innate ability; because of how you were created. I believe the support that women receive in birth can make a tremendous difference in labor and the result of birth. It would be my joy to come alongside of you to encourage you and assist you in every need that arises.

Yeyo Evans

Durham, North Carolina

Yeyo Evans

11 years of experience

I took on the role of nurturer fairly early in life. As the oldest of 8 I lovingly stepped into the big sister role to help guide my siblings by displaying great leadership. In 2014 I became a mother and it was during this experience that I discovered my calling for birth work. Since, for the last 11 years, I have devoted time to being a student in midwifery, becoming trauma informed, and expanding my inclusive services, to widen my scope of support and care. " I will continue to help recreate the way we interact and think about birth, more importantly, physiological birth, as it pertains to people that look like me. We deserve to experience birth void of trauma." - Yeyo

Rae Dallachie

Durham, North Carolina

Rae Dallachie

Hi, I’m Rae, and I am a Certified Lactation Counselor (CLC) and postpartum doula in Durham, NC! I am thrilled to have the opportunity to support you and your family during this transformative time. As your postpartum doula, I am here to offer a listening ear, provide evidence-based information, and assist you with practical tasks. From helping with newborn care and breastfeeding support to assisting with household chores, my aim is to alleviate any stress and ensure that you feel supported and confident in your parenting journey. I believe in the importance of tailoring my services to meet the unique needs and preferences of each family. By working closely with you, I will create a personalized care plan that addresses your specific goals and challenges, fostering an environment of trust, respect, and open communication.

Melvay Solomon

Durham, North Carolina

Melvay Solomon

4 years of experience

My name is MelShine and I’m a birth worker and midwifery student who is passionate about walking alongside families through pregnancy, birth, and beyond. I believe birth is sacred and that every person deserves to feel seen, supported, and empowered in their choices. My goal is to bring calm, knowledge, and genuine care to every space I enter.

Shawnesi  Russell

Durham, North Carolina

5.0 (5 reviews)

Shawnesi Russell

5 years of experience

My Name Is Shawnesi Elaine. I am a certified Birth Doula in the RDU area. I specialize in Meditation,holistic health and healing, Organic Soap, newborn care, self-care. I have a Bachelor's in Psychology with a concentration in Childhood Development. 10+ years in Childcare education and newborn care. My practice philosophy is to create a safe space for all birthing persons and parents seeking informational and emotional support throughout the duration of their birthing journey and after. I believe that birth is a sacred space and should be treated as such. In my free time, I enjoy practicing the harp, reading, meditation and exploring herbalism.

Recent review

Shawn was amazing! During my pregnancy and during my labor and delivery. She was very attentive and explained things we didn’t know. Gave step by step instructions. Gave us answers on how to handle the unexpected. Overall she was just amazing

- Jayla L.

Amaya Wallace

Durham, North Carolina

Amaya Wallace

4 years of experience

Hi, my name is Amaya and I would love to be your doula! In my care, I prioritize mental health and wellness and trauma reduction. I come from a background in Black maternal health justice research and am in school to become a medical social worker. Because I am only 21 years old and a newer doula, I am able to connect with even the youngest of mamas and provide contemporary care and insight into maternal experiences. Please do not hesitate to reach out!

Takeda Starr

Hillsborough, North Carolina

5.0 (1 review)

Takeda Starr

2 years of experience
Accepts insurances

Hello and congratulations on your journey into motherhood. I'm Takeda Starr a certified holistic birth doula based in Hillsborough, NC, dedicated to supporting women especially BIPOC mothers seeking an unmedicated and low-intervention birth experience. While I advocate for natural alternatives whenever possible, I honor and respect every mother's unique choices and preferences. Whether you're drawn to holistic methods or opt for medical assistance, my mission is to provide unwavering support tailored to your individual needs throughout your pregnancy and labor.

Recent review

Hiring a birth doula was a game-changer for us. Learning comfort measures to support my wife was invaluable when contractions started. At the hospital, I saw the unique benefits of having the nurses and a doula. They offered different kinds of help, but both were crucial. Takeda, our doula, was acted as a bodyguard to secure the placenta. Highly recommend this support for any couple.

- Levi J.

Alexa Murray

Morrisville, North Carolina

Alexa Murray

2 years of experience
Accepts insurances

Hi parents :) I’m Alexa & I have a deep passion for helping women connect with the natural rhythms of their body. We’ve been giving birth for thousands of years and I deeply trust our body’s innate ability to go through the birthing process. My main goal is to encourage, empower, support & advocate for the birthing person. Each women is entirely different, so I take a very individualistic approach to each of my clients. I am currently not taking any new clients, but I wish you the best in your search!

Summernickol Stewart

Raleigh, North Carolina

5.0 (1 review)

Summernickol Stewart

4 years of experience

Summernickol (she/her) is a certified Birth and Postpartum Doula. She promotes holistic births and birth planning for both hospital and home births, while being an active advocate for all women and their families. Summernickol brings her nurturing side and positive energy to postpartum care. With a strong belief in setting families up for success, Summernickol equips families with education, resources, skills and support. While she has a strong background in supporting high-risk and teen pregnancies, Summernickol is experienced in also offering sibling care, belly casting, ASL tutoring, and rebozo sifting. Summernickol is an avid reader and traveling foodie who uses her free time to volunteer in her community.

Recent review

SummerNickol was the best doula and supporter I could have ever asked for during my pregnancy. As a first-time mom, I had so much to learn, and she guided me through everything I needed to know about becoming a mother. She encouraged me to take classes, helped me create a birth plan, and made sure the nurses and doctors knew my preferences. During delivery, she was a calming presence, teaching me breathing techniques and supporting me through every step. She truly takes her job seriously and goes above and beyond to ensure you’re comfortable, informed, and at ease. I was heartbroken when she moved because she was such an incredible part of my journey. SummerNickol was born to do this—she’s a natural nurturer and caregiver. If you’re looking for a doula who genuinely cares, she’s the one!

- Eyeseeah R.

Karen VelMartin

Raleigh, North Carolina

5.0 (3 reviews)

Karen VelMartin

4 years of experience
Accepts insurances

Hi, I'm Karen! I'm a Certified Professional Birth and Postpartum Doula in the Raleigh area of beautiful North Carolina. I'd be honored to have the opportunity to get to know you and hear about your birth goals and desires. I became a doula so that I could support and empower both expecting and postpartum families to have better birthing experiences, to have the experience they not only desire but ultimately deserve to have. I received my doula certifications through the Madriella doula network in 2022. I'd be honored to have the opportunity to get to know you and hear about your birth goals and desires.

Recent review

I love the services that I have purchased from Karen and working with her to meet my goals for my birth. She has made me feel secure and confident in the decisions I have made in my birth plan and the decisions I have made for my child. She made the journey into motherhood a lot easier and will be forever grateful.

- Aiyana V.

Sarah Langley

Raleigh, North Carolina

Sarah Langley

9 years of experience

Career Nanny turned Postpartum Doula, my passion lies in helping parents transition peacefully and joyfully into parenthood by providing care, support, and compassion through the ups and downs. Inclusive, flexible and open minded, I enjoying helping clients on their own unique postpartum journeys.

Kristian Jordan

Burlington, North Carolina

Kristian Jordan

8 years of experience

I was born and raised in Burlington, North Carolina (and still live here!), and my family heritage spans back many generations in this area. I’m a southern girl at heart who was saved by Jesus’ grace when I was 10 years old. I am blessed to be married to my better half and sweetheart, Paul, whom I’ve loved since I was 17 years old. We have journeyed through happiness and heartache together; military trainings and deployment, selling one home and building another, births and funerals, illnesses and surgeries, family vacations, and more. We have two beautiful children, Rafe and Lorelai, who bring laughter and joy to our home. The Lord also uses them to refine our faith and prayer lives. My life is built upon my foundation in Christ alone. I will not compromise my beliefs for another’s comfort. I believe in truthfulness and extending grace to one another. When my husband and I became pregnant with our first baby, we took Bradley Birthing Method classes with our doula and though I had planned a home birth, my labor ended up being induced in a hospital at 35 weeks gestation due to pre-eclampsia. My birth experience was not how I had envisioned it, but having the phenomenal support of my doula and husband made a world of difference and thanks to their help, many of my birth goals were accomplished when my son was born. Fast forward to when I gave birth to our second baby; I planned another home birth and worked very hard to maintain my health during pregnancy, and did not develop pre-eclampsia again, praise Jesus! I delivered our daughter in a birth pool in our bedroom at home, surrounded by the most amazing support team of my midwife, doulas, and family - I will be forever grateful for such a redemptive, healing birth experience which also created a much more joyful postpartum experience, too. I became a birth doula in 2018 after the birth of my son. My doula had impacted my pregnancy and birth experience so much; feeling completely supported and informed of my options even when my home birth turned hospital birth, her influence gave me confidence and awareness. Because of this, I felt The Lord calling me to serve other families through birth work in the same way. I trained and certified through DONA International and hit the ground running. I worked with a large doula group for a while which was such a wonderful opportunity to shadow under very experienced doulas. After a few years, I felt called to start my own business and did so in November 2021 after much prayer and consideration. I’ve attended over 80 births in a variety of settings at homes, birth centers, and hospitals. I have supported births that are natural, medicated, induction, cesarean, VBACs, water birth, and more. I have worked with single mothers, trauma survivors, families with NICU stays, mothers whose husbands were deployed during birth, stillbirth, and more. I believe that no matter what her birth goals are, women and their families all deserve continuous and unconditional encouragement, education, and support throughout pregnancy, birth, and postpartum. I want you to feel loved and cared for as you welcome a new member into your family and home. I believe that birth is not something to be feared, but rather embraced and viewed as extraordinary. Birth is a divine, sacred experience that transcends the physical world into the spiritual. My own journey of motherhood has seen its fair share of joys and challenges, and it’s only just beginning. I know what it’s like to make a birth plan and experience a different one. I know what it’s like to be separated from your newborn when he goes to the NICU. I have experienced a hard postpartum experience as well as a smooth one. I have celebrated milestones of those two pink lines, birthdays, first words, first steps, and I continue to remain in awe of the love that I have given and received. All of these experiences, among others, are part of my desire to support families as they journey into parenthood. I would be honored to serve your family as you celebrate the milestones in your life. I would love to be a source of strength, reassurance, and comfort by providing physical, emotional, spiritual, and informational support. I will commit myself to pray for your during your pregnancy, birth, and postpartum journey. I will encourage you to think for yourself, trust the parental intuition that The Lord gifted you, ask the difficult questions, and stand firm in your convictions. I value your God-given ability to make decisions for your home, family, and body that honor The Lord and serve Him before anyone else. I want you to be confident in your decisions because you are informed. I will advocate for your right to make decisions because I believe in and value medical freedom. My prayer is that your birth experience would be positive, filled with joyful memories to last a lifetime, and that you would feel the love of The Savior surrounding you in this season.

Bre Doura

Raleigh, North Carolina

Bre Doura

4 years of experience

For as long as I can remember I knew I wanted to be involved with birth work in some capacity. I want to hold space for mothers to use their voice and to maintain the sacredness of birth. My goal is to be what you need in the moment you need it.