Denise Bolds MSW, Ed.D, CD(DONA), CLC, CBE

New York, New York

Denise Bolds MSW, Ed.D, CD(DONA), CLC, CBE

13 years of experience

Certified birth Doula, DONA International, CLC, childbirth educator, supporting high-risk pregnancies: VBACS, Advanced maternal age & more. Certified lactation counselor, placenta encapsulation services. Childbirth Instructor. Supporting Hospital and birth center births. Supporting NYC and Northern New Jersey. 12 years and 325 births of experience. I am a Black birthworker. Carrot Certified Provider

Winnie B.

New York, New York

Winnie B.

3 years of experience

Hi there, I'm Winnie. I know that welcoming a baby into the world is one of the most meaningful transitions a family can experience. As your doula, I’m here to support you through it with care that’s steady, thoughtful, and tailored to your needs. My role is to provide calm, knowledgeable support—whether that means helping you prepare, being fully present during labor, or checking in during those early postpartum days. My approach is practical, personal, and rooted in respect—for your body, your choices, and your goals for this experience. I believe every birth is unique. I take time to listen, to understand your preferences, and to help you prepare with clarity and confidence. I’ll walk alongside you with the kind of support that adapts when things change, and holds steady when you need it most. Our first conversation isn’t about pressure—it’s about connection. You’ll have space to share what you’re hoping for, ask questions, and get a feel for how I work. If it feels like the right fit, we’ll move forward together. Whether we connect months before or closer to your due date, I’d love to hear from you when the time feels right. My Values in This Work: • Advocacy that respects your decisions • Cultural awareness and sensitivity • Emotional and physical safety • Respect for your pace and preferences • Centering your voice in every step • Honest communication and transparency • Confidence built through clear, informed support My Experience: I’ve worked as a birth and postpartum doula for 2 years, supporting over 15 births in hospitals, birth centers, and home settings. My experience includes both medicated and unmedicated labors, VBACs, inductions, and support for first-time and returning parents. I offer both virtual and in-person support, and I tailor my approach to meet the unique needs of each family. From preparing a birth plan to hands-on labor support, I’m here to help you feel prepared, heard, and cared for—every step of the way.

Kristen Penner

New York, New York

Kristen Penner

3 years of experience

Doula work found me after my own pregnancy and birth journey. I know how unexpected and sometimes frightening bringing a new life into this world can be and I want to help guide expecting parents on that path and through an empowering birth.

Shane J

New York, New York

5.0 (3 reviews)

Shane J

9 years of experience

Hi ! My name is Shane and I am the Melanated Mermaid Doula Services. I am a trained Fullspectrum Doula with a focus on Birth and Postpartum services. I am also open to supporting abortion related services. I have a love for birth and preparing for the beautiful event. My passion with working with expectant families is to help them connect with one another, prepare and feel confident during and after their births. I want the people I work with to gain a confidence with their bodies but also feel safe and secure in advocating for their needs during pregnancy, labor and postpartum. I have a passion for nutrition and movement so I am sure to include different health measures and these two factors in my services as well. I have a degree in Psychology from Syracuse University and take what I learn from my formal training in the classroom and incorporate it in how I handle and care for my growing families during our time together. I love to laugh and bring joy in homes of the people I work with and hope that along with educating you on your body and body's super powers I can also bring comfort and confidence on this birth journey.

Recent review

I had the privilege of having Shane as my doula during my pregnancy and childbirth, and I cannot express enough gratitude for the support, knowledge, and comfort she provided throughout this journey. From the moment we began working together, Shane's warm and calming presence made me feel supported and understood. She possesses a deep knowledge of childbirth and postpartum care, which she shared with me in our prenatal meetings, empowering me with information and confidence as my due date approached. Shane was incredibly responsive to my needs and preferences, always ensuring that my birth plan was respected and advocated for. During labor, her expertise and soothing demeanor were invaluable, providing both physical and emotional support that significantly contributed to my positive birthing experience. She knew exactly when to offer words of encouragement, when to give me space, and how to assist in pain relief techniques that made a significant difference in managing my labor pains. Postpartum, Shane's support was just as impactful. She visited us at home, offering advice on newborn care, breastfeeding, and adjusting to our new family dynamic. Her follow-up care and genuine concern for our well-being were beyond what I had expected, making the transition into parenthood much smoother and less overwhelming. Shane's passion for her work and her compassionate approach to supporting families during one of the most transformative times of their lives is truly remarkable. I wholeheartedly recommend her services to anyone looking for a doula who is knowledgeable, empathetic, and truly dedicated to providing the best possible care. Thank you, Shane, for being an essential part of our journey into parenthood. Your impact has been profound and will be remembered fondly.

- Daliah C.

Brielle Davis

New York, New York

Brielle Davis

10 years of experience

Hello everyone, 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 and heard, regardless of 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 nine 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. My approach focuses on 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!

MaternityWise Institute

New York, New York

5.0 (1 review)

MaternityWise Institute

24 years of experience

MaternityWise has been through an evolution since it's inception back in 2002. What began as a private doula practice quickly became a training opportunity for those who sought out a more balanced approach to maternity care support than what was available, which at the time were only two other organizations specifically training doulas. The discrepancies between what was available to women (either very pro-conventional medicine, or very anti-conventional medicine) led to the development of a comprehensive, standardized curriculum that could be moulded and used internationally. MaternityWise is unique in that we are the only Internationally recognized organization that holds such a standard. Our curriculum is based on whole-earth practices and "pure information". What this means is that while you will learn what is practiced locally in your country and community, you will also learn what the rest of the world is doing and how to incorporate that wisdom to challenge the status quo and bring improvements to maternity care everywhere. ​ "Pure Information" is a term we use to categorize the knowledge we share as an organization. It is pure, because no one profits from this information. We use intuitive wisdom blended with logic where science fails to provide answers. It is our favorite thing when science "proves" what we already know in our hearts to be true, as women and as mothers. ​ In 2017, MaternityWise International was re-born as The MaternityWise Institute. We remain an international, board-certifying organization providing education and credentials for labor and postpartum doulas as well as lactation support people. This is the year we also introduced the MaternityWise Educator program and the first of it's kind EpiDoula Program, training labor support companions how to decrease cesareans in mothers who have an epidural. ​ As MaternityWise Institute International grows, it continues this new chapter of excellence, with diverse leadership, continued educational enhancement and a premier mentoring program. What we have learned from the past and from participating in other programs around the globe, we are using to meet the real needs of our students so that MWI can become a standard to follow by all maternal health education programs out there! Our premier programs, and forward momentum, developing unique education to meet the ever-changing needs of the birthing family sets us apart. We invite you to join with us to change the birthing world!

Recent review

I LOVE MWI! From the affordable prices, the super kind community, the amazing education, I can't recommend this organization enough. Not only this but they have payment plans, mentorship and more

- Cheylah B.

Danielle Wachter

New York, New York

Danielle Wachter

3 years of experience

I am passionate about helping people have a positive pregnancy and birth experience. I believe that with the right support and team, pregnancy, labor, and delivery can be a special and memorable experience. My background is in statistics and technology, so I'm excited about supporting birthing people with research-backed and evidence-based recommendations in addition to emotional and intuitive support. I live in New York City with my husband and our 15-year-old Yorkie, Mercedes.

Misty Gant

Brooklyn, New York

Misty Gant

6 years of experience

Misty is a Certified Birth and Postpartum Doula (via DONA and Lifespan Doulas) as well as a Certified Lactation Counselor, a Certified Hypnobabies Doula, Newborn Care Specialist and an Integrative Wellness Coach. She approaches each stage of pregnancy and postpartum with a holistic mindset. Misty strives to provide her clients with a warm and supportive space, along with tools to instill confidence, while they navigate this new phase of motherhood. She is also a trained Spinning Babies doula and yoga instructor.

Carolynn Soba

New York, New York

5.0 (1 review)

Carolynn Soba

2 years of experience

As a current c-section mom of 2 under 2, I want to bring happiness, joy and education to new and seasoned mothers. I love to provide a judgement-free zone to parents of all kinds and strive for success. I currently live with my husband and daughters in The Bronx, NY. In my free-time I love to be outdoors, study astrology, and cook. I’m excited to connect with you!

Recent review

Carolynn was a such a HUGE help during our first week home with our baby girl. She came in with the calmest energy (even when we were a mess tbh), made sure I was eating, resting, and not losing my mind, and somehow always knew what both my sweetie and I needed. She helped me with breastfeeding, newborn care, and more. And yes, I actually got to nap… She was supportive, kind, funny, and zero judgment. Idk how we would’ve made it through that first week without her. We saw her a few times after that until we felt comfy to take on the world as a new family.

- Ashley G.

Stariera B

New York, New York

5.0 (2 reviews)

Stariera B

2 years of experience

Hello and welcome! I’m Stariera, a certified full spectrum doula, wellness coach and a master’s level social worker serving people throughout New York City. I enjoy working with people and have developed an understanding of human behavior psychology, critical thinking skills, and problem-solving. My decision to become a doula was born from a desire to support women earlier in the journey — from pregnancy through birth and into postpartum — helping them assess, explore, and process both the joyful and challenging emotions that can arise. I believe that when we recognize and tend to difficult feelings early, we can create space for healing, confidence, and connection in the newborn phase and beyond. Prior to Doula care, I bring 10 years of experience as a Social Worker supporting individuals and families overcome challenges such as health issues, emotional stress, housing instability, family conflict, and behavioral or socio-emotional needs. In addition, I supported mothers navigating postpartum depression and the emotional complexities that can come with new motherhood. Through that work, I developed a deep understanding of how critical emotional support, self-awareness, and self-care are to the postpartum experience — not just for surviving, but for thriving. This background allows me to hold space for clients with empathy, nonjudgmental, and a deep awareness of the complexes life can bring; especially during the perinatal period.

Recent review

Stariera has proven to be an exceptional doula, possessing all the qualities that make a great one. She is an excellent listener, warm-hearted, sensitive, and professional all at once. Her knowledge, confidence, and soothing voice set her apart. I highly recommend Stariera as your doula.

- angela diaz

Johanny Luna

New York, New York

Johanny Luna

6 years of experience
Accepts insurances

I’m Johanny Luna, mother of two and lifelong New Yorker, devoted to supporting birthing individuals and families through one of life’s most transformative experiences. I believe birth deserves compassionate, respectful care that honors each person’s unique journey. With over a decade in healthcare, I offer holistic support that blends evidence based knowledge with ancestral wisdom. As a bilingual doula, I’m especially passionate about empowering diverse communities to make informed choices and feel truly seen and supported through pregnancy, birth, and beyond. My work is rooted in trust, respect, and the belief that reproductive health thrives in strong, connected communities.

Deborah Birnbaum

Brooklyn, New York

Deborah Birnbaum

11 years of experience

I am a Lamaze Certified Childbirth Educator who is committed to supporting "YOUR birth". I offer up-to-date, evidence-based information to expectant moms so that they can make informed decisions about their pregnancy and birth. I have experience in VBAC and other "complications." I also offer some vital information for Torah-true Jewish moms.

Zen Holmes

New York, New York

Zen Holmes

9 years of experience

Zen Holmes is the founder of Comfy Momma Prenatal and Postpartum Support and offers doula services, lactation counseling, prenatal massage, prenatal yoga and guided meditations aimed at reducing fear and preparing the mind/body to relax during childbirth. She also offers childbirth education, newborn care and breastfeeding classes. Zen is a Midwifery Assistant and a Midwifery Student at Commonsense Childbirth School of Midwifery. Zen is a DONA certified birth doula and a Carriage House Birth trained postpartum doula. She is a Certified Lactation Counselor (CLC) and a Certified Integrative Lactation and Feeding Specialist (ILFS). Zen received her certification as an Evidence Based Birth Instructor and offers to most up to date research in her classes. She is also trained in hypnobirthing and mindfulness. She uses visualizations, massage and sound therapy to help laboring moms feel grounded, relaxed and confident during the birthing process. Zen Holmes has been a NYS licensed massage therapist, specializing in prenatal and medical massage for 20 years. She is also a Reiki practitioner. She has 3 pregnancy massage certifications (MotherMassage, Loving Pregnancy Massage, and Bodywork for the Childbearing. She is also a proud mother of 5 amazing adults.

Ansar Muhammad

New York, New York

Ansar Muhammad

5 years of experience

It was in 2019 that I interviewed my grandmother about her birthing experience, she told me about her mother, and how in the south at that time it was common to have a home birth, and your neighbors would serve as seasoned midwives and doulas. I felt called to this story, of your village coming to provide you with support and care at your most vulnerable. As a birth and postpartum doula, I have served over 100 families from all walks of life, offering calming, comforting support to them and their support system! I believe in providing physical, informational and emotional support to the families I work with. I meet every family I work with where they are in their journey and offer the kind of comfort and advocacy that is needed for a beautiful and holistic experience. My mission is to make sure you have the birth or postpartum experience you want, and to aim higher than safety

Rajah Ferdinand

Brooklyn, New York

Rajah Ferdinand

2 years of experience

Hi! I’m Rajah Ferdinand — a newly trained birth and postpartum doula based in NYC. I’ve completed certified postpartum doula training through A.N.E.W. Village at Kingsborough Community College, and I’m deeply passionate about helping families feel supported, informed, and truly cared for throughout birth and the early days of parenting. I offer a calm, nurturing presence, whether you need hands-on newborn care, emotional support, help with healing after birth, or a steady voice during labor. As a doula, my focus is on you — your voice, your choices, and your peace of mind. I’m currently accepting clients at sliding-scale rates as I grow my experience. If you’re looking for nonjudgmental, culturally aware, and affirming care, I’d love to connect with you and support your journey.

Olamide Olawoye

Edison, New Jersey

5.0 (1 review)

Olamide Olawoye

3 years of experience

I am a compassionate and dedicated Birth Doula and Lactation Doula committed to supporting families throughout pregnancy, birth, and the postpartum journey. With training from DONA International, I provide evidence-based guidance, emotional reassurance, and hands-on support to help birthing individuals feel empowered and confident in their journey to parenthood. My approach is centered on personalized care, advocacy, and informed decision-making, ensuring that each family I work with feels heard, respected, and supported. In addition to birth support, I specialize in lactation assistance, helping new parents navigate breastfeeding and chestfeeding with confidence and ease. I am passionate about creating a nurturing and inclusive space for all birthing individuals, fostering a positive and empowering experience from pregnancy through postpartum.

Recent review

I am really thankful for the amazing help she gave me when my son was born. Right from the start she was friendly well-informed and caring which helped me feel confident and comfortable during my pregnancy and delivery. During labor she provided support comfort and encouragement throughout the entire process. She collaborated smoothly with my doctors and my partner making sure I felt cared for both physically and emotionally. Her help with pain management techniques like breathing exercises and body positioning was extremely helpful. After the baby was born she kept in touch with us offering useful resources for after the birth and emotional support. I really appreciate her for helping me have a great and empowering birth experience. I strongly suggest her to anyone in need of a caring and talented doula! Even after the birth, she continued to check in on us, providing helpful postpartum resources and emotional support. I had a positive and empowering birth experience. I highly recommend her to anyone looking for a compassionate and skilled doula!

- Lily A.

Christina Crosland

New York, New York

5.0 (1 review)

Christina Crosland

11 years of experience

Hi, My name is Christina. C I am a Full Spectrum Doula, Lactation Consultant & Placenta Encapsulator. I’m here to assist women and families during pregnancy, birth & postpartum. I started my birthwork journey in 2016. I have had the pleasure of being a part of 80+ births and assisting 69 families with specifically 4th-trimester support thus far on my Journey. I have always been empowered by the strength and inner power of our women and the beauty of birth since I was a young child. This is why I became a professional Birthworker, Or as many call it a “Doula”. Every woman deserves to have support through the monumental changes & transitions of pregnancy, birth & postpartum. I'm here to guide, educate, and assist you with the Journey. I look forward to hearing from you soon. Your Doula Chrissy.

Recent review

Christina came into our lives when we found out we were expecting shortly after me an my spouse were married. As first time parents we had no idea what expect or do especially because we relocated to a state an city with no family or friends near. Christina educated us in ways we wouldn't expect an prepared us for the most challenging yet beautiful experience to come. She was my Birth and Post-partum Doula she assisted us up until our daughter Mila was 4 months old. Thank You Christina ❤️

- Ashley B.

Kay Bee

Brooklyn, New York

Kay Bee

6 years of experience

Heyy! My name is Kaybee and I am a certified holistic birth and postpartum doula, certified lactation counselor, child birth educator, advanced newborn care specialist and certified new parent educator. I also provide perinatal nutrition guidance. I service New York City and Jersey City I am originally from St.Vincent and the Grenadines and I am a Garifuna descendent. I offer a mix of my ancestral and cultural roots blended with evidence-based support. I primarily support advanced maternal age clients, high risk pregnancies, bariatric clients and vbac. I've also supported c-section births & low intervention birth. Additionally I offer postpartum day/night time support, live-in postpartum support and lactation support. Looking forward to connecting with you!

Antasia Mccray

New York, New York

5.0 (3 reviews)

Antasia Mccray

4 years of experience

I am a mother to a 5 year old and have loved children since I was a child myself. I have always been someone who enjoys helping people. I started on the path towards nursing, earning my Associate’s degree in Fall of 2022. After mostly completing my degree in summer of 2022, I realized my personality wouldn't shine in nursing. I am more empathetic and personable, which lead me to becoming a doula. I started with birth doula in August and it opened my eyes to my passion for birthwork. Shortly after, I took the postpartum doula workshop. That led me to also taking infant CPR, and earning a certified lactation support counselor as well. I am looking forward to sitting for the Lamaze CBE exam Fall of 2023. I have worked with families both prior to these certifications and currently and I can’t wait to explore and learn more

Recent review

Antasia was an incredible support for my husband and I when we needed overnight care for our newborn. After interviewing many people, we had been turned off by those who were strict about their approach and seemed to want to impose their practices on our family. As new parents, we needed tenderness and flexibility—someone who would care for our son at night and allow us to sleep peacefully knowing our son was safe and being tended to the way we choose to raise him. Antasia was a calm and responsive presence, working with us to adapt to changes as our newborn developed and we grew as parents. She was always on time and communicated proactively in the rare instance there was a scheduling issue. At the start of every visit she asked us what changed and what was new, which was helpful as newborns change on a weekly basis and so did our approach. We were always at peace knowing Antasia was coming. I also was able to recover from insomnia due to Antasia’s presence and my confidence in her to look after our child while we slept. Our only regret was not meeting her sooner so we could have had her with our family on day 1 coming home from the hospital.

- Ruani R.

Christine Becerra

Caldwell, New Jersey

1.0 (1 review)

Christine Becerra

7 years of experience

Hi, I’m Christine! Throughout my six pregnancies and three births, I learned how vital it is to have a strong support system through each step and event. Every family looks different but something we all have in common is the need for unwavering guidance during some of life’s most vulnerable times. My intention is for you to feel confident and ready for all that is to come! To help you do so, I will offer up-to-date knowledge and full support of your wishes. I wholeheartedly believe that you should be able to make your experience your own and trust your body. You might be worried about all the changes to come or feel unprepared, but I want to help give you all the tools you need to feel ready. My goal is to help you reach YOUR goals, whatever they may be. I believe in being my clients ally through every path and take great pride in being Your Family Doula.