Erica Van Steenis

About me

I have spent the last fifteen years as an educator and education researcher. During my pregnancy, labor, and delivery, a fire inside of me was ignited, inspiring me to shift my focus toward supporting others through the transformative journey of birth. The strength, resilience, and empowerment I experienced during that time fueled my desire to help others navigate their own childbirth experiences with knowledge, compassion, and unwavering support. In 2025, I completed my Birth Doula and Prenatal Yoga Teacher training with BEHELD in Boulder, Colorado where I learned from Haley McNabb and Jessica Fawcett, two wise and magical birth doulas. I am excited to join a long tradition of women supporting women during one of their most profound life experiences.

Education

PhD in Education (2020)

Certification and training

Birth doula (2024)

Credentials

Languages

English

Service introduction

Emotional and physical support I will provide continuous emotional and physical support during pregnancy, labor, and delivery. A lot can come up during childbirth – I commit to helping reduce feelings of fear and anxiety to create a calm and reassuring birth experience. Comfort measures I will support you through labor pain and discomfort, offering education about your labor pain reduction options and by employing techniques to support you through birth. Advocacy Doulas act as a bridge between mom and care providers, communicating the birthing person's wishes and preferences to the medical team. I will provide support and education no matter your birth plan or the way your birth unfolds and act as your advocate along the way. Customization Together we will create your individualized birth plan that aligns with your values and preferences. I will offer guidance on the options available and what to expect during birth. Knowledge, guidance and research A doula provides education about the birth process, helping the birthing person and their support team feel informed and prepared for what to expect. I will offer this knowledge and research when I do not know the answer to help reduce uncertainty and fear, especially for first-time parents.

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