Josie Hart - Birth & Postpartum Doula

About Josie

Services: Birth Doula, Reiki Master, Pre & Post Natal Yoga Instructor, Parental Mentor Hello! My name is Josie Hart. I am a Certified Birth Doula, serving families in the Greater Capital Region of Upstate New York. I'm a mother of five, grandmother to one, and love what I do! I am passionate about helping pregnant people feel safe and empowered to make informed decisions regarding their bodies and their births. I believe every birthing person should have the autonomy to birth in their way and in their power. I am also a Reiki Master trained in Usui/Holy Fire® and Karuna Reiki® and certified to teach prenatal and postnatal yoga. I am grateful for the ability to teach as well as add Reiki energy healing, for those who would like, as a way to assist during pregnancy, labor and postpartum. When not supporting birth or working with Reiki, I enjoy my yoga practice, hiking trails in this beautiful Upstate NY area, or my most favorite pastime, spending time with my children, granddaughter, and extended family at my home. “…how a person is cared for and supported during birth is a major influence, not only in how they give birth but also in how they feel about the birth for years to come.” ~The Birth Partner

Birth & Postpartum Doula packages and pricing

Package 1 - Birth Doula Support

Initial Consultation to ensure we are a good match. Monthly prenatal visits to support you, discuss your birth preferences, answer any questions and concerns, and guide you through the birth plan. Labor support at your birthing site. Breastfeeding support for baby’s first feeding. 5 post partum follow ups to address any questions or concerns you may be having. Unlimited phone calls, emails and texts at any hour day or night.

$2,500 USD · Flat rate

What to expect

Professional, informed and compassionate support before birth, during labor and birth and postpartum.

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Certifications, training, and specialties

Certification and training

Postpartum Doula Training, Mama Glow (2024)
Birth Doula Training, Mama Glow (2024)
Birth Doula Training, DONA International (2021)

Education

Bachelor in Communications (2015)

Memberships and affiliations

Doula Network of the Capital Region
BirthNet
Albany Medica Center, Doula Program

Languages

English

Specialties

Birth and Lactation Birth Doula Birth Support Breastfeeding Assistance and Support Breastfeeding Support Childbirth Education Evidence-Based Care Exclusive Pumping/Bottle Feeding Herbal Postpartum Care Labor Doula LGBTQ+ Mindfulness Natural Childbirth Parenting Parenting Support Positive Thinking Postpartum Care Postpartum Doula Care

Certifications, training, and credentials are listed by the provider. Bornbir doesn't verify them, so ask Josie for a copy of any certificate you rely on.

Frequently asked questions

What does a birth doula do and do I really need one?

A birth doula is integral to the prenatal, birth, and postpartum season. Consider your doula as your family’s go-to person for information, resources, advice, and a practical, physical, and emotional support person from the beginning of your pregnancy to your postpartum closing visit. She is your personal advisor for those never-ending questions and decisions you encounter throughout your pregnancy, labor, and postpartum stages. She is committed to providing you with excellent care, so you feel pampered, supported, and nurtured as you prepare to nurture your little one. As an added benefit, your primary support person can rest assured should they need a break from the labor room knowing that you are being well provided for by your doula. Furthermore, studies overwhelmingly prove the valuable asset a doula can be to the expectant family. Doula attended births are commonly associated with a more satisfying birth experience, less need for interventions, decreased requests for pain relief, reduced number of C-sections, decreased length of labor, and a positive breastfeeding experience.

What is the difference between a doula and a midwife?

A doula is a non-medical support person who focuses on caring for you emotionally and physically while keeping you informed and empowered. While they often have similar approaches, a midwife differs from a doula substantially. A midwife is a *medical* professional, meaning that the primary focus of their care is on the health and safety of you and your baby. Both doulas and midwives work with you prenatally, support you throughout the birth and follow up with you postpartum. Specifically, at a birth, doulas are often found doing hip squeezes, refilling your water bottle, providing guidance and reassurance (to you and your partner), and repeating affirmations that empower you. At a birth, midwives may be found doing similar things to a doula, but their top priorities include: ensuring that you and your baby's vital signs are stable, assessing you and your baby, completing cervical exams when needed, administering medication if necessary, and catching the baby you are birthing.

When should I hire a birth doula?

The earlier, the better. Typically, the beginning of your third trimester is a good time to have your doula secured. It is recommended that you start your search in your second trimester, talk to and interview a couple of doulas, and determine who is the best fit for you. You deserve someone you feel an easy connection with and someone you think fits your personality and needs.

Are payment plans available?

Yes! Payment plans are available and structured to fit your needs. I just ask the balance be paid in full by your 36th week of pregnancy. *Some insurance plans offer a reimbursement benefit for doula services. Make sure to inquire! *Please note: I offer a sliding scale for doula support - $2500-$3000. Contact me for additional information!