Lisa Falkenstein

Lakewood, Ohio

5.0 (2 reviews)

Lisa Falkenstein

17 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.

Tierra Tabor

Cleveland, Ohio

Tierra Tabor

4 years of experience

Hello! My name is Tierra , and I’m a 20-year-old black doula passionate about supporting families during one of the most transformative times in their lives. I believe in the power of connection, education, and empowerment, and I’m dedicated to providing emotional, physical, and informational support to birthing individuals and their loved ones. As a doula, I aim to create a safe and nurturing environment where families can feel confident and informed about their choices. I’m committed to advocating for diverse voices in birth and promoting holistic practices that honor cultural traditions. Outside of my doula work, I enjoy reading, and singing, which help me stay grounded and inspired. I’m excited to be part of this journey with families, helping them navigate their unique paths to parenthood!

Daneé Haynes

Cleveland, Ohio

5.0 (3 reviews)

Daneé Haynes

7 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.

Kristen Bindel

Cleveland, Ohio

Kristen Bindel

8 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.

Lexx Johnson

Cleveland, Ohio

Lexx Johnson

5 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!

Jena Ashwill

Cleveland, Ohio

5.0 (1 review)

Jena Ashwill

3 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.

Brianna Balogh

Cleveland, Ohio

Brianna Balogh

6 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!

Imani Abdul-Zahir

Cleveland, Ohio

5.0 (8 reviews)

Imani Abdul-Zahir

27 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

4 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.

Jennifer Timbs

Sandusky, Ohio

Jennifer Timbs

18 years of experience

I'm a CPM offering midwifery services and home birth attendance in the greater Sandusky area. I'll attend births up to an hour away and see clients in my home office in Sandusky.

Simone Martin

Cleveland Heights, Ohio

Simone Martin

4 years of experience

I Hey, I’m Simone. I am a doula that services the metro Cleveland area. I’ve always felt when you start with the woman or the mother, you are saving the community. With that being said, one of my goals is to make sure I can help and educate women as much as possible, so not only are they getting the necessary information for them to have a successful birth but to set them up for success for years to come as a mother. When going thru the birthing experience it’s important to have an advocate who is there solely on your behalf and my job just that! After I had my daughter women’s health became a big priority for me, I made an instant decision that my goal is to help women have the opportunities during labor that I didn’t get, so let me give you that opportunity starting now. I am born and raised Cleveland native, and a mother of 1. I have a sassy 3-year-old whose going on 33, but I wouldn’t change it for the world. When I had my daughter, I had an advocate but unfortunately, I still had to have a cesarean section, which devasted me, that’s story for another day lol, but it allowed me to see the vision I wanted to partake in this health field world. As a child I always stated I wanted to be an Obstetrician, so being in Women’s Health and becoming a doula has been a great opportunity and let’s be honest full circle for me. Being able to have that 1-on-1 support and advocate for you during your birthing journey is a wonderful experience. I am a DONA trained Certified doula, a nursing student with plans on being in labor & delivery, as well as plan on furthering my education by becoming a Certified Midwife. Not only is my goal to service women during this time to help their needs and wants of their birthing journey come into fruition, but to change the narrative and help the mortality rate decrease for women of color. I have a passion for this and my compassion and empathy for women make me the perfect doula just for you! I look forward to meeting you and your baby!

Tomera Breedlove

Cleveland Heights, Ohio

Tomera Breedlove

2 years of experience

Hi there! My name is Tomera Breedlove and i am located in the Cleveland Heights, OH area. I am moving towards becoming a life coach for expected and postpartum moms. I am a Certified Pre/Postnatal Coach (CPPC) and a birth/postpartum doula. I am a mother of a beautiful 3 year old boy and have been working with children for over 11 years. Because of my own birthing/ postpartum experience, I am an advocate for moms and their mental and physical health. I want to take my experience and make it positive by giving support to other families. I want to be that helping hand that gives the parents and baby the comfort and peace they need to recover themselves.

Jotoya Gray

Garfield Heights, Ohio

Jotoya Gray

Accepts insurances

My name is Jotoya l. Gray . I am a divorced mother of five ranging from ages 27-34. I have 7 grandchildren ranging from ages 8 months to 16 yrs of age and one on the way. I would is at the post office for 25 years before venturing out into my entrepreneurial career. I have an associate degree in accounting and a bachelors degree in Business. I started Limits Removed Cleaning Service and my doula training as an End of Life doula. I have been a honorary doula for my family and friends on both ends of life’s spectrum ; I officially started my career in birth work In July of 2024 by working with Birthing Beautiful Communities, as a birthing and postpartum doula. I look forward to working with you and your family on this wonderful birth journey.

Angela Jackson

Garfield Heights, Ohio

Angela Jackson

11 years of experience

I’m a doula, herbalist, mom of nine, permaculturist and preschool teacher. I love to help and be a support to others.

Alexis Whitmore

South Euclid, Ohio

Alexis Whitmore

Hello Everyone, I am Alexis Whitmore, a newly certified birth doula. My approach is rooted in holistic wellness, viewing childbirth as a profound and natural journey for the mind, body, and spirit. I am dedicated to empowering birthing individuals and their partners with the physical, emotional, and informational support they need to feel confident and respected throughout their pregnancy, labor, and delivery. By honoring each family's unique values and preferences, I aim to help create a positive and transformative birth experience, no matter where or how it unfolds. I believe in the body's innate wisdom to give birth and offer compassionate, non-judgmental guidance to help you find your strength and voice every step of the way.

Victoria Buskey

Euclid, Ohio

5.0 (2 reviews)

Victoria Buskey

2 years of experience

Hi, I'm Victoria, also known as VicTheDoula, and I am the proud owner of The Crowned Nest Doula Company. As a dedicated doula, my mission is to support birthing individuals through their unique pregnancy journeys. Primarily, I offer remote doula services via text, calls, and Zoom meetings, ensuring that you have the guidance and support you need from the comfort of your own home. While I may occasionally offer in-person support on a case-by-case basis, my focus is on providing accessible care tailored to your needs. Though I do not have biological children, I am a loving mom of one and a foster/adoptive parent. My passion for becoming a doula stems from my experiences as a queer woman of color, where I have witnessed firsthand how the medical field can sometimes disadvantage women of color. With rising statistics highlighting these disparities, I felt compelled to advocate for those who may feel voiceless. I proudly support all couples and single parents, and my identity within the LGBTQIA+ community brings a unique perspective to my services. If you're seeking a remote doula who can be a steadfast rock during your time of need, provide valuable resources, and assist you and your partner in your journey to parenthood, I am here for you. Let's embark on this beautiful journey together!

Recent review

Victoria was my doula for my pregnancy. As my sister I wouldn’t have trusted anyone else besides her to be there with me. Remotely and in person she was an amazing resource. When having complications while laboring doctors were ignoring my concerns. Vic quickly stepped in and had doctors realize something was wrong. Due to her diligence we realized my baby had already passed his meconium and an extra team needed to be present at his birth. I ended up having a c section of 25 hrs of laboring but Vic was right there cheering me on. Her being there for the birth of her nephew was pure magical. Best doula ever.

- Makenzie F.

Crystal Jackson

Mayfield Heights, Ohio

Crystal Jackson

5 years of experience

Peace! I’m Doula Crys AKA The Birth Homie or the Home girl doula!! I offer full spectrum holistic services with a specialty in Divine intimacy/Sex, Birth, and Postpartum. I’m here to guide you through life’s biggest moments and provide a safe “non-code switching” space. I’m not only here to be a doula but to be the Home girl you never knew you needed!

Christine  Cassella

Willoughby Hills, Ohio

Christine Cassella

8 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.

Dana Petrella

Akron, Ohio

Dana Petrella

5 years of experience

Hi there, my name is Dana Petrella and I'm a Birth/Postpartum Doula and Childbirth Educstor in in Akron, Ohio (I support clients in NE Ohio and virtual). I provide a judgement-free zone for you and your family to thrive by providing emotional support, evidence-based information, and a listening ear. In my free time, I enjoy hiking with my son and husband, biking around my neighborhood, reading fantasy novels, and frequenting farmers' markets.

Kara Figueroa, CD, CBE(BAI), MCPD

Akron, Ohio

5.0 (1 review)

Kara Figueroa, CD, CBE(BAI), MCPD

17 years of experience

Hello! I'm Kara, owner and certified doula, childbirth educator and postpartum doula behind Smile Doula, LLC. I am a lover of Jesus, my husband, my 4 kids and all things birth! My work in serving and supporting the Akron area as a childbirth professional began over 15 years ago. I have a passion for developing relationships, working through fears, educating, helping families to know their options and supporting the entire team. I love to teach and also host group childbirth education classes and mentor local doulas. I 100% believe being a doula is a calling over my life, and I don’t take for granted the gifts God has allowed and doors He has opened.

Recent review

Ive used Kara for both of my pregnancies/labors/deliveries and highly recommend Kara. I had two very different birth experiences and both Kara helped me through. Everything from being informed about what to expect, child birth and child care education, advocating for myself, thinking through birth preferences and answering any/every question i had. Kara was/is like a birthing best friend. Anything that came up with fears, challenges etc she helped talk through with me. Kara is so knowledgeable, kind, compassionate, i honestly could not imagine either experience without her.

- Andrea K.