Hi! I’m Marie. I am a Mother, Photographer, Certified Birth & Postpartum Doula, Certified Breastfeeding Counselor & Childbirth educator. My passion lies in the deep-rooted belief that there is an extreme need for birthing families to be thoroughly supported throughout their pregnancy, childbirth, and the postpartum period. After learning firsthand the immense value of having a doula, as well as a solid understanding and education of pregnancy and childbirth during my own experiences, I was inspired to help new families gain the confidence, comfort, and peace of mind that having the guidance of a doula can provide. I bring the experience of being a nanny for almost 20 years, a special education and early childhood educator in Montessori, as well as being a photographer for 20+ years. I am also trained in Positive Discipline. The skills I have gained by providing these services for others are crucial to the work I do as a doula. By working with many amazing families throughout the years, I have learned how to anticipate the needs of others and make myself available to them accordingly, which directly relates to my nurturing personality. I believe this is vital for a doula to possess. My clients rely on my peaceful, compassionate, loving, supportive nature to help them feel empowered, informed, and ready for this beautiful new journey. I currently reside in my hometown of Tucson, AZ after living in San Diego for 20 years. On my time off you can find me enjoying my time with my family, hiking, camping, working in the garden or just about anything that gets me outside and enjoying this beautiful planet we live on.
Birth Doula Certification - International Doula Institute (2024)
Postpartum Doula Certification - International Doula Institute (2024)
Childbirth Educator Certification - International Doula Institute (2024)
Breastfeeding Counselor Certification (2025)
English
As a Certified Birth & Postpartum Doula, I offer personalized care and continuous support to guide you through your pregnancy, birth, and beyond. I strive to create a nurturing environment where you feel heard, respected, and lovingly supported. With a commitment to empowerment, advocacy, and holistic wellness, choosing me means choosing a partner who will prioritize your needs, honor your choices, and work hard to help you achieve the positive birth experience you deserve. I have over 20 years of photography experience allowing me to beautifully document your birth, as well as being a Certified Breastfeeding Counselor and Childbirth Educator. These credentials and experiences allow me to provide a wide spectrum of expertise and knowledge.
I cannot imagine my birth story without Marie. From our first meeting I knew she was a perfect fit. I had a scheduled induction for medical reasons and from the moment my induction began, she was the steady, nurturing anchor my entire family needed. Everyone tells you that Pitocin contractions are a different level of intensity, and I know for a fact I wouldn't have survived two hours of unmedicated labor without Marie right by my side. She was perfectly in sync with me—mimicking breathing techniques, providing hip squeezes, and offering the exact words of encouragement I needed to keep going. What truly makes Marie amazing however, is how she cared for my entire support system. My husband and mom both have knee issues, and my husband can get queasy, yet Marie made sure they were comfortable and involved without ever feeling pushed aside. She managed the 'roles' we had discussed prior perfectly: she empowered my husband to be my advocate and supported my mom in her role of comfort, all while keeping the peace and ensuring no one’s feelings were hurt. Even when nerves were high in the room, Marie’s calming energy was infectious. She even formed a beautiful partnership with our nurse, supporting him just as much as she supported us. Marie has a rare gift for making everyone in the room feel loved, seen, and capable. If you want a doula who is as skilled with physical support as she is with emotional intelligence and family dynamics, Marie is the one. She turned a high-intensity induction into an experience where I felt completely held and empowered.
- Elyse
I cannot recommend Marie highly enough. After three previous c-sections (without a doula), I was determined to achieve a successful VBAC (Vaginal Birth After Cesarean), especially since many doctors take a "once a c-section, always a c-section" approach. Having Marie by my side put me at complete ease.Marie was incredibly honest that I would have been her first VBAC, and she immediately showed her dedication by taking the time to learn the extra precautions needed. I shared with her the trauma from my prior deliveries—where providers rushed to surgery rather than allowing time to reposition, and where I was treated with disrespect.Marie supported my goal to avoid unnecessary interventions. She took the time to review what she could do to help voice my concerns and ensure I had time to process decisions. Throughout the 62 hours of hospital labor, she was an unwavering advocate. When hospital staff came in rushing about the baby's heart rate, Marie helped me change positions, and the issue resolved immediately. When a night surgeon questioned why I wanted more children instead of opting for a c-section, Marie kept me grounded and focused.Though a 62-hour labor wasn't what we planned for, Marie refused to leave my side despite being tired. Thanks to her support, I had a successful vaginal delivery after three c-sections, defying the odds. If Marie hadn't been in my corner, I don't think I could have trusted myself to withstand the pressure for 60 hours. I am forever grateful for her dedication and care. Marie truly shines when helping women through their most vulnerable situations. Her empathetic nature and unwavering advocacy make her an exceptional doula.
- America B.
I cannot recommend Marie highly enough. After three previous c-sections (without a doula), I was determined to achieve a successful VBAC (Vaginal Birth After Cesarean), especially since many doctors take a "once a c-section, always a c-section" approach. Having Marie by my side put me at complete ease. Marie was incredibly honest that I would have been her first VBAC, and she immediately showed her dedication by taking the time to learn the extra precautions needed. I shared with her the trauma from my prior deliveries—where providers rushed to surgery rather than allowing time to reposition, and where I was treated with disrespect. Marie supported my goal to avoid unnecessary interventions. She took the time to review what she could do to help voice my concerns and ensure I had time to process decisions. Throughout the 62 hours of hospital labor, she was an unwavering advocate. When hospital staff came in rushing about the baby's heart rate, Marie helped me change positions, and the issue resolved immediately. When a night surgeon questioned why I wanted more children instead of opting for a c-section, Marie kept me grounded and focused. Though a 62-hour labor wasn't what we planned for, Marie refused to leave my side despite being tired. Thanks to her support, I had a successful vaginal delivery after three c-sections, defying the odds. If Marie hadn't been in my corner, I don't think I could have trusted myself to withstand the pressure for 60 hours. I am forever grateful for her dedication and care. Marie truly shines when helping women through their most vulnerable situations. Her empathetic nature and unwavering advocacy make her an exceptional doula.
- America
Marie was amazing! Throughout the whole process of working with her - before, during & after birth - she was reliable, kind, clear in her communication, prepared, thoughtful, and intentional. It’s clear she has a real passion for this work and takes her job as a Birth Worker very seriously. She goes the extra mile to make sure you have quality care with a lot of genuine heart. During the birth itself, she proactively helped us manage labor & pain with such ease & insight — I cannot imagine having gone through birth without her!
- Deborah
We were so blessed to find Marie in time for the birth of our third child. Her breadth of experience and natural empathy made me feel instantly comfortable. She has a very high EQ and is so well in tune with the needs of the mother and child during such an important time in our lives. She was a blessing for our family and I know she would be for yours as well!
- Kristie P.
We were so blessed to find Marie in time for the birth of our third child. Her breadth of experience and natural empathy made me feel instantly comfortable. She has a very high EQ and is so well in tune with the needs of the mother and child during such an important time in our lives. She was a blessing for our family and I know she would be for yours as well!
- Kristie Partin-Agarwal
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