LGBTQ+ Affirming Doulas in Newark, NJ

These providers list LGBTQ+ families as a specialty. Read their profiles and reviews, and message the ones who feel right for your family.

100 LGBTQ+ Affirming Doulas near Newark, NJ

Hollie Williams

Ocean Township, New Jersey 4 years of experience

5.0 (4 reviews)

Hollie Williams Popular: among the most-viewed doulas in New Jersey, last 60 days

Responds within an hour

DONA certified Birth doula, licensed massage therapist, personal trainer, Placenta Specialist and group fitness instructor, specializing in pre and post natal health and recovery. Hollie has had a love and passion for birth work for most of her adult life. After delivering her first baby 10 years ago, with the assistance of incredible doulas, she knew one day she would also become a doula. Hollie has been a massage therapist and personal trainer for nearly 20 years, working with pregnant and postpartum mothers, while raising her 3 boys. Once her youngest came to an age that she felt confident in moving into the birth worker world, she jumped in! Hollie has a deep passion for the amazing and magical experience of birth. She believes that every one who chooses to conceive, deserves the full support during this incredible time in their life.

Recent review

I honestly cannot thank Hollie enough for everything that she did to make my first pregnancy and birthing experience EXACTLY what I wanted them to be. I knew I wanted to work with a doula even before trying to get pregnant, because the statistics on medical care during childbirth for Black women in the US are shameful, and I wanted someone to be present during my birth who saw me as a person, and not just a patient. I reached out to Hollie towards the end of my third trimester, assuming the most I would get is some advice on how to finish out my last few weeks of pregnancy because it was so late, but from the first phone call, Hollie was genuinely interested in me and the family that my husband and I wanted to build and how we wanted to build it. She immediately made me feel safe. Hollie provided me constant support and advice whenever I needed it, no matter the time of the day. I always felt comfortable to reach out to her and never felt like a burden. Hollie was there for the birth of my baby girl and she set such a peaceful and encouraging atmosphere for me in the delivery room. She interacted really well with the hospital staff and made me and my husband feel equipped and knowledgeable enough to advocate for ourselves during my labor. Hollie had a great balance during my pregnancy and delivery of checking in without being overbearing or causing me to worry. And one of her superpowers is that she did a great job of giving information objectively without telling us what to do or making us feel pressured to choose one option over another. She was so incredibly supportive of all of our decisions. In the end, Hollie definitely set expectations well, and then exceeded those expectations. I never thought I'd be so comfortable during childbirth, and that is all thanks to Hollie. I couldn't have asked for a more kind, compassionate, attentive and knowledgeable doula than Hollie. Even now that my daughter is here, Hollie still checks in and I am able to ask her anything. If I have the opportunity to have Hollie present at all future births, I will do so in a heartbeat. I recommend Hollie to every pregnant woman I know and I truly hope they listen. Hollie is the absolute best.

- Deanna R.

Jenna Toulantis

Lebanon, New Jersey 3 years of experience

5.0 (11 reviews)

Jenna Toulantis

Hiring a doula who’s also a photographer seamlessly combines emotional support with the artistry of capturing intimate moments Beyond providing guidance during childbirth, a doulatog ensures that every poignant, transformative instance is beautifully documented, offering a dual role that enhances both the emotional and visual narrative of this profoundly personal journey

Recent review

I feel so blessed that I was able to have Jenna during the end of my pregnancy, during the birth of my son, and postpartum. It is so evident that she really cares so much, and I was so grateful for all the check ins during my pregnancy and postpartum!! No question was ever too much for her and I’m so grateful for her extensive knowledge, kindness and care. My birth didn’t go as I had initially planned, but Jenna helped us to ensure this birth experience was positive and helped us to navigate decisions we didn’t anticipate. She helped me feel at peace when I had questions and helped me feel empowered to make decisions that I knew were best for me. When I had complications after birth, she even drove back to the hospital to be there for me and my husband- I mean amazing!! My only regret is not finding her sooner! I didn’t initially plan on having a doula, but I am SO glad I found Jenna and would recommend her to anyone whether this is your first baby or your 3rd! I know my birth experience would have been drastically different if it weren’t for her. Thank you Jenna, we are so very thankful for you!!

- Erin M.

Claire Lovell

Armonk, New York 10 years of experience

5.0 (1 review)

Claire Lovell

Certification verified NPI verified Responds within an hour Accepts insurance

Hi, I’m Claire. I was inspired after a difficult first birth to learn more about childbirth, pregnancy and lactation and it quickly became a passion to support women in their pregnancies and postpartum periods. I have been honored to spend over 10 years supporting pregnant women. I am a DONA certified doula in childbirth and lactation offering birth, prenatal, and postpartum services. My own births have run the gamut from a Northern California birthing center to NY's largest hospital, giving me unique perspective across the many ways and places women can give birth. Additionally, I have worked as a caregiver for serious medical events outside of birth, giving me the ability to navigate the medical system with efficiency to maximally benefit patients. I utilize an evidence-based and compassionate approach to advocating for parents in the birthing room. I also offer emotional and physical assistance for all birth types and outcomes to a diverse set of families. I am is honored to work with families to give them the best experience possible during their births. Postpartum, I offer home visits and non-judgmental and reassuring lactation support. I was born and raised in Westchester County and am based in Armonk, NY. I am the mother to two young daughters and enjoys exploring the outdoors, photography, sewing and reading outside of my birthwork.

Recent review

Claire was an invaluable and irreplaceable part of our birth experience. Claire's experience and guidance helped us thoughtfully create a birth plan that met our goals, which included managing my own expectations. As these things go, my birth plan was merely the road map for a very different series of events, and every step of the way, Claire was incredibly supportive in both the physical and emotional elements of the birth of our daughter. Claire’s presence and advocacy was instrumental to my husband and I communicating effectively with the hospital team and her support following the birth was immeasurable, both in hospital and at home post-partum. Her contributions to our birth exceeded my expectations, especially under unexpected circumstances. Claire's practice of providing us with evidence-based information needed to make our own informed decisions was grounding and invaluable. We are so thankful for Claire's support throughout our first pregnancy and birth.

- Emily W.

Allison Petrides

New Canaan, Connecticut 7 years of experience

Allison Petrides

After birthing three children within a time span of five years, I couldn't help but recognize how overwhelming pregnancy, childbirth and parenting in general can be. I also had an unfavorable birthing experience with my first child. I was young, under-supported with financially limited options and felt "under-qualified" to be part of labor and delivery decision making. I simply left everything up to my obstetrician. I was told what to do and what not to do, what to take, where to go and even when to push. I was rarely asked for consent, but rather told what they were doing to me as they decided to do it. It all felt so clinical, as if I was in the hospital due to an illness rather than a healthy, natural event. I felt lonely, helpless and scared for three days straight. Needless to say, the experience left me wondering what could have been done differently and what choices each pregnant mother has to create a more empowered, positive birthing experience. ​ The moment I discovered doula work, it gave me a sense of relief learning that our society has a support system specially geared for the mother to be guided and assisted through this journey. I personally feel that our culture has brainwashed us to believe that childbirth is simply a painful burden to endure. (Cue television and movie clips where the laboring woman is screaming bloody murder and everyone is rushing around her as if there is a scary emergency to be remedied.) However, with the right knowledge and support, there can be such beauty and empowerment that comes with knowing all of your choices and feeling in control while fully trusting that your body has the capability and the strength to do exactly what it's meant to do - create new life and make miracles happen. ​ I am a certified labor doula (CLD) and certified postpartum doula (CPD) through CAPPA (Childbirth and Postpartum Professional Association). I actively attend workshops, courses and continuing education classes on childbirth, hypnobirthing, fetal positioning, breastfeeding, postpartum, baby care basics and holding space for pregnancy loss in the Fairfield County, CT area. I am also Certified in Usui Reiki Levels I & II. ​ I am passionate about childbirth and I work incredibly hard to ensure that my clients have a positive and memorable birth experience however they may envision that to look like. My goal is for you to feel informed, respected and for your voice to be heard by your birthing team in your chosen birth environment.

Seana Percy

Brick Township, New Jersey 2 years of experience

5.0 (4 reviews)

Seana Percy Background checked · Oct 2026

NPI verified Responds within a few hours Accepts insurance

I’m Seana, founder of Happy Mother Doula, a mother of three, certified postpartum doula, and certified perinatal mental health professional. My work is dedicated to improving the postpartum experience so mothers feel supported, families feel more confident, and welcoming a baby comes with the care every parent deserves. My own experience with postpartum anxiety and depression shaped my commitment to this work. I provide compassionate, practical support through newborn care, feeding guidance, opportunities for rest, and emotional support—with the mother’s well-being at the center. I believe that caring for mothers strengthens the entire family. My goal is to help make postpartum a healthier, happier, and more supported experience, without the expectation of perfection.

Recent review

I absolutely LOVED working with Seana and having her support after I had my son. She helped me in so many ways, whether it be emotionally, psychically around the house, and just being there for me in tough moments and transitions. As a new mom, she taught me things I wasn't comfortable with yet, like setting up my pumps and showing me how to use them and also bathing my newborn. We had so many great laughs and she really brightened my postpardum experience. I know with each month as he gets older, new challenges arise, and I can see us needing her again down the road! It's never too early or too late to have her support!

- Michelle Richard

Ireta Hunter

Newburgh, New York 12 years of experience

5.0 (2 reviews)

Ireta Hunter Popular: among the most-viewed doulas in New York, last 60 days

Accepts insurance

My love for the birthing world started at a young age. I followed my dreams and became a Labor and Delivery nurse. I have been a nurse for 11 years (the 9 most recent years being on Labor and Delivery and post partum). I am a mom to 4 gorgeous children, each of who came into the world with their very own unique birthing story and feeding journey. Each one of my journeys has provided me the ability to educate and advocate for my patients and clients. My love for advocating, support, education and the birthing world led me to obtain my birth and postpartum doula certifications. I believe in customizing plans that meet each family's goals and needs! I'm excited to be considered a part of your journey! Now Accepting new clients with limited October 2025 Availability. Full availability November 2025-all of 2026. Serving Westchester, Rockland, Putnam, Dutchess, Orange and Ulster Counties in NY, Bergen County NJ and Fairfield CT and NYC

Recent review

I cannot say enough wonderful things about my experience with Ireta Hunter. From the moment labor began, she was a calming and reassuring presence. She stayed right by my side, rubbing my feet through contractions, offering words of encouragement, and helping me stay grounded and focused. She recommended sitting on the peanut ball during my labor and it was a game changer from my previous labor. Because of her support, I was able to have the natural birth I had hoped for—it was truly an empowering experience that I will carry with me forever. She reminded me of my strength at every step, and I felt safe, supported, and confident in my choices. Even after birth, she continued to check in and offer postpartum support, which meant so much during those first tender days. Her compassion, knowledge, and gentle presence made such a difference in my journey in motherhood. If you’re looking for a doula who is not only skilled but truly cares about you as a whole person, I wholeheartedly recommend Ireta Hunter. She helped me welcome my baby into the world in the most beautiful way, and I am endlessly grateful.

- Natalie W.

Clarissa Alves

Bangor, Pennsylvania 3 years of experience

5.0 (6 reviews)

Clarissa Alves

I’m Clarissa Alves, a certified doula and the person behind Mooncradle Matrescence. My work is rooted in bodily autonomy, informed consent, reproductive justice, and the belief that every family deserves to be heard, respected, and supported without judgment. As an Afro-Indigenous mother born and raised in the Bronx, I know that navigating maternal healthcare as a person of color can come with its own challenges. Too often, people are dismissed, their instincts are questioned, and normal experiences are treated like problems that need to be fixed. That’s a big part of why I do this work. I want families to know their rights, understand their options, and feel empowered to make decisions about their own bodies and their own births. For me, birth work also means challenging the systems and beliefs that have shaped the way we approach pregnancy, birth, and postpartum care. I believe in decolonizing birth, honoring ancestral wisdom, and making room for evidence based care without losing sight of the person at the center of it all. Our ancestors have always had knowledge worth honoring, and families deserve care that respects both that wisdom and their individual needs. I don’t believe there is one right way to give birth. An unmedicated birth, a cesarean, a VBAC, or a birth that looks nothing like someone planned all deserve the same respect. My job isn’t to push my beliefs onto anyone or decide what their birth should look like. It’s to provide honest education, help families understand their choices, advocate for their autonomy, and stand beside them through whatever their journey looks like, including the parts that come after birth. At Mooncradle Matrescence, I want families to feel safe enough to ask questions, speak up, change their minds, and trust themselves. You deserve to be treated like a person, not a problem to manage. You deserve to have your voice heard, your boundaries respected, and your choices honored. That’s the kind of care I believe in, and that’s the kind of care I’m here to provide.

Recent review

Having Clarissa as my doula was truly a once in a lifetime experience! Straight from the beginning, she was there for me throughout my entire pregnancy. Whatever questions I had, she helped me answer. She also helped me create a personalized birth plan step by step. When my water broke, I called her immediately and she was on her way. She showed up with things to decorate my hospital room, as well as pain management items, and a peanut & labor ball. Ambient lighting, oil diffuser, and words of affirmation on cards. These things really helped set the tone for my whole labor. As I progressed, I got good use out of all the pain relief items Clarissa brought. My personal favorite was the TENS machine and comb. Clarissa also made sure to advocate for my wants, needs, and rights as a patient. This truly meant a lot to me, as I feared a hospital birth due to hearing about mistreatment of new mothers who aren’t fully aware of their rights. As I started experiencing more intense pain, Clarissa jumped into action to help with pressure points and positioning my body in a way to ease pain. She helped me with breathing techniques and ways to move my hip on the birthing ball she brought along. All of these things made such a tremendous impact on how beautiful my whole experience was. Clarissa was right there squeezing my hand tight, holding my leg, and cheering me along so I knew I was able to do this. That was the strength I needed. Finally, my daughter was born! Clarissa made sure I got immediate skin-to-skin and a good deep latch to kick off my breastfeeding journey. We both laughed and cried when my daughter came out, it was truly one of the most beautiful experiences I’ve ever had! Throughout my postpartum weeks, Clarissa made sure to check in with me daily as she did when I was pregnant to assure I was doing okay, and to answer any general questions I had about breastfeeding, postpartum care, and being a new mom in general! All her advice was so helpful. Choosing Clarissa as my doula was one of the best decisions I could have made. If you want an individualized experience with someone who is passionate about helping moms, Clarissa is the perfect person for that!

- Maya D.

Maria Lodato

Bohemia, New York 2 years of experience

5.0 (1 review)

Maria Lodato

Hello families! My name is Maria and I am a new doula working towards my DONA certification and I can't wait to be apart of your birth team! As your doula, I offer compassionate and personalized support to ensure you feel empowered and cared for throughout your pregnancy, birth, and postpartum journey. With a deep commitment to your physical comfort and emotional well-being, I provide evidence-based information, continuous encouragement, and hands-on techniques to make your experience as smooth and positive as possible. Whether you desire a medicated or unmedicated birth, I respect your choices and advocate for your needs, helping you navigate the process with confidence. My goal is to create a calming presence, foster a sense of control, and support both you and your partner every step of the way. By choosing me as your doula, you gain a dedicated, nurturing guide who is fully invested in your birth experience and early parenthood transition. The philosophy of birth doula care is rooted in the belief that childbirth is a transformative experience that deserves respect, support, and informed decision-making.

Recent review

I had the most incredible experience with Maria! From start to finish, she was so attentive, supportive, and truly went above and beyond to make sure I had everything I needed. She listened to all my preferences and did exactly what I asked for, which made me feel so cared for and empowered. Her knowledge and calm presence made such a huge difference in my delivery—she helped me feel confident, comfortable, and prepared every step of the way. I honestly can’t imagine going through labor without her by my side. She played a huge role in making my birth experience so much better, and I’m beyond grateful. Highly recommend to any mama-to-be looking for the best support possible! 💛

- Aryielle R.

Iyonia (i-Yah-Na) Guinyard

Burlington, New Jersey 7 years of experience

5.0 (3 reviews)

Iyonia (i-Yah-Na) Guinyard

Accepts insurance

Greetings All My name is Iyonia Shavon. I have been a Certified Perinatal Doula, Uzazi Village, 2019, Certified Labor Doula, CAPPA 2023, & NJDLC Doula Mentor. In 2021 I became a NJ Medicaid Doula contract provider with all New Jersey Managed Care organizations and founded my private doula practice Kind Comforting Births LLC. In January of 2023 I contracted with Commercial Horizon BCBS NJ Omnia self pay plans . In August 2024 I expanded to offer services to Horizon BCBS Federal Employee Pilot Program for doula care! As of December 2025 I can now accept Carrot Insurance! I have a passion to serve my community and all birthing persons especially those in BIPOC communities in efforts to decrease infant & maternal mortality rates. I will honor your, voice, and ensure your are provided you with the birth experience you’ve dreamt of. My mission is to decrease the terrible disparities in maternal black health by serving birth by birth and mentoring future doulas.

Recent review

Iyonia was such a blessing as my doula. She was so informative, made us feel comfortable and confident about going into labor with a plan (and a plan b, c , d… and so on) to have the labor experience me and my husband wanted while also managing our expectations (very important)! I felt alone and lost during the birth of my first born. I felt like we were isolated and kind of “rushed” through the experience. But Iyonia made sure I, (and my support team) knew my RIGHTS as a patient, the birthing options available to us, and a plan to avoid the things that I was unhappy about with my first birth. You don’t know what you don’t know, so she made sure we knew what ask for. One experience I will always hold close to my heart was after my husband went to be with the baby after my c-section, she stayed with me, held my hand and continued to give me encouraging words at a time when emotions (and hormones) were about to get the best of me! I will always appreciate her for that. It made a huge difference.

- Brittany C.

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