Clarissa Alves

Union, New Jersey

Clarissa Alves

3 years of experience

I am Clarissa Alves, a certified doula and the heart behind Mooncradle Matrescence. My philosophy for birth work is rooted in bodily autonomy, informed consent, and deep respect for each family’s lived experience. As an Afro Indigenous mother, born in the Bronx and navigating the maternal healthcare system as a person of color, I understand how systems can fail families, silence intuition, and pathologize normal experiences. My work is grounded in decolonizing birth, honoring ancestral wisdom alongside evidence based care, and creating spaces where people feel seen, protected, and empowered to make choices that are right for them. I believe birth is not something to be controlled, but something to be supported, whether that looks like an unmedicated birth, a cesarean, a VBAC, or postpartum healing. My role is to hold space without judgment, provide honest education, and walk alongside families with compassion, reverence, and unwavering advocacy.

Diane Nader Giresi

Staten Island, New York

5.0 (2 reviews)

Diane Nader Giresi

6 years of experience

Hi I'm Diane Nader Giresi, I'm a DONA Trained and Certified Postpartum Doula, a Certified Lactation Counselor and a Pre/Postnatal Fitness Trainer. I realized with the birth of my first child, that I had to include a wellness plan for my overall wellbeing. I believe we go through different journeys throughout our lives and with each journey, we face challenges. My goal as a postpartum doula, is to provide my clients with individualized non-judgmental support that encourages them on their journey as new parents. Continuing education is always at the forefront, so I can provide the most up to date evidence based research and resources. I attend many workshops and conferences on the ever changing protocols on tongue-tie and oral restrictions. I provide extensive lactation support if choosing to breastfeed. I help develop strategies for success, back to work plans, weaning, pumping, and flange fitting. In addition to newborn care, understanding cues, and newborn sleep patterns. Support looks different for each family. I listen to your needs and together we form a plan that serves your new family unit.

Recent review

Being in postpartum has made a lot of things more difficult but Diane's help has made one of those hardest things so much more enjoyable and approachable. She was extremely non-judgmental, very attentive, and very observant. I thought all was lost and the meltdowns would be normal,,but after Diane's visit, both baby and I had a much easier time approaching breastfeeding.

- sarah r.

Gabrielle Ardolino

Staten Island, New York

5.0 (4 reviews)

Gabrielle Ardolino

4 years of experience

Hello! I’m Gabrielle. A little bit about me and what sets me apart: I am an Ayurvedic birth and postpartum doula, an Holistic Pregnancy and Birth Practitioner (HPBP), and I am in my final year of a Master of Science degree in Integrative Medicine and Ayurveda Health. And, aside from all of that, I have been a career nanny for over a decade with experience working with moms and postpartum. My knowledge of this ancient wisdom of Ayurveda allows me to bring a unique approach to your postpartum by focusing on nourishment, healing, rest, + bonding. My focus is to hold you so you can hold your baby. As we enter into this sacred journey together, know that my intention during every stage is done with the utmost reverence and respect for the art of bringing new life into the world, and I am merely a bystander in your new journey to motherhood. I am so looking forward to serving you.

Recent review

Gabrielle is an absolute star! My husband and I met her when I was about 5 or 6 months pregnant and stayed in touch and close until the birth of our baby girl. We’d settled on a postpartum care package which quickly began to involve overnight support and general help / care for our newborn. It was clear from the moment we met Gabrielle that her sound judgment, introspection, and thoughtfulness as a human being made up the essence of her work. Frankly, we wanted no one else around helping us and being around our new little addition to the family. Our trust in her was immense from the get go. Gabrielle is warm, generous, wise beyond her years, and always there to respect and communicate through a parent’s journey. She is honest and prizes true matches with families - like us, she is all about connecting on a deeper level. Gabrielle believes deeply in the positive of fostering positive and nurturing energy - she has a true commitment to her passion of supporting families in the greatest of life’s adventures! We have come to greatly prize her authenticity, reliability and genuine love of children (in this case, our little baby girl!). We hope this is only the beginning of years of collaboration and work with Gabrielle!

- Saskia C.

Linda Steinhauser

Boonton, New Jersey

Linda Steinhauser

13 years of experience
Accepts insurances

. There’s no need to go it alone. I’m certified as both a birth and postpartum doula as well as a newborn care specialist. As a labor doula I’ll provide non-judgmental support and do everything I can to help you achieve your birth plan. As a postpartum doula , I’m here to let you rest by taking care of all your newborn’s needs. Feedings, laundry, you name it. I’ll take care of it for you. Your child will be so loved.

Kamille Duff

Scotchtown, New York

Kamille Duff

3 years of experience
Accepts insurances

Greetings Beautiful Soul! My name is Kamille, I am a Certified Birth and Postpartum Doula. I am located in Middletown, NY and serve the Hudson Valley and Westchester areas. Birth work is my true passion and purpose of this life journey. I find joy in serving mothers and families on this journey. I intentionally provide birthing people and their families with the highest level of care and support during this new transition. My practice includes creating a judgement free zone, providing education, emotional support, and advocacy. As a mother myself, my motto is to "Mothering the Mother". I strongly believe that all births are a work of art, each so beautiful and unique. I am also a breastfeeding peer support with a personal experience of 2.5 years breastfeeding my son. In the my spare time, I enjoy spending time with my son, painting, working out, and the occasional binge watching of reality tv lol. I am looking forward to connecting with and supporting you on your journey!

Dana Oakes-Sand

Winchester, Connecticut

5.0 (3 reviews)

Dana Oakes-Sand

24 years of experience
Accepts insurances

Birth never gets old to me. It’s always beautiful, surprising and full of hope and promise. Over 23 years of being a doula, I’ve seen so many amazing people become parents and new babies join us- some of whom are grownup now! My philosophy is that, you know yourself, and I believe in your ability to make the choices that are best for you and your family at your birth- my goal is to support you during the process, answer questions, help you make informed decisions when presented with unexpected circumstances and help with practical solutions to issues such as a baby who isn’t in an optimal position, social/emotional issues and needs, supporting your partner and other children and animals and more. I bring tens of thousands of hours of time spent with people in labor worth of knowledge to you and your birth, and whatever you choose- epidural, unmedicated, induction, cesarean, etc makes no difference to me, I will support you through whatever you choose, help you achieve your very best outcome and make sure you are safe and validated throughout. You are all my life’s work, and I’m grateful to be trusted with your care.

Recent review

Dana, my Doula has been an amazing support to me during pregnancy the birth and postpartum. I would highly recommend any expecting mother work with Dana for any and all of her Doula needs. She was such a great person to have with me through my pregnancy and postpartum journey, and I can’t imagine my journey without her! Her abundance of knowledge, guidance and resources are unparalleled!

- Alex W.

Maritday Rodriguez

New Paltz, New York

Maritday Rodriguez

17 years of experience

I offer full spectrum prenatal coaching and pregnancy preparedness programs customized to meet you specifically where you are, whether you are, thinking about conceiving, trying to conceive, pregnant, ready to give birth, and once you are home with your precious babe! This amazing journey began over 25 years ago, unbeknownst to me the remembering had begun- learning, practicing, and teaching about women’s empowerment, nutrition, energy medicine, herbal medicine, holistic, skincare, natural health and reproductive wellness – Fertility, Ante-Partum, Birth & Post-Partum (Full Spectrum-miscarriage, stillborn, abortion, adoption) Wholistic Doula.

Chelsea Da Paz

East Haddam, Connecticut

Chelsea Da Paz

6 years of experience

Hi there! I'm Chelsea – a wife, stay-at-home parent of two, certified birth and postpartum doula, and babywearing educator based in Connecticut. With over two decades of experience working with children and families, my journey includes a master's degree in education and 11 years of teaching music to students from PreK through grade 12. My path to becoming a doula was inspired by the isolating and challenging nature of the postpartum months. Having navigated this journey myself, I realized the importance of support during this period. I aim to alleviate the isolation many face by offering guidance and understanding. Having been the first in my friend group to experience parenthood, I understand the complexities and uncertainties. My role is to provide a compass, steering you away from the confusing and sometimes overwhelming information available online. Join me in creating a supportive community, where I offer education, solidarity, empowerment, strength, and empathy to ease your transition into parenthood

Lelia Marino

Staten Island, New York

Lelia Marino

5 years of experience
Accepts insurances

Hello, my name is Lelia Marino and I am a full spectrum doula, herbalist, and reiki practitioner located in Staten Island, New York. My motto is supporting you from womb to world, and I am dedicated to providing compassionate and holistic care for individuals and families during the journey of pregnancy, birth, and postpartum. As a full spectrum doula, I support individuals through all pregnancy outcomes, including abortion and miscarriage. I also incorporate herbalism and reiki into my practice to provide physical and emotional support for my clients. I am committed to creating a safe and empowering space for individuals and families to make informed decisions and have a positive birthing experience.

Marissa Catania

Hartford, Connecticut

5.0 (4 reviews)

Marissa Catania

5 years of experience

I am a DONA certified doula working throughout Connecticut to support parents on their prenatal, birth, and postpartum journeys. I have experience with multiples, home births, water births, and hospital births. I have worked with those needing strong a human rights advocate and can assist you in gathering the information you need to make informed decisions. I am able to physically support you through birth by utilizing Spinning Babies techniques, as well as information from Birth Monopoly to help inform you of your birthing rights. I also have a Master's Degree in Special Education, and have been a special education teacher for 5 years. Working with children and families has always been my niche, and being a Doula is the best of both worlds. I am here to encourage, love, and empower you as you embark on this life-changing experience. Every birthing person deserves to be supported through their pregnancy and postpartum period. Please don't hesitate to reach out for more information!

Recent review

Marissa helped us get ready for the arrival of our first baby. We had two meetings before our girl arrived a little earlier then expected. The first meeting was getting to know each other and Marissa gave us tons informative videos we were able to watch and a few social media accounts to follow with very helpful exercises, stretches, and general partner bonding. Marissa encouraged me through the ending of my pregnancy to stay active and hydrated also to practice breath work whenever I had a moment! Marissa was always quick to respond to me or my husband's text messages or calls Even when we had the silliest of questions! She recommended a wonderful book for my husband so that he was as supportive as possible in the delivery room. Our second meeting we went over some of the best positions to be in during labor and my Birth plan. The day that I was induced, Marissa was Incredibly supportive via text message until she was able to get to the hospital. She made sure that we were asking the right questions to our providers to make sure that we were getting all the info we needed to make informed decisions. During labor Marissa was very Helpful in reminding me to breathe and counting for me during contractions. She captured some of the most beautiful photos for my husband and I during this time as well! My birth felt easier because of the suggestions Marissa gave us and the reminds in option I had in each stage of labor and birth!

- Falishia P.

Lauren Auwood

Glastonbury, Connecticut

Lauren Auwood

11 years of experience

Hi! I’m a licensed psychotherapist and my practice is dedicated to supporting millennial women as they navigate motherhood. Whether that be deciding if motherhood is right for you, pregnancy, postpartum struggles, or relationship dynamic issues. As a millennial mom of 2 myself, I truly understand the challenges that come with being a woman and a mother. Our generation is breaking a lot of cycles and while that is so healing, it can also be very overwhelming. No matter where you are in your journey, I’m here to support you. I offer a personal-centered approach with warmth, compassion, humor, and safety.

Nicole Chen

Mount Vernon, New York

5.0 (9 reviews)

Nicole Chen

11 years of experience

I am a Certified Nurse Midwife (CNM) with over 10 years of full-scope practice in women’s health and prenatal care. I am also an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC), providing comprehensive support throughout pregnancy, postpartum, and beyond. My practice is rooted in holistic, patient-centered care—addressing physical health, emotional well-being, and overall balance. I believe in caring for the whole person, not just symptoms, and partnering with patients to support long-term wellness. In addition to midwifery and lactation care, I offer aesthetic services and IV hydration therapies to promote vitality, confidence, and optimal health at every stage of life.

Recent review

I had an amazing experience with my lactation consultant and couldn’t be more grateful for Nicole and her support. She has been incredibly knowledgeable, patient, and compassionate, taking the time to listen to my concerns and explain everything clearly. She made me feel comfortable and confident during a time that can be very overwhelming for new parents. Her guidance truly made a difference in my breastfeeding journey. I highly recommend her to anyone looking for expert care and genuine support.

- Yahneece C.

Jessica Riocci

Norwalk, Connecticut

Jessica Riocci

8 years of experience
Accepts insurances

Hi there, my name is Jessica Riocci. I'm a holistic psychotherapist who helps women through the initiations of pregnancy, postpartum, and motherhood. My therapeutic style is warm, nurturing, and intuitive. I offer in-person psychotherapy in Norwalk, Connecticut, and virtual psychotherapy for those in Connecticut and New York.

Megan Mendoza

Darien, Connecticut

Megan Mendoza

5 years of experience

My name is Megan Mendoza, I’m a birth doula and am passionate about educating birthing people and helping them learn about their options when it comes to childbirth and postpartum. I have an incredible husband, David. Together we have two amazing and very energetic little boys Grover and August, and a sweet heart of a dog Lola. As a family we love to hike and travel as much as we can. While I was pregnant with our second (August) we traveled full time in a school bus converted into a tiny house. This is when I really found my voice to advocate for myself. Everyone thought (and told us several times!) that we were crazy for having a young toddler and expanding our family while we didn’t have a "typical" house. But I knew that it was possible and that I was going to have the birth I had dreamed about. A few months later I was able to have an empowered V-BAC birth. Through this experience I discovered my love for helping women find their own voices and to help advocate for themselves to have the empowered births they desire, whatever that may be.

Allison Petrides

New Canaan, Connecticut

Allison Petrides

7 years of experience

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.

Ariel Aguilera

Stamford, Connecticut

5.0 (1 review)

Ariel Aguilera

10 years of experience
Accepts insurances

Ariel Aguilera has been working with newborns and young babies her entire life. Since 2013, starting at a family house with a preemie baby, over to a low-income daycare where she took care of 7 babies by herself in the nursery area, to come to the United States in 2018 to become an au pair, and off to a childcare career. Ariel completed her training course through Newborn Care Solutions and is a CACHE Certified Newborn Care Specialist. She has experience working with special needs and multiples; besides being a mom herself. Her expertise lies in routine and sleep hygiene. Besides hands-on experience, Ariel also has a training course on how to identify Brachycephaly & Plagiocephaly, is a trained sleep trainer/consultant, and is a CAPPA Lactation Educator & Postpartum Doula. Pediatric CPR, AED, and First Aid, and being up to date on her vaccinations are also on her resume.

Recent review

We had a wonderful experience with Ariel as our postpartum doula. We would recommend her.

- Sarah N.

Allison Panesar

Stamford, Connecticut

5.0 (1 review)

Allison Panesar

6 years of experience

Hi, I’m Allison! I’m a mom of two and pediatric sleep consultant certified through The Family Sleep Institute. I founded The Sleep Collaborative to offer families research-backed, compassionate sleep solutions for improving their children’s sleep. I have expertise in all sleep training methods, ranging from extremely gentle ones all the way to extinction. I provide a safe, judgement free zone for parents and always make sure that my recommendations fall within their comfort zone. My plans and recommendations are personalized for each unique child/family, and I never offer a one-size-fits all approach! Please reach out to see how I can start helping your family.

Recent review

We were a little skeptical that anything would work. Our baby wouldn’t sleep through the night. Now he does. We would review her 5 stars a million times. Unbelievable! Worth every penny.

- Alexander T.

Trisha DeFelice

Stamford, Connecticut

Trisha DeFelice

16 years of experience
Accepts insurances

Hi! My name is Trisha, I’m a certified postpartum doula who offers travel contracts to those seeking support! My husband and I moved from Stamford, CT to NC 5 years ago where I started my doula business. I am based in North Carolina, but I regularly return to Connecticut where I was born and raised to support families through postpartum! I’m certified through ProDoula and have over 15 years of experience caring for newborns and supporting families during the postpartum period. I frequently visit the Fairfield County area to spend time with my family and friends, and I love being able to give back to the community that raised me by offering in-person postpartum care while I’m there. Whether you’re looking for overnight care, daytime support, or a calming presence during those early weeks, I’d be honored to be part of your journey.

Martha Alicia Hudson

Stamford, Connecticut

5.0 (8 reviews)

Martha Alicia Hudson

8 years of experience

With over 20 years of experience supporting families across six countries, I bring a deep understanding of the diverse ways cultures nurture parent-child relationships. My journey into birth work began as a Health Community Worker, advocating for immigrant Latino families in New York. Later, while working at a mental health agency in Connecticut, I witnessed firsthand the profound impact that nurturing, consistent, and responsive caregiving has on a child’s development. This realization fueled my passion for family support and led me to become a Birth and Postpartum Doula, ensuring families receive guidance and care from the very start of their parenting journey. Three years ago, I earned my certification in Perinatal Mental Health, allowing me to further support families through the emotional complexities of pregnancy, birth, and the postpartum period. Fluent in both Spanish and English, I am dedicated to creating a compassionate and culturally informed space for every family I serve.

Recent review

Martha brought a level of joy, reassurance and experience to our daughters birth we didn’t even know we needed. Every step of the way through my pregnancy she checked in on me and provided the guidance I needed. Our birth changed pretty rapidly but Martha’s positivity and expertise made the entire experience more enjoyable. We were able to really focus on the birth while she helped guide those around us on decisions we made beforehand. Pregnancy doesn’t just stop after birth, the emotional and physical work continues after you’re home as well. Martha is there by your side through it all! She helped change my postpartum experience immensely, I cannot thank her enough. I will forever recommend The Knitting Doula!

- Ashley Z.

Patricia Berg

Fairfield, Connecticut

Patricia Berg

36 years of experience

Patricia Berg is an International Board-Certified Lactation Consultant and a Diplomate Certified CranioSacral therapist. She was the first internationally to hold this designation. She has extensive experience in both filed. Patricia is a long-standing member of her professional organizations -ILCA and USLCA. She is active in NYLCA and The Connecticut Breastfeeding Coalition. She is on the board of the International Consortium of Ankylofrenula Professionals. She has published and spoken internationally on a number of topics ranging from the use of nipple shield to the question of tongue tie being a “fad” Her focus when working with a family is to provide research-based information so that they can make an informed decision for themselves and their family. Ms. Berg provides support and resources as they travel on the parenting journey.