Jeanne-Marie Paynel

San Diego, California

Jeanne-Marie Paynel

22 years of experience

Hello, I'm Doula Jeanne-Marie, a birth doula and Montessori Parenting Mentor from birth to six. I'm passionate about supporting parents in the most important transition of their lives. I believe birth is a natural occurrence of life, and we are built to do so on our terms. As a birth doula, I am here to support you to have the birth of your choice.

Sara Marcus

Laguna Beach, California

Sara Marcus

6 years of experience

Hi, I’m Sara—a devoted doula with a deep passion for supporting families through both birth and the postpartum journey. I’ve had the privilege of being part of over 100 births, and I bring a calm, grounded presence along with a wide range of experience to every family I work with. As a mom of five—including twins—and someone who’s had home births myself, I truly understand how powerful, intense, and personal the transition into parenthood can be. Whether I’m by your side during labor or helping you navigate those tender early weeks at home, my goal is always the same: to provide steady, compassionate support tailored to your unique needs. Now that my own children are older, I’m thrilled to be reengaging fully with the work I love. Being part of this sacred chapter in people’s lives—both during birth and in those early postpartum days—is an incredible honor. If you’re looking for someone to walk with you through it all, I’d be honored to be part of your journey. Let’s take this step together.

Micah Magtoto

Laguna Niguel, California

Micah Magtoto

13 years of experience

I focus on overnight newborn support and daytime “mommy’s helper” care—everything from feeding (bottle or breastfeeding support), diaper changes, baby laundry, and sanitizing bottles and pump parts, to helping establish healthy sleep habits and routines as your baby grows. Every family is unique, and I always tailor my care to meet your specific needs and parenting style. I’d love to connect, learn more about your family, and see how I might best support you during this exciting transition.

Kelly Buckley

Lake Elsinore, California

Kelly Buckley

3 years of experience

Hello! My name is Kelly and I am a birth doula in Lake Elsinore, CA. My three children (singleton and twins) were all born at home and that set me down this beautiful path. During those pregnancies I met many birth workers who changed my life, and my eyes were open to all of the many choices and options we have for ourselves and our babies. Informed consent, birth choice advocacy and childbirth education hold a special place in my heart.

Megan Ledbetter

San Diego, California

5.0 (1 review)

Megan Ledbetter

2 years of experience
Accepts insurances

I am a second-generation doula with a passion for supporting families through pregnancy, birth, and postpartum! I am a trained as a birth doula through DONA International, and am certified for postpartum care through DNT Network. I am also privileged to be apart of the wonderful team at Leilani’s Wellness Center and Breastfeeding Fixers. With an undergrad in Early Childhood Development, I combine my educational background (I am a huge nerd!) and passion (with a huge heart!) to provide gentle guidance and care.

Recent review

I can’t say enough good things about Megan—she was an absolute godsend during the postpartum period. From the moment she walked into our home, she brought a calm, nurturing presence that made me feel supported, seen, and truly cared for. She was incredibly knowledgeable, respectful of our space and routines, and seemed to intuitively know what I needed—whether it was a warm meal, help with the baby, a listening ear, or just some time to rest. Her gentle guidance helped me build confidence as a new parent, and her emotional support was just as invaluable as her practical help. I always felt safe and never judged, which made a huge difference during such a vulnerable time. I’m so grateful to have had her by my side in those early weeks, and I honestly don’t know how I would’ve made it through without her. Highly, highly recommend her to any new parent looking for compassionate and professional postpartum care.

- Melanie G.

Lingxiao Zheng

Laguna Beach, California

Lingxiao Zheng

14 years of experience

I provide tailor made nanny, NCS and doula services. I am also approved by Carrot registry so I could help carrot beneficiary go through Carrot reimbursement. I have been in this business for 13 years. I am a DONA International Certified Postpartum Doula and Certified Birth Doula for 7 years, provided services to different American families. I am also a Certified Lactation Counselor with 13 years experiences, provided services to more than 1000 families, helping them solve their breast and lactation problems, and achieve all kinds of breastfeeding goals. I am also a California Certified massage therapist so I could provide lactation services with massage which could solve problems that counseling won’t achieve. I could also give excellent postpartum recovery massage services, helping postpartum moms heal faster; and infant massage services to help newborns sleep better, relieve gas better and burp better, which could provide in-depth services through my extended services. In a word, I could make both mom and baby live a much better life. If you are interested please call me by 1-626-295-3727

Melanie Smith

Aliso Viejo, California

Melanie Smith

13 years of experience
Accepts insurances

Hello, My name is Melanie, and I have been proudly supporting my community as a birth and postpartum doula, as well as a lactation counselor, for over 10 years. As a birth doula, my primary concern is to ensure you are informed of your options at all times and feel safe in your birth space. I enjoy working collaboratively with care teams and focus my efforts on achieving your goals for birth. It’s important to me to get to know you and your partner well, understanding your expectations of birth, each other, and me as your doula. My postpartum practice centers on the care of new mothers through nutrition support, postpartum bodywork (including massage, abdominal binding, and warming practices), lactation and feeding support, newborn education, and practical household assistance, including sibling and partner support. Please reach out for a complimentary consultation. I look forward to connecting with you! Warm regards, Melanie

Karen Fields

Aliso Viejo, California

Karen Fields

11 years of experience

As a birth doula, I strongly believe that every woman should have the birth she envisions. I am committed to providing you with unconditional support and advocacy throughout this miraculous journey. I support all families in all environments from home births to cesareans thru nurture, empowerment, and education. My goal is to show all women and their families the beauty and ease as you transition to motherhood. I am blessed to help families greet labor with knowledge, trust, and love.

Joselyn Castellanos

Laguna Hills, California

Joselyn Castellanos

6 years of experience

Hello! I’m Joselyn, a proud mom who chose home births for my two little ones. Let's look back at my life before motherhood when the idea of childbirth intimidated me more than anything, thanks to all those stories and dramatic TV shows with women screaming their heads off in the delivery room. When I became pregnant with my daughter back in 2020, I dove into research, preparing my mind, body, and spirit for a positive birth—but I completely overlooked planning for postpartum and felt quite overwhelmed. Wanting to enhance my skills, I completed a 112-hour training with Bebo Mia Inc. and became certified with Pro Doula to become a full-spectrum doula. My journey also led me to explore the rich traditions of Mexican indigenous birth and postpartum practices, allowing me to honor my heritage while expanding my knowledge.

Melissa Johnson

Mission Viejo, California

Melissa Johnson

18 years of experience

I have been an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant and postpartum doula/Newborn Care Specialist for over 16 years. I have worked in both hospital settings and privately in people’s homes. I love working with families as they learn to grow with their new babies.

Alyssa Donato DeWald

San Diego, California

5.0 (3 reviews)

Alyssa Donato DeWald

12 years of experience
Accepts insurances

My name is Alyssa, and I’m a labor and postpartum doula dedicated to supporting families in San Diego as they navigate the transformative journey of pregnancy, birth, and the postpartum period. I bring a calm and nurturing presence to every family I work with, blending my knowledge of physiological birth with tools for emotional and physical support. I’m also an herbalist and love incorporating nature’s remedies into my care, whether it’s for postpartum recovery or soothing moments during birth. Over the years, I’ve worked with countless clients, helping them feel empowered and informed every step of the way. My goal is to create a space where you feel confident, cared for, and deeply supported as you welcome your baby into the world. When I’m not attending births, you can find me creating postpartum care rituals, exploring ways to honor this sacred season, or enjoying the beauty of San Diego. I’d love the opportunity to connect and learn more about your unique vision for birth and beyond <3

Recent review

Never did I ever think I would have a doula in my birth. And I dont regret that decision at all. I went fully unmedicated for my 2nd pregnancy and it was the best decision I’ve done. Alyssa was there from beginning to end to support me and listen to me at all moments of the day. She is great as what she does and even if you aren’t planning on going unmedicated hiring her as your doula would be the best decision for an amazing birth experience.

- Aida P.

LaShaan Crane

San Diego, California

5.0 (2 reviews)

LaShaan Crane

16 years of experience

Hello, my name is LaShaan Crane. I am a Certified Nurse Midwife, Registered Nurse, childbirth educator, yoga teacher and wellness practitioner with more than 15 years of experience in women’s health, pregnancy, and postpartum care. My practice is rooted in compassion, evidence-based care, and a deep commitment to closing the gaps that too often impact BIPOC and LGBTQ+ parents. I believe every family deserves care that feels safe, affirming, and culturally grounded. My approach blends clinical expertise with trauma-informed support, nervous system tools, and clear, accessible education to help you navigate all the unknowns in the threshold of birth and beyond. I aim to create a space where identity, lived experience, and your voice are fully seen. It is a privilege to walk alongside families on this transformative journey.

Recent review

I've personally and professionally known Lashaan for 14 years and I can say with out a doubt that Lashaan's education, experience and intuitive, loving nature will be an absolute blessing to anyone she supports. Her heart expands beyond measure and she is extremely well versed in the preconception, pregnancy and postpartum periods. Her energy and presence is truly a gift!

- Amy B.

Valerie Peterson

San Diego, California

5.0 (3 reviews)

Valerie Peterson

26 years of experience

My name is Val, and I have over two decades as a birth doula in San Diego, California. I have a health care background and value this aspect of bringing my experience to all the births I support. My philosophy for birth, is to remember that a woman will always remember how she was spoken to, and treated on the day of her giving birth. I love this work, it is a calling and truly an honor to be invited to a birth. I had a mom tell me one time, while she was searching for a doula, after asking her sister who had used a doula for her second birth, responded with the following: "Using a doula is the difference of flying first class compared to coach!" This mom went on to have a fantastic experience.

Recent review

Valerie was highly recommended to us by a hospital staff member at Scripps Encinitas who was familiar with her as a doula. From our first encounter she made us feel at ease, supported and excited about the birth of our daughter. She is open, honest, down to earth, warm and caring. She is 100% her own awesome unique person and 100% about nurturing your own unique person and your own unique birth situation and wishes. Having her available throughout my birth experience felt like having a friend, sister and coach by my side the whole time. She also got along wonderfully with the hospital staff and my family which made for a beautiful team.

- Catherine M.

Laci Mattson

Santee, California

5.0 (1 review)

Laci Mattson

3 years of experience

My journey to becoming a mother was not easy. I had two very different and difficult births that taught me a lot about myself and the challenges of childbirth. My first birth was a long and exhausting labor that ended in an emergency cesarean. I felt scared, helpless, and disappointed that I couldn’t have the natural birth I wanted. My second birth was a planned cesarian, I felt unprepared, anxious, and overwhelmed by the intensity of the experience and felt guilty for not trying to deliver naturally. Both of my births left me feeling traumatized and in need of healing. ​ These experiences made me realize that there is a gap in the traditional healthcare system when it comes to supporting mothers during birth. I felt that I didn’t get enough information, education, or emotional support from my providers, and that I had to advocate for myself and my baby. I decided to become a doula to fill that gap and to help other mothers have a better birth experience. As a doula, I offer personalized and continuous support to mothers before, during, and after birth. I help them prepare for their birth, cope with their pain, communicate with their providers, and celebrate their achievements. I want every mother to feel empowered, respected, and joyful during their birth.

Recent review

Doula Laci is an amazing doula for all birthing people regardless of birth plan! Many other doulas I’ve met have pushed an exclusively “natural” birth plan but that doesn’t work for all bodies or families. Laci is amazing, understanding of multiple birth experiences and needs, and a deeply empathetic individual. You couldn’t find a better doula for your birth.

- Jamie S.

Aly Monteleone

San Diego, California

5.0 (2 reviews)

Aly Monteleone

4 years of experience
Accepts insurances

Hi, I'm Aly! I am a Labor & Postpartum Doula, Yoga Instructor, and hold my Masters degree in Social Justice. I am a nurturer and advocate! ​Clients have described me as empathetic, calm, appropriately humorous, knowledgeable, and unafraid to speak up to ensure that both the birthing person and baby are safe and comfortable. I strive to make every environment as empowering, warm, and equitable as possible. I am passionate about being a mama & partner, running, cooking, hiking my way through National Parks, finding the best lavender latte in town, and most of all, building meaningful relationships with others. I will nurture you, empower you, keep you well-fed and rested, and support your choices and questions as you prepare to welcome this new life. When your baby is born, you are also born as a parent. I’m here to hold you through that amazing (and sometimes overwhelming) shift in identity. Let’s connect!

Recent review

Aly was amazing and super easy to work with. She communicated quickly and answered all my questions during our consultation. I did my placenta encapsulation with her and she was on top of it as soon as we let her know I was in labor. She dropped off my pills and even included a little extra treat for us. Definitely recommend her services. On top of it all, she’s been super sweet and has checked up on me ppt. Thanks Aly!!

- Lizbeth B.

Perriette (Perri) Grant

San Diego, California

5.0 (3 reviews)

Perriette (Perri) Grant

4 years of experience
Accepts insurances

I’m Perri Grant, a compassionate doula based in the vibrant city of San Diego, My dedication is to empower mothers throughout their birthing journeys. I have a genuine passion for maternal well-being, and I am committed to providing unwavering support to expecting mothers. I advocate and ensure that your voice and choices are respected and heard during medical interventions. As a black doula, it is essential to acknowledge the persistent disparities in mortality rates among black and brown women. I am committed to providing a supportive and empowering birthing experience actively addresses the unique challenges faced by black and brown mothers, contributing to the broader effort to reduce these disparities..

Recent review

I love Perri! She was there for me last minute for my birth and i wouldn’t have made it without her. She took on almost everything and got me to understand the nurses and doctors. As a single mom i was overwhelmed, nervous, terrified, and more. With with all that, I’m glad she showed up last minute when she was called because i had literally no one that could be there and by the grace of god she showed up and so did my sons godmother. She doesn’t just stop at the hospital. Still, throughout my postpartum, she has still given me 110% support and is able to guide me into motherhood smoothly. She will forever be apart of our lives. I 100000/10 recommend her to any mothers in need of a supportive doula.

- Ashley H.

Cheyenne Fletcher

San Diego, California

5.0 (4 reviews)

Cheyenne Fletcher

6 years of experience

Hi, I’m Cheyenne! I take great pride in the care and services I offer. With over six years of experience as a birth, bereavement, and postpartum doula and more than fifteen years as a professional caregiver and house manager, I am deeply dedicated to supporting families as they grow, learn, and navigate parenthood. I am also a licensed foster parent in California, serving the San Diego County community with compassion and commitment. I value word-of-mouth connections because they build trust and create a more personal experience, allowing families to feel comfortable reaching out with any questions. I can’t wait to connect with you!

Recent review

Cheyenne has such a warm, engaging presence, it was impossible to not feel her support as navigating my pre- & postpartum journey with both of my boys. Whether she was sharing tools and guiding me and my husband through them, empathizing with my anxieties as a new parent, standing up for my wishes with providers, or engaging me individually in support of creating the best environment for my boys to enter the world, I felt her standing by my side and rooting for me. Cheyenne has an indepth knowledge of pre- & postpartum navigation for both Mom and baby, and her collaboration with and referrals to other providers were So helpful on multiple occasions (for pregnancy massage to support baby being head down & lactation supports related to bottle refusal). I strongly recommend Cheyenne if you are considering having someone by your side for pre- or postpartum navigation.

- Gloria T.

Anissa Cornelius

San Diego, California

Anissa Cornelius

10 years of experience

Hi everyone! I am a Licensed Midwife, International Board Certified Lactation Consultant, and Childbirth Educator with a deep passion for supporting families through every stage of the perinatal journey. I have been nurturing families through pregnancy and parenthood since 2016 and believe that all birthing people deserve compassionate, evidence-based care rooted in options, support and respect.

Heather Shabestari

San Diego, California

5.0 (1 review)

Heather Shabestari

14 years of experience
Accepts insurances

Heather is an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) and Certified Educator in Infant Massage (CEIM) with over a decade of experience supporting families. Since 2012, she has helped thousands of parents and babies navigate breastfeeding and feeding challenges, offering both in-person and virtual care across San Diego and beyond. Her practice is family-focused, tailoring care plans to each family’s unique goals rather than offering one-size-fits-all solutions. With advanced training in tethered oral tissues, Heather collaborates closely with holistic professionals to support optimal breastfeeding and bottle-feeding outcomes. She has helped families of twins, surrogates, cleft lips, tongue/lip ties, low supply, oversupply, combo feeding, GI distress, bottle feeding, allergies, latching/positioning, weaning, etc. Compassionate and detail-oriented, Heather is deeply committed to creating individualized plans that honor each baby and parent. Born and raised in San Diego, she feels grateful to live and work in a community she loves, and she pours her heart into helping families thrive.

Recent review

I can not recommend Heather enough. She helped me through one of my most vulnerable times and became a key player in my breastfeeding success. Heather accurately identified tongue, lip, and cheek ties in my daughter and helped shed light on why we had been having feeding issues. She supported us through our decision to get her ties revised and helped us navigate her recovery. Heather is an expert in her field and continues to be a main source of support with my breastfeeding journey. I am so happy we found Heather and would recommend her whole heartedly to anyone who finds themselves overwhelmed or struggling with breastfeeding.

- Alexa G.

Annika Glaub

San Diego, California

5.0 (1 review)

Annika Glaub

15 years of experience

I strive to give parents the non-judgmental support and science-based knowledge they need in order to make the right decisions for their unique family. I offer companionship and non-medical advice on breast, chest & bottle feeding, pumping, newborn care, recovery from birth, sleep, as well as physical and mental development of your baby. I serve the greater San Diego area. Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/itsy-bitsy-dreamers-san-diego

Recent review

Annika joined our family for 2 months with our second baby and her help was such a relief for us through the sleepless nights. We had the first 6 weeks covered through our insurance and ended up extending her 2 more weeks out of pocket. Annika was easy to work with in terms of extending the contract -- and luckily she had another client after us otherwise we may have continued booking for another 3 months! During those months she actually helped us identify that our daughter was having silent reflux. Long story short, our baby ended up having multiple tongue ties that we got revised and wouldn't have figured out so quickly without Annika's recommendation to get her looked at! She never claimed to have expertise in areas she didn't know about and always guided us towards someone who did. Since the tongue ties were revised I was able to continue my breastfeeding journey. Annika was always on time, eager to help, wore a mask around our baby (I didn't know what she looked like without one until one of our last nights!) and sent detailed notes at the end of each night. I loved being able to know what happened throughout the night between feeding sessions even when someone else was holding my baby. I had never had a doula before but if I ever have a third child I will make sure that Annika is available. Not only are her services top notch, she is a lovely person to be around and so sweet. We love Annika and recommend her 100%!

- Kenna D.