Joanna Russin

Des Plaines, Illinois

Joanna Russin

5 years of experience

Hi! I'm Joanna but everyone calls me Jo (she/her/hers). I am a Birth Doula, as well as a Children and Families Social Worker. I am also a wife and mother. I have ways been passionate about working with people and after having my son I was inspired to empower families during pregnancy and birth. I believe everyone should have a doula. Things I enjoy are drinking a good hot cup of tea, a good book, the smell of the fresh outdoors, finding new adventures to get lost in and just doing things that give me pure joy and adrenaline in life. In my free time you will find me learning new things, cooking, crafting, helping others out, dancing with my toddler and spending time with those I love.

Cassandra Hawkins

Slinger, Wisconsin

Cassandra Hawkins

7 years of experience

Cassandra trained with CCI in Winter Garden, Florida in 2020 & spent the following 3 years gaining experience serving birth & postpartum clients. Cassandra has supported families during pregnancy, labor, childbirth & through navigating postpartum. She holds a passion for supporting women going into parenthood alone, survivors of domestic violence, and individuals struggling with or in recovery from substance abuse. Cassandra is currently offering services in-person & virtually in & around Slinger Wisconsin. Virtual support is available to anyone across the USA or internationally. "It is my hope to show up for my clients with grace & love; to walk with them; to be of service during a magical & vulnerable stage of our human experience."

Naadirah Shapley-Wells

Skokie, Illinois

Naadirah Shapley-Wells

12 years of experience

Naadirah is professionally trained full spectrum doula with over a decade of experience in birth work. She has worked with families throughout Chicago and area suburbs. Naadirah comes to birthwork with a background in child development, family studies, social services, education and nursing. Naadirah is trained and certified in first aid, domestic violence support, CPR for healthcare workers, and mental health first aid.

Rebekkah Carney

Hoffman Estates, Illinois

5.0 (1 review)

Rebekkah Carney

7 years of experience

Hello! I’m a birth doula serving Chicago and surrounding areas. I specify in supporting clients through unmedicated births at birth centers, home births, and midwife-led hospital births. I am also a VBAC certified doula.

Recent review

I cannot recommend Rebekkah enough. She was my doula for my 2019 baby, and I knew that I had to rehire her for my second birth. My goal with my second was to have an unmedicated birth and knowing that is something Rebekkah specializes in helped give me the confidence that I could do it. When my labor started, she was readily available to answer any questions and confirm when it was time to head to the hospital. She had techniques to help ease the pain such as the use of her TENS unit (which helped tremendously) and using counter pressure. She coached me and encouraged me the entire time, even when I was completely ready to give up, which I completely believe helped me achieve my unmedicated birth goal. After going through PPA/PPD with my first, I knew that I wanted to have my placenta encapsulated, which Rebekkah was able to do and made the entire process seamless. She worked with the hospital to make sure that my placenta was stored and ready to take home, and once she finished encapsulating it, she delivered it to my home (along with a keepsake from the cord). I truly believe that it made a huge difference in my recovery. Rebekkah was an asset to my family during my pregnancy, delivery, and post partum. She is a wealth of knowledge and truly helped me reach my goals and deliver a healthy and happy baby exactly how I wanted to.

- Amber D.

Ashley Lakin

Hoffman Estates, Illinois

Ashley Lakin

6 years of experience

I am an integrative nutritionist helping women in the Chicagoland area address hormones balances to feel their best! As a Certified Nutrition Specialist®, Licensed Dietitian Nutritionist, and RYT-200 certified yoga instructor, I use my blended education to address the root cause of your symptoms from various angles. I focus on utilizing whole foods, not just nutrients, to heal the body. My area of focus includes assisting women through all stages of life, including prenatal, pregnancy, and postpartum.

Jenny Mills

Chicago, Illinois

Jenny Mills

4 years of experience

I help women navigate every season of life — from infertility to pregnancy and childbirth to postpartum parenting to peri-menopause and menopause — with compassionate and personalized support. I am a Bebo Mia Certified Maternal Support Practitioner who's a fierce advocate for a woman's right to decide what they want for their body. That includes deciding what's right for you regarding your birth plan.

Carly Ann Marshall-Braun

Chicago, Illinois

5.0 (23 reviews)

Carly Ann Marshall-Braun

8 years of experience

I am Chicago based childbirth educator, doula, and soon-to-be midwife. I am passionate about supporting undisturbed physiologic birth. I believe in healthy-at-any-size. I've been teaching Evidence Based Birth for two years and I recently finished Midwifery school (to be licensed in 2026). I adore working with queer families, trans folks, and families who have used fertility support. My expertise spans home birth, birth centers, and hospital birth. Most people who take my class are at a birth center or hospital. Many want an empowered low-intervention birth, but most also want information about the benefits of epidurals, and when is the best time to get one. I am passionate about you having the birth YOU want, and having agency over your body and birth, no matter what this journey brings. I provide evidence based information, grounded energy, and listening ear.

Recent review

Carly Ann was our doula for the birth of my second child and she was so incredibly supportive, knowledgeable, and her presence was deeply grounding for me. Having her guidance in the hospital room was incredible for my husband and me both, and it just felt like we didn't need to worry about anything with Carly Ann there to remind us of anything or prompt us in important moments! She also came by to support after the baby was born and I appreciated feeling like I could just relax and be cared for by her. Super grateful that we got to work with her and I highly recommend her to anyone interested in working with her!! x

- Nic Strack

Amanda Nelson

Chicago, Illinois

Amanda Nelson

3 years of experience

Hi! My name is Amanda, I am a DONA trained birth doula, and I am ready to support you on your journey to parenthood! Whether you're planning a home birth, a hospital birth, or anything in between, my goal is to empower you with information, encouragement, and advocacy every step of the way. I believe in honoring your unique journey and preferences, offering non-judgmental support that respects your decisions and desires. I would love to connect with you for a complimentary consultation! Let me buy you a cup of coffee/tea or we can schedule a zoom/phone call.Booking with me will include one in person pre-birth meeting around 36 weeks, on call birth support, and one in person postpartum visit. Text and phone support available starting at time of booking through postpartum visit.

Rachel Bolin

Chicago, Illinois

5.0 (2 reviews)

Rachel Bolin

6 years of experience
Accepts insurances

Hi, I’m Rachel — a doula, birth photographer, and placenta encapsulation specialist proudly serving the Chicagoland area. I grew up in small-town Kentucky and moved to Chicago five years ago. Since then, I’ve been deeply rooted in the birth world, supporting families through every stage of their journey. I’m a full-spectrum certified doula through Sokana’s Full Spectrum Birth Justice Training, with extensive education in lactation and over four years of personal breastfeeding experience. I’m also certified in First Aid and CPR. I accept Carrot clients and will soon be accepting Medicaid, because I believe everyone deserves access to compassionate, personalized support. That’s also why I offer sliding scale payment options for those in need. My approach blends evidence-based care with a holistic touch, holding space for whatever birth looks like for you. Outside of birth work, I’m chasing around my two toddlers, trying new recipes, camping, fishing, and checking out new restaurants — I never say no to a good steakhouse. Let’s schedule a consult and see if I am a great fit for your birth team!

Recent review

Having Rachel on my birth team was the best decision I could have made. She was a rock for me throughout, and was such a source of peace and calm for me. Rachel valued my preferences for my birth plan without judgment and held true to advocating for me at all times. My birth story had many unexpected turns, and Rachel stayed by my side, along with my husband, for the wild ride. I had Rachel with me in the birth center and at the hospital after a transfer was needed. She never missed a beat and took care of me so thoughtfully. From the first interview to prenatal appointments to the actual birth of my first baby, Rachel kept looking out for me and helped me feel empowered throughout my birth journey. She even took pictures and helped transport my placenta for encapsulation, which was so helpful because we remained at the hospital for longer than expected. I felt like Rachel was one of the best parts of my birth story, and I know she would be a wonderful addition to any birth team!

- Harmony Z.

Stefanie Waldorf

Chicago, Illinois

Stefanie Waldorf

2 years of experience

Focused on spiritual and physical support that follows evidence-based guidelines and empowers self-advocacy in hospital births.

Sarah Baker

Chicago, Illinois

Sarah Baker

15 years of experience

Sarah Baker is a mom of two little boys (one being a hypnobirthing baby), Hypnobirthing Childbirth Educator, Internationally Accredited Meditation Teacher, Postpartum Doula and Holistic Health Specialist. Similar to you, Sarah wanted to feel prepared, confident and calm during her labor, no matter what twist or turn took place. Finding a childbirth education class that provided not only in-depth knowledge on everything that goes down during labor, but proven methods that help you feel calm, confident and empowered (that did not consist of just pain management interventions that hospitals offer), was something that Sarah had a hard time finding in the Chicagoland area. Sarah started Asana Mama to provide parents in Chicago and the surrounding suburbs an incredibly engaged, premier Childbirth classes, both private sessions and group classes: (currently being held completely remotely). Sarah brings almost a decade of practicing as a Holistic Health and meditation specialist with a heavy emphasis on helping women navigating preconception, pregnancy and postpartum.

Natalie Miller

Elgin, Illinois

Natalie Miller

4 years of experience

My name is Natalie Miller, and I’m thrilled to have you here! Allow me to share a bit about myself. I’m a Christian, a devoted wife, a mother of four, a nurse, a photographer, and a certified doula. With 10 years of experience in obstetric nursing and my own personal journey through childbirth, I bring a wealth of knowledge and compassion to the care I provide. Since 2014, I’ve also worked as a professional photographer, capturing cherished memories ranging from weddings and family portraits to maternity, birth, and newborn photography. My passion lies in supporting women during one of the most transformative times in their lives. That’s why I’ve dedicated myself to providing comprehensive prenatal, birth, and postpartum care, paired with the opportunity to document these unforgettable moments for families to treasure forever. My mission is to empower women and their partners throughout pregnancy, labor, and early parenthood. I aim to equip you with the resources, education, and confidence you need to navigate these life-changing experiences while celebrating the incredible capabilities of your body. I am honored to walk alongside you on this amazing journey, providing guidance, support, and encouragement every step of the way.

Eileen Joyce

Bartlett, Illinois

Eileen Joyce

16 years of experience
Accepts insurances

For as long as I can remember, I yearned to be a mother. Unfortunately, when faced with multiple medical conditions, I realized that getting pregnant was not going to be easy—even though it seemed like everyone around me was having babies. Eventually, I was fortunate enough to become pregnant-- but why didn’t I feel the effortless joy that seemed to encompass all the mothers on my social media feed? Why was this so hard? It’s often said that no one really prepares you for becoming a parent, but I feel passionately that our society could do a better job. I hold a feminist perspective and challenge societal expectations of how things “should be.” You don’t need to do it all and you don’t need to do it alone. I’ve worked in multiple different settings including crisis home based work with children and their families, partial hospitalization programs with adults, and most recently in a pediatric medical clinic supporting families with children with medical conditions. I have been trained in perinatal mood disorders by Postpartum Support International (PSI).

Zoe Nelson

Chicago, Illinois

5.0 (1 review)

Zoe Nelson

2 years of experience

Hi! I’m a responsible and nurturing nanny with a background in Art Education and five years of experience as an elementary art teacher. For the past year, I’ve cared for a newborn and a four-year-old, supporting daily routines and early development. I’m now transitioning into overnight care, bringing a calm, attentive approach to help families get the rest they need. I’m CPR certified, comfortable with infant care and sleep routines, and open to additional training. References available upon request.

Recent review

I’m pleased to recommend Zoe Nelson as a night nanny. Over several months she cared for our newborn and three‑year‑old, allowing my husband and me to sleep soundly. Each morning we awoke refreshed to happy, well‑rested children. Zoe is caring, responsible, and knowledgeable in both infant and toddler routines. She maintained clear logs, anticipated needs, and communicated thoughtfully about each night’s events. Our kids quickly came to trust her gentle approach, and we always felt at ease. Any family would be lucky to have Zoe’s dependable support.

- Suzanne C.

Danyale Washington

Bloomingdale, Illinois

5.0 (4 reviews)

Danyale Washington

5 years of experience

My name is Danyale Washington. I graduated with my B.S. in Psychology from Concordia University Chicago. After working for over a decade in various facets of childcare and education —as well as having two children of my own— I have seen countless times, as well as witnessed myself as a parent, the lack of support and resources. My passion for helping others and dedication to children and their families reaching their full potential has always been a big part of who I am. It has continuously fueled me to pursue a career in doing just that–offering my insight and expertise to help those I serve feel confident and well-equipped to foster healthy development in children. My philosophy is rooted in empowerment, positivism, and compassion. It is at the core of all my services. My approach is strength-based and client-centered. It focuses on being an aid to those I provide support to in using the tools and skills they already possess to foster optimal growth and development in children. I believe in empowering individuals as they navigate the more challenging components of childrearing. My role is to be in your corner—cheering you on—guiding and supporting you while utilizing your strengths to achieve your goals. You are the driver; I am simply the map!

Recent review

We started working with Danyale when our son was about 8 weeks old, and we’re so glad that we started so early! We learned ways to instill healthy sleep habits for our baby right from the start. We were amazed at how quickly he learned to put himself to sleep, and sleep through the night! Danyale was absolutely wonderful and it was extremely helpful to have someone to ask questions to weekly and guide us through the process. We are so thankful to have such a happy and well rested baby - thank you so much Danyale! You are amazing, and we are so grateful for you and Sweet Piece!

- Mariana C.

Carolyn Andrew

Chicago, Illinois

5.0 (3 reviews)

Carolyn Andrew

9 years of experience

Since 2016, I have been a doula, childbirth educator and maternal child health specialist supporting families in their journeys to growing their families. I am a care giver and a learner at my core and I strive to provide each family that I work with access to all the support and knowledge they need to become empowered, confident parents.

Recent review

Carolyn was a pivotal person during our entire pregnancy and birthing experience. Carolyn was able to help me talk through a difficult experience with a care provider. Carolyn was able to provide with an open space for venting and helped to ultimately navigate away from a provider who was not the best fit for us. She was a calm force who was able to help us maintain our composure and think outside the box when our labor was not progressing. Carolyn was able to help us digest information about our birth and labor, so we could find our joy and love , even if the labor did not go as planned. I cannot begin to image our birth without Carolyn. We will be forever grateful and thankful for her helping us to bring our son into this world safely.

- Rachel Y.

Darnicia Holt

Chicago, Illinois

5.0 (2 reviews)

Darnicia Holt

9 years of experience

Hey! I’m Darnicia, a full-spectrum doula, birth mindset educator, and reproductive justice advocate. TL;DR From organizing protests and fighting for social justice to shutting down systemic abuse, violence, and oppression in the medicalized perinatal care system. My passion? Teaching incredible birthing people — like you — how to trust your intuition❤️‍🔥 and advocate for your autonomy,🗣️ so you feel ✨empowered to be the authority of all your reproductive experiences✨ — fertility to postpartum (or not being pregnant at all). 👀 A little more info… To me, birthwork is inherently linked to social justice and activism. Birthwork is advocacy, and advocacy follows you through every aspect of your life. Therefore, advocacy isn’t something you learn; it’s who you are. I’ve taken what I’ve learned in my years as a social justice organizer and have applied it to birthwork. Sometimes, the fight for my clients to have the reproductive outcomes they desire mirrors the intensity I’ve seen when organizing for human rights. When necessary, I use the same energy it takes to shut down streets and apply it to protect my clients’ experience. What does this mean for you? I have the heart and the skills to fight for your dream birth or whatever support you need. But no worries, I’ll only fight to whatever extent you need or are comfortable with. ☺️ The foundation of the doula role is about the person you are. I am an advocate. Fun facts: I’m a wife and Mom of two. I’m a HUGE Marvel/MCU fan. I L😍VE Thai Iced Tea and mushroom coffee 🍄☕.

Recent review

Darnicia helped us with postpartum care for our newborn and we are grateful beyond measure for her support and expertise. She is very kind, calming, and has a high degree of knowledge. She is such a warm person and we felt well cared for alongside our baby. In the matter of a few weeks, we went from frazzled new parents to having a baby who sleeps through the night multiple nights per week. I highly recommend Darnicia for postpartum care for anyone who is looking to establish healthy routines for their baby and wants to feel very supported in the process.

- Katie J.

Elle Mercado

Oak Park, Illinois

Elle Mercado

5 years of experience

hello birthing persons, i’m elle, a DONA certified birth doula, yoga instructor and social worker based in oak park, IL. I became a doula after four years of working in childhood education and fully understanding the impact birth has on everything—my pedagogies are rooted in epigenetics.

Colette Semenas

Chicago, Illinois

Colette Semenas

8 years of experience

I’ve been in the world of nannying, infant night nursing, and extended stays for the previous 7 years. I have a passion for the early newborn stages, helping create healthy sleep routines that create easy night time transitions for baby, mom, and family! I have advanced training in SIDS Prevention, Infant Safe Sleep, CPR, and Basic First Aid. I use my degree in Childhood Psychology and my experience working on Labor and Delivery as well as volunteering in the NICU at Children’s Hospital to guide my approach to provide research based care. Excited to meet you and your little!

Karen Weeks

Chicago, Illinois

Karen Weeks

25 years of experience
Accepts insurances

I am a Physical Therapist, specializing in Pelvic Health, with over 20yrs of experience. I am a Board Certified Women’s Health Physical Therapy Clinical Specialist and hold a Certificate in Pelvic Health Physical Therapy from the American Physical Therapy Association’s Academy of Pelvic Health. I love helping new parents prepare for delivery, remain active during pregnancy and rehab post-partum, physically and emotionally, using a biopsychosocial approach. I have special interest in helping parents who have sustained Obstetric Anal Sphincter Injury 3rd or 4th degree tearing), playing a vital role in our perineal trauma clinic.