Gretchen Retka

San Jose, California

5.0 (1 review)

Gretchen Retka

15 years of experience

Parents: please share your EDD & contact info in the message body 🙏🏾 Birth doula of 13 years. This is my calling in life to be of service to labor/birth. I’m very grateful to have this as my service in this lifetime and believe every new life is a gift to be honored with care, love and respect for the process. Trained in techniques that encourage optimal fetal positioning by finding balance in the body (more comfort during pregnancy as well as labor/birth) optimal positioning helps labor be more comfortable, increasing odds of a efficient and smoother vaginal birth. I share these techniques with my clients in the third trimester to decrease the use of interventions & prevent trauma. Also practicing placenta encapsulation and massage therapy at Full Moon Birth & Family Wellness Center.

Recent review

We had the most magical natural unmedicated birth experience in a hospital and we owe so much of it to Gretchen. Right from our first interaction when we were interviewing birth doulas, we were drawn by her warm nature. Her prenatal visits were extremely helpful be it the exercises she taught us to enable an optimal baby position for birth or her inputs into crafting our birth plan. We would have been lost with the information overload if not for her timely, targeted and super informative educational resources that have been extremely helpful to us as first time parents. She has always been a text or phone call away to address anything we needed. She brought in a sign of relief when she entered the labor room...her calming presence during my final stretch of labor and the positions she guided me through definitely helped me avoid an epidural. The icing on the cake was her singing a lullaby to our little one upon birth, it felt divine. She also captured beautiful moments of our baby's birth that we will cherish forever. I will always remember her positive affirmation 'You are stronger than you think!'. Can't thank you enough Gretchen for being the rockstar that you are and all your support to growing families :)

- Gita Sowmya P.

Raquel Martins Rodrigues

San Bruno, California

5.0 (3 reviews)

Raquel Martins Rodrigues

10 years of experience

As a postpartum doula, I can bring a lot of love to your new family and try to ease the burden that new parents inevitably feel. I have been for almost 10 years caring for toddlers, babies and school-aged children. I pride myself on being loving, warm, trustworthy, loyal, empathetic and communicative person. Back home, in Brazil, I have a bachelor’s degree in accounting and two MBAs in accounting and finance, but I have found myself once again working with newborns and babies here in the United States. What I love most in life is love loving people!

Recent review

I highly recommend Raquel . I delivered few weeks earlier than expected and she made herself available to help us when we got home . It was great having her , she took a great care of my newborn , which allowed me to sleep and recover . In addition she helped with the laundry and tidying up the kitchen. We woke up to a content baby and an organized living area.

- Hind B.

Shelby Stewart

Oakland, California

5.0 (3 reviews)

Shelby Stewart

26 years of experience
Accepts insurances

As a full spectrum birth-keeper, sexual/reproductive & lactation educator, and womb-space ceremonialist, I hold space for you to have continuous, high quality support that is infused with culturally responsive care, and embedded within a framework of advocacy. As such, I provide physical, emotional, and educational support and guidance to all birthing people, their partners, their families, and communities across the lifespan, reproductive landscape, and for all reproductive circumstances and outcomes. Earthseed Birthwork praxis is steeped in the belief that within the hallowed grounds of your wholeness – your lived experiences and unique socio-cultural contexts, your dreams, and your life journey, there is an opportunity for YOUR divinely aligned birth journey to come forth. I specialize in serving as guide, helping you investigate and get curious about, cultivate, and then traverse your own birth ceremony, the complex and oftentimes daunting medical system's model of care, and matrescence – the wholeness (physically, psychologically, and socially) of becoming a mother/parent…all while centering the sacred and traditional practices that have safely held birthing people for time immemorial. Bearing witness to, being deeply present for, and reflecting your own innate power to call forth and touch into the dance of your intuition, are my gifts. Working with me is intended to be more than a mere hand-holding, it is meant to be a full person witnessing, and the sanctuary of safe space to support the expansion of your capacity to be present with all that arises on your journey. I believe all births are immeasurably transformative...birth shape- shifts us into whatever next iteration this life is calling forth for us. When allowed, birth may expose you to rapturous wonder, deep discomfort, indescribable joy, and the instinctive knowing that you will forever physically, emotionally, and spiritually be changed. Care Setting I meet people where they are, and not where I may perceive they ‘should’ be…literally and figuratively. I hold and offer care within in-person spaces, homes, virtually, office, and outside underneath the sky’s blanket.

Recent review

We give Shelby the highest recommendation. She supported our birth journey in so many critical ways, through her presence, knowledge and constant encouragement. She is very personable and answered all of our questions. We especially appreciated the way she could explain why the clinical setting would prefer or encourage particular interventions, while also letting us know about all of the options available and helping us to make informed decisions along the way. She empowered us. When it mattered most, during labor and delivery, Shelby was there, with the right presence, words and encouragement. She helped our baby come into the world. We hope other parents have this positive experience of a doula, like Shelby gave us.

- Heidi and Luke H.

Ajeet Saraswati

Lafayette, California

5.0 (1 review)

Ajeet Saraswati

13 years of experience
Accepts insurances

Hi, I am a birth doula certified through the somatic institute currently working on postpartum birth doula certification with international doula. Let me give you a little backround information on my services. Im also a certified massage therapist and do mobile prenatal and arvigo maya abdominal massage as part of some of my packages. The labor support I offer is hands on and pro-active; i can come to your house and go to the hospital with you if you like or just meet you there. I would like to know more about the type of birth you are envisioning . Feel free to go to my website in the meantime, my spiritual name is ajeet saraswati kaur and my website is uniquetechnique.online. If you would like we can hop on a call this monday sometime or you can reach out through my website. my number is 510-773-6389 and i so look forward to assisting you in achieving your goals. in health !

Recent review

Im so grateful I found Ajeet and was able to work with her both pre and postpartum. She offered in home prenatal massages that were very relaxing and therapeutic and felt great on my achy body. She was very supportive and always available for questions and concerns and to talk through my birth plan. I also just went in for a postnatal massage which felt great to loosen up my breastfeeding shoulders and neck and she also specializes in a technique to help your uterus heal. She is very kind and accommodating and I would definitely recommend her

- Lindsay K.

Izabella Ribeiro

San Francisco, California

5.0 (1 review)

Izabella Ribeiro

2 years of experience
Accepts insurances

I am the mother of a 7-year-old boy, in love with motherhood, I feel extremely fulfilled when helping families take care of their babies. This strengthens me as a person, mentally and spiritually. I love my profession

Recent review

Izabela was amazing — she helped me so much, especially with breastfeeding and establishing a routine. Because of her support, I was able to rest more and handle my daily routine better. She was always helpful, full of great tips, and always respected my decisions. I highly recommend her!

- Thainara D.

Leticia Butruce

Campbell, California

5.0 (4 reviews)

Leticia Butruce

2 years of experience
Accepts insurances

I’m Leticia Butruce, a Brazilian-born, U.S.-based certified postpartum doula with a lifelong passion for caring for babies and supporting families. With an extensive background in childcare and family assistance, along with training through DONA International, I offer compassionate, hands-on support during one of life’s biggest transitions—welcoming a new baby. Whether you need daytime help with your routine, overnight newborn care, or support during postpartum recovery, I’m here to bring calm, care, and confidence to your growing family.

Recent review

We worked with Leticia for 5 weeks after my second kid was born. Leticia is punctual, reliable and detail oriented. I can leave my baby with her and run my errands without any worry. She helps out all things around the baby and supports my postpartum recovery as well. She listens and provides practical advises. I also appreciate Leticia's flexibility in scheduling - it gives me peace of mind when I need some extra help and Leticia is here to help. Overall I highly recommend Leticia's postpartum service.

- Ningning C.

Amy Baker

San Bruno, California

5.0 (9 reviews)

Amy Baker

30 years of experience

Holding a Master’s Degree in Early Childhood Education, Amy has worked specifically with infants and toddlers in the Bay Area for over 20 years as both an educator as well as Preschool Director. Her strong understanding of child and human development, in addition to her life experiences, have taught her that with each family comes a diverse and dynamic ecosystem — each with its own unique needs. As a postpartum doula, Amy offers physical support (cooking, light housekeeping, babycare, preparing sitz baths, etc.); informational support (feeding, babycare skills, context and perspective, information about products and local resources); and emotional support/encouragement for anyone in the family (including non-medical assessment of adults’ postpartum moods and experience, and care for older siblings). Amy views herself as a trusted partner who is dedicated to helping new parents discover the needs of their individual children and families, while helping to smooth the edges of everyday life with a newborn so you can enjoy this special time.

Recent review

Amy is absolutely amazing! We had her for 2 weeks of last-minute night support when nights were getting really tough for us in the newborn days, and wish we could have had her for longer. Our twins were going through an uncomfortable gassy phase and she made sure they were soothed throughout the nights. Amy is super knowledgeable and willing to answer questions and share her expertise. She would always take the time to debrief at the end of each night, even if that meant staying a little longer to make sure all our questions were answered. She also brought books and bottles/wraps/shusher for us to try. We're really grateful for her support and would highly recommend her to any family in need of postpartum support!

- Jessie L.

Sarah Wolfman-Robichaud

Berkeley, California

5.0 (3 reviews)

Sarah Wolfman-Robichaud

3 years of experience

Consultant. Doula. Mama. Twenty+ years ago, I ran into a college acquaintance at a friends' wedding. She told me she was a Doula. It was the first I'd ever heard of it. Shortly thereafter, I returned to the New York publishing and theater world, later moved to British Columbia to pursue degrees and a career in arts education, birthed my two favorite humans, and then moved to the Bay Area, California, where I was welcomed into the Jewish professional community. Throughout my movement in these roles, I never stopped thinking about what life would be like as a Doula. It took some time, but here I am, pursuing a decades-long dream. And when I'm not reminiscing about my own transformational career path, or working with growing families across the Bay Area, I'm still singing my children to sleep (even the one who's now taller than me).

Recent review

Sarah swooped in to help us with our twin boys two days and two nights per week. She was a breath of fresh for these two tired parents! Sarah's nurturing spirit, organizational skills, and general joy was such a relief in our home. I also learned a lot in watching her care for the boys. The twins blossomed in her care as she seamlessly juggled two babies at once. We miss her, but she has left her mark on our family!

- Kate C.

Tiffany Washington

Emeryville, California

Tiffany Washington

4 years of experience
Accepts insurances

I have been a full-spectrum doula for almost 4yrs. I primarily focus on postpartum care, supporting families as they welcome their new baby and adjust to life together. With training in Spinning Babies® and experience in lactation support, I provide a blend of knowledge, gentle guidance, and hands-on care to nurture both parents and babies. My approach is both nurturing and empowering. I feel honored and privileged to be welcomed into families’ homes, and I often become a trusted part of their circle during this sacred time. I also believe in the importance of finding the right fit—every family deserves a doula who feels like the right match for their values, needs, and journey.

Rhonda Frazier

Emeryville, California

5.0 (7 reviews)

Rhonda Frazier

11 years of experience

Hi, I’m Rhonda! I’m a Certified Birth Doula and Maternal-Child Health Nurse with 10 years of experience in Labor & Delivery and Mother-Baby care. I became a doula two years ago after seeing how much families benefit from calm, compassionate support during birth and postpartum. My goal is to create a peaceful, nurturing space where parents feel informed, cared for, and confident. Based in the Bay Area, I serve Emeryville and surrounding communities. I’m also a proud mom of three grown children and love reading, exploring California, and spending time with my family. Calm nights. Compassionate care. With loving hands. 🤍

Recent review

I am so grateful I met Rhonda. Before meeting her, I honestly had no idea what a doula did or what postpartum care really looked like. This was my first baby, and I had the privilege of meeting Rhonda even before she was born while I was hospitalized with PPROM. From the start, Rhonda went above and beyond. She took incredible care of me, advocated for me when things didn’t seem right, and always made sure my voice was heard. I looked forward to seeing her because I knew she would listen, explain everything clearly, and bring a sense of calm when I felt anxious or uncertain. Once my baby came home, Rhonda continued to support us through postpartum care, helping us adjust to our new routine. As a first-time mom, my anxiety was through the roof, but Rhonda made me feel confident and reassured. She walked me through every detail, from safe sleep and sponge baths to proper latching and feeding. She even stayed overnight to help with newborn care, and though I had a little separation anxiety, I knew my baby was in the very best hands while I got some much needed rest. I can’t imagine going through this journey without her. Going forward, I’ll never do another pregnancy without a doula — and especially not without Rhonda. She was there for me every step of the way, before and after birth, and made my entire experience one I’ll always cherish.

- Magdalena H.

Stacy Avalos

Campbell, California

Stacy Avalos

22 years of experience
Accepts insurances

Stacy Avalos, owner of Rooted Willow Services, Inc.! Offers her services with over 20 years of experience in supporting infants and families, she is dedicated to providing exceptional care and guidance during the transformative journey of parenthood. As a highly trained and passionate labor & postpartum doula, Stacy offers a comprehensive range of services tailored to meet the unique needs of each family. From prenatal support to postpartum care, her expertise covers a wide spectrum of areas. Stacy's extensive background includes specialized training as a doula, newborn care specialist, prenatal and postpartum nutrition coach, newborn sleep consultant, and mental health specialist. This diverse skill set enables her to address multiple aspects of the perinatal period, ensuring a holistic and personalized approach to support your family's well-being. Whether you're an expectant parent seeking assistance during pregnancy, looking for guidance with newborn care and breastfeeding, or seeking support with postpartum mental health, Rooted Willow Services, Inc. is here to provide compassionate care, evidence-based information, and practical strategies to empower and guide you through this transformative time. Experience the difference of a seasoned doula with a genuine passion for helping families thrive. Contact Rooted Willow Services, Inc. today to embark on your journey towards a positive and fulfilling parenting experience.

Alaina Lee

Berkeley, California

Alaina Lee

5 years of experience
Accepts insurances

Alaina is a holistic full-spectrum doula with four plus years of experience supporting families through pregnancy, birth, and postpartum. Alaina emphasizes the power of feminine energy, mindfulness, and trusting the body’s natural wisdom. She specializes in placenta encapsulation and herbalism. Outside of doula work, Alaina has a deep love for nature and finds peace in hiking, camping, and enjoying scenic views. A lifelong learner, she enjoys reading, exploring new cultures through international travel, and experimenting with new restaurants. When at home, you can find her potting and propagating plants, always cultivating a space of growth both for her plants and the families she works with.

Kourtney McGowan

Walnut Creek, California

5.0 (5 reviews)

Kourtney McGowan

12 years of experience
Accepts insurances

We believe that birth is YOUR story and should be done your way. We try our best to support our clients wishes during births and follow directions for post Partum care as well. We think it’s important not to push clients to do things but allow them to choose their own paths. We love what we do and love educating our clients so that they’re able to make the best decisions for themselves and feel well informed when doing so… We are a team/partnership of two doulas and a registered nurse to cover all things birth, postpartum and beyond!

Recent review

Kourtney was our son’s night doula for 8 weeks. We interviewed several doula’s before landing on her. From our very first conversation Kourtney’s professionalism, knowledge, and kindness stood out well above the others. From discussing her schedule, rates, and philosophy of care, she was clearly very experienced and willing to educate us as first time parents. She was also willing to work with our schedule and needs to make her services work for both of us. Working with Kourtney was nothing short of amazing. She was always on time or early for every shift, she came prepared to learn about our sons day and what to expect out of the night. We were always able to discuss any concerns we have and she gave great advice to help us manage him when she was not there. She helped us trouble shoot the many challenges we had navigating our son’s first few weeks of life. Offering advice on how to treat his ailments, products to support his care, and when to consult our pediatrician. Our son was a NICU baby and we were extremely concerned for his early development and couldn’t have found a better provider to be a part of our village. Every night we were able to rest peacefully knowing our son was in great care. Kourtney took great notes and let us know how he did every night and gave us suggestions to have a good day and better nights when she wasn’t coming in. Overall, Kourtney was the best doula we could have asked for and we loved working with her. We highly recommend her as a caregiver.

- Penelope A.

Sabreen Ali

Berkeley, California

Sabreen Ali

3 years of experience
Accepts insurances

Greetings everyone! My name is Sabreen and I am a Certified Birth and Post-Partum Doula serving in the Bay Area, California. I am deeply passionate about advocating for mothers and birthing people, empowering them to trust their body's natural and innate wisdom. I seek to provide compassionate and supportive care as you embark on this sacred and transformative time of your life 💜

Kristin Guess

Half Moon Bay, California

Kristin Guess

8 years of experience
Accepts insurances

Hi, I'm Kristin Guess! My journey into birth work began when I attended a DONA International workshop in 2018. After supporting my first birth, I knew that doula work was exactly where I belonged. I remember driving home with a huge smile, filled with a sense of joy and awe—as if I had witnessed one of life’s greatest secrets: the arrival of a new being, full of possibility. No matter how unique each experience is, that feeling of wonder never fades. It is truly an honor and privilege to be present for such a profound moment in people’s lives. ​ I was born and raised just outside of Sacramento and spent 2 years after high school living in Germany before making my way to the Bay Area for college. During the pandemic years, I moved to Portland, Oregon. The Pacific Northwest is beautiful, but California is where my heart is. I’m now excited to get to call Half Moon Bay home. I am excited and grateful for the opportunity to support Bay Area families once again. ​ As a DONA-certified, evidence-based doula, my role is to help you feel informed, empowered, and at ease throughout your birthing journey. I love working with birthing people and becoming a team to create an environment that feels safe and one where you feel heard and respected. I believe deeply in individualized support and the importance of continuing education.  ​ In my free time you can find me biking or walking the HMB Coastal Trail, listening to a podcast, gardening, watercoloring or baking some sourdough. 

luisa santos

Berkeley, California

luisa santos

5 years of experience
Accepts insurances

Hello, my name is Luisa. I am a postpartum doula and nanny who is passionate about caring for babies and supporting families in this special stage of life. I love creating a calm, nurturing environment where parents feel confident and supported while bonding with their little one. My philosophy is rooted in respect, trust, and open communication. I focus on helping parents feel at ease, making sure their baby’s needs are met while also giving space for rest and recovery. I believe in providing personalized care, adapting to each family’s unique rhythms and values.

Maristela Davids

Berkeley, California

Maristela Davids

9 years of experience
Accepts insurances

My philosophy is centered on fostering safety and comfort for both the parent and the baby. My dedication to my profession is unwavering, and as a doula, I am committed to delivering optimal emotional and physical support to my clients. I consider each parent and child unique and being adaptable and attentive to the diverse needs of families ensures that my care is not only practical but also emotionally supportive.

isabel baer-modena

Berkeley, California

isabel baer-modena

15 years of experience

Hello! I am an experienced doula currently moving back to the Bay Area from Santa Cruz. I am passionate about providing each family with an individualized experience. I have been working as a postpartum doula, primarily at night, since 2020 and I have been a birth doula since last year. My care and experience has supported countless families through this tender chapter of life. Services range from infant care, meal prep, light house cleaning, lactation/infant feeding guidance, and tips I’ve learned through the years of infant care.

Kim Knapp

San Francisco, California

5.0 (4 reviews)

Kim Knapp

7 years of experience
Accepts insurances

Hello! I'm Kim I am a full service birth and postpartum Doula and a member of DONA. I recognize the magical, miraculous wonders of pregnancy and childbirth and offer unconditional, judgement free support for all families. I love to share my knowledge and passionate enthusiasm with expectant families and offer confident, continuity of care to ensure you have a positive birth experience, in alignment with your birth preferences. I live in San Francisco and have a lot of experience at UCSF, CPMC and the Kaiser Network. I have also supported many births on the Peninsula at Mills, Sequoia, Kaiser RWC and Stanford.

Recent review

My partner and I loved working with Kim! Our sessions with her pre-birth were very valuable and informative. Even though we originally prepared for a vaginal birth, I ended up with a scheduled c-section due to the positioning of my twins. Kim helped us navigate the conversations with my doctor so that we were asking the right questions and felt comfortable with our decision. During the operation, she provided much needed emotional support and afterwards, made sure my partner also had skin to skin with both babies. I ended up with a very positive birth experience even though it didn’t go as originally planned. I would highly recommend having Kim as your doula!

- J L.

Alla Irwin

San Francisco, California

Alla Irwin

9 years of experience
Accepts insurances

I am a mother of 2, birth and Postpartum doula and a photographer leaving in San Francisco. I am observant, thoughtful person with a good sense of humor who enjoyed walks, books, tea, plants and good conversations.