Valerie Peterson - Birth & Postpartum Doula

About Valerie

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.

Birth & Postpartum Doula packages and pricing

Birth Doula Package

My package includes three prenatal visits. I help you organize your birth plan, and one of my prenatal visits are usually in your home. I like to know how to get to you, if you decide to want to labor at home, in early labor scenarios. I offer photography at your birth, and am present from the time you request for me to join you, and then throughout the entire labor and birth. I do one postpartum visit after you get home with the baby, and are ready for a visit. If a family is seeking postpartum support, we can discuss your unique needs and if I am available, we put a plan together with pricing at that time. I offer $200 off the fee if it is paid in full and in advance. The other option would be to pay half the fee in advance, and the remaining balance would be due by 37 weeks of pregnancy. If you require other needs, we can cover the pricing at that time.

$2,500 USD · Flat rate

What to expect

I offer predominately birth doula services, along with photography and lactation support if needed. Although I do have postpartum experience, I can only commit to short term experiences with the overnight care scenarios.

Reviews for Valerie Peterson

5.0 4 reviews

5.0

March 4, 2026

Where do I even begin. Val gave me the most incredible birth experience, and I truly don’t think I could have done it without her. You can immediately tell she has a strong background and a lot of experience. There’s a calm confidence about her that made me feel safe from the very beginning. It gave me so much peace of mind, especially as a first-time mom who was honestly SO nervous and scared to give birth. She was patient, attentive, and unbelievably kind. In moments where I felt anxious or unsure, she grounded me. She empowered me in a way I didn’t know I needed. She made me feel strong and capable. What I loved most is how she truly catered everything to me. She listened, she adjusted, she showed up exactly how I needed her to. And she did it all while feeling so personable and warm. I cannot thank her enough for the role she played in bringing my baby into the world. I will absolutely want her by my side for any future births. 🤍

— Danielle D.

5.0

July 22, 2025

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.

5.0

July 2, 2025

Val made the birth of my first child such a meaningful experience. She is supportive, understanding, insanely qualified and helped us every step of the way. My birth did not go as I had planned, and without Val things would have been far more difficult. She is responsive and we were in constant communication while I was in labor. I sent her photos of my mucus plug, reported contraction time, and got her feedback consistently as I labored at home. To top off her excellent care, she took some of the most precious photos after delivery of our new little family that we will cherish forever. Will absolutely be working with Val again should God bless us with another baby.

— Alexandra B.

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Certifications, training, and specialties

Certification and training

Hearts and Hands Volunteer Program/UCSD (2005)
EMT for San Luis Ambulance, San Luis Obispo, California (2001)
Lactation Educator/UCSD Extension (2009)

Education

BA in Child and Family Development/SDSU (2003)
AA in Respiratory Therapy/Grossmont College (2007)

Languages

English

Frequently asked questions

Why is your fee on the higher side for San Diego, CA?

My time and experience are my answer to this question. A healthcare background, and over two decades of birth work is what you are gaining in this investment for your birth experience. I also offer $200 off, if the fee is paid in advance after my letter of agreement is signed. The other option would be to pay half the full fee, and then the remainder would be due by 37 weeks of pregnancy.