Meet Kristen

OWNER | DOULA | EDUCATOR

I am deeply committed to supporting all families during the crucial periods of birth and postpartum care. My journey into motherhood began with a mature pregnancy at 40, followed by a midwife-assisted birth that presented unexpected challenges. An unplanned c-section due to a breach birth left me grappling with a sense of loss for the birth experience I had envisioned and led me into the depths of postpartum depression. This transformative experience has fueled my passion for improving resources and support systems for families.

These personal experiences ignited my desire to empower and guide parents through the joys, uncertainties, and identity shifts that come with forming a new family. In response to this calling, I trained as a Birth and Postpartum Doula with Doula Canada and completed a certification in Perinatal Mental Health with Canadian Perinatal Mental Health Trainings. I am currently completing a training in Birth Story Listening with Birth Story Medicine and am also a member of the Association of Ontario Doulas.

By addressing the isolation and uncertainties that often accompany the extraordinary life transition into parenthood, I believe we can cultivate a more compassionate and supportive environment for all families.

Compassionate and inclusive care for every family, every step of the way

In addition to my role as a Doula, I am the Executive Director of the Ottawa Parent Resource Centre, where I lead a dedicated team in our mission to foster confident, resilient families.

Through this work, I have had the privilege of collaborating directly with parents, caregivers, and children, witnessing the lasting positive impacts of postpartum support, parent education, and equitable access to resources and social services for families.

With over 15 years of experience as a non-profit leader, I bring a wealth of knowledge in systems navigation, social determinants of health, and advocacy to my work as a Doula.

I am also a certified Breathwork practitioner and have trained in contemporary dance for more than a decade, both of which enrich my understanding of the mind-body connection and its role in perinatal care.

As a doula, mom, daughter, partner, friend, leader and lifelong learner, I have multiple degrees and certifications spanning public policy to the creative arts. My expertise is rooted in education, training, instinct and experience. I value the evidence-based side of pregnancy and birth, along with the emotional, nurturing connection and ritual side as well.

Breathe

You've got this

Pregnancy can be amazing, exciting, overwhelming and also kinda scary. You want the best for your baby and yourself, as you prepare for the incredible journey ahead. I understand, because I’ve been there too.  

But no matter how meticulously you plan, birth always has a way of surprising us – in delightful and some not-do delightful ways. Embracing these unexpected moments – that's where the magic happens.

As a Birth & Postpartum Doula, I'll guide you through the known and unknown with confidence, knowledge, and self-awareness. Together, we'll create a safe, empowering experience tailored to your unique needs and desires. I'll meet you where you are, uncovering your innate strengths as we navigate the path ahead.

Family life is a beautiful adventure – I treasure watching my little guy grow and learn. He teaches me something new every day, and I continue to evolve as a new parent in ways I never imagined possible.

I want you to know that you can have a supported, connected birth that feels right to you. No matter the course that your birth or postpartum story takes, you can navigate the road to parenthood with knowledge, confidence, and self-compassion. I am here to help you tune into your own knowledge and values as a non-judgemental guide through it all.

I am here ultimately to support you on your path, and to respect your knowledge, values and instincts. You are the expert in your own pregnancy and birth. My role is to empower and support you, ensuring your journey into parenthood is filled with compassion and care.