What clients are saying...
Hiring Stephanie as our doula was one of the best decisions we made as we prepared to deliver our third baby. Upon meeting Stephanie, her warmth and encouraging spirit were immediately apparent, and she brought that beautiful sense of self with her every step of the way. Stephanie was incredibly supportive and present in the days before our delivery, as I experienced start-stop early labor and felt tired and discouraged. When it was time to transition to the hospital, Stephanie arrived promptly, and brought with her a much-needed air of calm, ease, positivity and assertiveness. My partner and I felt her advocating for our best birth every step of the way, even in the midst of surprising circumstances. During our labor, Stephanie seemed to know instinctively when to step in and when to allow my partner and I to labor privately. She was incredibly knowledgeable about the stages of labor, and often acted as a liaison between us and the hospital staff to take care of logistics such as filling the birth tub. As labor intensified, she tirelessly applied counter pressure on my lower back, as well as quiet and peaceful encouragement every step of the way. She worked seamlessly with my partner, the nurse and midwife, helping to create an environment of emotional safety and warmth that was ready to welcome new life. Stephanie is a truly gifted doula, understanding on an intrinsic level the nature of birth and the relational dynamics between partners, families and hospital staff. Her positive energy radiated through every interaction, and we felt her support from the moment we hired her and into our postpartum period. She is a lovely soul and was an integral part of our experience. We recommend her wholeheartedly, and will be forever grateful for her presence in our family’s sacred moments.
--Bethany D.
Stephanie was so wonderful! I knew before we got pregnant I'd want a doula. Stephanie was recommended to me by other doulas and I knew I liked her from our email correspondence before we even met. She immediately set me at ease with her encouragement in what we hoped and planned for our baby's birth. As these things sometimes go our birth plan didn't pan out as we'd hoped. Our sweet babe was breech and we ended up with a cesarean at 41 weeks and 3 days. Stephanie was with us at the hospital from check-in and stayed through recovery and to see we were settled in our room. Though we did not get to take full advantage of her in labor I am so thankful for the ways she helped us prepare. I have no doubt she would've been invaluable. Having her in recovery was so important as she assisted in our baby's first latch. I'm convinced that's the reason breastfeeding has been so easy for us. I couldn't be more thankful to have her support throughout our pregnancy and into parenthood!
--Jenny R.
My experience with Stephanie has been nothing but wonderful! She is very kind and gentle, but also has a firm and solid quality to her. I went into my second pregnancy with a lot of anxiety due to my previous birth, which ended up in a c-section. She was very encouraging to me and helped me understand even more about the medical processes than I had known before and gave me tools to have more in-depth conversations with my doctor. Unfortunately, my second birth ended up in another c-section after a VBAC attempt, but I feel confident that I got as far as I did (21 hours of labor) with her help. Once the decision was made to have a repeat c-section due to fetal distress, I was confident that with Stephanie's help I had done all that could have been done in my VBAC attempt. She really was a joy to have during my labor and was helpful and encouraging in recovery as well. I highly recommend her to anyone looking for a doula!
--Jessica B.
I will be forever grateful to Stephanie for the amazing role she played in our pregnancy and birth. I truly cannot express how much it meant to us to have her and what a difference her support made from the day we met her up until after our delivery. She is one of the most empathetic and compassionate people I've ever met, she has tons of knowledge and resources and was available to answer all of our questions throughout my entire pregnancy. On the day I went into labor she was in constant communication and was so intuitive and attentive to my needs. She made herself available for whenever I was ready for the extra support during labor and once she was with me she worked with both my husband and I so that I felt so completely supported. In addition to the tools she brought to help me through labor she was incredibly encouraging and empowering throughout what turned out to be the most intense experience of my life. She took the time to learn what the most important goals I had for my birth experience before I went into labor, which for me was a no intervention and unmedicated birth, and helped to make that goal a reality when the day came. I truly could not have achieved the birth I wanted without her. I cannot recommend her highly enough to anyone who is pregnant whether they were considering a doula or not!!!
--Sarah N.
Let me start off by saying if you are in Columbus and looking for a Doula, just stop at this profile and contact Stephanie. You will not find a better Doula in Columbus…Obviously my biased opinion. My wife and I interviewed a few Doulas in the Columbus area but instantly felt very comfortable after meeting Stephanie the first time. That comfort definitely grew after the two 2 hour in home meetings we had prior to our baby arriving. As a husband I was really not sure about the “doula” conversation, but was on board if it made my wife more comfortable since it was our first. I didn’t say it but in the back of my mind I wondered if she doubted my ability to help her. Well I learned within hours at the hospital how smart of a call it was and that it had nothing to do with my abilities but the tremendous help and reassurance Stephanie gave my wife and myself.
Stephanie never left my wife’s side from the time she arrived at 5am all the way until we were comfortably in our room with our beautiful baby at 630pm. My wife wanted to do the entire process natural and I feel the only reason she was able to was the coaching and positive vibes Stephanie provided her at the hospital and from the meetings before in our home. She had us prepared, both of us ha-ha. Stephanie is so calming, confident, and kept my wife so focused even when the pain and length of her pregnancy was at its boiling point. Stephanie is so knowledgeable and prepared that her confidence and composer will infect you and your partner during the process. Within minutes of her arriving to the hospital, you will feel an overwhelming calmness because you know she is going to help you reach your goal if mother nature allows it.
Stephanie- I thank you so much. I know Randi feels the exact same way that I do. There is no way she could have made it that long and natural without you. We look forward to working with you again!
--Brian A.
I cannot begin to express how thankful my husband and I are to have had Stephanie as our doula. In fact my husband was unsure why we needed a doula at all – then after the birth of our son he made this comment “everyone should have a doula she was amazing, I’m telling everyone”. Amazing is exactly what she was for us. Her support and knowledge were priceless resources. She was always available to answer questions or provide encouragement throughout my pregnancy.
Our birth plan changed drastically from what we wanted. I ended up having a marathon labor and ended up using medication I had been determined to avoid in order to birth my son. However, thanks to Stephanie’s preparation we were able to make very informed decisions, and make the necessary decisions as they arose. Without her I would probably be looking back on my birth experience with doubt and regret. Stephanie was so encouraging and helpful throughout the entire process, providing comfort for both my husband and I. She was a trooper through the 20hrs she stayed with us in the hospital. If we have more children in the future we will definitely be using Stephanie as our doula once again.
--Veronica R.
After I had my first son, via an unplanned c-section after a very dramatic labor, I had a wide range of emotions. My son was not breathing when he was born, but after five minutes of resuscitation he began to breath on his own. On one hand, I felt very blessed and happy to have my baby. On the other hand, I felt very sad, disappointed, and angry. I felt like there was so much miscommunication during labor, and nobody was there to properly explain things to me. I felt robbed of the natural birth experience I envisioned, but what was worse, was that I put my baby in so much stress without being aware of the effects of prolonging my labor. I carried the weight of that for a very long time.
Since the birth of my first child, I dreamed of having a vaginal birth after a c-section (VBAC). I thought I would feel better if I got my VBAC. When I found out I was pregnant with my second baby (my first was only 13 months old), I immediately began searching for a doula. I knew I would need somebody to advocate for me in order to achieve my VBAC. Stephanie was the first doula I met, and I instantly felt a connection with her. I felt very comfortable talking with her about my past experience, and my desires for my second baby. I knew I would choose Stephanie to be by my side during labor, because she listened to me. I don't mean she waited until I finished talking so she could reply, she actually listened to me and showed a lot of empathy. She even took notes! During my prenatal visits, Stephanie came prepared with a folder full of informational handouts that we went through together. She also went through a labor and delivery guide to take note of my preferences. She answered all my questions thoroughly, and she really cared about understanding my preferences.
I know Stephanie was really rooting for me to have my VBAC and to have a great birth experience. I ended up scheduling a c-section because my baby was breech, among other reasons, but I still had a wonderful birth experience. I contacted Stephanie with regular updates after I found out my baby was breech, and we discussed my feelings and options. Having that kind of support immediately after a doctor's visit was very nice. It was comforting to know that even though I was not going to have my VBAC, I had Stephanie there to support me emotionally. It felt good that she cared. My husband is a great support person, but it was nice to have another woman to talk to throughout my journey. I felt like I took all the measures I could to get my VBAC, but it just wasn't meant to be. I am so glad that I hired Stephanie, because her support throughout my pregnancy helped me feel happy and special.
I had a much better birth experience this time around, both emotionally, and physically. Stephanie met me at the hospital, and we chatted and laughed for hours before my delivery (my c-section was delayed). I was in good spirits going into the operating room, and coming out with my beautiful baby. Stephanie captured my first breastfeeding attempt on video, and took pictures of my husband, mom, and me with my baby. I had such an amazing experience, it has helped me heal emotionally from my traumatic first experience. Thank you Stephanie for all your support, and for caring about me and my individual feelings!
--Rana O.
I really wish there was a way I could adequately put into words how much Stephanie's doula services meant to both my husband and I through my pregnancy and while welcoming our son into this world. Stephanie's support throughout pregnancy was wonderful. She was always available for help and questions. She fostered the positive, calming, and natural process that we wanted in both pregnancy and delivery. Having Stephanie there to help keep our focus on the important things was massively helpful. When I went into labor, she had just finished a long day of training and was a complete champ through the almost 24 hours she spent with us. During labor, my husband was able to feel comfortable with stepping out to grab a bite to eat because Stephanie never left my side. Her encouragement and help throughout couldn't have been better! My birth plan changed dramatically and thanks to Stephanie we had already focused on what really mattered beforehand and was able to make decisions easily without any guilt or regrets.
We just simply couldn't thank you enough, Stephanie. I wouldn't change a thing about the process and a lot of that is due to your guidance and encouragement!
--Amanda P.
Having Stephanie as our doula alleviated so much of the anxiety that we felt as first time parents. Not only was she invaluable during my very long labor, she was a great support during the pregnancy, by providing resources and informing us of our choices, which helped us feel a little more prepared for the "big day." When the big day finally did come, Stephanie was there to remind us of our choices and provide physical and emotional comfort. We felt comfortable with Stephanie the first time we met her and are still so glad we chose to have her be part of the birth of our first child.
--Chelsea A.
When I found out I was pregnant, a bit of panic ensued. An incessant line of questions kept me up at night: Will I survive the birth? Can I manage as a new mom? Who will be there to help me through labor? How will I know when to head to the hospital? After several weeks of sleepless nights I decided I needed to hire a doula. It turns out this was the best decision of my pregnancy: Stephanie helped to make my birth experience magnificent. After my partner and I interviewed a few doulas, I knew Stephanie was right for us. She was professional, understanding, easy to talk to, and knowledgeable about child birth. She put my mind at ease. Over the course of the pregnancy I met with Stephanie on several occasions and she helped me shape the idea of pregnancy, child birth, and motherhood into enjoyable life experiences. When it finally came time to deliver my baby, I was mentally prepared to manage the labor and delivery process. When delivery day arrived, Stephanie was at my side from the entire labor and birth. Although the birth itself did not go as planned, everything was perfect and I can not imagine a better experience. It is certain that if I am every pregnant again I will have a doula, hopefully Stephanie, for support.
--Anita M.
My husband and I were so grateful to have Stephanie as our doula for the birth of our first child. Her presence during the labor and delivery was a tremendous help. She was attentive, professional and knowledgeable. Stephanie not only educated us in what to expect prior to labor and delivery, but also addressed any postpartum concerns as well. Stephanie was quick to suggest laboring positions and make diplomatic suggestions that were always in my best interest. I found her coaching and nurturing to be superior to the nurses I had. We will definitely use her again if we are lucky enough to have more children and we recommend her highly.
--Emily O.
Stephanie served as my doula during the birth of my second child. I arrived at the hospital feeling unprepared and uneasy. I was not looking forward to my unplanned induction. I immediately felt better once Stephanie arrived. We were able to discuss the anxiety I was feeling and she helped me come to terms with the fact that it was time and that I could do it! Stephanie was very helpful at suggesting various positions and techniques to help me work through contractions. Stephanie stayed by my side the entire time. She helped me to feel empowered and incredibly supported. My husband and I look back on our son's birth experience with such fond memories and we are very grateful for the integral role that Stephanie filled as our doula.
--Amy W.
My husband and I agree that having Stephanie with us was essential to our ability to endure an extremely long labor. I was at 8 or 9 centimeters for 11 hours without pain medication. She listened to our concerns, anticipated needs, and responded accordingly. Stephanie consistently provided emotional and physical support throughout the entire process. Labor is intense and Stephanie was there to help us manage that intensity. Stephanie's strength as a good listener helped us to feel comfortable and supported throughout the entire process. She also showed tremendous compassion and understanding for the challenging aspects of preparing for birth. Stephanie is knowledgeable about various options available for laboring, so I learned a lot and felt comfortable designing/adjusting my birth preferences. My husband and I are overjoyed that I was able to have a successful VBAC in the end.
--Sherry M.
--Bethany D.
Stephanie was so wonderful! I knew before we got pregnant I'd want a doula. Stephanie was recommended to me by other doulas and I knew I liked her from our email correspondence before we even met. She immediately set me at ease with her encouragement in what we hoped and planned for our baby's birth. As these things sometimes go our birth plan didn't pan out as we'd hoped. Our sweet babe was breech and we ended up with a cesarean at 41 weeks and 3 days. Stephanie was with us at the hospital from check-in and stayed through recovery and to see we were settled in our room. Though we did not get to take full advantage of her in labor I am so thankful for the ways she helped us prepare. I have no doubt she would've been invaluable. Having her in recovery was so important as she assisted in our baby's first latch. I'm convinced that's the reason breastfeeding has been so easy for us. I couldn't be more thankful to have her support throughout our pregnancy and into parenthood!
--Jenny R.
My experience with Stephanie has been nothing but wonderful! She is very kind and gentle, but also has a firm and solid quality to her. I went into my second pregnancy with a lot of anxiety due to my previous birth, which ended up in a c-section. She was very encouraging to me and helped me understand even more about the medical processes than I had known before and gave me tools to have more in-depth conversations with my doctor. Unfortunately, my second birth ended up in another c-section after a VBAC attempt, but I feel confident that I got as far as I did (21 hours of labor) with her help. Once the decision was made to have a repeat c-section due to fetal distress, I was confident that with Stephanie's help I had done all that could have been done in my VBAC attempt. She really was a joy to have during my labor and was helpful and encouraging in recovery as well. I highly recommend her to anyone looking for a doula!
--Jessica B.
I will be forever grateful to Stephanie for the amazing role she played in our pregnancy and birth. I truly cannot express how much it meant to us to have her and what a difference her support made from the day we met her up until after our delivery. She is one of the most empathetic and compassionate people I've ever met, she has tons of knowledge and resources and was available to answer all of our questions throughout my entire pregnancy. On the day I went into labor she was in constant communication and was so intuitive and attentive to my needs. She made herself available for whenever I was ready for the extra support during labor and once she was with me she worked with both my husband and I so that I felt so completely supported. In addition to the tools she brought to help me through labor she was incredibly encouraging and empowering throughout what turned out to be the most intense experience of my life. She took the time to learn what the most important goals I had for my birth experience before I went into labor, which for me was a no intervention and unmedicated birth, and helped to make that goal a reality when the day came. I truly could not have achieved the birth I wanted without her. I cannot recommend her highly enough to anyone who is pregnant whether they were considering a doula or not!!!
--Sarah N.
Let me start off by saying if you are in Columbus and looking for a Doula, just stop at this profile and contact Stephanie. You will not find a better Doula in Columbus…Obviously my biased opinion. My wife and I interviewed a few Doulas in the Columbus area but instantly felt very comfortable after meeting Stephanie the first time. That comfort definitely grew after the two 2 hour in home meetings we had prior to our baby arriving. As a husband I was really not sure about the “doula” conversation, but was on board if it made my wife more comfortable since it was our first. I didn’t say it but in the back of my mind I wondered if she doubted my ability to help her. Well I learned within hours at the hospital how smart of a call it was and that it had nothing to do with my abilities but the tremendous help and reassurance Stephanie gave my wife and myself.
Stephanie never left my wife’s side from the time she arrived at 5am all the way until we were comfortably in our room with our beautiful baby at 630pm. My wife wanted to do the entire process natural and I feel the only reason she was able to was the coaching and positive vibes Stephanie provided her at the hospital and from the meetings before in our home. She had us prepared, both of us ha-ha. Stephanie is so calming, confident, and kept my wife so focused even when the pain and length of her pregnancy was at its boiling point. Stephanie is so knowledgeable and prepared that her confidence and composer will infect you and your partner during the process. Within minutes of her arriving to the hospital, you will feel an overwhelming calmness because you know she is going to help you reach your goal if mother nature allows it.
Stephanie- I thank you so much. I know Randi feels the exact same way that I do. There is no way she could have made it that long and natural without you. We look forward to working with you again!
--Brian A.
I cannot begin to express how thankful my husband and I are to have had Stephanie as our doula. In fact my husband was unsure why we needed a doula at all – then after the birth of our son he made this comment “everyone should have a doula she was amazing, I’m telling everyone”. Amazing is exactly what she was for us. Her support and knowledge were priceless resources. She was always available to answer questions or provide encouragement throughout my pregnancy.
Our birth plan changed drastically from what we wanted. I ended up having a marathon labor and ended up using medication I had been determined to avoid in order to birth my son. However, thanks to Stephanie’s preparation we were able to make very informed decisions, and make the necessary decisions as they arose. Without her I would probably be looking back on my birth experience with doubt and regret. Stephanie was so encouraging and helpful throughout the entire process, providing comfort for both my husband and I. She was a trooper through the 20hrs she stayed with us in the hospital. If we have more children in the future we will definitely be using Stephanie as our doula once again.
--Veronica R.
After I had my first son, via an unplanned c-section after a very dramatic labor, I had a wide range of emotions. My son was not breathing when he was born, but after five minutes of resuscitation he began to breath on his own. On one hand, I felt very blessed and happy to have my baby. On the other hand, I felt very sad, disappointed, and angry. I felt like there was so much miscommunication during labor, and nobody was there to properly explain things to me. I felt robbed of the natural birth experience I envisioned, but what was worse, was that I put my baby in so much stress without being aware of the effects of prolonging my labor. I carried the weight of that for a very long time.
Since the birth of my first child, I dreamed of having a vaginal birth after a c-section (VBAC). I thought I would feel better if I got my VBAC. When I found out I was pregnant with my second baby (my first was only 13 months old), I immediately began searching for a doula. I knew I would need somebody to advocate for me in order to achieve my VBAC. Stephanie was the first doula I met, and I instantly felt a connection with her. I felt very comfortable talking with her about my past experience, and my desires for my second baby. I knew I would choose Stephanie to be by my side during labor, because she listened to me. I don't mean she waited until I finished talking so she could reply, she actually listened to me and showed a lot of empathy. She even took notes! During my prenatal visits, Stephanie came prepared with a folder full of informational handouts that we went through together. She also went through a labor and delivery guide to take note of my preferences. She answered all my questions thoroughly, and she really cared about understanding my preferences.
I know Stephanie was really rooting for me to have my VBAC and to have a great birth experience. I ended up scheduling a c-section because my baby was breech, among other reasons, but I still had a wonderful birth experience. I contacted Stephanie with regular updates after I found out my baby was breech, and we discussed my feelings and options. Having that kind of support immediately after a doctor's visit was very nice. It was comforting to know that even though I was not going to have my VBAC, I had Stephanie there to support me emotionally. It felt good that she cared. My husband is a great support person, but it was nice to have another woman to talk to throughout my journey. I felt like I took all the measures I could to get my VBAC, but it just wasn't meant to be. I am so glad that I hired Stephanie, because her support throughout my pregnancy helped me feel happy and special.
I had a much better birth experience this time around, both emotionally, and physically. Stephanie met me at the hospital, and we chatted and laughed for hours before my delivery (my c-section was delayed). I was in good spirits going into the operating room, and coming out with my beautiful baby. Stephanie captured my first breastfeeding attempt on video, and took pictures of my husband, mom, and me with my baby. I had such an amazing experience, it has helped me heal emotionally from my traumatic first experience. Thank you Stephanie for all your support, and for caring about me and my individual feelings!
--Rana O.
I really wish there was a way I could adequately put into words how much Stephanie's doula services meant to both my husband and I through my pregnancy and while welcoming our son into this world. Stephanie's support throughout pregnancy was wonderful. She was always available for help and questions. She fostered the positive, calming, and natural process that we wanted in both pregnancy and delivery. Having Stephanie there to help keep our focus on the important things was massively helpful. When I went into labor, she had just finished a long day of training and was a complete champ through the almost 24 hours she spent with us. During labor, my husband was able to feel comfortable with stepping out to grab a bite to eat because Stephanie never left my side. Her encouragement and help throughout couldn't have been better! My birth plan changed dramatically and thanks to Stephanie we had already focused on what really mattered beforehand and was able to make decisions easily without any guilt or regrets.
We just simply couldn't thank you enough, Stephanie. I wouldn't change a thing about the process and a lot of that is due to your guidance and encouragement!
--Amanda P.
Having Stephanie as our doula alleviated so much of the anxiety that we felt as first time parents. Not only was she invaluable during my very long labor, she was a great support during the pregnancy, by providing resources and informing us of our choices, which helped us feel a little more prepared for the "big day." When the big day finally did come, Stephanie was there to remind us of our choices and provide physical and emotional comfort. We felt comfortable with Stephanie the first time we met her and are still so glad we chose to have her be part of the birth of our first child.
--Chelsea A.
When I found out I was pregnant, a bit of panic ensued. An incessant line of questions kept me up at night: Will I survive the birth? Can I manage as a new mom? Who will be there to help me through labor? How will I know when to head to the hospital? After several weeks of sleepless nights I decided I needed to hire a doula. It turns out this was the best decision of my pregnancy: Stephanie helped to make my birth experience magnificent. After my partner and I interviewed a few doulas, I knew Stephanie was right for us. She was professional, understanding, easy to talk to, and knowledgeable about child birth. She put my mind at ease. Over the course of the pregnancy I met with Stephanie on several occasions and she helped me shape the idea of pregnancy, child birth, and motherhood into enjoyable life experiences. When it finally came time to deliver my baby, I was mentally prepared to manage the labor and delivery process. When delivery day arrived, Stephanie was at my side from the entire labor and birth. Although the birth itself did not go as planned, everything was perfect and I can not imagine a better experience. It is certain that if I am every pregnant again I will have a doula, hopefully Stephanie, for support.
--Anita M.
My husband and I were so grateful to have Stephanie as our doula for the birth of our first child. Her presence during the labor and delivery was a tremendous help. She was attentive, professional and knowledgeable. Stephanie not only educated us in what to expect prior to labor and delivery, but also addressed any postpartum concerns as well. Stephanie was quick to suggest laboring positions and make diplomatic suggestions that were always in my best interest. I found her coaching and nurturing to be superior to the nurses I had. We will definitely use her again if we are lucky enough to have more children and we recommend her highly.
--Emily O.
Stephanie served as my doula during the birth of my second child. I arrived at the hospital feeling unprepared and uneasy. I was not looking forward to my unplanned induction. I immediately felt better once Stephanie arrived. We were able to discuss the anxiety I was feeling and she helped me come to terms with the fact that it was time and that I could do it! Stephanie was very helpful at suggesting various positions and techniques to help me work through contractions. Stephanie stayed by my side the entire time. She helped me to feel empowered and incredibly supported. My husband and I look back on our son's birth experience with such fond memories and we are very grateful for the integral role that Stephanie filled as our doula.
--Amy W.
My husband and I agree that having Stephanie with us was essential to our ability to endure an extremely long labor. I was at 8 or 9 centimeters for 11 hours without pain medication. She listened to our concerns, anticipated needs, and responded accordingly. Stephanie consistently provided emotional and physical support throughout the entire process. Labor is intense and Stephanie was there to help us manage that intensity. Stephanie's strength as a good listener helped us to feel comfortable and supported throughout the entire process. She also showed tremendous compassion and understanding for the challenging aspects of preparing for birth. Stephanie is knowledgeable about various options available for laboring, so I learned a lot and felt comfortable designing/adjusting my birth preferences. My husband and I are overjoyed that I was able to have a successful VBAC in the end.
--Sherry M.
