From a Mother to Another Mother
Becoming a mother is transformative, joyous and empowering. And amazingly, our hearts find a way to double in size when the next child arrives. It's truly magical. Suddenly, the world no longer revolves around us. We have this perfect little one who has totally captivated our hearts and souls. We want to be the best version of ourselves for our children.
Often times, the birth happens. It wasn't the birth we pictured in our mind. Our bodies change, and we don't look like the same person in the mirror. We are sad and have a hard time controlling our emotions. Friends and family come to visit the baby, but then a few days go by, and we are left doing this thing alone. We feel guilty asking for help or telling someone we are suffering mentally, physically or emotionally. Brain fog and sleep deprivation kicks in. How are we supposed to return to work like this?
1 in 5 women suffer from postpartum depression. This country's maternity leave is just maddening. Mothers deserve more. Families need more support.
I see you.
Doula means "woman who serves". I want to help you maintain all aspects of your health during the postpartum period. The education, un-biased support, and hands-on care is something a postpartum doula can provide in a way no one else can. Whether that means teaching you about breastfeeding, bringing you a snack in bed postpartum, giving you the opportunity to catch up on sleep, or just listening, a doula’s role is always to help you step into yours.
MEET KRISTEN
This work is not just a job to me. Birth and babies are my passion. I can't remember a time when I didn't gravitate towards babies. Starting all the way back in middle school, I had already started caring for little ones. My teen and early college days consisted of countless babysitting shifts and working with infants in two childcare centers.
I personally have two very different experiences with birth and postpartum. With my first child, I was not aware of the importance of a doula. The birth brings back memories of anxiety, confusion, and helplessness. I had a hard time bonding with my baby. Breastfeeding was not successful. I also went through the postpartum period alone, while my husband had to immediately go back to work. Four years later, I knew I would be doing things much differently. In 2015, with two doulas and my husband by my side, I gave birth, unmedicated, to my daughter. It was by far the best day of my life. The experience was euphoric. Since educated on the topic, breastfeeding went so much smoother. Our breastfeeding journey lasted 3 years and I treasure those moments immensely.
After my own birth experiences, I felt a deep calling to support and educate others during this season of life. My heart is for every family to have a positive perinatal experience- one where they feel truly heard, respected, and supported. I began working as a birth doula in 2015 and now focus exclusively on postpartum care. Doula work brings together my love for children and my passion for helping others in a way that feels deeply aligned with who I am.
In 2019, God put onto our hearts to open our home to foster children. It's been a true honor to serve 11 children throughout the years. Spring 2024, we adopted two siblings.
As a doula, I bring not just many years of experience with children to the table. I have also personally experienced the stresses of motherhood, juggling home and work life, marriage, sharing my time with each of my children, and the chaos of life. With this, I have learned not to judge, to give myself grace, and that patience is truly a virtue. My commitment, loyalty, passion, and love for this job is embedded into my very being.
Kind Words
"Kristen was wonderful. I was immediately at ease leaving my baby with her overnight and I had total confidence that he would be safe and cared for with her. Kristen was so tender but also confident and knowledgeable every step of the way."
Neva B.
"Kristen has been such a huge blessing for us and such a huge help with our newborn daughter! I've been recovering from some complications postpartum, and it has been so nice to rest and recover while Kristen does some of the nights for us. She is so kind, caring and gentle. She's very trustworthy, extremely experienced, and just overall wonderful. Would definitely recommend!"
Amanda E.
“Kristen has been an absolute blessing for our family. Her calm and caring approach gave us much-needed peace of mind. We highly recommend Kristen to any family in need of excellent night care!”
Courtney A.
You don't have to do this alone.
Do you live in or around Harford County? It's as if the stars aligned! Let's chat!
