I began my work with babies in 1998 while enrolled in school for early childhood education.  Soon after, I took time off to start a family, and I now have 2 beautiful children.  

I have been involved in birth work since 2003.  During that time I have trained as a birth doula, received my certification with the international organization DONA and have attended 35 births.  I also received my postpartum doula training with DONA and have helped many families during the postpartum period adjust to their new life with a baby.  

I completed my Childbirth Educator training with ALACE, and became provisionally certified in August of 2006.  As a childbirth educator, I am committed to providing current and accurate information to my clients, as well as preparing them for the mental and psychological aspects of birth and the postpartum period.  

I also became certified as Lactation Counselor in the fall of 2005.  I believe that education prior to birth, and proper support and counseling after will encourage breastfeeding success.  I am currently enrolled in a program with The Center of Breastfeeding and Union Institute and University and will graduate at the end of the summer with a bachelors degree in Maternal Child Health: Lactation Consulting.  Also I am a Certified Infant Touch and Massage Instructor with the International Institute of Infant Massage.   

In my spare time (what's that?!) I enjoy walks with my family, good food, anything Russian, movies, and exercising. 

My Life's Work

I have worked as a doula since 2003.  Much of that time was spent working as a birth doula, in addition to other services.  I have worked both alone and with three other wonderful doulas.  I started Life's Work to focus my attention on educating and supporting parents before and after the birth.  Although I am no longer doing birth work, my birth doula experience has been invaluable in my work as an educator.  I feel honored to have found my Life's Work, and hope to be able to help you in yours.

"When returning home after having twins and a 3 year old I was very overwhelmed.  Heidi helped during that critical transition time by enabling me and my family to feel capable of caring for three young children. Her sincere devotion to us was genuine and heart felt. She was more than happy to assist with breast feeding issues, meals, laundry, cleaning, and organizing my new crazy life.  She truly was a valuable asset to our family."---Jaime