Maria Rader Doula Profile

We are so grateful to have worked with Maria before and during the birth of our daughter. We found her to be
very compassionate, knowledgeable and completely accepting of all perspectives and ideas.

I experienced early labor symptoms for about 2 weeks before I gave birth. I talked, texted
or emailed with Maria every day during that time. She was very supportive and encouraging, and available.
When I actually went into labor (water broke in middle of the night), we called Maria to check in and she
ultimately met us at the hospital a few hours later (our choice - she would have come right away if we asked).
Throughout the whole process, she was very genuine and calm yet very efficient and tuned in to what I needed
(even when I didn't know I needed it). I know that her presence helped my husband to be the best coach to me he
could as he kept looking to her for guidance, especially when things were intense.

One of the best things Maria helped with was decision making. When the doctor/nurses were pushing for interventions
(and I wasn't yet ready for them), she helped us figure out what we wanted and advocate for our plan to the medical
staff. She is very reasonable and helped us to weigh out our options. I felt really good about all the decisions we
made when I was in labor and really have NO regrets! I had a really great birth experience and when I tell people that -
they look at me like I am crazy! but I attribute so much of that with having Maria on our team!

I would work with her again in a heartbeat and she will always have a special place in our lives!

Maria was so helpful after the birth of our son. She helped with practical things like folding laundry, washing bottles and walking our dog. Most important, however, was the emotional support she provided during the earliest weeks of parenthood was invaluable! Maria is incredibly gentle and nurturing. Her presence brought peace of mind when everything felt overwhelming!

My partner and I feel extremely lucky to have worked with Maria Rader as our doula. Maria is not only experienced and knowledgable but also warm and sensitive, and her support before and during the birth process made all the difference. 

Before the birth, Maria was always available by email or phone and any questions or concerns we had were quickly responded to. As I was pregnant for the first time, I had many questions and Maria always patiently responded to them.

My labor ended up being both longer and more complicated than any of us had foreseen and Maria's presence and support during that time made a substantial difference for both me and my partner.

I've already spoken to friends and family about how much respect I have for Maria and can't sing her praises enough. If you're looking for a doula, look no further!

-Gayatri Patnaik

Maria provides a magnificent blend of  deep knowledge, warm compassion, and steadfast connection throughout the entire pregnancy and birth experience. I was amazed by the breadth of skills and care she demonstrated from the day I met her to the period after my birth, and beyond. As a single mother with a three-and-a-half year old, I appreciated her remarkable support and genuine care. At the birth, I literally tuned into her words and energy the entire time to keep me on my path. My delivery experience could not have been better - or more complete. Maria will remain a force in my life forever.