Dani

7/26/2024

Stephanie is truly an angel from heaven. Without her, my pregnancy and birth would have been a completely different experience. As a first time mom- I was super anxious and nervous my entire pregnancy… googled everything, couldn’t ever sleep, constantly worried if my baby was ok.. When I began looking for a doula and had my first FaceTime with Stephanie she put me at ease right away. She stayed on that “consultation” with me for over an hour…. Calming my fears… changing my perspective about birth (I was terrified - she pushed me to get excited about getting closer to meeting my baby). I immediately knew I wanted to work with her.

Throughout my pregnancy she was always a text or call away. Never made me feel like a bother. Always comforting and kind. Maternal energy that’s super calming and supportive.

During my birth Stephanie truly saved the day. I was a nervous wreck and Stephanie consoled me, calmed me down, advocated for me, and worked magic to shift my mindset in that moment. If it weren’t for her- my birth would have been a much different and less positive experience.

I don’t know what I would have done without Stephanie and would recommend her to any first time mom or mom with kids already. She is truly a magical person in every way.

Angela Ghesquiere

1/5/2024

Stephanie was the back-up doula during my labor, when my doula got called to another birth. In an intense and uncertain situation, she was so warm, direct, and supportive that we immediately trusted and felt comfortable with her. She ultimately was able to keep me from having a c-section; after induction and 2 hours of pushing, the doctor was worried about my exhausting myself and the baby, and wanted to do one. Stephanie firmly but kindly advocated that I try side-lying release and change positions for pushing, and got the doctor to agree. These suggestions worked, and I was able to deliver vaginally, as had been my strong preference. Stephanie was also extremely supportive and helpful throughout the intense labor process, guiding my through each push, getting me ice, drinks, and other items, explaining what to expect, and reassuring me when I got overwhelmed or emotional. I felt like she always knew exactly what I needed to hear to get through the challenging moments. She also helped my husband navigate the process, giving him clear tasks to do and answering questions. Finally, she was so skilled at connecting with the nurses and doctors, which I think ultimately made her advocacy even more successful. While we didn't expect to work with Stephanie, I am so glad we did, and in the end it felt like she was the doula we were meant to have. I couldn't recommend her more highly, and will be forever grateful for her help in bringing our beautiful, healthy baby into the world!

Mayra

12/11/2023

Being a first time parent, everything was new and overwhelming. My biggest fear about birth that led us to hiring a doula was all the unknowns as first time parents. After a pregnancy loss, I had so much fear and anxiety. I was focused on pain, doubting myself, fear of a c-section, fear of so many things possibly going wrong.  I knew I wanted a doula to help my husband and I prepare for childbirth + during postpartum. Having Stephanie as a doula exposed my husband and I to so much information + eased our fears. Stephanie helped us work through our fears + worries by shifting our mindset from a fear-based one to an empowered one. She helped me realize I had to believe I was capable of a vaginal birth. She asked us questions in preparation for the birth. Her guidance was crucial in helping us feel more prepared. She took time to get to know us, to learn our preferences, + empowered us to know our options. 

Thanks to Stephanie, I had an amazing + quick vaginal birth. She was there every step of the way. She was the 1st person I called when my water broke. During early labor, she texted to check in + kept in touch with my husband via text + FT. When she arrived, she advocated for me with the nurses, helped me get comfortable, guided with breathing + pushing, took photos(as requested), + stayed to assist with breastfeeding. It was such a beautiful experience. When our baby had feeding issues, she recommended specialists. Thankfully, we learned our baby had lip + tongue ties. Our daughter thrived after her revisions. Her wealth of knowledge re: pregnancy, birth, + postpartum was most valuable. She provided evidence based information. We were most impressed that she was known by our hospital, by our midwife, + her vast experience. We felt very comfortable with her. We highly recommend Stephanie as a doula. Her energy was reassuring, caring, humorous, + fun! We still keep in touch! I’m so grateful we found one another!

Sarah U

8/31/2023

I knew I wanted a doula once I became pregnant and searched for someone in my area who would be a good fit. I interviewed several, but once I had a call with Stephanie, I knew she was the one! She immediately put me at ease from our first phone call, which went WELL over the allotted time we had booked and you could tell she knew her stuff. I mentioned my doctor's office and she named everyone in the practice. She said to me on that call, "you no longer google stuff, *I'M* your google." And man did she not only mean it, but she delivered! Anytime I had a question, she'd answer it promptly and thoroughly! She also made sure to check in that her answers were sufficient while ensuring they weren't adding stress with information overload. She never judged us or any of our decisions, she just made sure we had all the information to make the correct decision for our family. 

When my water broke, Stephanie was the first person I spoke to about next steps and she guided me through what was to come. I am SO GRATEFUL she was there as my labor progressed as my doctor was not supportive, understanding, or listening to me and having Stephanie to advocate for me was essential to a healthy delivery for myself and our son. If she wasn't there, I'm afraid to think of what may have happened. Stephanie took photos for us and helped with latching and stayed at the hospital til well into 4am to ensure we got settled. We ended up needing to stay in the hospital for longer than expected and Stephanie helped with any questions/issues we were having while there.

Once we brought our little guy home, she came by when we were ready for her and she helped with breastfeeding and showed off her magic by putting our baby and the rest of us at ease. I still send her photos today of our little guy who she calls her family and it truly does feel that way if you go with Stephanie for your doula needs! 

Sara Smith

8/22/2023

When I became pregnant for the second time, I started searching for a doula to help me with my goal of healing a vbac with my son. I had a very traumatic experience with my daughter’s birth and I was determined to have a different experience the second time. During the consultation with Stephanie, I knew she was the perfect fit. She validated all my feelings about my first birth and I left the call feeling so empowered. Throughout my pregnancy, she was a sounding board for all my questions and helped me mentally as much as physically. She helped me compile lists of questions that were important for vbacs and was always there to check-in after appointments with my OB. When labor started hot and heavy, she came over quickly to help me manage debilitating back labor. Thanks to her support, I was able to stick it out at home way longer than I would have been able to  and I showed up at the hospital 8cm dilated - a huge mental victory! My OB was on vacation and the OB on call gave me a hard time about trying for a vbac. Stephanie was kind but fierce as she advocated for me. I was able to focus on my body and my baby, knowing she had my back and wouldn’t let any unnecessary inventions take place. Not only was my son born by the most beautiful vbac, Stephanie helped me start my breastfeeding journey off successfully in the recovery room. The pictures she took of his birth are unreal and I’m SO happy to have them to look back on. This was something I wouldn’t have thought I wanted and I’m forever grateful for the memories. I’m sure there are many amazing doulas but Stephanie treated me and my family like her family. She brought special art activities for me to do with my daughter to help her prepare for her brother’s birth. Every interaction felt so comfortable and I left feeling so empowered. She was such a special part of my son’s birth and I will always be grateful to her!

Janet

8/19/2023

I just had my first baby and am SO glad I had a doula and especially thankful that my doula was Stephanie.
The only things I wished for in childbirth were not to get torn up too badly, and avoiding a C section because I was terrified of the recovery as much as I was of birthing. My wonderful husband didn’t know how he could support me better either.
Luckily Stephanie provided the help we needed and more. She’s down-to-earth, funny but most importantly so genuinely caring, non-judgemental and warm. Compared to some other doulas I spoke with, I appreciated that she was highly experienced, an IBCLC and more assertive with her evidence-based advice so I felt confident she would help me advocate for myself at the hospital too.
And I couldn’t have asked for a more ideal birth - healthy baby and no injuries!!! I believe that preparation and luck were both key. Most critically, Stephanie stopped me from going to the hospital too early and gave me strength when I didn’t think I had any left. She stayed by my side the whole time at the hospital, held my hand and even held me in labour, and didn’t leave until she saw I was breastfeeding correctly.
Unlike the paediatrician and our OB, she also has practical advice for baby care and nursing which has given us some of our sleep and life back. The woman doesn’t stop giving!

Stephanie had such an important and memorable role in our daughter’s safe arrival into this world - thank you Stephanie, our little family couldn’t have done it without you!! ????

Nicole

9/9/2022

There's no way for me to express the deep gratitude my husband and I hold for Stephanie! She was with us every step of the way to ensure we had the information and support we needed to make the best decisions for my pregnancy and birth experience. She has a way of making you feel like you've known her your entire life and makes labor FUN. Most importantly, she knows exactly when to step in and when to step back to make sure your partner is engaged and confident. Hiring her to be by your side is the best money you can spend, and truly a blessing. I will never have a baby without her! 

Rebecca Roberts

8/1/2022

Though I took the basic labor and delivery classes, while pregnant I was spending most of my time planning for life with baby rather than for those few days in the hospital. I hired a doula because I was looking for someone to help guide my partner and I through labor itself – someone with experience, who had seen it many times before. Stephanie is that knowledgeable someone. She is an incredibly calming presence who helped get me through some of the toughest moments in the hospital. She did not judge my preferences – we developed a plan to make it to a certain point before getting an epidural, and with her help I did it. Most unexpected was how helpful her in-home follow up visit was a few days after getting out of the hospital. By that point a new parent has so many questions, and her reassuring presence and knowledge was incredibly helpful. I would recommend Stephanie to anyone seeking the care of a supportive, knowledgable doula – and have done so to a friend, who also utilized Stephanie and had a great experience.

Nicolette

6/2/2022

If you are considering hiring a doula, look no further. Stephanie is the most amazing, responsive, and understanding support person you could ever think of having with you during such an intense moment of your life. After having a bad experience with an OB who made it clear she would not respect any of my wishes, I wanted to make sure I had an advocate in the room with me. I ended up switching OBs and the hospital I was planning to deliver in at 37 weeks pregnant. Stephanie helped by giving me choices on hospitals that supported natural births and by having meetings with me prior to labor and delivery to talk all things birth and breastfeeding. I felt so prepared and empowered and was ready to bring my baby girl into this world. Stephanie taught me how to breathe through contractions and make it into an almost meditative state. She guided my husband on how to further provide support and helped keep all of my anxieties at bay. In addition to all of her guidance and support, she also captured the most amazing pictures of the labor and delivery. They are Live Photos and I love looking at them and watching the process of bringing my sweet girl into this world. Stephanie helped me with the first latch and then came to my house once I was home with the baby to help guide me with breastfeeding. We were stuck in a loop where my baby was not eating which made her tired and then was too tired to feed. Stephanie helped us come up with a plan and now 6 months later and I am still successfully breastfeeding. There are not enough words to express my gratitude and love for her. I tell everyone I know who’s pregnant or thinking of getting pregnant to be sure to hire Stephanie. You will not regret it!

Brittany Hinton

6/2/2022

Prior to getting pregnant I always knew I was going to use a doula. I am a nurse and sometimes knowing too much about something (I.e childbirth) isn’t always a good thing. I decided I wanted to hire a doula so I could have someone who always had my best interest at the forefront and could help me advocate for the childbirth experience that was best for my baby and myself. I had always dreamed of an unmedicated childbirth but baby girl had other plans! I share this mainly in hopes to shed light on possible misconceptions that you only need a doula if you go the unmedicated route.

My baby was breech throughout my pregnancy. Stephanie helped guide me to finding a Chiropractor certified in Webster technique, an acupuncturist who specializes in fertility, and was always just a text away with any questions I ever had about anything. Baby girl never turned and a c section was scheduled. A few days prior I went into labor naturally and Stephanie dropped everything to meet me at the hospital. I was absolutely petrified of the spinal tap but she advocated for me and was able to come into the OR while it was placed which was a HUGE relief.

During recovery Stephanie was there helping me establish breastfeeding in that “golden hour” and stayed until we were all settled in our room. My birth did not go as originally planned but it was such a beautiful experience regardless and I know Stephanie was a HUGE reason for that. If you are on the fence about hiring a doula, this is your sign to DO IT. I am eternally grateful for Stephanie (my husband as well) and can’t wait until we get to worth together again with Baby number 2–hopefully a VBAC! ;)

Genelle Diaz

1/22/2021

Despite my fear of giving birth, Stephanie made my experience empowering and overwhelmingly beautiful.

After reading countless articles about how the maternal death rate in the U.S. is among the highest of any developed country, I was scared of medical personnel insufficiently tracking blood loss or missing signs of pre-eclampsia.

I found so much comfort in Stephanie’s words, calm demeanor, and grounding touch. Stephanie convinced my OB to allow me to push in alternative positions and to do so for 4 ½ hours without intervention. 

I remember, when broaching the topic of having a doula with my OB, how she chuckled and said, “Yeah, doulas are great. But you’re going to have a lot of people with you in the delivery room. Doulas are important for after delivery.” The implication in that first part was certainly wrong. Wihtout Stephanie I might have had a C-section. But she was right about the second part. Stephanie was so important to my mental health postpartum. A few days after I had gotten home, I had an emotional breakdown about the physical and psychic pain of breastfeeding. I reached out to Stephanie, and she was over at my house the next day with a scale. She weighed the baby before and after a feeding and helped me use my breast pump for the first time to demonstrate that the baby was getting something after all. 

It's hard to choose a doula. They're all lovely people. Stephanie was just as lovely as any of them, but she also had this strength shining from within her. She was loving and accepting, but also a mama bear: resolute and strong-willed when she needed to be. If I had any artistic talent, I would render Stephanie as a majestic and imposing tree with wide, long branches, and glittering leaves. She can withstand any storm, she will protect you, and she has a beautiful, glowing spirit. I will always cherish having had her by my side on one of the most important days of my life.

Anna Lee

1/17/2021

If you are feeling nervous about your upcoming labor/delivery or had a previous negative birthing experience, you need a doula and you need Stephanie!
As a first time mom, I didn't know what to expect and wanted to counter any unwanted pressure, touching, harassment, and decisions from my obgyn and hospital. I saw the system as a place that did not hear nor respect the voices of laboring women. And I was afraid of the raw pain I would be in during labor.
Before labor, Stephanie gave me confidence and peace of mind that I would have a positive birthing experience. I felt in control and that my voice would be heard come the day. She also understood my reservations about my obgyn and connected me with a wonderful midwife that I ultimately switched to (and I was so glad I did!). It was nice that she was always just a text or call away whenever a question game up, and had ample resources at her fingertips. I gave birth in April 2020, right when the pandemic was at its height in the NYC/NJ area. Nevertheless, I had a wonderful birthing experience. I felt prepared, supported, coached, loved, cared for, everything you want to feel when you are most vulnerable. In addition to being just plain awesome at her job, she is a wonderful, energetic, humorous and positively uplifting personality that was just what I needed when I was feeling nauseous, lonely, achy, tired and everything else in between during my pregnancy. I felt comfortable in saying or doing just about anything in front of her, and I never felt I was at risk of offending her with any of my crazy thoughts and questions. When you are with her, it is a judgement-free zone. I am so grateful to have this amazing woman in my life and would not hesitate a moment to recommend her as your doula.

Nora

6/24/2020

Giving birth was the greatest experience. This was made possible by Stephanie's support in the months leading up to delivery, throughout labor, and the postpartum period where she provided breastfeeding guidance. I highly recommend her to anyone looking to have a positive, uplifting pregnancy and a birth experience that makes you realize your own strength! While laboring, Stephanie pulled out a handful of effective techniques and tricks that made enduring big contractions so,so much more manageable. She taught all of these to my husband and made sure he was the #1 key support player. I did not fully believe that I would be able to endure an unmedicated childbirth or be able to breastfeed and having the support of a doula helped me realize that it wasn't so far out of reach. Highly, highly recommend!

Lina and Chad

3/23/2020

My baby is almost 2 and I feel guilty only writing the review right now. But! It’s a good one :) Stephanie was incredibly knowledgeable and was on board with our birthing plan and wishes from the start. Being a registered nurse myself, I was impressed with the value and knowledge Stephanie brought to the table. She educated us on many alternatives to standard treatment and on unnecessary interventions we should avoid. Stephanie further protected our wishes, when medical staff was trying to change our minds during labor pains and when I was not able to think clearly.  Our baby is healthy and thriving and Stephanie played a big role in that. She was also considerate and respectful to our religious wishes. Than you for the great service, Stephanie!

Carlee Burt

2/19/2020

Stephanie was amazing to have around during pregnancy and labor! Being new to the area, I had a lot of trouble finding a doctor/midwife that I was comfortable with. Stephanie was able to give me wonderful recommendations and information for midwives, hospitals, chiropractors, and pediatricians in the area! It was so helpful to have her because she knows the area so well. During labor, Stephanie was amazing! She gave my husband and I great tips during contractions in order to breath through them. She set up my hospital room perfectly with lights and music- and created a perfect space to have my baby. She knew my birth plan and advocated for me to the nurses so I didn’t need to worry about explaining anything to anyone and could focus on my baby. Overall, my birth experience was perfect and I’m so grateful for her help and friendship. I would recommend her to anyone!!

Lindsay Schoenfeld

10/12/2019

It’s truly hard to express in words what Stephanie meant to us during our pregnancy, laboring, birth and postpartum, but I’ll try! We got pregnant with our son in October 2018 and knew we wanted the support from a doula but didn’t know exactly what that mean…until we met Stephanie and from that first moment, we knew we wanted her to be a part of our journey.

Because this was our first pregnancy we were thirsty for knowledge and Stephanie was the ultimate resource – helping us create our birth wish (birth plan), sending us evidence based articles so we could make educated decisions, offering ways to stay centered and healthy and making intros to vendors that align with our philosophies.  The beauty of working with Stephanie is she supported our decisions without judgment and was (and continues to be) a beacon of love and encouragement.  She’s as hands on as you want her to be – and while I have an amazing partner in my husband, she brought an extraordinary balance of confidence, knowledge and poise to our labor and delivery.  As a result, she was a major reason why that experience was amazing (how many people can say that?!).

One of the most challenging aspects of this experience for me wasn’t the pregnancy or delivery, but rather the ability to breastfeed.  We had hoped to exclusively breastfeed and Stephanie helped to guide us down that path.  Her postpartum visits were not only valuable from a knowledge and practical perspective but even more impactful was her presence and encouragement, which brought a wave of comfort and love during the extremely difficult first few days.  

Stephanie will forever be a part of the family – she was with us for every step of this intimate and beautiful journey and we’ll be forever grateful.  And of course if there are more littles in our future, she’s the first person we’ll call! 

Rebecca

9/21/2019

I had an rough induction with my first birth that left me a little traumatized and wary of the dehumanization of birth in a hospital.  The second time around I knew that I did not want the same thing to happen. I knew a doula would help me avoid unnecessary interference in the birth process. Specifically I was hoping to avoid needles and an epidural. We met with Stephanie before our birth and really discussed how to have a natural birth in a hospital. Throughout the end of the pregnancy little complications would arise and Stephanie would give me research to support the actions that my midwives were taking. It really put me at ease.  When I learned that I would have to have another induction Stephanie was my second phone call. We talked about how I could still have an empowering birth despite the need for another induction.  With her help I had a great birth without pain medication, she encouraged me and helped me navigate the hospital setting.  After the birth I ended up hemorrhaging, it was terrifying. Stephanie held my hand through it all, the beautiful moments and the difficult ones, she is a great doula and a wonderful supporter of women!

Lauren Simon

9/9/2019

Hiring Stephanie was the best decision we made in the pre-birth process! From the moment we met, we knew she was the right fit for us. She was so warm and friendly and knowledgeable and spent hours with us in just the pre-hire meeting! During the two coaching sessions right before the birth, she made us both feel at ease and ready for the challenge ahead. Ultimately my birth did not go as planned and Stephanie was there to help us every minute along the way and truly was an advocate for what we wanted and needed. I do not know how we could have gotten through it without her support!

Tal Netanyahu

4/10/2019

I was hesitant about getting a doula. I had a hard time justifying the expense, and I was dragging my feet with the search.
I don't know if it's fate or just dumb luck, but Stephanie was available and I reached out to her. After one phone call I could tell this is the type of person I needed in the delivery room - direct, honest, warm, caring, funny, motivated, professional... Ultimately I just enjoyed talking to her. Her sense of humor and confidence made me immediately comfortable, and we set up an appointment to meet.
Little did I know I'd go into labor the next day, a week early! I called Stephanie to tell her I'll require her services earlier than I thought. She did not hesitate, and that night once I needed her, she was at my door ready for action.
I can't say how happy I am I decided to take her. Throughout the entire thing she was supportive, comforting, helped both me and my husband keep our heads, was friendly with the hospital staff and made sure we were kept informed and I was distracted from the pain.
I ended up getting exactly the birth that I was hoping for, getting an epidural late enough so that I didn't need to be induced, and it was purely Stephanie's pain management that helped me through those last few crucial hours. She's a miracle worker.
After it was all over, she was there to help me breastfeed for the first time, and even took some candid photos that I will treasure for the rest of my life.
A couple of days later Stephanie came to our home for a postpartum visit. I'm not exaggerating when saying she already felt like family to us. She stayed for hours going over everything from latching and positioning during feeding, to pumping and general baby care. Since then, whenever I had an issue, I texted her and she answered immediately, always being very attentive and excited to help.
Stephanie is a treasure. I can't imagine giving birth without her.

Elise and Ivan

3/18/2019

Working with Stephanie was life changing.  Before meeting her, my husband and I weren't sure about whether or not to hire a doula.  Knowing that we wanted to have a successful home birth, we interviewed several doulas as I neared the last weeks of my pregnancy.  Our connection with Stephanie was instantaneous and we think that this is a testament to her warmth, experience, and spirit.  It felt as if were already long time friends.  What surprised us the most was the ways in which she prepared both of us for this experience. Birth coaches are essential not only for the pregnant person, but also for their partner.  Our pre-labor sessions with Stephanie were treasured moments where we could truly focus on the arrival of our baby.  They helped to create a stronger sense of intimacy between us, which ultimately translated into how we brought our daughter into this world.  Stephanie is a wealth of information and helps you focus on what is really critical. She says from the beginning that her role is to take on your stresses so that you don't have to and surprisingly, it works.  We left every pre-labor session with Stephanie with a renewed sense of energy and excitement as well as with steps to help prepare us for birth.  Stephanie was ALWAYS available and responsive to our calls, texts, and emails and was the first to arrive on the day I gave birth, transforming our space into a Zen retreat.  Her and my husband were a rockstar team and that was because of the trust that was carefully established.  After my delivery, which she was by my side for the entire time, she stayed with us for several hours to ensure that our new family of three felt at ease.  We were in constant communication for days afterwards, and during my post-partum visit, she offered to speak with some of our family members whose nervousness about my breastfeeding had been causing us some stress.  Don't hesitate to hire her!

Amy Zeman

3/15/2019

I couldn't be happier with the choice I made to hire Stephanie as my doula for the birth of my son. As a first time mom, I was looking for someone who would guide me as well as advocate for me when I was at my most vulnerable moments. Stephanie made me feel prepared for the unprepared and was there by my side the entire time. I look forward to having her be a part of my family forever.

Alexandra Burkhart

3/15/2019

When I was pregnant with my son, I didn’t know what a doula was, and I didn’t know what kind of birth I wanted to have. All I knew was that I was terrified of delivery! I was anxious about the pain, the hospital, and the whole realm of the unknown. After some research I wanted to strive for an unmedicated hospital birth and I knew my husband and I would need support and guidance. 

After our first meeting, I felt like a weight was lifted off of my shoulders. Stephanie's experience and understanding of the process helped turn my third trimester from fearful to joyful. We met and spoke many times before birth, and I became more and more excited to experience labor and birth. Knowing that Stephanie would be there to help me get through labor allowed me to revel in the idea of it. I surprised myself — I was now aching to feel the contractions and get through them with her support! 

We were so lucky to have the birth that we wanted — and I’m not sure I could have done it without doula support. There are so many benefits to having a doula, but for me, the best part was that I could just feel calm and enjoy the last leg of my pregnancy. I knew that once it was time, my husband and I could just focus on the experience of labor and birth. Stephanie was an angel that allowed us to fully experience it, let us be in the zone and not worry about details. She is a facilitator of the most ancient beautiful life force.

Another benefit was Stephanie’s expertise as a lc. She was generous with her time right after birth and helped my baby and I get started. In the weeks after birth, we had some issues and questions, and Stephanie’s breastfeeding guidance was paramount. 

Our second time around, it won’t even be a question. Even though we are more confident in the birth process now, we need our doula! Stephanie’s guidance was invaluable, magical, and worth every single penny!

Amarilis Rivas

9/18/2018

Everyone says that labor is hard. Well, you don't really know how hard it is until you're in the throes of it. Time stands still and flies simultaneously. You succumb to your own internal ebbs and flows of pain as you get ready to welcome that perfect little angel into your life. Your body literally becomes the vessel of an ancient birth ritual- and no matter how well you've prepared for the event, and regardless of the fact that the body knows what it's doing, what you actually experience is as foreign as it gets.

I knew that hiring a doula would be essential for me considering the fact that I'd chosen to go the natural route (pain killer free!- the horror!) The second I met Stephanie in person I knew that she would be the perfect fit for me. She is passionate for what she does, extremely well-educated, experienced, loving, and has a very grounded demeanor. And did I mention that she is also very funny? Well, I couldn't have selected a better advocate for my birth plan. She was able to answer my crazy questions and pointed me in the right directions as far as literature to read, videos to watch, and exercises that would help prepare me for my day. And the day that I went into labor, I felt comfortable and calm knowing that she was there just to help me get through it all. I highly, HIGHLY recommend Bergen Doula. She will forever be a part of my baby's birth story and a part of my family's life! I lover her to bits!

brittany he

9/16/2018

Throughout most of my pregnancy, I felt really good and had complete faith that I could take it all without any problems. I knew I wanted an epidural and that was that. But pregnancy and birth are unpredictable and when I was thrown a curveball towards the end of my pregnancy, I knew I needed to find a doula. I had always thought that a doula just helped you through the birthing process, providing breathing support and things like that, but Stephanie did so much more!! From our initial phone call and meeting all the way until after we arrived home after giving birth (and even now, 3 months later!), Stephanie has been so supportive and helpful! She has made sure that we are always informed of our different options and does not judge at all. During the pregnancy, she made sure we knew what our options were once I went into labor and made sure I was as comfortable as possible by showing me different stretches. She checked in often and was constantly in touch when I went to the hospital earlier than planned, even showing up in person to check in well before active labor started. After the birth, she came to our house and made sure everything was going smoothly with breastfeeding and made sure that we, as new parents, were surviving the first few days with a newborn. She helped my little family through so much and I would 100% recommend her to any and all soon to be parents — I know I plan to use her again myself in the future!

Lindsay Kay Cohen

9/13/2018

When I found out I was pregnant, I went through all the emotions - beginning with excitement but evolving into apprehension. I met with an OB who unfortunately did not help ease my worry, did not offer me warm congratulations, and left me feeling like I was in for something I could not handle. Call me crazy, but I preferred to see my pregnancy as normal, exciting and empowering! When I switched to midwives, I had found a better match for me. I had a normal pregnancy, but even if I didn’t I knew I was always in good hands. It didn’t hurt to get a hug every now and then as well! At first, I was not sure if I would also need a doula or if I could afford it, but my midwives highly recommended Stephanie. She gives hugs too! I loved the genuine, personal care she gives expecting mamas and I knew from our initial phone call that she needed to be our doula.

My baby girl is 6 weeks old now and I’m still raving about her birth and the value of having a doula. I will be for many years to come. A big perk for me was feeling so at ease about having a natural birth, even when things got quite hard in the moment. Stephanie is so knowledgeable about birth and in the weeks prior to my labor and right up to the big moment when the intensity was growing and my husband was beginning to wear out, Stephanie never made us feel like something was not going well or uninformed. I only felt that everything I was experiencing was normal, expected and that I could do it. It was a stellar feeling that is unfortunately not part of many other birth stories I have heard.

The most admirable thing about Stephanie, which makes her such a wonderful doula, is her energy and passion for this work. She was unwavering in her support after many long hours of labor and she really cares about the families and babies she works with. Her love and support just overflows!

Sarah Henderson

6/5/2018

Where do I begin with this review...I was under the impression that a doula shows up at your birth, helps you get through labor, and that's the end of that relationship. Stephanie was an amazing support through the labor process, but it was the time before and after the birth that caused my husband and I to frequently say "wow, it was worth it to hire Stephanie just for that."

Prior to labor, Stephanie came to our house twice to ensure we were physically and emotionally ready for the arrival of our baby girl. She checked in over email throughout the last trimester, and was so responsive to the barrage of requests I sent her over that time. She helped me change over to a new midwife practice, and also find a great local pediatrician and chiropractor (all people she would personally vouch for), and any health-related recommendations she sent to us were always accompanied with the supporting science/research.

During labor, Stephanie did everything I could have wanted or needed.

After labor, Stephanie stayed with us to work on nursing and ensure we were ready to move to recovery. Our baby is now 12 days old and I've talked to Stephanie almost every day. She came for a post-partum visit and immediately corrected the bad latching habits I had picked up at the hospital. She's talked me off the ledge multiple afternoons and always texts me back - even when I'm losing my cool over a 3 am feeding. When I asked if she knew anyone who could come give us a night of relief (post-partum doula), she immediately called up her contacts and found us someone great.

In summary - Stephanie has been everything to us. Her local connections, experience as a mother of 3, and training as a lactation consultant make her an incredible resource. Her compassion, sense of humor, and boundless energy make her a fantastic doula. I can't imagine having gone through this experience without her.

Jenifer Chavez

2/15/2018

My husband and I have selected Stephanie after a long research because her natural empathy with us, her professionalism and the human sense that she transfers. She follows up all my pregnancy, delivery and postpartum; She did not limit her service as an expert consultant, Stephanie built a really close and nice relationship making us feet confident and comfortable.

We had planned a Natural birth with active Labor, also, for us was important the participation of my Husband and the connection with my baby. We followed all the birth plan that we designed, even if at the end the delivery turn in a C Section, I'm completely satisfied and happy with all the decisions we took together.

Stefanie is that kind of person that gave her best, she always answered immediately and effectively all our calls and messages. She never lost sight of the goals that we determined at the birth plan, especially when it changed in a C section, and she took care that the hospital followed as much as possible our birth plan.

We are so happy to have chosen her as our Doula

Jenifer Chavez

2/15/2018

Mi Esposo David y yo estuvimos buscando una Doula para tener un soporte para recibir nuestra primer hija. Despues de entrevistar muchas Doulas, escogimos a Stephanie por la gran empatia que genero con nosostros, profesinalismo y humanindad que transmite. Ella no solo se limito en asesorarnos previo, durante y despues del parto, si no creo una relacion con nosotros y nos hizo sentir siempre seguros durate todo el proceso.

Yo planee tener un parto Natural, tener una especial coneccion con mi Esposo y bebe durante este momento; hicimos todo como lo que planeamos y siento que no falto nada de lo que deseamos a pesar que tube una complicacion que termino en un parto Cesareo.

Stefanie es una persona especial que da todo de si misma, siempre respondio imediatamente nuestras llamadas y mensajes, nunca perdio de vista los objetivos que determinamos juntos, ademas creo una coneccion con mi esposo y con migo que nos hizo sentir completamete en famila, es la tia Norte Americana que lo sabe todo en el momento mas importante de nuestra historia como familia, la llegada de nuestra primera hija.

Nuestro idioma Nativo es Espanol e Italiano; quiero exaltar la flexibilidad y capacidad de Stephanie para interpretar y facilitar la comunicacion no solo entre nosotros, si no tambien con el personal del hospital.

Estamos muy felices de haber elegido Stephanie como nuestra Doula.

Jenifer Chavez

2/15/2018

Mio marito ed io stavamo cercando una Doula affinche ci affiancasse durante tutto il processo del parto della nostra prima figlia. Dopo aver vagliato diverse Doule, abbiamo scelto Stephanie per la gran empatia che ha avuto con noi, la sua professionalita' ed umanita. Lei non si e' limitata solo ad accompagnarci nel prima, durante e dopo, ma ha instaurato una relazione con noi che ci ha dato sicurezza in tutte le fasi, specialmente essendo stranieri.

Io avevo planificato un parto naturale, avere una consessione speciale con mio marito e la bebe durante il parto. Abbiamo fatto tutto quello che ci eravamo prefissati e e che desideravamo che avvenisse durante il parto, anche se questo si e' complicato alla fine, tramutandosi in un cesario.

Stephanie e' una persona molto speciale che da tutta se stessa, rispondendo sempre immediatamente alle nostre chiamate ed ai nostri messaggi. Ha condiviso i nostri obiettivi e non li ha mai persi di vista, creando una conessione con me e mio marito che ci ha fatto sentire completamente in Familia.... e' diventata la Zia d'America che sa tutto del momento piu' importante della nostra storia familiare, e dell'arrivo della nostra prima figlia.

Noi siamo Italocolombiani e stranieri in USA, eppure ci teniamo a sottolineare la flessibilita' e la capacita' di Stephanie di interpretare e facilitare la comunicazione con noi e con il personale dell'ospedale, specialmente alla fine quando da un momento all'altro e' cambiato tutto, e' abbiamo dovuto fare un cesario.

Li e' dove si e' rivelata incredibile, aiutandoci a gestire la situazione e al tempo stesso assicurandosi che l'ospedale seguisse comunque il nostro programma di parto.

In fine, aver investito in Stephanie, si e' rivelata la scelta piu azzeccata che abbiamo potuto fare, sopratutto nella nostra condizione di stranieri..

Grazie Stephanie

Tom Tang

12/14/2017

I love Stephanie! She was my doula for a Thanksgiving 2017 baby! We just had our first baby, and Stephanie made my birthing experience really positive. I do not know if I could have made it through the pushing phase of my labor without Stephanie’s guidance (holding my hands and legs and her positive coaching!).

Stephanie also provided tons of pre-labor support (via home visits) and post-labor support. She is super attentive and would check in on me throughout the whole process and post process without ever being intrusive. Just the right thing touch. Stephanie really cares about your birthing experience and I am so happy I found her and I am so happy she was part of our birthing experience. I love this woman to the moon and back.

Liz SK

9/21/2017

Stephanie was our stand-in doula at the last minute because our baby was early and our original doula was unavailable. While this would typically be a stressful situation, Stephanie stepped in seamlessly and brought her knowledge, experience and warm presence to our birth.

Stephanie came prepared and I appreciated that she thought of many small things to make me more comfortable. She was not judgmental of my choices and very helpful when I had any questions. My family really enjoyed having her around and she was a great person to have by my side. Stephanie also provided a postpartum visit at which we were talking for so long I didn't even realize it had been over two hours. She is clearly extremely passionate about what she does and her love of the babies and the birthing process shines through.

I would highly recommend Stephanie and if we choose to have another child I would definitely hire her again.