Kimberly Rowley

2/22/2016

I discovered Chris at a baby expo in Syracuse, and immediately was drawn to her warm, caring persona. I had talked to a few other doulas but knew she was the one I wanted as soon as we met. Chris helped me deliver my second baby and she was so wonderful throughout my entire pregnancy, checking in from time to time to see how I was feeling. She was very thorough going over my birth plan, and made sure that all of our bases were covered. She was always very quick to respond whenever I had a question. During the birth her calm demeanor helped me feel relaxed yet focused on the birth. She was ready for each stage of labor, and even introduced me to the birthing stool which I ended up using during the pushing stage and fell in love with it! She just seemed to know exactly what to suggest at the right time to make the entire birth process as pleasant as possible. And even though I didn't hire her as my post partum doula, she still checked up on me afterward. It's obvious she truly cares about all of her moms and their babies. I definitely would hire her again if I ever decide to have another, and highly recommend her to anyone who's looking for a doula!

Hannah Keller

11/20/2015

I am so happy to have found chris when I was pregnant with my first. As a fist time mother you have no idea what to exspect. Chris was always there for me wether is was regarding my pregnancy or if it was something else. When it was time for labor she was there every step of the way, I don't think I could have gotten threw it without her. Chris has a very gentle spirit and knows exactly how to get you threw the tough times during childbirth. As soon as I found out I was pregnant again I knew exactly who I would be contacting. I desperately wanted a Vbac for my second baby and I knew chris had plenty of experience with Vbac moms. Threw out my pregnancy we would meet and talk about my goals and expectations. She engraved "I can do it" into my head. When it was time for my Vbac chris got me threw it! I had a natural unmedicated Vbac and if it wasnt for the support of chris I wouldn't have gotten threw it. I have a great relationship with her and will always praise her for being the best doula I could have asked for and more!!

Courtney Ludovico

10/28/2015

 I have hired Christine as a Doula for both of my children. From the very moment I contacted her she was available anytime I needed to talk or ask questions or get advice. She genuinely cared about me and my birthing experience. She has been in countless births and has had five children of her own  so she has an extensive knowledge base to draw from. She is also extremely empathetic and understands completely the intensity of natural childbirth. She is there to support her clients no matter what kind of birth they choose.   She helped me to navigate the challenges of both of my labors, and I am convinced that I could not have had a natural childbirth without her help. She suggested comfort measures, gave massage, advocated for me, spoke calming words to me, and guided my husband through the labor process.  She is a consistent supportive presence in any delivery, without being overwhelming or obtrusive.   Whenever anyone is looking for a Doula I suggest her. Hiring her is one of the best things you can do for yourself as a pregnant woman! 

Aimee Boyce

10/24/2014

I could say a million things about Chris, but the number of characters on this page is limited, so I will say as much as I can with few words. : ) When my pregnancy was confirmed, my husband was new to his job and we did not have health insurance benefits yet. I became pregnant at the end of August and would not have insurance until January. When my OB/GYN office refused to take on my care beyond 20 weeks gestation (when my insurance would become active) and another midwife would not see me anymore because of some blood pressure issues at the beginning of my pregnancy, Chris helped me find another midwife who was willing to take on my care. That midwife is my new women’s health care provider, and I am forever thankful for the recommendation. Additionally, I was bent on having a completely natural birth and when I learned it was unlikely that our daughter would survive natural birth, I was devastated. Chris had taken the time to learn about our family before the birth and knew exactly what to do. She quickly cleared the room of everyone except my husband and I to allow a few minutes for us to digest the fact that our daughter would be delivered by C-section. I can’t explain in words how much I needed those moments alone with my husband to prepare myself mentally for the surgery. After that alone time, Chris re-entered the room to support me while the rest of the health care staff scurried to prepare me for surgery and my husband stepped out to prepare for entering the OR with me. Chris helped create a peace and a stillness for me by praying with me and helping me to breathe through my labor pains. She was there with her strong but calming support to help me face the emotional let-down of not being able to have a natural delivery. Tears have come to my eyes even while writing this. I am so thankful that Chris was there for us during pregnancy, birth, and after. I highly recommend her services and I am happy to forever serve as a reference for her.

Samantha Warren

8/5/2014

This is the second time that I have been blessed by Chris' support at the birth of my child.  For all of the 13 days past my due date, Chris provided encouragement and support when I felt discouraged and anxious at making decisions regarding labor induction.

Chris also quickly came to the hospital when my husband became ill during my labor.  She helped him continue to support me when he was able and stepped in when he wasn't feeling up to it.  Chris offered many helpful suggestions for coping with back labor, which helped me to avoid an epidural.  Her knowledge is invaluable, and I'm truly grateful to her.

She also captured a few incredible photos of the moment I saw my daughter for the first time and discovered the baby was a girl.  Photos to cherish for sure!

I would highly recommend Chris' services to any mommy-to-be!

Rachel Fleming

12/6/2013

My husband and I have nothing but wonderful things to say about Chris Goldman. Initially, my husband wasn't into the idea of hiring a doula. He was afraid he might get pushed to the background for the entire labor/delivery experience. After our initial meetings with Chris, his fears were gone. And after all was said and done, my husband said he really felt like Chris put him at the forefront for the entire process. Personally, I felt so much more comfortable and confident having Chris there, with my husband, once we got into active labor at St. Joe's. I felt that she really helped guide my husband and made him feel very confident in his ability to help me through the birthing experience. Since our son was born, Chris has remained in our lives and we are so happy that she has. We love Chris and cannot say enough good things about her. 

Alesha Anderson

11/18/2013

I had an amazing birth experience and believe I couldn't have done it without the support of my husband and Doula. Chris Goldman from CNY Doulas, really helped me prepare for labor and when the big day arrived, she really helped me stick to my goal of a natural childbirth. She provided great comfort and advice during labor and really helped me navigate the most difficult moments of active labor and kept reminding me of my goals and helped me stay focused on the end - meeting our sweet baby! Chris also helped my husband in guiding him on just how to support me during each phase of labor - this in my opinion, is the most important reason to have a doula!  I look back on the whole experience and feel very positive about my birth experiece and cannot imagine doing it without Chris' support! I believe every woman should have a doula to provide that extra comfort, coaching, and encouragement alongside the support of their partner.

Grace Huang

12/8/2012

Grace Huang

12/8/2012

Christina Cayea

3/7/2012

There is not enough to say about having a doula. My experience with Christine Goldman was a refreshing one. I am a VBAC patient and labor, was expected to be like my first labor, before the C-Section, tiring and gruesome and a repeat C-Section. That is why I felt as though a doula would be great, and Chris was just that. Chris will help you with becomming confident and ready for labor. You will understand how to work with your body to get through labor and perform the act of birthing a baby, which is what women were intended to do. My favorite thing about Chris is that she reconnects women with their Creator and with their womanhood. We have a body, and the body is a science. The more that we can understand what the body does and how to go with what it does, we can perform labor. When we have a lack of knowledge, we are not as comfortable because we have fear of the unknown. Chris brings these fears out and helps us face them head on by giving us the knowledge that we need to perform birth. Through exercizes, verbal coaching, physical touch and words of affirmation, Chris helped me bring forth my beautiful baby boy.  I recommend her services to anyone I know. Having a C-Section these days is a dime a dozen. When a doula steps into the picture, this chance diminishes highly because we have someone there that we know and trust, whom we have built a relationship with over nine months and they know what we want. They become our own personal nurse and are there every step of the way. My prior C-Section would not have been needed if I had someone there with proper knowledge and coaching to get me through the hard times. Women need all the support they can get during labor and Doulas of CNY is the right place to help bring your baby forth, safely and the way it was intended to be.

Erica Potter

2/8/2012

Simply put, I would not have achieved my VBAC without Chris.  Because of the political and legal climate, there were not many options for providers who would truly support my deep desire for a VBAC.  Chris made all the difference.  She knew the provider and hospital I chose, and they knew her.  There is just no substitute for her level of experience.  In addition, Chris stuck with me during six long days of labor, sacrificing sleep and time with her family to help me.  She knew just what to suggest and how to help me make progress.  I am sincerely grateful for all she did, and always with a loving, respectful presence.  Thank you!

Nicole Beaudin

10/20/2011

Chris was our doula for the home birth of our second son. She was helpful, encouraging, and a wonderful person to have present both as support and as a friend. She was always just a call or text away and she touched base with me almost every single day. Chris helped me stay patient and wait for the arrival of our little guy even after going past my due date. When I did go into labor, she came to our house and helped set everything up. During my labor, she took many pictures and when I started to feel like I couldn't do it, she was by my side encouraging me and reminding me that I was already doing it and we;d be holding our baby soon. After our son was born, she helped us get settled in as a family and I nursed our son for the first time. She stayed while my midwife finished up weighing him, getting footprints, etc and we talked about the birth briefly. She told me how beautiful it was and we looked through a few of the pictures she took throughout my labor, birth, and then afterward. She was a blessing to have in our home for the birth of our son and I highly recommend her to anyone searching for a calm, encouraging, and loving presence during their birth experience.

Ranjini Govender

3/29/2011

Chris was a wonderful doula. My original doula could not be at my birth and Chris stepped in right away for the birth like she had been my doula all along. She was there for me throughout whether it was requesting a room with a tub, talking to the nurses, and generally just being my advocate throughout. Chris was calm, gentle, and caring through the toughest part of my labor and I knew I could count on her to offer kind words and support. In addition, Chris continued to provide support after my birth as well. She is still willing to answer questions and be helpful. She is just 100% genuinely caring and sweet. I would highly recommend her.

Nicole Laws

2/18/2011

 My experience with Chris was fantastic.  She has such a calming demeanor to begin with.  Throughout the several months leading up to my labor & delivery she remained in contact with me and we met up when we could.  She was very supportive and willing to work with me to have the experience I wanted.  I had a very successful drug free labor and delivery.  I have to thank Chris for supporting me and coaching me through when I was about to lose control.  I stated relaxed and focused and she was a HUGE help with that.  I would recommend her to everyone.   

Samantha Warren

1/11/2011

My husband and I feel truly grateful to have had Chris’ support during the birth of our daughter. Throughout the pregnancy, I felt very apprehensive that this birth would turn out like the birth of my son. I wanted so badly to have a successful VBAC! Chris provided continued support through emails, professional articles, and phone calls to keep me pumped up about the birth!

When my due date passed, Chris gave me the courage to follow my heart and delay induction/make my own choices about the birth. Finally, when my water broke, my labor began following the pattern of my previous birth. I was nervous and scared, but Chris believed in me and helped me to believe in myself.

At every point along the way, Chris was right there to advocate for me and to provide info that helped my husband and I to make decisions. Her patience and kind words helped to keep me going even when things got tough. She had countless suggestions to help me manage labor pains, as my desire was for a natural birth. I highly recommend Chris as a doula, and hope to have her at my side in the future if we are blessed with another baby!
 

stefanie delaney

1/5/2011

 Chris is a caring, compassionate and loving individual who goes above and beyond for her clients!  She is very knowledgable and experienced in all areas of child birth, pregnancy and aftercare.  I found her to be very professional but though it all she became more than our doula she became a friend.  

As medical professional myself, I was very particular in my desires for delivery and those who cared for my family and I.  My family instantly became comfortable with her presence in this very intimate setting. It was reassuring to have a personal advocate at my bedside to ensure all our needs were attended to.  She played a huge role in the birth and was very in tuned to the dynamics of all who were involved.  We had a wonderful experience and I would highly recommend her services to anyone who is pregnant!! 

Kelsey Kotash

1/1/2011

Chris Goldman was always available to me when I needed her. She is extremely competent and helpful, as was evidenced by her child birth education classes and her help with putting my birth plan together. My labor was unique, as my water broke at 36 weeks, but I knew I could call on Chris at 4:30 in the morning and she would be able to tell me what to do. Through constant check-up, Chris provided continuous support throughout the early stages of labor and was able to advise me as to the next steps when my labor was not progressing. Hers was the strongest voice in determining what I should do next. Additionally, she provided tangible and natural ways to progress labor as well as helpful pain relief techniques that I would not have known of otherwise. She was a great supplement to the support my husband provided and helped coach him as well, all the while standing back and letting him support me in the ways he wanted to. Two things impressed me the most- first, Chris' intuition about when to get me back to the room to deliver; she has such a deep insight into the woman's body and the birthing process and knew, simply by a look on my face, that it was time to get back to the room to have the baby. It was a good thing too, as I promptly delivered the baby after getting back to the room! Second, she knew my birth plan really well and was a constant advocate as to my wishes when my mind was focused on the labor and not necessarily on my birthing preferences. Post labor and delivery, Chris provided lactation coaching as well as several helpful tips when breast feeding was not going so well- I now have no trouble with breast feeding. In sum, I was very pleased with the coaching and support that Chris provided to my husband and me, and even though I have already had the baby, I know I can call on Chris at any time and she will be ready and willing to help.     

Larissa Brenner

10/6/2010

Chris is a very warm and caring person, but also extremely professional.  She took the time to get to know us before the birth so that she would be able to help us in ways unique to our marriage and our family. 

We hired Chris for the birth of our second child, and we did not have a doula first time around.  My first birth was much more physically difficult, and I ended up with pitocin, an epidural, episiotomy and vacuum.  I had none of the three this time around, and gave birth with no drugs at all - and my recovery has been much easier than the first time.  Both of my babies came out "sunny side up," which is physically challenging, but this time around we had Chris to guide us on positioning and ways to help the baby out in the smoothest way possible. 

Having Chris there also allowed my husband to stay by my side the whole time and guide me through every contraction.  She allowed him to be an even better support to me, and that made the whole process so much nicer for us both.  We strongly recommend Chris to anyone!

Holly Steffen

9/23/2010

I began researching VBACs shortly after my first son was born. I was induced and he was born via unplanned c-section after pushing nearly 3hrs. We knew we wanted more kids and a repeat c-section was not an option. My research led me to doulas. I found Doulas of CNY and called them. I met with Chris 36 weeks pregnant. We clicked. I hired her on the spot. She was going to be my way to a VBAC. Don't get me wrong-- I was all amped up for a VBAC without a doula-- but WITH a doula I KNEW I would do it. My husband was my right hand and Chris was my left. She was always one step ahead of me- taking care of needs right when they arised. Her reassuring words in transition "you have done all the hard stuff. you're baby will be here soon" and saying all the words I needed to hear when I needed to hear it. Chris is the PERFECT seasoned doula. I was SO BLESSED to have her at my birth. Since the birth of my second son via a doula supported, intervention free, med free VBAC I have become a DONA certified DOULA myself and hope to help as many women feel as supported as I did with Chris as my doula. She is the complete package.

Kristen Oganowski

9/8/2010

Chris was the perfect doula for me and for my family.  She offered me information and the right resources I needed to switch care providers at 36 weeks, she provided calm and compassionate support during my at-home and in-hospital laboring, and her gentle advocacy helped me to have my hospital's first water birth!  (And it was a VBAC at that!)  You can read my story here to see just how amazing she was: http://birthingbeautifulideas.com/?page_id=716

In fact, Chris was so amazing that she inspired me to become a doula!  I was lucky enough to have her as my mentor during my first few months as a doula, and I feel so blessed to have worked with her.  My husband and I HIGHLY recommend her to those looking for a doula in Central New York!

Bobbi Rock Petrocci

9/7/2010

Christine is a very warm, friendly, experienced Doula who provided me countless resources and connections including OB, midwives, chiropractic care, massage therapy...to prepare myself for a natural VBAC. She helped monitor my early labor so that I could be home and comfortable w/o medical distractions as long as possible. She worked very well with hospital staff and helped ensure my birth plan was followed. I recommend her highly!

Amy Suardi

9/7/2010

Chris was WONDERFUL.  I highly recommend hiring her to assist you with labor and delivery and general doula support.  

We had just moved to the area before I had my baby, so Chris was about the only person I knew, and she really filled in that gap.  She mothered me before the birth, during and after -- just what I needed.  

Before the birth she took the time to get to know me and my desires for the birth and she helped me write a birth plan.  She kept checking on me before my due date, and when the moment arrived, she was right there with me.  

This was my first experience with a doula.  I can't believe how much I was missing.  Chris knew exactly how to rub my back and comfort me during the contractions.  Her emotional and physical support immediately reduced my pain levels dramatically.  

My midwife was busy assisting another woman, so Chris (and her trainee, who I loved too, and who I had okayed before the birth) were my pillars.  My labor went so fast that Chris was ready to catch the baby when my midwife came running in, just in time.  I credit the fast labor with her support!

Chris is a warm. loving person with a gentle manner.  She clearly has a gift for caring for women and children.  I highly recommend her!

Heather Snowman

9/4/2010

Thanks to Chris I was spared a C-section!

I planned to have a “natural” delivery using hypno-birthing and the least possible intervention and Chris supported me with that. But when intervention was necessary, Chris quickly switched gears, and provided excellent support during a very complicated labor & delivery.

I ended up having to be induced because of pre-eclampsia. The labor was very difficult partially due to the use of Pitocin, partially due to back labor, and to top things off the baby was just not ready to come out. Chris was there for me throughout the very long process. She was there to support both me and my family. She provided relief to me through advice, massage, being my advocate with the medical staff, knowing when I should try a new position, etc. When the doctors were prepping for a C-section, due to the length of time the baby was in the birth canal, my family turned to Chris to see what we could do. Chris knew I had to change the position I was pushing from, and said so. I changed position and 45 minutes later I delivered a healthy happy 8 lb 3 oz baby boy.

Having her support throughout my pregnancy was great. Having her there during my very long delivery was the best decision I made during my pregnancy planning.

I give Chris & Doulas of CNY my highest recommendation.

I can’t thank her enough for everything!

Heather
 

Sarah Nebush

8/19/2010

I can't say enough about what a great experience it was to have Chris by my side as my doula during the birth of my second child!  My first birth was a  long and difficult labor that ended up in a cesarian section, and this time around I was determined to have a VBAC.  I was nervous about being successful, and Chris was there to talk me through the process, and instill in me the confidence in not only by bodys ability to birth, but also in my will to make it happen.  In addition, she was there to support my husband, encouraging him to encourage me.  This too proved to be a long and difficult labor, but Chris was wonderful, reminding me of my goal and the amazing reward that was awaiting me at the end.  Our birth was an amazingly special one, made all the more special by Chris and her loving words and actions.  I highly recommend having a doula who is in touch with your goals, and Chris was the perfect match for us.

michaeline gleasman

7/23/2010

Christine Goldman is the most amazing doula.   I have had her for 3 of my births and she will be there for my 4t child due in January.  It is so great having her especially at the end of pregnancy when you are unsure what is going on with your body.  She has always been so supportive and reassuring on so many levels.  During my 3 pregnancy, I broke my elbow and had Chris come several times a week for doula help...to help with me and my 2 children.  It was so comforting having her there and really helpful. She would play with the kids or do light house cleaning.  Also it was just so great to have someone to talk to about my fears or the questions I had.  

At births, her presence is so calming.  She can tell exactly where you are and  what you need.  She doesn't overteact and just is there for you. She helps you through the various stages of labor by having you get in the tub, rock on a yoga ball or just walking.  She will rub your back and so anything to make you feel comfortable.  When the time is right, she will let you know when you should go to the hospital.  At the hospital, she is a complete advocate for you. She does the speaking up to the nurses and Dr.'s.  When you are in labor, you should'n't have to waste your energy trying to get what you want. Chris takes care of everything while you concentrate on laboring.

I just can't say enough about Chris Goldman.  Her services are priceless and worth every single penny!

Nancy Fritcher

7/22/2010

My husband and I hired Chris. She was supportive,
informative and an incredible advocate for my needs. Before delivery my
daughter was face up and crooked inside the birth canal. I was concerned
about her position. We also knew that she was over 9 pounds. During labor, Chris guided me through contractions and
gave advice with squats and lunges- something I would have never thought to
do on my own! She walked with me MANY hours. My husband loved that Chris was there for "clean-up". Every
time fluid came out Chris would tidy up the room and change linens. During labor, my daughter's heart
rate was not at a level the nurse liked. Chris suggested that I drink a few sips of juice and re-check her heart
rate... my daughter was fine! I have heard about many women having a c-section due to fetal
distress. This wasn't the case for Viviana. She wasn't stressed,
she was probably asleep! When the time finally came to push--
she was face down and perfectly straight in the canal! I pushed less then 10
minutes. I am convinced that if it hadn't been for Chris's
guidance during labor, Vivi would not have been in the appropriate
position for the easy delivery I had. Once Vivi was born the NICU team was
going to rush her away (as a minor precaution).
Chris asked if I could hold her first. We now has those
precious few first shots right after labor. Chris advocated where appropriate. She spoke for me
when I didn't/couldn't have a voice of my own.

Doulas do not operate in a medical capacity. Yet, they are as critical in a
woman's labor/delivery as the doctor/midwife. Their focus is on mother/baby
needs- not hospital practice/procedure. In my case, I believe things probably would have gone quite differently if it
weren't for Chris. Every woman deserves a doula!

Devin Richmond

7/22/2010

I had Chris as my doula and I would never give birth without a doula! Chris was so comforting and relaxed. She knew exactly what to do and when to do it throughout my labor. I was almost 10cm and a part of my cervix was stuck on the babys head and Chris knew exactly which position to put me into to progress the dilation quicky. Within 10 minutes after her suggested position, I was ready to push! Without Chris present at my labor & birth, I feel it would have taken a lot longer and I would have made some decisions that I would have later regretted. I would ALWAYS suggest to a pregnant mother to have a doula at her birth. Chris is the best and I am so thankful I could have her at my birth.

Nell Bartkowiak

6/9/2010

Chris was our doula for the birth of both of our children.  Before selecting Chris I had done a ton of research on natural childbirth and the benefits of doulas, and interviewed several local doulas.  It was very important to me to develop a relationship with a caregiver whom I could count on to be there throughout labor and delivery.  While I was hesitant at first, Chris quickly put me at ease and I really trusted her experience.  She has this wonderful ability to provide a sense of calm and confidence in what could otherwise be a very stressful and uncertain experience.  She helped my husband become more involved in the process, she worked collaboratively with the nurses, doctors and other hospital staff, and she was a perfect advocate.  Her skills and words helped me get through a long and tough first labor, and her knowledge and advice helped when I elected to be induced the second time around.  I was blessed with two wonderful natural births and two beautiful, healthy children.  Chris will always hold a special place in my heart as she was there to guide us as our family grew.  I recommend Chris without reservation.