Testimonial for Kimberly Sebeck

(Part 2) I charge a non refundable deposit of $200 to reserve a birth client spot on my calendar. This is far less than the usual rate of half of the fee as a deposit many doulas require. It is expressly discussed at my initial consultation. If someone politely asked for the return of the deposit due to exceptional circumstances I would return it and fill the slot with another client. Here, I have no address, no forms filled out and do not know where the client is choosing to birth in April as the last time we’d communicated she said she was exploring options of different birth place. I do have texts and emails communication including lovely photos of her maternity shoot. All were responded to. In my last email to her I provided the requested list of birth class/method choices as well as pediatrician recommendations, etc. On my website, initial free consultation and forms mailed my services are outlined. Unlimited communication via phone/email/text from the client once hired, 2 prenatal visits, attendance at the birth, along with one postpartum visit and continued communication after the birth via phone/text/email. In my FAQ form I even say that they’re welcome to friend me on social media but I leave that to the clients privacy concerns and desire for friendship or space. I also request to be kept in the loop about prenatal visits with their provider. I’m not an antenatal doula. While I strive to develop a relationship ahead of the birth I’m also often hired as late as the day before birth and respect my clients choices on how much contact we have during the pregnancy beyond the clear outlines given in my written forms. While I work hard to be intuitive I’m not a mind reader. I deeply regret that Ms. W was not comfortable utilizing my services and feel this was largely a miscommunication due to information not being read or asked for clarification. I wish her all the best in her birth and hope it is empowering.

-Kimberly Sebeck

January 01, 2015