Testimonial for Melissa Harley, AdvCD/BDT(DONA), CLC, LCCE, Doula Trainer
Having Melissa Harley as my doula was the best decision I made about my pregnancy and birth. I knew I wanted a natural, drug free birth, but as a first time mother I was daunted. It was through getting to know Melissa, and learning from her, that I gained the confidence and faith that enabled me to handle a natural labor. Melissa has an incredible wealth of knowledge, and experience (I think I was her 90th Mom). This, together with her warmth and genuine love of helping people, makes her a wonderful doula.
My labor was rapid, and I was ready to push before we even got to leave our home. Melissa was “on call” for us, and as soon as we phoned her to say that my labor was progressing, she was in her car on the way to the hospital in 5 minutes flat. My worst contractions, and an almost uncontrollable urge to push, came during the car ride. But Melissa was on the phone, coaching me through every one. She enabled me to control the urge to push, so that my daughter wasn’t born in the car. She knew exactly what to say, and if it were not for her help, I would have been terrified and panicking…and so too would my husband!
Luckily, we made it to the hospital, due in no small part to Melissa. I was able to have the labor and birth that I hoped for, and it was largely because I had her wonderful support. I felt empowered by giving birth, and I couldn’t imagine a more supportive doula.
-Sarah I.
March 16, 2011
Melissa Harley, AdvCD/BDT(DONA), CLC, LCCE, Doula Trainer
Capital City Doula Services
Birth Fee: $1250 to $1800
