Testimonial for Melissa Duenas-Witter
Melissa is everything that I could've ever asked for as my doula for my VBAC; she is the perfect combination of best friend + mother + coach figure. She was always there for me throughout pregnancy, the entire time preparing for induction, l&d, and has been an amazing part of my postpartum support system too. She is full of knowledge from an insiders' perspective. I had taken the Bradley Method classes, was very well educated about the birth from a mother's perspective, but it was so helpful to hear Melissa's insight on what to expect and why, as it related more specifically to my situation/team, etc. Additionally, there was lots of down time while I was in triage for pre-eclampsia and waiting for the induction to begin, and she is so wonderful to pass the time with during the lulls.
One of the common misconceptions about doulas is that they might replace the partner's role as the primary support person, but Melissa was there for the both of us. She and my husband worked as a team; she'd try tricks to help me through labor and when she found what worked for me, she taught my husband to take over. And it was incredibly comforting knowing that either one of them could take a break and I was still fully supported.
I also loved how savvy and dedicated to her job she is. She is set up as a provider to get paid by a flexible healthcare spending account, which I never would have thought to do without her advice. She has a doula partner so you know who your backup will be. She and Lisa are a great match, and I would have been grateful to have her as my doula too if Melissa were unable to attend. Melissa has a beautiful family of her own, and is blessed to have an amazing support system to allow her to 120% commit to her doula clients. She is truly passionate about her career and it's reflected in every interaction I've ever experienced with her <3
-Katie Kyle
September 12, 2017
Melissa Duenas-Witter
Diary of a Doula
Birth Fee: $2650 to $5000
