Testimonial for Melissa F. Haley (they/she)
After giving birth, I can confidently say that working with Melissa made all the difference in helping me have a positive birth experience where I felt self-assured, informed, and safe. I would absolutely recommend working with her.
To prepare for birth, Melissa met with my spouse and me virtually and in-person to discuss the birthing process, our knowledge of birth and post-partum, our hopes/fears, and expectations. She provided a variety of web and print resources, and she sent a package with thoughtful resources & gifts. Working with Melissa gave me the opportunity to discuss my pregnancy, birth, and post-partum questions and concerns with a caring and knowledgeable professional, which was missing from my very brief OB-GYN pre-natal appointments. Previously my spouse had vocalized his uncertainties about being involved in the birth, and it meant so much to me that Melissa actively involved my spouse in the birth planning process and provided concrete ways that he could support me.
It was my hope to do my hospital birth with as few medical interventions as possible. However, when I unexpectedly had to be induced, Melissa encouraged me to ask clarifying questions to my provider, which made me feel more prepared for the unexpected change of plans. As I labored, Melissa helped me feel safe by reminding me that certain things were normal (e.g., shaking from adrenaline), and she supported me with breathing, changing positions, and advocating for myself. She showed my husband different ways to apply counter-pressure to help me get through contractions. Ultimately, having Melissa by my side helped me feel empowered during such an unfamiliar experience, and her presence offered me a feeling of security that made it easier to endure each contraction without an epidural and to persevere through the process.
In post-partum, she remains a birth-team champ and checks in regularly. Thanks for everything, Melissa!
-Sarah Burrichter Seymour
May 17, 2021
Melissa F. Haley (they/she)
M.Ed., CD, CBE @wyld_garden
Birth Fee: $1450 to $2200
Postpartum Rate: $40
