My Background
Qualifications
I am fully trained through the National Childbirth Trust doula practitioner training with the University of Worcester.
I am a Doula UK Recognised Doula.
I have a DipHb(KG) diploma in hypnobirthing from KG Hypnobirthing™.
I have a certificate of training as a postnatal doula from Younique Postnatal Doula™ .
I have been certified as a Breastfeeding Peer Supporter under the Baby Friendly Initiative, at Colchester Hospital University NHS Foundation Trust.
I have attended a Spinning Babies™ 2-day training for birthworkers in July 2019
I am DBS checked.
I also have a BA(Hons) and MA in Archaeology from a previous career, and more than 20 years' experience in social science data research.
Philosophy
I believe in the wisdom of women’s bodies, and our ability to do this everyday miracle of giving birth. While my own understanding of birth is deepened by a background in science and an evidence-based approach, my primary aim is to make sure that all parents are warmly supported in having the birth experience that they want, whatever and wherever that might be.
I seek always to complement and support, not usurp, the role of partners/fathers/co-parents, and to work productively with your health care professionals.
Above all, I seek to provide the information, help and support you need, when and how you need it, to help you have the birth and parenting experience you want.
Read more about my personal doula journey here.
Training
My training with the NCT was a two-year course in conjunction with the University of Worcester, and included modules on:
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The Role of the Birth Doula
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Giving Birth
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Breastfeeding Knowledge
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New Baby New Family
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Physical Skills for Labour and Birth
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Reflective Practice and Listening Skills.
I trained as a KG Hypnobirthing™ instructor with the fabulous Kemi Johnson in August 2017.
I trained as a postnatal doula with Younique Postnatal Doula™ in September 2018.