Jessica Ribera, Doula

A doula is a labor support person who provides assistance to women via emotional encouragement, labor techniques for comfort and effectiveness, and insightful attention. As a doula, my main goal is to protect and support a woman's physical, but also psychological experience of her birth. I work to understand a woman and her partners specific needs and especially enjoy enabling partners to be the best help they can be. A mother of three, I know firsthand the difference that loving, educated support can make in childbirth and breastfeeding! In 2012, I completed the Birth Doula Skills Training Workshop at Bastyr University under the instruction of Penny Simkin and Sharon Muza. I keep up to date on best practices and new research in order to best support my clients. I plan to complete my certification through DONA International by 2015. I have 3 years of experience attending births and can provide references when wanted.