What are others saying about Empowered Birthing?
Maricel D. - Austin, TX
We interviewed a total of 3 doulas, and we hired you because you listened well, gave great guidance during the initial consultation, had the most doula experience, and offered your talent/service of birth photography. I decided to seek the help of a doula late in my pregnancy because I had a strong desire to do a VBAC, and I was beginning to sense that I was headed down the c-section route with my medical provider. I had a traumatic experience delivering my first baby who came via emergency c-section after being induced at 37 weeks, and I wanted to have a different experience with my second child. With my first, I didn’t know what my options were at my doctor’s appointments or at the hospital, and I just did everything they told me to. With a doula, I learned that I could advocate for myself more, ask the right questions, and get more of the labor and delivery experience I wanted. You were key in helping us reach our goals. You provided valuable insight into questions I could ask my medical provider and referrals to wonderful people (herbalist/acupuncturist/chiropractor) who each aided in getting my labor going naturally. You also stayed with us and supported us during the long labor process both at home and the hospital. You were available to answer questions over email, phone, and text, and were safe when it came to COVID-19 precautions. The info covered during the prenatal visits was super helpful. There were good reminders about how to breathe and relax (which came in handy when we got to the hospital and I was already 8 cm dilated), as well as laboring positions. I especially liked using the birthing ball and being in the bath/shower to labor. I wouldn’t have tried to do those things had it not been for your advice. You stand out because you made it a point to customize care and support towards me and my family’s situation. You understood how important our goals were, reached out to other people/resources that would be helpful, and were readily available to assist with questions and concerns. You were reliable, trustworthy, and responsive. There were many aspects of your services that I found valuable. What rose to the top for me was knowing what questions to ask my provider and understanding what my options were. You were comforting and supportive when I was going through a tough labor process. I recommend your doula and photographer services to other families! I’d be happy to be a reference for potential clients. April 2021
Lauren M. - Austin, TX
I wanted a quick, safe, and natural labor and had read that doulas can help achieve all of those goals. Plus, with it being my first baby, I wanted to have as many comfort options as possible. We were originally really impressed with your photography and when we talked to you over zoom we liked your calm energy. The information we covered in our prenatal visits prepared me about as much as everything else I had read. It was nice to have a reference point when you said remember to do deep breathing, but I definitely wouldn’t have remembered anything in the moment without a reminder. Once I asked you how much longer and you told me not to do ‘birth math’ I had realized I had been doing that for the past few days and then was able to make a conscience effort not to. Just being there for support and words of encouragement made having a doula worthwhile, and it was also nice having a face I knew when I arrived since I didn’t know my midwives. And of course, the photography is something I will cherish the rest of my life. I feel like my labor was relativity quick, very safe and 100% natural so I was able to meet my goals with your support. Also, it was great having you there to support my partner; it definitely took pressure off him. I would recommend a doula for all first time moms, and we will definitely want photography at all of our children’s births. December 2020
Liene S. - Austin, TX
When I was looking for a doula I wanted someone to support me in a natural birth and as moral support for me and Michael. Since my first labor ended in a hospital transfer for positional difficulties, what drew me to you was your Spinning Babies training and knowledge, and your personality seemed like a calm presence and not pushy. I also liked that you did photography. Our prenatal meetings helped by going through different positions and techniques, and I think this helped our baby to be better positioned, and we were able to have a natural birth that went smoothly and quickly, just as I wanted. For my partner, the information and visualizations really helped him prepare for labor, and he was a lot more calm and confident this time around. I felt like the reassuring words and just the peace of mind of knowing someone would be there to help me made having a doula a valuable investment, and you were a resource for me along each step of the way. I would definitely recommend you to other families looking for a doula. July 2020
Lizzy D. - Manor, TX
When we got pregnant we heard a podcast about doulas that made us interested in hiring a doula. We didn’t know what we were getting into and didn’t have any family nearby so we felt we needed extra support. We wanted to hire someone experienced and we felt you had the best energy. It was helpful to go over our birth plan and have you explain what everything means and to see what labor positions we could try. During the birth, just having someone to talk to when choices needed to be made and having an extra voice to reassure me that things were going okay was really valuable. It was good to have someone who knew what they were talking about and to reassure us and help with labor. It was 100% worth every penny and we definitely recommend you to anyone looking for a doula. March 2020
A. K. - Cedar Park
We decided to hire a doula because we were planning to have a VBAC, and our first birth experience was really bad. I wanted to have an advocate in the hospital and to have help with Spinning Babies, which you had training in, to make sure the baby was in a good position for a vaginal delivery. I am so thankful that you were with us for two births; you got me through it! Our prenatal time helped me a lot, practicing positions and visualizations. You helped me remember to breathe and you knew my stress points. It was comforting to have gone through it together. Your confidence and reassurance was invaluable. You were my guide when I didn’t know what was happening, and you were there to get me through to the next step. It was so hard, and it was uncharted territory, but I’m so glad you were there. I don’t know if I could have made it without you. I had two VBACs and you’re the one who helped me to do it. You were able to center me, to help me get through by just focusing on the next contraction. It helped bring me to the present and reassure me when I didn’t think I could do it. My partner felt super prepared and was happy to have you there because he knew you would have it under control. I am so thankful! We recommend you to anybody that asks us about having a doula. March 2020, July 2017
Lisa J. - Austin, TX
I wanted to be able to have a natural/unmedicated birth if possible, and I wanted a doula to help me stay focused, calm, and just to have comforting words from someone who has experienced several births. Even though there were factors that were out of our control that led to a C-section, you still helped me achieve these goals. It may have been even more so because having you there in the stressful times was the reassurance I was looking for. During labor, the reassurance that things were normal and that I could do it made me feel supported. Just your presence and physical touch helped me to calm down and be assured, and all the laboring positions and exercises to help with baby’s position that we learned were helpful. I felt like you were on my team and there to stick up for me. We also loved the package option so we could have maternity and newborn photos too. March 2019
Morgan M. - Georgetown, TX
I used a doula for my first birth, but we had moved when I got pregnant again. I knew I wanted a doula again. Your calm demeanor was a big factor since I tend to be anxious, and I felt you were knowledgeable. I really wanted an unmedicated birth and I felt having a doula would help me to that goal. And I achieved me goals! Our time together before the birth was a good refresher and was as valuable as the birth support. I really appreciated all the communication since I had someone to call on for all my questions, before and after the birth. During the birth, the hip pressure from you and my partner was really helpful. And I felt like my partner was more connected to me during the labor, and he could be more of a participant this time. Even though I knew it would probably be a fast birth (and it was), it was still worth it to have a doula, and we recommend you for anyone, whether it’s a first or second birth. And having photography was really nice too. September 2018
Julia C. - Austin, TX
Because we were older but inexperienced, we wanted someone to walk through our expectations and help us prepare for the birth. My sister-in-law advised us to hire a doula, and I realized I wanted to hire someone of like faith, and someone recommended you to us. I liked how you structured everything, both helping with us understanding our options and then going over the hands-on pain-relieving techniques. The suggestion of the focus board really helped us. You did an excellent job. We learned a lot and it was helpful to learn our options, and the research you gave us helped us talk to our OB. You worked well with our team. You were intuitive in figuring out what I needed, and when you were massaging my pressure points, it really helped with the pain. You were also really helpful with getting breastfeeding going right away and encouraging me as a new mom. Everyone we talked to about having a doula said to get one, and now I absolutely recommend it to everyone having a baby. December 2018
Vanessa H. - Austin, TX
My previous birth was traumatic, and I wanted someone to be my voice and to convey my needs and what I wanted, and to help answer my questions if I didn’t know what was going on. When I met you, I really liked you. You seemed really knowledgeable and had a good personality so I felt I would be in good hands with you. Our prenatal meetings covered everything really well, especially with relaxing and the wave imagery. It helped me remember more than with my first time. I felt like you had a wealth of knowledge, and it helped us to be at ease and know what questions to ask. You were supportive with whatever decisions I made without being pushy. In labor, you were amazing. You did everything and more that I needed. You helped with the staff to ask questions and convey what I wanted. Everyone should have a doula, for whatever kind of experience you have, whether a natural birth, an epidural, or C-Section. You need to have someone there for you! November 2018
Marissa G - Temple, TX
We really loved having Jamie as our doula, so much so that we asked her to attend both our second and third babies.
We interviewed a couple of doulas for our second birth, two things that really stood out about Jamie were her calm and comforting demeaner and her training in optimal fetal positioning. We were planning for a VBAC, after having a breech c-section with my first, so it was important to me to have the help and knowledge Jamie offered with fetal positioning. After meeting and speaking with Jamie for the first time my husband and I and were confident that she would give us the support and guidance we would need during pregnancy, birth and postpartum. Her demeanor is calming and gentle and she is very knowledgeable in all the aspects of birth preparation. Our prenatal visits with Jamie were very helpful in preparing for labor and birth. She tailored our birth education to our needs and made sure that all questions were answered and we felt prepared, as one can be, for birth.
During our birth Jamie and my husband worked great together in supporting me. Jamie helped guide my husband to be as involved as he felt comfortable while also relieving him and taking over when he needed a break. Our second birth was long and she spent many hours with us working on positioning and trying to get labor fully going. Her support both physically and emotionally during that birth was exactly what I needed. She also captured beautiful pictures of our birth which are invaluable.
Our third birth shortly followed our second and Jamie was very helpful in putting together a package that met our needs and desires for this birth. For this birth she was primarily our birth photographer while still providing amazing birth support and knowledge as we needed. Her calm demeanor was so important during my quick labor and while we were met with some unexpected challenges while pushing. I also really appreciated her postpartum support. She made sure to keep in touch postpartum and help us unpack the details of our birth from an outside perspective.
Having a doula is my number one recommendation to anyone expecting a child. Jamie’s knowledge and support is invaluable and an asset I would recommend to those in the Austin area. Our midwife also really enjoyed working with Jamie, she valued the knowledge and support Jamie provided us. We are so thankful to have had Jamie as part of birthing team, she really completed it. July 2018, July 2017
Darlene S. - Austin, TX
My husband went to your class [Optimal Fetal Positioning] at Doula Share and he really liked you and talked to you there, so we decided to hire you as our doula. We wanted peace of mind and guidance though the who birth and needed a calm presence to create a peaceful environment. You are one of the most peaceful people we know. Our prenatal visits helped a lot, especially the imagery and breathing techniques we covered and trying different position. Even though we didn’t have the birth we wanted, we were comforted in the moments of exhaustion, and you encouraged me to try my hardest and talked me through the hard times. Your calmness and peaceful demeanor, comforting words and touch, even the look in your eye are what helped get me through it. My husband was super comforted in having you there and knowing we weren’t alone, that someone who had been through it and was coaching us through it; especially when he started having anxiety about seeing me in pain, having you there was comforting. It was absolutely a worthwhile investment and we wholeheartedly recommend you. May 2018
Lauren A. - Leander, TX
When we met you, we felt comfortable with you and you seemed knowledgeable and straight-forward. Our goal was to have a natural birth in a hospital setting, and going into it for the first time, without prior knowledge, we felt having a doula was essential to achieving this. We took the childbirth class with you, so I had more knowledge and details of what to expect, rather than just a basic understanding. In labor, we tried everything we could and it would have been impossible without you. You made sure I was aware and informed when I was making decisions so I didn’t decide on something I would regret. And just being there the whole time to support us in all the ways, physically and emotionally, was so valuable. Having a doula helped us both stay calm and even-keeled in a very stressful situation. You did superb! February 2018
G.C. - Round Rock, TX
We interviewed a couple of doulas, and we wanted someone who was calm, and when we talked to you we felt you would be calm. We also wanted one person that we knew would be with us, so didn’t want a group. We really wanted good information and reasoning behind everything, and we felt you were able to help us with that and with the decision-making process. You helped us set a realistic birth plan, expectations for the hospital, and you helped us know what we could decline. It helped to explain all my options and to prepare a good birth plan. Going over the comfort measures covered everything, and I used most of it in labor. Then you helped remind me in labor what I wanted and what positions I could try because I forgot. You helped me to skip the epidural and encouraged me to keep going. When I was able to do it, I felt happy about my body and mind with all your support. My partner appreciated being able to understand the whole birth process, especially by putting things in plain terms, and I felt like he was more involved because of you. We are very satisfied with our birth and your support. January 2018
Sarah D. - Driftwood, TX
I was planning a natural birth at a birth center, and my partner wanted help with the physical aspect since he didn’t feel like he knew what to do. We didn’t want friends or family there but wanted someone with experience to help us. I liked that you had a calm demeanor; you seemed like you would be a soothing person to have in labor. After our time together, I felt more secure in knowing what I wanted and that I wouldn’t have to fight for the, and that we were all on the same page. At the birth you helped me achieve my goals; you were supportive when I was feeling really negative. I felt more sure knowing you were there. The first time, I wouldn’t have been able to stay at the birth center and would have transferred. I needed the encouragement when I had my doubts if I could do it. My partner wouldn’t have known how to help me, but having you there helped him and he was less nervous and more calm. At our second birth, your willingness to go beyond the call of duty was invaluable, even helping with feeding and caring for the baby when I had to go to the hospital postpartum. It put our minds at ease to know she was with you. We were lucky to have you with us for all of our births. November 2020, March 2018, July 2016
C.J. - Pflugerville
I was unexpectedly moving to the Austin area during Week 39 of my pregnancy and didn’t know much about the area. My previous doula found Jamie online and after talking to her, I thought she would be a perfect fit for me. I soon called Jamie and she worked with me to develop a package that would work for my needs in case I delivered after the move. Since I was only in town a short time before delivering and had a few classes with my previous doula, Jamie provided one classroom with me to discuss my birth plan and coping strategies. The class she provided was very tailored to my needs and gave me the confidence I needed to feel prepared for childbirth. Jamie also helped me find a midwife that would take me last minute who turned out to be awesome fit as well.
Jamie was great at checking in on me and giving me some ideas to help naturally induce labor since I went a little late. Once labor started it (luckily) moved pretty quick and Jamie met us at the hospital promptly. She was great supporting both my husband and me through labor. She applied back pressure and a heat pad through contractions that really helped. She also provided soothing support and encouragement during labor that very much helped me mentally get through contractions- reminding me that “I didn’t have to do that one again” when I finished a tough contraction. She also had great recommendations to try different positions during labor. Overall, Jamie was amazing and really helped me be confident in my abilities to labor naturally. In the end, I was able to have the birth experience that I wanted! She also took some amazing pictures to document my birth story, while also respecting my wishes to keep them private. I highly recommend Jamie if you are looking for an experienced doula who will work with you and listen to your wishes. She was very supportive, patient, and knowledgeable and I appreciated that she checked in on me post delivery too! February 2018
Hilary B. - Bastrop, TX
Jamie had been our doula during a past birth with us, and we wanted the same support again. I appreciated the support and being able to talk about interventions at our past birth. It made everything less “scary” since I knew what I was getting into. I was happy learning about optimal fetal positioning and felt more ready for this birth. The birth was all very fast, but I appreciated the support and confidence she had in me. I was a little scared at how fast things happened, so it was helpful to have her there and hands on to help me feel more confident. It made my partner feel more calm and like everything was going to be alright. It was all so valuable—the extra education, the labor support, having an “ear” to talk through decisions, being confident in me being able to have a natural birth, and providing a sense of calmness when thing were intense. March 2017, November 2014
Iradis J.- Round Rock, TX
I felt an immediate sense of comfort around Jamie from our initial meeting. My intuition was that our personalities would work well together during the labor and delivery process. There was also a deep sense of calm that I felt, especially during the labor process, which made her stand out more than other doulas I interviewed with. I loved having a refresher on some different positions for laboring, as well as learning about some new positions and exercises to do before going into labor. She was very well prepared with a lot of great information and I appreciated that she gave some printed information for us to have in hand. She handled my long, early labor so well. She exemplified being sacrificial to ensure that I got the support I wanted even during the slow beginning stages of labor. My husband also felt empowered and well supported with her presence. He knows we both couldn’t have done it without her support. She intuitively and quietly knew how to anticipate my needs during labor, many times even before I myself could verbalize them. From my first texts/phone calls (before I was even 38 weeks), through the postpartum visit, I felt like she truly cared and never rushed me, always making sure to ask me good questions to find out how I was feeling and progressing in pregnancy, labor, delivery and postpartum. I had a great experience and felt that her support went above and beyond my expectations, which I really appreciated. January 2017, December 2018
Nadia D. - Round Rock, TX
My main reason for hiring a doula was for added support in having a vaginal delivery. My husband was unable to be with me for our daughter’s birth due to unexpected circumstances, so it was really important that I have someone knowledgeable by my side to support my family and I through my birth experience. Jamie was the first doula on my list to interview, and I knew she was the kind of person I wanted with me through this very personal experience. Her calming, yet matter-of-fact demeanor was what I needed. During Hiba’s birth, Jamie helped me a lot emotionally and physically, more than I expected. With her prenatal guidance of what to expect, I felt like I was in control when labor started, and I knew how to handle it. With Jamie’s advice, I knew how to labor as much as I could at home and how to use the different areas of my house to help me do so. Her support in the delivery room at the hospital and adding pressure to my back was a much-welcomed relief. Jamie helped me to assess the risks and benefits of every intervention, which I otherwise would not have done. Her presence gave me the confidence to advocate for myself with the staff as well. Unfortunately I did not have my dream birth and ended up with an emergency c-section. Jamie helped me process my thoughts after surgery while holding my hand tight, and waited with me until I could see my baby. Despite not having my ideal birth, I left the hospital with my healthy baby feeling empowered in a way, because I was able to advocate for myself despite feeling moments of vulnerability. I was able to handle the initial grief of an unwanted c-section because Jamie was by my side with empathy, allowing me to go home ready for the excitement of being a new mommy. I would recommend Jamie to anyone looking for a doula. She went above and beyond, especially with keeping touch postpartum, and if we have another baby in Austin, I will be hiring Jamie again. April 2016
Keris W. - Austin, TX
I wanted to give myself every opportunity of a vaginal (hopefully unmedicated) birth. I didn’t want to experience a scary birth and regret not getting enough help. Jamie did an excellent job helping me achieve my goals; I couldn’t have asked for better. Our prenatal visits were extremely useful. I like to be prepared and practiced, and the sessions we had helped me feel more comfortable going into labor and the hospital. Her support, information, and discussion went far beyond OB office visits and baby classes. Most women really need the help of a doula! Jamie was the perfect team member for my husband and I. She teamed up with my husband to provide the support I needed through an intense labor. She reassured me when strange things happened (throwing up, shakes and shivers) during labor. My husband felt very prepared, but it helped him to have an extra support person during the whole delivery process. It kept him calm when pain levels and comfort measures were beyond his control. She offered numerous soothing techniques throughout that proved effective and definitely made the whole experience easier. I really had a wonderful birth experience, and that is priceless. I think she is changing women’s lives with their birth experience! January 2016, Feb 2018
N.M.- Austin, TX
It was the last minute and I realized I had no real support during my birth. I wanted to make sure that I had someone on my side that would guide me through the process of giving birth. I contacted several doulas, and I felt that Jamie was authentic, ethical, and trustworthy, and she was flexible and able to accommodate me at the last minute. Even though we didn’t have much time prenatally, she took time to make sure she answered all of my questions. During the birth, more than one time she helped me understand what was going on, to ask questions, and make sure that what they were doing was to my benefit, not to their convenience. The most valuable things to me was feeling supported emotionally, not feeling alone. I don’t know how I would have gone through it without her. She held my hand, helped me relax, and made it so much easier. She really cared. And, I loved getting real birth photos that I wasn’t expecting to have. If I have another baby, she will be there. Having a doula was definitely a worthwhile investment, and I would highly recommend her to other families seeking a doula. May 2016
Lisa D. - Round Rock, TX
I interviewed three doulas and Jamie stood out as the most educated and most knowledgeable about labor and birth. She was the most experienced doula I interviewed, having attended many different kinds of births in many different settings. She also had the best personality, by which I mean that she was calm, peaceful, patient, understanding, and flexible, but at the same time, she was confident and strong, and you could tell she would assert herself on your behalf if needed.
It was my first birth, and I knew I wanted to have a natural, vaginal birth, without an epidural or other medical interventions. I asked Jamie to help me achieve that goal. With Jamie’s expansive knowledge and experience, and her unwavering, constant support by my side, I achieved the natural, vaginal birth I wanted.
I think the prenatal visits are possibly the most important and most valuable part of the services Jamie offers. The amount of hours she dedicated to me and my partner before the birth was unbelievable. We were so lucky to have her support leading up to the birth. She went over all sorts of useful information such as comfort techniques for labor. We practiced each of them, which gave both me and my partner time to experiment and get comfortable with the types of things we might each be doing during the birthing process. She also helped me develop my birth plan, and her extensive knowledge about the various medical interventions and their purposes, advantages, and disadvantages was invaluable to me.
Two things stand out the most about my experience with Jamie: (1) Jamie’s incredible flexibility and willingness to provide whatever I needed during the birth, even though what I ended up needing was the complete opposite of what she expected, and went against everything she and my partner had prepared for. Leading up to the birth, both Jamie and my partner practiced giving me massages and speaking encouraging words. During labor, it turned out that I didn’t want anyone to touch me or talk to me. Both Jamie and my partner found a myriad of ways to provide support to me despite this, such as bringing me food, drinks, pillows, hot and cold compresses, etc. (2) Jamie’s dedication to me and my partner during the prenatal period. In addition to the regular prenatal visits, which each lasted several hours, and were incredibly helpful in preparing us for labor and birth, Jamie scheduled an extra prenatal visit free of charge when she learned that my baby was still halfway between anterior and posterior at 40 weeks. She spent several hours with me doing exercises to help turn the baby and encourage labor to begin. It began the next day and my labor was short and smooth!
My partner says, “I definitely felt prepared, supported, and confident going into the birth, and I appreciated having help during the birth, since I didn't know exactly what to expect.”
I would wholeheartedly recommend her services to other families seeking a doula. January 2016
Y. - Austin, TX
We approached one doula only and after meeting Jamie we were convinced that she was the right fit for us. She was warm without being overbearing or preachy and in tune with our natural birthing and healing ideas without dismissing modern medicine completely.
Jamie was supportive throughout my long labor. She made sure I was aware of the facts every time we approached a stage when a critical decision (and there were a few like whether it was time to get an epidural after having gone through contractions for 22 hours, or when I realized that a forceps delivery or C-section was inevitable after I had pushed for over 4 hours) had to be made or I needed to come to terms with the way my labor was progressing. At such turning points, Jamie would help to clear my head by laying out the facts. I did not go into my labor with set goals in mind since one gets the labor that one gets but I did desire a natural birth and I got that given the circumstances.
Before meeting Jamie I was afraid of the pain I had imagined one might go through during labor. After our first meeting, something she said put me in the right frame of mind. She said that rather than resisting the pain one needs to give in to it to a certain extent. I found that that idea of flowing with the contractions (even if I can't recall Jamie's exact words) helped me a ton in dealing with labor pain.
When we hired a doula, we were not sure exactly what type of emotional and physical help I might need during labor, but after having gone through a long and hard labor I can say with full confidence that we would have not made it without Jamie. She has an infectiously strong belief in a mother's ability to have a natural birth and she provides all the support that is needed towards that end. September 2015
Sidney B. - Austin, TX
When making the decision to hire a doula, I did so knowing I would need a lot of support before and during labor and delivery because my family is out of state and I was not capable of knowing if they would be there for the birth. I decided to hire a doula for the guaranteed support and also to make my labor and delivery a positive experience. Jamie was very straight-forward and to the point with every question we had, well-educated and experienced. In our prenatal meetings, I was informed of a few options that I was not even aware I had as well as aided in making sure all bases were covered in my birth plan. The comfort measures she taught helped immensely. What stood out the most to me while working with her was that she was so thorough in helping me create my birth plan as well as making sure it all played out the way I had wanted, knowing I had support and would not be alone before and during my labor and delivery. I could not imagine my son’s birth without her help and support, and even despite the small complication, it was such a positive and empowering experience. The resources and support she gave was priceless. Without a doubt, after my experience I will always recommend a doula for any one I know who is expecting. August 2015
Stephanie B. - Georgetown, TX
Jamie is an invaluable asset. In our initial visits she gave great advice on positions, health articles and spent time with us helping release unfavorable memories of our first birth experience. Her countenance is so gentle and she's a very knowledgable person. She helped both my husband and I get through the labor and birth with more confidence. There's one thing that stands out to me just looking back at it all. I/We had originally wanted to go as natural as possible, and per Jamie's birth notes she gave us (thank you!), around hour 30 of labor, I requested an epidural. When Jamie came into the room, there was no judgement at all about the change in plans, she brought her bag of tricks for THIS plan. She even helped hold my legs while pushing. Definitely a strong woman! When our little guy was born, the room was electric with joy and smiles and there was no disappointment at all from anyone. We had achieved our VBAC, AND were able to breastfeed! My husband and I truly believe that if we didn't have Jamie, we were headed for another c-section. In our post-partum visit with her we were met with a wonderful surprise, PHOTOS! She snapped some quick photos of us with her phone and it captured a wonderful moment. It brought tears to our eyes all over again. My husband says, “The main thing [that helped me] is having that outside perspective. She sees things more as they are than we are able to. I was just sitting there fretting and her calmness helped me be calm.” I definitely feel like having a doula was a worthwhile investment. I would absolutely recommend her services to other families seeking a doula. Jamie was a blessing to our little family, she really was. July 2015
Sondra K. - Round Rock, TX
I am 30 years old and was pregnant with my first child. I had an uncomplicated pregnancy and knew I wanted to give birth at the Birthing Center. I wanted to hire a doula to really help my husband help me and to be a voice of reason. It was important to me to have as much calm as possible and that having someone around with the knowledge of normal vs abnormal would help facilitate that. Jamie gave an immediate impression of knowledge and kindess. Fast forward to my due date. I was 41 weeks pregnant when my water broke at 7:30am on a Monday. I was in contact with Jamie by text (because I prefer text) all day. Contractions started at 9pm and I asked Jamie to come over about 1:30am. She came over and helped me with my breathing and early labor so my husband could sleep. About 8am I had meconium in the fluids. I could tell since my water was re-breaking every time I had a contraction. It was decided for me to go to the Birthing Center. Jamie was with me all day giving me advice on positions and suggested bringing in the acupuncturist/chiropracter when things weren't progressing on their own. As frustrating as it was to be in labor without making progress, Jamie made me feel 100% better by always having one more suggestion of techniques to try. By Tuesday afternoon when the baby still hadn't descended into the birthing canal, and I still hadn't dilated, it was decided to go to St Davids. Jamie went with me and helped my husband sort through everything that was happening. I ended up with a c-section Tuesday night and a very healthy baby. It was so wonderful having Jamie there. That is exactly what having a doula is about. You can read all of the books and watch all of the videos you want but having someone with the knowledge that Jamie had was perfect when things didn't go by the book. I am so grateful for her assistance. October 2014
Amber B. - Austin, TX
I have 3 children. My first 2 births were completely medicated. With my last pregnancy, I knew I wanted the birth to be different. I was in my ninth month when I realized that I needed a doula to help me experience the natural childbirth I wanted. My husband was in the military and he was in another state. We didn't know if he would make it for the birth. I interviewed a few doulas, but I felt like I should keep looking. I knew time was running out. I was given Jamie's number and we set up a meeting. I felt very comfortable with Jamie. I thought she would be perfect at helping me and supporting me through my birth. I was a couple of weeks from my due date and Jamie worked with me to set up time to get together to discuss my upcoming birth and practice different pain management techniques. During the time before I gave birth, she sent me many informative articles pertaining to whatever I was questioning regarding my birth. She had plenty of information and I needed it. As my due date passed, I decided I would schedule to get induced. My husband had flown into town for 10 days. I wanted to have him there for the birth. Jamie was supportive of my decision to induce. She also informed me of natural induction methods and induction methods that I could ask my OB about. I went in to the hospital the night before I was scheduled to get induced, and fortunately for me, I went into natural labor. It happened very quickly. Jamie made it for the end of my labor. She was so helpful with my labor positions, counter pressure and just calm words. She was so supportive and helped me when I was in so much pain that I couldn't even remember to breathe slowly and deeply. I remember being terrified as I transitioned and she calmly told me that I was close and I could do it. I was able to do it. I had my natural childbirth that I dreamed of and Jamie was VERY much apart of it. I would recommend Jamie to any mother out there who is looking for a doula! September 2014
Alissa C. - Austin, TX
Upon meeting Jamie, all our doubts and concerns as to whether we should hire a doula were put to rest. Here we were, my husband and I, looking forward to the birth of our first child and having no idea how the birth would go. Luckily, I enrolled in the care of the Austin Area Birthing Center and felt comfortable and well-cared for. I found community there and very quickly heard through the grapevine that I NEEDED a Doula. Whether it's your first baby or your fourth, a doula is a necessity indeed. If it had just been my husband and I during the birth, I literally don't know what I would have done. My husband was very hands on the entire time, and I still couldn't have done without Jamie.
But jumping back to our first consultation...Jamie was extremely professional and articulate. She elaborated on exactly what her services were and what they were not. Not only did she have real life experience birthing two babies, but she had the knowledge and resources about birth to share as well. It was extremely helpful for this first time mom.
The birth itself was 48 hours of labor! I labored at home and hadn't slept in a couple days by the time I got to the birthing center. I chose to have Jamie meet us there and she was there just as she had promised and ready to go. Through approximately 14 hours of labor at the center she was there for me. This is priceless! Her physicality and endurance were the most helpful, as well as just knowing she was there for me. Even with a team of people - my midwives, their assistants, and my husband - I could not have done it without Jamie. I was able to have a natural birth and it was amazing and challenging.
If I haven't stated it enough -- I couldn't have done it without Jamie's help! Even if you don't think you need a doula, you will. Jamie is exceptional and I wish her only the best with her business! August 2014
Liz K. - Austin, TX
If you're considering a doula a all, if you're reading this, this it's worth at the very least interviewing Jamie. We are new to town and had already been through a beautiful, easy, natural labor, attended by a dear friend serving as 'doula.' I was confident that my body could do it again, but also knew that the extra support of a doula was never wasted. Then again, I'd only had a close friend present; it seemed forced or distant to hire a doula.
Well, Jamie was the perfect solution. Her whole package - including the prepatory meetings (to review what we'd learned before our first), flexible schedule, gentle demeanor, very knowledgable background, and even the follow-up - was exactly what we were looking for. And I haven't even spoken yet of how ideal her presence was during labor - that's where she really shines!
Jamie gently reminded me of alternative positions. I could accept or decline, fearless of offending. Jamie quietly had water or cold washcloths or other props on hand, anticipating my desires without me even asking, and equally importantly - without getting in my husband's way, either. I never felt there were too many people in the room. Jamie trusted my body, my instincts. I needed the clarity of her gaze when I was going through transition and she said, "This is it. It won't be long." Jamie remembered my history and details, she was a continuous presence whereas the attending midwife couldn't be. I trust Jamie's urgency helped convince the midwife to stay, right as I was pushing.
Most importantly, Jamie allowed me to have the best birth possible. She was like an invisible angel, providing the set of props, always helping my husband help me, smoothing things over. March 2014
Kristina M. - Pflugerville, TX
I can't say enough good things about Jamie. I initially was adverse to the idea of having a doula, but after meeting with Jamie and familarizing myself with the role of a doula, I started to warm up to the concept. Jamie met with me one-on-one and helped me go through my birth plan. She helped me understand the everything listed on the birth plan provided by my OB. She encouraged me to be more educated about my choices. She met with my husband and I as well and together, helped us understand how to make the experience more of a partnership. Jamie provided us with helpful literature about labor, the role of a doula, and a partner's role in the labor process. She checked in periodically and was involved from day one. When delivery day came, I couldn't have been more grateful and glad that we had decided to go with Jamie as my doula. We called her when my contractions were about 6 minutes apart and painful. She came over immediately and helped me continue to labor at home. She helped me with pain management through massage and breathing techniques. This was my second pregnancy, and the difference in pain management with her present, compared to my first delivery, is like day and night! She helped me not just get through the painful contractions, but breathe through them and try to stay as calm and at peace as possible. When we got the hospital, Jamie helped me stick to my birth plan and relay my birthing preferences to the L&D team. She helped me through the labor process by indroducing different positions that ease the pain. Jamie stayed by my side the entire time and made sure everything progressed smoothly. She was a blessing. If anyone is in need of a dedicated, easy to talk to doula, Jamie is certainly one of the best! I wish I had known her when I had my first! December 2013
Erin G. - Austin, X
We were considering not using a doula at all for our first birth. But when the due date inched ever closer, we came to our senses and started looking for someone to guide us through this incredible unknown journey. We were lucky enough to have the help and expertise of Jamie at the last minute! Jamie had her two children with the same birthing center I was going to, and I felt instantly close and comforted by her when we first met. It was her calm demeaner, her patience, and her natural mothering instinct that put me at ease during the entire natural birthing process. Before and even after the big day, she made herself available for me when I had questions about laboring or newborn care, and even sent me articles via email for research to help me understand things like hospital procedure in case I would need to be transported (which I didn't). Looking back, I don't know what I would have done without her! She provided just the perfect amount of encouragement, cheering me on and helping me with visualizations during labor. I am forever grateful for the confidence and the positivity that she wrapped around me leading up to and on the day of the birth. She was right there the entire 13 hours that day, starting before 5am, pressing on my pelvis to relieve my back pain through each and every contraction, keeping me hydrated, and helping to hold me up when it was time to push and finally meet my baby girl. October 2013