Frequently Asked Questions
What is a certified postpartum doula?
A Certified Postpartum Doula cares for their client and their family in their home within the first twelve weeks following the birth. Doula certification is earned through a widely recognized doula certifying organization (such as DONA International, CAPPA, or ICEA), and typically involves training, reading assignments, hands-on experience, and evaluations. Postpartum doulas provides non-medical (and nonjudgmental) support while assisting with newborn care, establishing safe sleep habits/routines, sibling adjustment, and more. Postpartum doulas also offer evidence-based information on newborn care/feeding, emotional and physical recovery from childbirth, and other issues related to the postpartum period.
What is a certified lactation educator?
A Certified Lactation Educator (CLE) is a professional with extensive lactation training who is certified to teach families about breastfeeding and lactation. Their primary role is to provide education, encouragement, and practical guidance to help parents make informed feeding choices and feel confident in their ability to breastfeed. CLE’s teach prenatal/postpartum breastfeeding classes, offer evidence-based information (milk production, latch, positioning, and common challenges), and support parents in understanding infant feeding cues/normal newborn behavior.
What Code of Ethics are followed?
I adhere to the DONA International Scope of Practice and Code of Ethics.
What type of support is provided during overnight shifts?
Overnight support is often provided to new parents and their baby throughout the night by offering assistance with newborn care and helping parents get some much-needed rest. Overnight shift starts with dedicated time for educational topics and help with tasks such as feeding (either bottle-feeding or assisting with breastfeeding), diaper changes, establishing safe sleep habits, and settling the baby back to sleep. Daytime shifts often include educational opportunities such as breastfeeding/lactation guidance, soothing techniques, establishing age appropriate routines, and more.
Do you accept insurance?
I’m happy to provide a superbill upon request for you to submit to your insurance provider. I do not accept insurance and operate on a self-pay model so I can provide timely, individualized care without the restrictions often imposed by insurance plans. While I do not bill insurance directly, many families are able to submit services to their insurance for possible reimbursement with a superbill. Reimbursement is not guaranteed and depends on your individual insurance plan.
What are the payment terms and what forms of payment are accepted?
A non-refundable retainer of 35% is due upon signing the agreement. The remaining 65% balance is due before the client’s 38th week of pregnancy. Accepted payment methods include ACH, Apple Pay, check, Zelle, and all major credit or debit cards. Note: a 1.5% processing fee applies to ACH payments, and a 3% processing fee applies to credit/debit card and Apple Pay transactions.
Where do you provide postpartum doula support in Washington?
I am currently serving Bellevue, Bothell, Cottage Lake, East Renton, Issaquah, Kenmore, Kirkland, Maple Valley, Newcastle, North Bend, Sammamish, Snoqualmie, and Woodinville. Virtual Consultations anywhere in the US.
