My journey to birth work began with my personal journey into motherhood.  My path to pregnancy was not an easy one, so when I planned for my labor and delivery, I wanted an experience that felt less “clinical” and more person-centered.  I started doing research on my options which ultimately led me to hire a doula. Due to my growing fascination with birth and labor and the integral role my doula played in my own labor experiences, I decided to pursue the work myself after the birth of my second child.   In 2017, I completed my certification as a birth doula through the Long Island Doula Association (LIDA).  

In addition to working as a birth doula, I am also a school based counselor. My experience in counseling is a natural fit with my work as a doula.  I have developed active listening skills and am comfortable with a range of intense emotions, which labor and delivery certainly bring on.  Counseling has taught me to be present in the moment and to help others process their thoughts and feelings and reach their goals.  

 

All too often, the stories we hear about labor are peppered with negativity.  I believe in the transformative power of childbirth and my goal is to reframe labor to help families approach labor feeling both prepared and also excited.  I enjoy developing close relationships with my clients and their support partner(s) and believe the work we do together before labor even begins is integral to the experience. I provide education and information throughout pregnancy and to help families to feel prepared for labor and empowered to make the best choices for themselves.   Before and during labor, I provide information and resources and then hold space for you to make decisions that feel like the best fit for you.  I also facilitate movement during labor, provide hands-on comfort/physical support, and support through advocacy in the labor room.  This looks very different for different people so while doulas may have a bag of tricks, my goal is to find the ones that work well for you.

 

My approach is evidence-based and non-judgemental, with a healthy dose of humor.  While I revere labor, I also aim to inject a dose of lightness and fun into the experience!

 

For more information, you can reach me by email at jbenzvithorson@gmail.com