Chana

Hi, I'm Chana!

I am a doula, certified lactation counselor, licensed clinical social worker and mother. I approach pregnancy, labor, birth and parenting from a realistic and compassionate perspective. As a doula, I offer empathetic guidance and unconditional support to pregnant people and their families as they grow. I love supporting people through exciting, difficult and emotional experiences and I am forever grateful to the folks who welcome me into their lives.

I have experience working with a diverse range of people and offer an individualized, tailored approach to every family I meet. My background and training as a mental health professional informs my views regarding pregnancy and birth — I see these processes as opportunities to nurture relationships both with others and with one's self.

Birth and parenthood are chances and spaces in which to grow, explore and gain a sense of self. I strive for all births to be positive and met with excitement, joy, some healthy trepidation and lots of love. I am originally from Suffolk county, Long Island, lived in Queens for many years and recently moved back to Long Island. I am an active member of the NYC/Metropolitan area birthworker community. My three children keep me busy and coffee keeps me sane.

I have trained with:

• DONA International, 2011

• VBAC (Vaginal Birth After Cesarean) Workshop with Gina Crossley-Corcoran, 2013

• Spinning Babies, 2017

• Healthy Children Project, Inc. Center for Breastfeeding, 2019

TESTIMONIAL

"My husband and I can't express enough how instrumental Chana was  throughout my pregnancy, during labor, and postpartum. From the very beginning she connected with my husband and I as she is warm, kind, funny, knowledgeable and resourceful. She answered every and any questions we had, even recommended a new OBGYN that was aligned with our birth plan. I can say that Chana is the sister I never had and friend who can share insight without judgement about pregnancy, postpartum, and newborn life as a mom. She visited my husband and I in our home to help create our birth plan, discussed our strengths and how we can support each other. She was our biggest cheerleader during labor and truly she got me through the toughest pain I had ever felt when contractions kicked in. She set the mood in our delivery room by using candles and twinkle lights. I felt happy and secure with her by my side along with my husband. All the staff were amazed at how Zen the room felt. One moment I'll never forget was when the contractions got so bad and I wanted to get an epidural but was so afraid I wouldn't be able to stay still for it. Well, Chana held me the entire time, supporting me through the nerves and pain. Her presence was everything I needed for me to feel confident and deliver my daughter. Having Chana as our doula was the best decision and I'd recommend her to anyone who is seeking support because as they say, it takes a village. She is your support person and will be there for you even after birth. We just love her!" 

-Jenna