Eight years ago, I learned a word I had never heard before: "midwife". As a young woman, the word aroused my curiosity and created a new purpose as I completed my bachelor's degree in psychology. I first explored the notion of becoming a midwife in a solely metaphoric way, in the realm of emotional and psychological transformation, 'midwifing' change and transition in my own life as well as in others. As wondrous and fulfilling as it was to explore the way midwifery held symbolic meaning in my life, I knew I was called to step into this role more tangibly.
Many avenues of experience and education inform who I am and what I do. I was a nanny for nearly a decade, tending young children, and am strongly rooted in care-taking. I have trained in Shiatsu-Anma massage, craniosacral therapy, and Ayurvedic medicine with an emphasis in bodywork, nutrition, and energetic/emotional awareness. Natural health and wellness practices inspire me to support individual needs within the larger scope of each situation I work in. Most of all, I consider that every family is unique and dynamic, each deserves care that is sensitive to where and who they are, and I seek to bring mindfulness, creativity, and beauty to your birth story and journey into parenthood.
Education
2012-2015 Student Midwife, Nizhoni Institute of Midwifery, San Diego, CA
2013 Bengkung Belly Binding Workshop
2012-2013 From Womb to World and Hormonal Physiology with Anna Verwaal
2012 ICEA Childbirth Educator Workshop
2010 dhyana Center of Health Sciences 10-month training in Ayurveda
2009 Heart and Hands Midwifery Intensives with Elizabeth Davis
2009 DONA Postpartum Doula Workshop
2008 150 hour Shiatsu Massage Training
2007 B.A. Psychology, California State University Northridge, CA
Neonatal Resuscitation with Karen Strange
Adult and Pediatric CPR/First Aid Certified (current)
Testimonials
"Kathleen was with me all through my 36 hour labor. She was a pillar of strength not only for me but also for my husband and family. She helped me through every contraction patiently and skillfully. She knew exactly when I needed her the most and when she could take a break to regain her strength and energy. She is both knowledgeable as well as equipped with wonderful skills such as massage and aromatherapy that she employed at the right time to help me get through the toughest moments. Kathleen is passionate about her work and is professional in her approach. She is respectful and sensitive to the needs of the couple and their family even through stressful situations. Her down to earth and light hearted personality makes you feel comfortable and well taken care of. If you are looking for a doula who is calm, gentle, strong and reliable, I would highly recommend Kathleen." - Maitreyi Siruguri
"Kat was an angel, literally, who blessed my family during the tender months just after our baby's birth. She was completely tuned in to us and knew exactly what I needed for support, even when I didn't. She guided me through postpartum by preparing wholesome meals and herbal remedies that would heal and nurture my body, providing a gentle and grounded presence when my emotions were spinning, giving well-researched advice when I had concerns about anything related to our baby, and bringing our energy up with her laughter and playful nature. Kat also cared for our baby with a soft and sweet presence. I trusted her fully and recommend her without reservation to any family who is in the threshold of birth." - Melissa Morehead
