Client Testimonials
"Everyone we knew who had had a baby with or without the support of a doula told us that having one was the best thing they could have done. So, even though I am a nurse with a background in OB, I figured I should trust those who had walked this road before me and find a great doula. I was looking for someone who was open-minded enough to know that each family's right way to bring a baby into this world can be different, and who would come into our story without an agenda or judgement. I also needed someone who would be able to both support me directly, but also support me by helping and guiding my other support people (husband, mom, and sister). Alissa was all I could have ever asked for and more. She helped me make decisions that were best for us in the most respectful, supportive manner you can imagine, always remembering that I was all too aware of what was going on medically, but that I was the patient this time and that my brain had gone to labor land. We also were coming from a long distance for our care in the Twin Cities, and Alissa was wonderful about staying in contact through my pregnancy and making sure we would have the help we needed even if we didn't make it to our delivery location (but we did!). My experience and the experiences of my support team were everything I had hoped for, and Alissa was a HUGE part of making that happen. I truly look back on it very fondly. It will be a few years, but we can't wait to have Alissa join us when we grow our family again!"
-Amber G. (November 2015)
"We first came into contact with Alissa a little late in the game, about six weeks away from our due date and we were immediately at ease with how comfortable she made us feel. As soon-to-be first time parents, we had at least 100 questions and were just trying to wrap our heads around this whole 'having a baby' concept. Alissa met us completely where we were, and made us feel capable, and completely normal in our anxiety. We knew quickly after meeting her that she was a great fit for us, and felt very optimistic about working with her. Little did I know what a profound impact Alissa would have on our birth experience. Alissa brought such a positive force to my son's birth. I labored through the night, and although the contractions were intense, it felt like we were all close friends at a slumber party making small talk, laughing about random things, and it was nothing short of a magical experience. There is something really special about Alissa, and about her love for the childbirth process. The birth of my son was not what I expected it to be, and I doubt for most people it is. But it was an experience that was filled with love, wonder, and a newfound respect for any mother I have ever met! Working with Alissa was one of the best decisions we made in our birth process. There are so many unknowns when it comes to childbirth, and knowing that Alissa would be there as a support person along the way was one way that we could be a little more prepared for the most intense days of our life. Alissa also checked in on us regularly after our son was born to see how breastfeeding was going. When I was struggling to get my son to latch, she put us in contact with an amazing lactation consultant. They say it takes a village, and with Alissa, I felt that our village had expanded in ways I never thought possible."
-Natalie P. (February 2015)
"I am so grateful for everything Alissa had to offer during my pregnancy, delivery, and postpartum process. I instantly felt a connection with Alissa during a whirlwind doula speed dating event and knew my first instincts were spot on when I became better acquainted with her professionalism, humor, and depth of experience. I truly appreciated her respect for my philosophy and wishes rather than exerting her own point of view - this was very important to me. Alissa empowered me to make my own decisions through her evidence-based approach to education. I went into my labor feeling confident in my options and Alissa was definitely my rock through that journey. And most importantly to me, my birth partners were relieved of stress and anxiety knowing that Alissa was in our corner. Thanks for everything you've done for me, Alissa."
-Beth E. (January 2015)
"I am so grateful to Alissa for helping to bring our daughter Chloe into the world. I knew at our very first meeting that her expertise and energy were a perfect fit for us. What I couldn't have imagined was how much I would rely on her support - both emotional and physical - to get me through. Alissa was my rock throughout the labor. Chloe unexpectedly came 11 days early and my husband was out of town. As he rushed to get back in time (he made it!), Alissa became my entire support system. She spent hours by my side, talking me through and reassuring me that I could do this. She brought me back down to Earth when I started to feel untethered, and made sure any decisions made reflected and respected my choices. She helped give me the strength to get through those last, seemingly impossible moments, and welcomed me to motherhood with love and compassion. I truly could not have done it without her."
-Jen B. (September 2014)
"Alissa's upbeat energy regarding all things related to birth is infectious. She is so passionate about providing positive experiences for the families she works with. Her commitment and passion helped us feel strong and powerful both leading up to the birth of our son, as well as on the day of. Giving birth to our precious son was an amazing experience and it was because of the consistent and wonderful birth preparation we received from Alissa. Her presence at our birth allowed us to have an invigorating, beautiful, and loving birth. We are so happy that Alissa could be a part of our unique and special day."
-Jerri W. (February 2013)
"We cannot thank you enough for the incredible kindness, support, and wisdom you provided for us throughout the birth of our amazing son, Oscar. I know I couldn't have kept going without you and the rest of my support team. You helped bring me back down literally and figuratively so many times during labor. The work you do is so important. Thank you so very much."
-Rosa C. (December 2012)
"When I went into labor, Alissa was with us the entire time - only leaving our side to grab a quick bite or two. I was enormously thankful for this - the hospital staff was wonderful, but as is typical, they were in and (mostly) out during my labor. It meant so much to me to have her comforting, educated presence next to me at each part of my journey. It allowed me and my husband to release some of our anxiety, knowing that she could reassure us that things were progressing as they should. She offered suggestions of countless different positions to try, helped lighten the mood with her humor, and warmly reminded me to relax my body to allow the birth to progress. There were several moments - particularly during the seven hours of pushing my daughter out - when all I needed was to look at Alissa to help me get through the discomfort. We'd exchange a gaze in which I could tell she was communicating that it was okay, that I was strong enough. Did my daughter's birth go exactly as I planned? No - we needed to make a few relatively small adjustments along the way. But the experience was exactly as I'd hope it would be - warm, peaceful, loving. And I can't imagine this happening without Alissa. I would hire her again in a heartbeat - we were so blessed to have her."
-Jill S. (July 2012)
"As a first time mom, I knew I wanted a doula, but I wasn't sure how I would use her strengths and expertise. Alissa's experience and instinct helped me to find out what I needed and how she could best help me throughout the birth process. First she listened to what I wanted and expected. Next, she guided me and my husband to discover what strengths we already had as a couple how he could support me through labor. Alissa was then able to provide me with other types of support both before, during and after labor. She was thoughtful, flexible and reliable.
In addition, I completely trust Alissa. She has a wonderful way of answering questions while deeply respecting the mother's instinct and helping her to make her own best decisions. Without Alissa, I am certain that I would have had to endure many more medical interventions during my birth experience. Her support allowed me to relax, trust my body and trust my instincts to do the right thing for myself and my baby. We're so happy she was present for the birth of our son. I don't know how I could have done it without her!"
-Karen S. (March 2012)
"I had heard so many wonderful things about doulas, I knew I wanted to work with someone but was overwhelmed by all the choices and websites out there. Alissa and I share a mutual friend who passed along Alissa's contact information to me. She came to our home and my partner John and I were totally comfortable with her immediately. She was very easy going and gave a lot of great suggestions for us as I was getting very uncomfortable towards the end of my pregnancy.
Unfortunately, baby Max was nine days late and I had to be induced and after about 16 hours of labor I had a c-section. Alissa helped talk us through the decision and helped me to accept that although this was NOT part of our birth plan, this was how Max would join the world and that was just perfect. I was very upset and very scared. The support she provided to my partner John was priceless. Alissa was able to join us in the operating room and provided so much reassurance and support to John and I. She took photos and documented everything for us - it was priceless! She managed the placenta details after the surgery and took care of everything.
We were so happy with our experience with Alissa, if we have more babies we will definitely ask her to be right there with us again!"
-Susie S. (November 2011)
"She was wonderful- holding my other hand and giving verbal support. At one point in my labor, I was feeling very dejected, finding out I had only progressed to 3 centimeters from 1-2 cent, after what seemed to be quite a while and intense labor. I told Alissa and Sean I was considering medication. Alissa encouraged me to get through 5 more contractions and then we would talk about meds, I agreed, and never felt the need to bring it up again. Soon after this they discovered I had dialated to 8 cent- and this was only 1 hour after I had been measured at 3! Things went really fast after this point- they rushed to get the birth tub ready and get my Dr there. Once I got in the tub, Alissa was right there holding my hand and encouraging me, and after 20 minutes of pushing, our daughter was born in the water! I can say with a high degree of certainty, I would have resorted to the pain meds had it not been for Alissa.
I really can't say enough good things about Alissa- I truly feel she was an integral part in making our daughter's birth go as smoothly as it did."
-Laura E. (Jan 2011)
"I still feel like I haven't ever adequately thanked you for all you did in the aftermath of Liam's birth. Things that may seem small, like sending my shirt along with Liam when I couldn't ride in the ambulance with him and you staying with me so Dan could be with Liam, helped in the moment but also provide an inexplicable sense of peace looking back too. Those little things that went right at a time when it seemed so much was going wrong meant the world then and still do today. Thanks for being there to spot the little things that could still go right; I'm certain we would have missed them without you."
-Johanna R. (April 2011)
"I was so fortunate to have someone standing by my side who was completely concerned with my well being while still having an outside perspective of the process. Her kind words, gentle touch and overall demeanor made the labor and deliver of both of our kiddos go off without a hitch. I can honestly say that all women should be supported in labor with a doula. I believe that having Alissa present at the birth of my children, allowed me to labor naturally and in the environment that was conducive to a productive and positive experience. I can truly say that I wouldn't recommend having a baby without Alissa present."
-Katie P. (Dec 2008, July 2010, and August 2014!)
"Although, I wanted to avoid pain medication, I didn't necessarily want that to be the primary objective - I wanted to be able to make informed decisions and to have a positive birth experience. I didn't want to feel bad or guilty if I ended up needing pain medication. This is exactly what Alissa provided for us. The labor with my son was very long. Alissa was there with us at the hospital and stuck with us through the whole multiple day process (I'm sure she missed many hours of sleep but it never diminished her positive energy.) My daughter's birth was very short and intense and we were at the hospital less than an hour before she was born. After both experiences we loved having Alissa there to reflect on and celebrate the experience of our baby's arrival.
When I first mentioned having a doula to my husband, he was resistant. I think he didn't like the idea of having a stranger with us during the experience. Alissa is very easy to get to know and make you feel comfortable so that was never an issue. I can't tell you how comforting it was for my husband to have her there - it really helped to take the stress off of him and helped him to relax."
-Tricia T. (May 2008 and May 2010)
"At the end of the pregnancy, I developed preeclampsia, and I had to go to the hospital to be induced, but what ended up happening is that my water broke on its own while I was in the hospital and I was able to give birth without interventions, which is what I had desired and hoped for. Alissa was there to help with ideas for pain management, and I truly believe that without her, I would have not been able to achieve the birth outcome that I desired. She is a calming presence during what can be a stressful experience at times. I also liked that she was willing to help me no matter what my goals for the birth were – with or without pain medications, and that was important to me, because going into the birth, I really did not know what I would be able to tolerate and what I would not. She was an easygoing person who was willing to strive for what I wanted for my own experience. I have wonderful memories from my daughter’s birth, and even though I know my body did the work required, those memories would not have been possible without Alissa’s help."
-Erin K. (Sept 2011)
-Amber G. (November 2015)
"We first came into contact with Alissa a little late in the game, about six weeks away from our due date and we were immediately at ease with how comfortable she made us feel. As soon-to-be first time parents, we had at least 100 questions and were just trying to wrap our heads around this whole 'having a baby' concept. Alissa met us completely where we were, and made us feel capable, and completely normal in our anxiety. We knew quickly after meeting her that she was a great fit for us, and felt very optimistic about working with her. Little did I know what a profound impact Alissa would have on our birth experience. Alissa brought such a positive force to my son's birth. I labored through the night, and although the contractions were intense, it felt like we were all close friends at a slumber party making small talk, laughing about random things, and it was nothing short of a magical experience. There is something really special about Alissa, and about her love for the childbirth process. The birth of my son was not what I expected it to be, and I doubt for most people it is. But it was an experience that was filled with love, wonder, and a newfound respect for any mother I have ever met! Working with Alissa was one of the best decisions we made in our birth process. There are so many unknowns when it comes to childbirth, and knowing that Alissa would be there as a support person along the way was one way that we could be a little more prepared for the most intense days of our life. Alissa also checked in on us regularly after our son was born to see how breastfeeding was going. When I was struggling to get my son to latch, she put us in contact with an amazing lactation consultant. They say it takes a village, and with Alissa, I felt that our village had expanded in ways I never thought possible."
-Natalie P. (February 2015)
"I am so grateful for everything Alissa had to offer during my pregnancy, delivery, and postpartum process. I instantly felt a connection with Alissa during a whirlwind doula speed dating event and knew my first instincts were spot on when I became better acquainted with her professionalism, humor, and depth of experience. I truly appreciated her respect for my philosophy and wishes rather than exerting her own point of view - this was very important to me. Alissa empowered me to make my own decisions through her evidence-based approach to education. I went into my labor feeling confident in my options and Alissa was definitely my rock through that journey. And most importantly to me, my birth partners were relieved of stress and anxiety knowing that Alissa was in our corner. Thanks for everything you've done for me, Alissa."
-Beth E. (January 2015)
"I am so grateful to Alissa for helping to bring our daughter Chloe into the world. I knew at our very first meeting that her expertise and energy were a perfect fit for us. What I couldn't have imagined was how much I would rely on her support - both emotional and physical - to get me through. Alissa was my rock throughout the labor. Chloe unexpectedly came 11 days early and my husband was out of town. As he rushed to get back in time (he made it!), Alissa became my entire support system. She spent hours by my side, talking me through and reassuring me that I could do this. She brought me back down to Earth when I started to feel untethered, and made sure any decisions made reflected and respected my choices. She helped give me the strength to get through those last, seemingly impossible moments, and welcomed me to motherhood with love and compassion. I truly could not have done it without her."
-Jen B. (September 2014)
"Alissa's upbeat energy regarding all things related to birth is infectious. She is so passionate about providing positive experiences for the families she works with. Her commitment and passion helped us feel strong and powerful both leading up to the birth of our son, as well as on the day of. Giving birth to our precious son was an amazing experience and it was because of the consistent and wonderful birth preparation we received from Alissa. Her presence at our birth allowed us to have an invigorating, beautiful, and loving birth. We are so happy that Alissa could be a part of our unique and special day."
-Jerri W. (February 2013)
"We cannot thank you enough for the incredible kindness, support, and wisdom you provided for us throughout the birth of our amazing son, Oscar. I know I couldn't have kept going without you and the rest of my support team. You helped bring me back down literally and figuratively so many times during labor. The work you do is so important. Thank you so very much."
-Rosa C. (December 2012)
"When I went into labor, Alissa was with us the entire time - only leaving our side to grab a quick bite or two. I was enormously thankful for this - the hospital staff was wonderful, but as is typical, they were in and (mostly) out during my labor. It meant so much to me to have her comforting, educated presence next to me at each part of my journey. It allowed me and my husband to release some of our anxiety, knowing that she could reassure us that things were progressing as they should. She offered suggestions of countless different positions to try, helped lighten the mood with her humor, and warmly reminded me to relax my body to allow the birth to progress. There were several moments - particularly during the seven hours of pushing my daughter out - when all I needed was to look at Alissa to help me get through the discomfort. We'd exchange a gaze in which I could tell she was communicating that it was okay, that I was strong enough. Did my daughter's birth go exactly as I planned? No - we needed to make a few relatively small adjustments along the way. But the experience was exactly as I'd hope it would be - warm, peaceful, loving. And I can't imagine this happening without Alissa. I would hire her again in a heartbeat - we were so blessed to have her."
-Jill S. (July 2012)
"As a first time mom, I knew I wanted a doula, but I wasn't sure how I would use her strengths and expertise. Alissa's experience and instinct helped me to find out what I needed and how she could best help me throughout the birth process. First she listened to what I wanted and expected. Next, she guided me and my husband to discover what strengths we already had as a couple how he could support me through labor. Alissa was then able to provide me with other types of support both before, during and after labor. She was thoughtful, flexible and reliable.
In addition, I completely trust Alissa. She has a wonderful way of answering questions while deeply respecting the mother's instinct and helping her to make her own best decisions. Without Alissa, I am certain that I would have had to endure many more medical interventions during my birth experience. Her support allowed me to relax, trust my body and trust my instincts to do the right thing for myself and my baby. We're so happy she was present for the birth of our son. I don't know how I could have done it without her!"
-Karen S. (March 2012)
"I had heard so many wonderful things about doulas, I knew I wanted to work with someone but was overwhelmed by all the choices and websites out there. Alissa and I share a mutual friend who passed along Alissa's contact information to me. She came to our home and my partner John and I were totally comfortable with her immediately. She was very easy going and gave a lot of great suggestions for us as I was getting very uncomfortable towards the end of my pregnancy.
Unfortunately, baby Max was nine days late and I had to be induced and after about 16 hours of labor I had a c-section. Alissa helped talk us through the decision and helped me to accept that although this was NOT part of our birth plan, this was how Max would join the world and that was just perfect. I was very upset and very scared. The support she provided to my partner John was priceless. Alissa was able to join us in the operating room and provided so much reassurance and support to John and I. She took photos and documented everything for us - it was priceless! She managed the placenta details after the surgery and took care of everything.
We were so happy with our experience with Alissa, if we have more babies we will definitely ask her to be right there with us again!"
-Susie S. (November 2011)
"She was wonderful- holding my other hand and giving verbal support. At one point in my labor, I was feeling very dejected, finding out I had only progressed to 3 centimeters from 1-2 cent, after what seemed to be quite a while and intense labor. I told Alissa and Sean I was considering medication. Alissa encouraged me to get through 5 more contractions and then we would talk about meds, I agreed, and never felt the need to bring it up again. Soon after this they discovered I had dialated to 8 cent- and this was only 1 hour after I had been measured at 3! Things went really fast after this point- they rushed to get the birth tub ready and get my Dr there. Once I got in the tub, Alissa was right there holding my hand and encouraging me, and after 20 minutes of pushing, our daughter was born in the water! I can say with a high degree of certainty, I would have resorted to the pain meds had it not been for Alissa.
I really can't say enough good things about Alissa- I truly feel she was an integral part in making our daughter's birth go as smoothly as it did."
-Laura E. (Jan 2011)
"I still feel like I haven't ever adequately thanked you for all you did in the aftermath of Liam's birth. Things that may seem small, like sending my shirt along with Liam when I couldn't ride in the ambulance with him and you staying with me so Dan could be with Liam, helped in the moment but also provide an inexplicable sense of peace looking back too. Those little things that went right at a time when it seemed so much was going wrong meant the world then and still do today. Thanks for being there to spot the little things that could still go right; I'm certain we would have missed them without you."
-Johanna R. (April 2011)
"I was so fortunate to have someone standing by my side who was completely concerned with my well being while still having an outside perspective of the process. Her kind words, gentle touch and overall demeanor made the labor and deliver of both of our kiddos go off without a hitch. I can honestly say that all women should be supported in labor with a doula. I believe that having Alissa present at the birth of my children, allowed me to labor naturally and in the environment that was conducive to a productive and positive experience. I can truly say that I wouldn't recommend having a baby without Alissa present."
-Katie P. (Dec 2008, July 2010, and August 2014!)
"Although, I wanted to avoid pain medication, I didn't necessarily want that to be the primary objective - I wanted to be able to make informed decisions and to have a positive birth experience. I didn't want to feel bad or guilty if I ended up needing pain medication. This is exactly what Alissa provided for us. The labor with my son was very long. Alissa was there with us at the hospital and stuck with us through the whole multiple day process (I'm sure she missed many hours of sleep but it never diminished her positive energy.) My daughter's birth was very short and intense and we were at the hospital less than an hour before she was born. After both experiences we loved having Alissa there to reflect on and celebrate the experience of our baby's arrival.
When I first mentioned having a doula to my husband, he was resistant. I think he didn't like the idea of having a stranger with us during the experience. Alissa is very easy to get to know and make you feel comfortable so that was never an issue. I can't tell you how comforting it was for my husband to have her there - it really helped to take the stress off of him and helped him to relax."
-Tricia T. (May 2008 and May 2010)
"At the end of the pregnancy, I developed preeclampsia, and I had to go to the hospital to be induced, but what ended up happening is that my water broke on its own while I was in the hospital and I was able to give birth without interventions, which is what I had desired and hoped for. Alissa was there to help with ideas for pain management, and I truly believe that without her, I would have not been able to achieve the birth outcome that I desired. She is a calming presence during what can be a stressful experience at times. I also liked that she was willing to help me no matter what my goals for the birth were – with or without pain medications, and that was important to me, because going into the birth, I really did not know what I would be able to tolerate and what I would not. She was an easygoing person who was willing to strive for what I wanted for my own experience. I have wonderful memories from my daughter’s birth, and even though I know my body did the work required, those memories would not have been possible without Alissa’s help."
-Erin K. (Sept 2011)
