About Alysa
My path to becoming a doula began with the births of my own children. I’ve given birth in both a hospital setting and a birth center and was supported by doulas who were amazing guides throughout my pregnancies and birth experiences. Their presence inspired me deeply and planted the seed for my own calling to support others in their birthing experiences.
I’m also a breast cancer survivor — an experience that deeply reshaped how I see care and support. It taught me firsthand what it’s like to navigate the medical system while moving through a profound life transition, and it reinforced how vital it is to have compassionate people by your side who can hold space for both the heavy and the joyful moments.
As a doula, I see my role as helping birthing people and their families feel safe, informed, and supported — however they define that. Every birth is unique, and every family’s needs are different. I’m here to listen, to empower, and to help you feel grounded in your choices.
I provide birth support at Cooley Dickinson Hospital, Baystate Medical Center, Greenfield Medical Center, Seven Sisters Midwifery and Birth Center, and at home births within 25 miles of Easthampton, MA.
What is a doula?
Doulas are trained caregivers who provides continuous emotional, physical, and informational support before, during, and after birth. There are many types of doulas — including birth doulas, postpartum doulas, and even death or abortion doulas — each serving different life transitions. My work is as a birth doula. I support birthing people and their families through pregnancy, labor, and the early postpartum period, helping them feel informed, grounded, and supported in their choices.
Do doulas only support the birther?
Not at all. While the birther is my primary focus during labor, partners are equally important. Birth is a shared experience, and I love helping partners find ways to be involved that feel authentic and meaningful to them — whether that’s knowing how to provide hands-on comfort, emotional encouragement, or simply being a steady presence. My goal is to help both of you feel confident and connected throughout the process.
Do I really need a doula if I’m having a planned c-section or induction?
A doula supports you, not just a type of birth. Whether your baby arrives through a cesarean or an induction, a doula helps you feel calm, informed, and connected throughout the process. Most hospitals welcome doulas in the surgical unit, where they can offer reassurance, explain what’s happening, and hold space for you and your family.
What kind of families do you serve?
I serve all kinds of families. I’m a cis white woman and recognize that identity representation matters — some families may want to work with a doula who shares aspects of their lived experience. I am committed to ongoing learning about the ways racism, bias, and systemic barriers impact families — especially families of color and LGBTQIA+ families — in medical settings. I warmly support single parents, teen parents, poly families, and any family constellation that is welcoming a baby.
Do doulas offer medical care?
No — doulas are not medical providers. I don’t perform clinical tasks or make medical decisions. My role is to complement your medical care team by offering emotional grounding, physical comfort, advocacy, and information. If you have medical questions or concerns, I’ll help you find the right professionals and resources to get the answers you need.
What are the benefits of having a doula at my birth?
Research consistently shows that having a doula present can improve outcomes and overall satisfaction with the birth experience. Studies have found that birthers supported by doulas tend to have:
Lower rates of cesarean birth
Shorter labors
Less need for pain medication
Decreased rates of postpartum depression
For a deeper look at the evidence behind doula care, I recommend Evidence Based Birth’s article on doulas.
