Kendra Smith

My work as a doula allows me to combine my passion for maternal and infant health with my belief in the power of community and “the village.” I want families to feel informed, respected, nurtured, and confident in their choices.

I accept 2 birth clients each month so that I can provide each family with personalized, continuous support. I am available for clients throughout pregnancy, birth, and the early postpartum period, with on-call availability around your estimated due date. I also offer postpartum support based on my availability and your family's needs. Because every birth is different, I intentionally keep my client load manageable and maintain a backup doula relationship to help ensure you are supported if I am unable to attend your birth.

My role is to help you understand your options and feel confident using your voice. I provide evidence-based information, help you prepare questions for your care team, support you in communicating your preferences, and remind you of your birth goals when things feel overwhelming. I don't make decisions for you or speak over you—I help make sure you feel informed, heard, and respected throughout your experience.

Once you are in labor and it is time for doula support, I will be there to provide continuous physical, emotional, and informational support. Depending on where you are in labor, that may include helping you determine what comfort measures might be helpful, supporting you at home or at the hospital, communicating with your support team, and helping you navigate the transition into active labor. My goal is to be a calm, reassuring presence throughout the process.

Every labor is different, so I meet you where you are rather than expecting you to follow a specific plan. Aside from continuous reassurance and encouragement, I use a variety of comfort measures based on your preferences and what feels helpful in the moment. This can include but isn't limited to breathing and relaxation techniques, position changes, movement, massage and counter-pressure, heat or cold, and other hands-on support.

If a cesarean becomes part of your birth experience, my support does not end. I will continue to provide emotional and informational support, help you understand what to expect, and support you and your birth partner. I can also help you prepare for recovery and the transition into postpartum, including comfort, newborn care, feeding support, and emotional processing after birth.

I provide daytime and overnight postpartum support tailored to each family's needs. Support may include newborn care, maternal care, feeding and breastfeeding support, emotional support, sibling care, light household assistance, and helping families get more rest and confidence during those early weeks. My goal is to help you recover, bond with your baby, and find your rhythm as a family—with the understanding that you deserve care, too.

I believe birth support works best when everyone feels included and supported. I welcome the people you choose to have with you and help them feel confident in their role. I can offer suggestions for comfort measures, demonstrate hands-on techniques, and provide reassurance when things feel unfamiliar or overwhelming. My goal is never to take the place of your partner or loved ones, but to work alongside them so they can be present, connected, and supported while also making sure you receive the care you need.