Training
Education and Background
I’ve received training from certified organizations, federally accredited schools, and maintain my skills and knowledge through continued education and research. Continuous training helps me stay up to date with the most relevant information, and ensures I’m providing you with the best care possible. I invite you to review my training qualifications and experience below.
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I am always looking for avenues to further my education and continue fostering my integrative approach. My next adventure is beginning my studies towards becoming a Certified Nurse Midwife & Reproductive Health Nurse Practitioner.
Breastfeeding Peer Counselor
Contra Costa WIC Breastfeeding Peer Counseling Training, August 2020
Breast/Body/Chestfeeding Support & Education
Preparation during pregnancy​​
Support immediately after birth
In-Home/Virtual support as needed
Overcoming obstacles and common barriers through active listening
Creating plans that support bodyfeeding when it's time to return to work
Talking points for workplace self-advocacy while on your breast/chest/bodyfeeding journey
Understanding the mechanics of Breast/Body/Chestfeeding​
Certified Postpartum Doula
Cornerstone Doula Training, September 2018
Cornerstone Postpartum Doulas Training Scope:
"To provide continuous unbiased, client-centered support throughout the reproductive lifespan. This support focuses on the whole person, family, and community and encompasses emotional, physical, psychosocial, and educational support techniques. Cornerstone doulas employ individualized supportive communication, culturally responsive care, hands-on therapeutic techniques and an equitable approach with all clients."
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Postpartum doula roles
Trauma-informed care
Therapeutic communication techniques
Culture and postpartum traditions
Nutrition -- the science and traditional wisdom.
Common complaints and remedies for discomforts in the postpartum period
How to support a client post-cesarean
Babycare
Common newborn issues
Sleeping arrangements
Physiologically and psychologically nurturing sleep support techniques
Newborn psychological needs
Postpartum mood disorder spectrum and community resources
Creating a client-centered plan in the event of a postpartum mental health crisis
A full 6-hour intensive lactation and nursing support module led by a certified lactation educator is included in this training.
Labor and Birth Doula Training
Cornerstone Doula Training, September 2018
Cornerstone Doulas Training Scope:
"To provide continuous unbiased, client-centered support throughout the reproductive lifespan. This support focuses on the whole person, family, and community and encompasses emotional, physical, psychosocial, and educational support techniques. Cornerstone doulas employ individualized supportive communication, culturally responsive care, hands-on therapeutic techniques and an equitable approach with all clients."
Prenatal and postpartum visits - what to go over and how to conduct them
Anatomy and physiology of labor and birth
Emotional support techniques for every phase of labor
Supportive and therapeutic communication techniques
Physical support techniques for every phase of labor, including: Breathing, vocalization, positions, counter pressure, communication, therapeutic touch ranging from massage, pushing, movement,
Trauma-informed care
Labor and birth interventions
Implicit bias
Systemic racism and its direct effect on health, healthcare delivery, and birth outcomes.
Advocacy & navigating systems
Birth justice and equity
Culturally responsive doula care
Community resources
Advanced Perinatal Massage Seminar
Body Therapy Education, November 2017
Expansion of pelvic technique repertoire focusing on nerve entrapments; pelvic ligaments and trigger points; sacroiliac, lumbosacral and symphysis pubis joints; iliopsoas and quadratus lumborum muscles
Intra-pelvic fascial techniques for reproductive health and fertility
Prenatal, Perinatal, and Postpartum Massage Therapy Certification
Body Therapy Education, April 2014
Intensive practice of specific perinatal techniques used clinically for over 30 years
Skills to meet the physical and emotional childbearing needs of pregnant people
Understanding of all phases of maternity MT care: pregnancy, labor, and postpartum, normal and not-so-perfect pregnancies
Ideal positioning, and powerful, subtle touch techniques
Guidance in career- protective body mechanics and techniques
Massage Therapy, Health Education, and Advanced Neuromuscular Therapy Certification
National Holistic Institute, San Jose, 2013
1350 hours of advanced massage therapy education covering the following subjects and more:
Gross Human Anatomy & Physiology, Pathology, Kinesiology, Advanced Deep Tissue, Clinical Sports Massage, Pain Science, Orthopedic assessment, and Myofascial Pain & Dysfunction