Today we’d like to introduce you to Nadia Yamini
Hi Nadia, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
A lot of people ask me what got me interested in doula work as a childless 20-something, and I never quite know what to say. People who knew me growing up and then find out what I do are seldom surprised, though. I think I have always had an interest in the intersection of science/nature, magic, and art, and for a long time it seemed impossible that I could find a path that held those interests in balance, let alone one that would pay the bills!
After getting my GED in lieu of a traditional high school diploma, I decided not to pursue ‘higher’ education and began working a string of odd jobs – as a farmer, barista, caregiver, teaching artist, wellness specialist – the list goes on. None lasted longer than a year or two and amidst relational challenges, financial struggles, and spiritual calamity I eventually found myself forced to begin a process of recovery for the sake of my mental and physical health. On the other side of it all, I kind of just woke up one day with the thought in my head that I was going to be a birth doula. And here we are!
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
I didn’t actually know any doulas when I started this journey. I had heard/read the word and knew that doulas went to be with people while they gave birth, but I didn’t know what that looked like. It was shocking to me that almost no doulas go through any type of apprenticeship before taking their own clients – they just train (or don’t) and jump right in! The imposter syndrome that comes along with being a new professional (of any kind) was and is a big challenge for me.
Now, a couple years into my work as a doula, the biggest challenge for me, still, is facing the reality of the medical industrial complex and its inherent violence. It has been more than difficult to reconcile the most tender, delicate, mystical moments of birth with the cold, harsh and unjust systems that people birth in – especially people of color. Finding where my space is in all of that, as an advocate and a witness is equally intimidating. I don’t think that work will ever be done.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I offer comprehensive perinatal support – that includes prenatal counseling, labor and birth support, immediate postpartum support, and postpartum check ins or support shifts. I provide labor support in hospitals, birthing centers, or at home births. Clients can also book me for day time or overnight support in their home during the first few months of their baby’s life. Not all doulas have training in lactation support, but I maintain a CLSC (Certified Lactation Support Counselor) credential as well as my birth and postpartum training.
Some things I offer that not all doulas do are placenta prints and birth/postpartum photography.
Placenta prints are art pieces that I create by using the fresh placenta as a kind of “stamp” on multi media paper. These are a great piece of memorabilia and I sometimes embellish them with paints or text after birth. I also take 35 mm film photos in black& white or color of labor, birth, and immediate postpartum.
I would say I have a particular interest in supporting queer and unconventional families – whatever that might look like! I have great personal and professional experience working with people with chronic illness, specifically hyper-mobility and autoimmune disorders. I prioritize body awareness and trauma informed medical advocacy in my practice.
We all have a different way of looking at and defining success. How do you define success?
Success is very simple to me; it is simply living and working in a way that you can be proud of. It has very little to do with money, station or recognition, and everything to do with moving through the world in a way that feels aligned with your purpose and your highest good.
Pricing:
- Birth Doula Support – sliding scale $1200-$1800
- Daytime Postpartum Support – sliding scale $25/hr – $35/hr
- Overnight Postpartum Support – sliding scale $30/hr – $40/hr
Contact Info:
- Website: https://mother-of-more.com
- Instagram: @mother.of.more
