Today we’d like to introduce you to Anne Leclercq
Anne, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
Bonjour! I’m french and an international midwife with over 20 years of experience in holistic birth. I’ve worked in Belgium, France, and the US, including hospitals, private practice, and birthing centers. For the past 9 years, I’ve been a midwife at the Austin Area Birthing Center. I love working with families in my community and connecting with other moms!
I especially enjoy leading mom groups like centering groups and breastfeeding classes and support groups. It’s so rewarding to see moms come together, share their experiences, and build a supportive network.
My husband and I moved from France to Austin, Texas, in 2012 with our two eldest children, and our youngest son was born right here in Austin. ðŸ¤
To pursue my passion for supporting women even further, I started my own practice in August of this year! I now offer lactation services and natural family planning services to families in the Austin area.
I’m also a certified Haptotherapist, the only one currently practicing in the US! Haptonomy helps parents-to-be bond and communicate with their baby before birth.
I’m passionate about empowering women through all stages of motherhood. As an IBCLC, I guide mothers through their breastfeeding journey, helping them overcome challenges. I’m also a Natural Family Planning coach, helping women understand their bodies and fertility.
My certifications include:
Certified Nurse Midwife (Belgium)
Certified Professional Midwife (US)
International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (US)
Haptonomy therapist Certification (France)
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
When we moved to Austin, my English wasn’t very good. Back in France, I had my own midwifery clinic, but here, I had to start over from scratch. I took English classes at ACC, attended 10 births as a student midwife to get re-certified, and even worked as an assistant midwife while I waited for my license. It was a humbling experience, and I had to put my pride aside.
But my passion for supporting women kept me going. It’s truly my calling.
Ten years ago, I started my own business offering haptonomy, a unique form of childbirth education that fosters communication between the mother, partner, and baby. It wasn’t easy at first; my English wasn’t perfect, and no one knew what haptonomy was. Ironically, haptonomy helped me connect with families even with my limited English, because it emphasizes non-verbal communication.
A few years ago, I wanted to expand my postpartum support, so I became an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) and trained in Natural Family Planning.
I began working as an IBCLC in 2023 and finally opened my full-time practice this past summer. I’m incredibly proud of my journey!
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about Birth Gardens?
At Birth Gardens, I nurture and empower women throughout their motherhood journey—from pregnancy to postpartum. I offer personalized lactation and fertility education in a supportive and nurturing environment. My goal is to help moms to feel confident and informed in every choice they make.
Here’s how I can support:
Lactation consultations: In-home, in-office, or virtual
Breastfeeding classes, Breastfeeding support groups
Natural Family Planning classes and services
My approach is holistic and draws on my extensive experience as a midwife. I take the time to truly listen to your needs and concerns, providing tailored guidance and resources to enhance your breastfeeding experience and promote holistic well-being for both you and your baby.
Why did i choose “Birth Gardens”?
Just as every plant needs a unique environment to thrive, every baby and every mother has different needs. At Birth Gardens, I see each baby as a unique plant, and the family as the garden that evolve through the life. I’m here to help you cultivate the perfect environment for you and your baby to flourish.
What was your favorite childhood memory?
I cherish the memories of those summers spent with my sisters and cousins. We’d concoct the wildest plans to keep ourselves entertained, creating elaborate shows to perform for our family at the end of the summer. We felt so free and safe, knowing our parents were there supporting our creative endeavors. It was amazing that they allowed us to build something so meaningful to us, even if it might have been a bit boring for them! Those summers were pure magic.
Those summers gave us wings to fly. They instilled in me a belief in myself and my passions, giving me the courage and energy to always push further in life. I learned to trust my instincts, embrace creativity, and pursue my dreams, all thanks to those carefree days of summer.
Pricing:
- Online Breastfeeding class 60$
- In person Breastfeeding class 80$
- Online Natural family planning class 49$
- In person Natural family planning class 70$
- Lactation consultation can be covered by insurance, price vary 130-250
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.birthgardens.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/birthgardens/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BirthGardens
Image Credits
Photographer : Marine Franck photographer – https://marinefranck.com
