About Me
I’m a Brooklyn-based, DONA certified Postpartum Doula and Certified Lactation Counselor. I have been providing postpartum and lactation support in Brooklyn, Manhattan and parts of Queens and NJ for almost 20 years.
It was my own shaky start as a first time mom that drew me to this work. Feeding difficulties due to birth complications presented challenges I would never have expected and wasn’t at all prepared for. After bringing my child home from the NICU I was flustered daily and felt unable to gain control, and it took some time before I finally grew into my new role.
My experience became my inspiration. I wanted to be the support I wish I had, to guide parents through the basics of caring for an infant or help them overcome the unexpected hurdles brought on by derailed birth plans.
Writing, music, making art and being a volunteer chef at a food pantry are what keep me feeling centered and whole. I also enjoy reading, cooking, and collecting vintage orange kitchen bric-a-brac that (let’s face it) I will probably never use.
I do not enjoy making the cat food or putting the duvet cover on.
Love is love, family is family.
I stand as an ally to the LGBTQ+ community. Being the parent of a transgender young adult has made me acutely aware of the social marginalization and healthcare discrimination that is faced by trans and gender non-conforming individuals and families. Now more than ever, in this current climate of emboldened hatred, our support for this community is needed. I am always striving to strengthen my role as an advocate for transgender equality. Love is love and family is family. My work as a postpartum doula is rooted in compassion, dignity and respect for all families, whatever shape they take.
“Beyond her expertise, Maria’s care was deeply personal - she supported me emotionally and physically in ways that made a real difference. From cooking delicious, nourishing meals to offering expert advice on navigating life with a newborn, she made those early days so much easier. Her professionalism stood out as well; she was always on time, fully present, and never rushed to leave. It was clear that she genuinely cared.”
E.K.
Maria was our postpartum doula after my middle son was born. She made the transition home so much easier, helping care for my son as well as helping keep his older sister engaged to diffuse some of the usual jealousy. She helped keep me and my husband sane as we settled into life as a family of four. She became a part of our family and was so loved that she helped us again when my youngest son was born. Years later all three kids still refer to her lovingly as RiRi.”
A & J H.