Great Starts Instructor

Background
I have a Bachelors of Art in Anthropology from Whitman College.  During my undergraduate study I learned about the exciting world of birth work through my honors thesis.  After ending a short career as an elementary school teacher, I am pursuing my passion for birth.  I have completed training as a professional birth doula (Simkin Center, 2015), a Certified Breastfeeding Educator (Evergreen Perinatal Services, 2016) and a childbirth educator (Great Starts, 2017).  I began teaching with Parent Trust in September 2016.  When not teaching classes I work as a birth doula and I am completing my Master of Public Health in Maternal and Child Health at the University of Washington.

Philosophy
I believe that class is an invaluable opportunity for new mothers and their partners to build their labor and parenting “tool box” by engaging in hands-on practice and learning relevant, evidence-based information.  I want students to leave class confident in their own wisdom to make decisions about their birth and to care for their newborn.

Family, hobbies
Born and bred in Washington, I am fortunate to live near my large extended family.  We love downhill skiing and playing cards together.  I also enjoy hiking, practicing yoga, and discovering new recipes.

What is your favorite thing about teaching?
I enjoy developing engaging lesson plans that creatively pair curriculum content and fun activities.  I believe that by exposing students to experiential learning opportunities they retain material more effectively and enjoy class more.  I love observing students fully immersed in the material and excited to learn.

Is there anything you’d like your students to know about you, or to do prior to coming to class?
I highly recommend that every expectant mother bring a partner to class.  This partner does not need to be a life partner.  A friend or family member is a great addition too!  Class is not only a place to learn new material but also an opportunity to reflect on and develop your birth and parenting philosophy.  It is meaningful to share this experience with someone close.

What would you like to be doing in 5-10 years:
In the next five to ten years I hope to be working in a leadership capacity for an organization that promotes access to prenatal care and health education.  I want to continue expanding my business as a birth doula and seeking opportunities to grow as a childbirth educator.  I hope to have time leftover to travel to Morocco, Spain, and New Zealand.