Frequently Asked Questions

Most Often Asked Questions and Answers about our Midwifery Practice and Philosophies:

1. What is a Certified Nurse Midwife (CNM)?

A Certified Nurse Midwife (CNM) is an advanced practice nurse trained in both nursing and midwifery, providing evidence-based care throughout pregnancy, birth, postpartum and the reproductive years.

CNMs practice in hospitals, birth centers, and home birth settings and work collaboratively within the healthcare system when consultation or referral is needed. Certification is through the American Midwifery Certification Board (AMCB), and practice follows national midwifery standards.

You can learn more at: http://www.midwife.org/

2. Why are you now focused on birth counseling?

After decades of attending births in home, birth center, and hospital settings—including leadership roles—I now focus on specialized birth counseling.

This work allows me to support individuals before, during, and after pregnancy in a more in-depth and individualized way than standard prenatal visits often allow.

3. Can you support me if I’m planning a cesarean birth?

Yes. Birth counseling is valuable for both planned and unexpected Cesarean deliveries.

We can discuss your goals, explore options such as skin-to-skin contact and the Golden Hour, and help you feel prepared and supported regardless of how your baby is born.

4. Can I work with you if I have a high-risk pregnancy, pregnant with twins, over 20, or used IVF/IUI?

Yes. Birth and postpartum counseling is appropriate for individuals with high-risk pregnancies, fertility treatment histories, or medical complexities.

This work supports both emotional well-being and informed decision-making.

5. Is it ever too late to start birth counseling?

No. Birth counseling can begin at any point during pregnancy or postpartum.

6. Can you help me prepare for a VBAC?

Yes. I offer dedicated TOLAC/VBAC consultations, including review of prior operative reports and discussion of whether you are a medically appropriate candidate.

7. How often do sessions occur?

Sessions are individualized. The initial session is 60 minutes, with follow-up sessions typically 60 minutes, scheduled as needed.

8. Do you work with doulas?

Yes. I value collaboration with birth doulas, and they are welcome to participate in counseling sessions.

9. Why is birth counseling important?

Birth counseling provides space to understand and process your experience of pregnancy, birth, and postpartum in a more in-depth and individualized way than routine prenatal care often allows.

Unresolved fears often resurface during labor. Counseling provides space to understand, reframe, and integrate these experiences—supporting healthier, more empowered births. I can also make referrals to other healthcare practitioners, as needed for pregnancy care.

Referrals to other healthcare providers are made when appropriate.