Mel’s Approach to Doula Work

Mel brings to her doula work a sense of warmth, intuition, and deep respect for the unique needs of each family she serves. After more than a decade of experience as a birth and postpartum doula in Portland, she now focuses primarily on overnight and backup postpartum support in Seattle. Her goal is to be a calm, anticipatory presence during the tender and transformative transition into parenthood; holding space, offering rest, and providing practical and emotional support along the way.

Mel’s care is rooted in inclusivity and compassion. She has been working with families of diverse backgrounds and structures, known for her intuitive touch, grounded reassurance, and ability to foster connection during the early days of family life. She hopes the families she supports will look back on this sacred time remembering the love, care, and self-compassion that helped them recover and grow together.

Mel’s Background

Mel’s introduction to doula work came unexpectedly during her own years of family planning. Instead of following a path toward parenthood, she found herself drawn to the birth world and every aspect that came along with it. What began by chance evolved into her calling, a lifelong passion for guiding others through the childbearing year.

In addition to her doula work, Mel is an accomplished photographer at Sommessa Photography, where she documents maternity, birth, newborn, and family journeys. Beyond her professional roles, she enjoys weightlifting, cooking for loved ones, hiking, rehabilitating rescue dogs, and spending time with her own beloved animals.