Shanalea’s Approach to Doula Work

Shanalea’s work is rooted in the belief that pregnancy, birth and postpartum are a deeply sacred and unique experience. She believes every birthing person deserves to feel empowered and respected throughout their journey. Shanalea brings a grounding energy to birth work. She meets clients where they are at and offers steady support, grounded care, and empowered advocacy. She approaches her work with a calm, compassionate and non-judgmental presence.

Her love for babies and children started at a young age. She grew up with a daycare in her home and has over 10 years of experience as a nanny and preschool worker. Shanalea is now an Oregon State Certified THW Birth Doula. In addition, she is a full spectrum doula which includes additional training in Postpartum, Bereavement, and Abortion Doula care. With a background in activism and community organizing that began in her teens, Shanalea brings a justice-oriented lens to all aspects of her care.

Shanalea has a wide variety of experience supporting families, including 2SLGBTQIA+ individuals & families, transgender and non-binary birthing parents, Muslim families, single parents, high-risk pregnancies and births, vaginal births, cesareans, and inductions. She specializes in supporting mixed-race families, disabled and neurodivergent people, people with mental health conditions and anyone seeking a supportive, affirming guide through birth and postpartum.

Shanalea’s Background

Originally from Minnesota, Shanalea gave birth to her now 17-year-old son with the support of a midwife and doula; a powerful and affirming experience that inspired her to pursue birthwork herself. While the timing of becoming a doula wouldn't align for another 16 years, that experience helped shape her philosophy: that birth can be joyful, supported, and transformative with the right people by your side.

When she’s not working with families, Shanalea enjoys spending time in nature, writing poetry, painting, sewing, cooking, and being with her son, family, and friends. She has many years of experience preparing food for special diets and is currently pursuing certification as a Holistic Health Practitioner, reflecting her long-standing interest in natural healing.