Shontee’s Approach to Doula Work

Birth is power and vulnerability all wrapped up into one experience. In her work as a doula, Shontee strives to support families so they can experience that moment for all it can be, honored to witness every single birth she’s invited into. Shontee brings years of experience to care for and comfort families in these deeply personal times. She believes that the purpose of a birth doula is to empower people and uniquely support each family through the journey of meeting their baby. Shontee believes that each experience ought to be validated. As a birth and postpartum doula, she has been providing support for over 8 years and is certified through DONA International and continues to learn more ways that she can support her clients through continuing education.

Shontee believes that it is essential to help families navigate numerous transitions and support them during and after the birth. Her goal is to be one of the strongest tools in the toolbox, helping clients refocus and be drawn back into their ritual (whatever that may be). Perhaps her greatest quality is her ability to be flexible and calm under pressure. Childbirth is completely unpredictable and as much as we’d like to put a box around what is within the range of “normal”, our physiology, life experience, and especially the tiny individuals waiting to come earthside, all influence the experience. Shontee is an anchor, a calm presence that grounds and focuses. She believes that each individual has their own unique needs to create a safe and loving space for meeting their baby. She works alongside families to identify their dreams and needs by connecting prenatally through meetings and thoughtful information gathering.

Shontee helps families navigate their birth setting whether it be in a medical or home setting. That comes through information, support, and working to understand the goals for each birth. She has been very successful at working collaboratively with midwives, OB’s and nurses. Shontee has a tremendous respect for their processes and always strives to be helpful and create a cohesive atmosphere. She draws on her professional training, knowledge, and experience to connect with each client and the birth setting they have chosen. Having the freedom to explore options and make informed decisions in the birthing process is essential, Shontee acts as a guide in the process.

Shontee’s Background

Shontee is a Portland native and lives with her husband and 2 kiddos. She loves good coffee and enjoys gardening. A lot of her time is adventuring with her 9 and 6 year olds around the city. Shontee is a total anatomy and physiology nerd and recently completed a rigorous 5 month continuing education program and is now a Body Ready Method Birth Professional. This program focused on taking a deeper dive into the body mechanics and physiology of pregnancy, birth & beyond. Shontee is very excited to share this information with the families she supports! Equity and access to doula support is very important to Shontee which is why she’s a Traditional Health Worker for the State of Oregon.