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last updated 09/20/08


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Parenting Resources and Support Services - Women's Ritual


...................Parenting Resources and Support Services...................

Parenting is one of the most challenging jobs we will ever have. It is also the most important. We often do this job without the support of community or family. This takes its toll on our health and makes parenting much less enjoyable. I often tell parents that they must create their own support network. There are so many wonderful resources that support families during the childbearing years. Providers can also help parents access the resources they need.


Darcy Adams
Health Counselor
Chicago IL
Phone: 312-698-8922
web site: www.darcyadams.com
e-mail: darcy.adams@gmail.com
Area Served: Chicago & Suburbs

Training & Background:
I work with you to identify your health concerns and resolve them. Nutrition education, setting healthy habits and addressing root causes of health symptoms. Great for Children, adults, expectant mothers and those trying trying to conceive.


American Association of Birth Centers
Phone: 215-234-8068
web site: www.birthcenters.org
e-mail: reachnacc@birthcenters.org


ACNM: American College of Nurse-Midwives

Silver Spring, MD 20910-6374
Phone: 240-485-1824
web site: www.midwife.org

Services Offered: Professional association for CNMs, also locator service on web site


ALACE: Association of Labor Assistants and Childbirth Educators
Cambridge MA
web site: www.alace.org
e-mail: alacehq@aol.com

Services Offered
: National Doula & childbirth education certification


Be By Baby!
1654 W Roscoe, Chicago IL 60657
773.404.BABY (2229)
Area Served: Chicago & Internet
website: www.BeByBaby.com
email: info@BeByBaby.com
 

Training & Backgound:
Classes and products that support a strong pregnancy, natural birth and breastfeeding. Classes and events include fun baby activities, natural birth classes and new mother support (including support groups). Offering great products that support these activities.


Chicago Area Certified Infant Massage Instructors
Phone: 847-289-4563
web site: www.infantmassageinstructors.com
e-mail: info@infantmassageinstructors.com

Services Offered
: Information on the benefits of infant massage for infants and children, the benefits for parents and caregivers, infant massage classes and helpful resources.


Chicago Community Midwives (CCM)

Chicago, IL
Phone:  630-832-3556 x 2
website: www.chicagocommunitymidwives.org
e-mail: Jiandra@aol.comA

Services Offered
: The mission of CCM is to improve maternal child health primarily by providing community and professional education about the Midwives Model of Care™, out of hospital birth and breastfeeding.


Citizens for Midwifery

Athens GA
Phone: 888-CFM-4880
web site: www.cfmidwifery.org
e-mail: info@cfmidwifery.org

Services Offered
: Promotes the Midwives Model of Care™ as the best care for pregnancy and birth. The only national consumer-based group. CfM works to provide information and resources that promote the local midwife, as well as midwives and midwifery care across the country!


CIMS: Coalition for Improving Maternity Services
Ponte Vedra Beach FL
Phone: 888-282-CIMS
web site: www.motherfriendly.org

Services Offered
: Coalition for Improving Maternity Services, Resources for promoting a wellness model of maternity care, Mother Friendly Childbirth Initiative™


Coalition for Illinois Midwifery (CFIM)
Bellflower, IL
Phone: 630-832-3556 x2
website: www.illinoismidwifery.org
email: info@illinoismidwifery.org

Mission: The Coalition for Illinois Midwifery seeks to ensure the availability of safe, licensed direct-entry midwifery services for families in the state of Illinois. We support the Certified Professional Midwife (CPM) credential as a basis for licensure.


DONA: Doulas of North America
PO Box 626
Jasper, IN  47547
Phone: 888- 788-DONA (3662), Fax: 812- 634-1491
web site: www.dona.org
e-mail: Info@DONA.org

Services Offered
: Doula Certification and training


Family & Child Development Center
Chicago IL
Phone: 312-440-1203

Services Offered: Family Counseling - Long & short term, play group up to age 4, Grants & United Way Sliding Fee Scale


Family Network
Highland Park IL
Phone: 847-433-0377

Services Offered: Nonprofit 15 years - Baby n Me, resources, first four years of family life, drop in & preschool program, new mom's groups


Focus on Families
Oak Forest IL
Phone: 708-687-2601

Services Offered: NonProfit Early Childhood Block Grant Parent Meetings, At Risk, Birth to Five Programs, Birth to Three program


Free Standing Birth Centers in Illinois

Chicago IL
Phone: 312-372-4292
web site: www.HMPRG.org
e-mail: info@HMPRG.org

Services Offered
: Working with legislative, judicial and educational issues to promote free standing centers


Fussy Baby Network
Michelle Lee
Chicago IL
Phone: 888-431-BABY (2229) Warm Line
web site: www.fussybabynetwork.org
e-mail: fussybaby@erikson.edu
Area Served: Chicago Metro Area

Training & Backgound:
We offer support to the family through: home visiting (call for geographic area), warmline consultation, parent groups and a pediatric clinic (currently at the University of Chicago). This is a multidisciplinary program for parents who have concerns about their baby's crying, sleeping and feeding during the first year.


Holistic Moms Network 
         
Phone: (877) HOL-MOMS      
web site: www.holisticmoms.org  
e-mail: info@holisticmoms.org      
Area Served: National

Servcies Offered: National, nonprofit organization for parents and others interested in natural living and holistic parenting.  Helping parents build local communities to learn and support one another.  Chapters across the US and Canada, including in the Chicago SW Suburbs and Kane County, IL.


Dionna Hunger
ICAN of Chicago (international Cesaeran Awareness Network)
Chicago IL (local chapter)
Phone: 773-286-4501
Area Served: Chicago & Suburbs
web site: health.groups.yahoo.com/group/ICANofChicago/ icanofchicago@yahoo.com


IAM: International Alliance of Midwives

Phone: 800-743-0974
web site: www.midwiferytoday.com

Services Offered
: OnLine Community in Support of Midwifery, conferences and workshops


Illinois Families for Midwifery
Bellflower IL
Phone: 309-722-3345
email: iffm2000@yahoo.com

Services Offered
: Education regarding the Midwives Model of Care, member based nonprofit


Inter Assoc of Infant Massage

Springfield VA
877-248-5432
www.infantmassageusa.org
info@infantmassageuse.org


Rhonda Kantor RN BSN HNC RYT-500
Global Yoga Center
Chicago IL
Phone: 773-719-6227
web site: www.globalyogacenter.com
Area Served: Chicago

Training & Background: Registered Nurse, Board Certified Holistic Nurse, Birth Doula, Prenatal yoga classes, Mom and baby yoga classes, Yoga/Relaxation and Labor/Birth preparation class for couples, Childbirth education, Childbirth/Doula consulting, Teacher Training Courses for Hatha Yoga and Prenatal Yoga.


The New Mom Network

Ariadna Cymet Lanski PsyD
Chicago IL
Phone: 312-399-5116
web site: NewMomNetwork.com
e-mail: Ariadna@NewMomNetwork.com
Area Served: Chicago

Training & Background: Supporting joys and challenges of pregnancy and motherhood while honoring this major life transition. One-time workshops and weekly pregnant and new moms groups. A multi-disciplinary team of professionals offers time for support, information and discussions on topics pertinent to pregnant women and new moms.


Robin Joyce
C.H.O.I.C.E.S   
Hebron IN
Phone: 219-996-5188
website: www.IndianaBirthChoices.com          
e-mail: bowtie96@netnitco.net
Area Served: NW  Indiana  

Training & Background:
Based on natural birth and parenting. For anyone interested in learning about normal birth and alternative care. We are a network providing information so parents can make informed decisions. They can then have a fulfilling experience with pregnancy, birth and breastfeeding. Monthly meetings at Hebron Community Center.


Programs for Multiples
Kroch Twin Center
Chicago IL
Phone: 312-926-0840

Services Offered
: Assistance for parents of twins born at Prentice Northwestern Hospital


La Leche League International
Schaumburg IL
Phone: 800-525-3243 (referrals to leaders)
Phone: 847-519-7730 (main)
web site: www.lalecheleague.org

Services Offered
: Locate a group or leader, meetings or get help w/breastfeeding problems, quarterly magazine w/membership, conferences


Kerry Maiorca
Bloom Yoga Studio
Chicago IL
Phone: 773-463-YOGA (9642)
web site: www.bloomyogastudio.com
e-mail: kerry@bloomyogastudio.com
Area Served: Chicago

Training & Background:
Bloom Yoga Studio offers Prenatal Yoga, Childbirth Prep Classes, Pregnancy and Postpartum Massage, Doula Referrals, Infant Massage Workshops, New Mom Support Groups, Infant CPR, Mom & Baby Yoga, and more - all in a sunny, spacious, and welcoming studio in Lincoln Square. We look forward to meeting you and helping you celebrate this special time.


David Miller MD, FAAP, LAc, Dipl OM
East-West Integrated Medicine LLC
Chicago IL
Phone: 773-960-8901
web site: www.eastwestintmed.com
e-mail: eastwestkiddoc@hotmail.com
Area Served: Chicago & Suburbs

Training & Background:
One of the only US physicians with dual Board certification in Pediatrics (ABP) and Traditional Chinese Medicine / Chinese Herbalism (NCCAOM). MD - Brown University; Pediatrics Residency - University of Chicago; TCM - Pacific College of Oriental Medicine (PCOM). Other techniques: Reiki Master-Teacher & Bach and North American Flower Essences.


MANA: Midwives Alliance of North America
Lilburn GA
Phone: 888-923-6262
email: info@mana.org web site: www.mana.org

Services Offered:Organization of North American Midwives and their advocates


NARM: North American Registry of Midwives

Phone: 888-84-BIRTH
web site: www.narm.org

Services Offered: International Midwife Creditation Agency


National Association of Childbearing Centers
3123 Gottschall Rd
Perkiomenville PA 18074-9546
For a list of free standing birth centers, send $1 for shipping and handling


Northside Parent's Network
Chicago IL
Phone: 312-409-2233 (membership voicemail)

Services Offered
: Chicago Only - no suburbs - school info, New Moms Groups, Newsletter, Speakers, Babysitting Coop, Nannyshare


Parent's Circle
Morton Grove IL
Phone: 847-604-0989 (information line), 847-425-9088 (John Sharp: membership)

Services Offered: Established 1974. All kinds of groups and activities for young families.


Parenthesis
Oak Park IL
Phone: 708-848-2227
Area Served: Chicago & Suburbs

Services Offered
: Workshops with child care, single parent & teen parents, drop in care for all


Mary Thilleman
Merry Music Makers
Chicago IL
Phone: 773-929-4MMM (4666)
web site: www.merrymusicmakers.net
e-mail: info@merrymusicmakers.net
Area Served: Chicago & Suburbs
Training & Background: : A Music Together class is a relaxed, playful, participatory, exploratory musical experience. We do not expect musical perfection or “performances” from children or parents. We strive to see families DOING music. We seek to create a community of families making Music Together! Call us today to schedule a FREE demonstration class! l


Transitions to Motherhood
Chicago IL
Phone: 312-926-9971
Area Served: Chicago & Suburbs

Training & Background:
Postpartum Adjustment Program Prentice Women's Hospital Alberto-Culver Women's Health Center Provides information and discussion to help new mothers manage the transition to their new role. A great weay to meet other new moms.


Nanci Von Jacobi RN BSN CIMI
Expectant Touch
Chicago IL
Phone: 773-467-8974
Area Served: Chicago & 25 miles out

Training & Background:
RN with 20 years experience in parent education. Certified in infant massage instruction, prenatal massage therapy, and The Happiest Baby on the Block soothing technique. Providing in-home individualized instruction as well as group classes.

 

...................Pediatric Holistic Care..........................

There are many wonderful kinds of appropriate care for babies and children. It depends on what the health concerns are which type of practitioner may be best for your child. This category includes cranial sacral, homeopaths, acupuncture, chiropractic, herbalists and other practitioners who consider themselves complimentary to western medicine. The key is to try the least intervention oriented option first. Most of these practitioners have special certifications for working with children. Be sure and ask about qualifications and experience. Many promote a proactive or preventative approach to health care. Grandma says, "An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure." These approaches to chronic problems are generally less invasive and pose less risk with better results.

Lea Cornish DC FICPA
Dr Lea A Cornish PC
Lisle IL
Phone: 630-963-1410
web site: www.CornishChiropractic.com
e-mail: DrCornish@CornishChiropractic.com
Area Served: Western Suburbs

Training & Background: I have been in family practice since 1993 after graduating from Palmer College of Chiropractic. I am trained in the Webster Technique to release intrauterine constraint. Complete diplomate of pediatric and pregnancy chiropractic degree.


Michelle Dougherty DC
Main Street Chiropractic
Plainfield IL
Phone: 815-230-9070
web site: www.mainstreetdoctors.com
Area Served: Southwest Suburbs

Training & Background: Chiropractic care for the whole family, massage, specializes in pediatrics and women's health (pre and post natal) to include hormone testing/balancing for PMS, infertility, menopause transition, and adrenal fatigue & and nutrition/detox & member of International Chiropractic Pediatric Association & trained in Webster Technique.


George Elvove MD
Family Practice
Libertyville IL
Phone: 847-362-1367
web site: www.elvovemd.com
e-mail: info@elvove.com
Area Served: North & NW Suburbs

Training & Background: Newborn and pediatric care since 1977. Immunization programs customized for each family. Breast feeding encouragement and support. Nutritional counseling, Zone diet. Bioidentical hormone balancing for perimenopause. Wilson's temperature syndrome. Annual physicals and pap smears.


Elizabeth Erkenswick DC
Chiropractic First
Evanston IL
Phone: 847-869-1313
web site: www.chiropractic1st.com
e-mail: info@chiropractic1st.com
Area Served: North Shore

Training & Background: Has been a chiropractor since 1979. She specializes in chiropractic care for children of all ages. Dr. Erkenswick is certified in the Webster breech turning technique. Her adjustments are low force and high touch. She is the mother of five children born at home.


Tom Hurrle LAc   

Vital Directions
Chicago IL
Phone: 773-878-7150
web site: www.VitalDirections.com
e-mail: Tom@VitalDirections.com
Area Served: Chicago & Suburbs

Training & Background:
Pediatric Acupuncture, Fertility treatment. Pediatric treatment uses no needles,  effective for many complaints of infants and children. Certified in Acupuncture and Chinese Herbal Medicine. Postgraduate studies in Traditional Japanese Acupuncture, certified by Toyohari Association of Tokyo, Japan. Father of four home births.


Stephanie Maj DC   
Well Adjusted World   
Oak ParkIL   
Phone: 773-528-8485       
web site: www.CommunityChiropractic.net
e-mail: drmaj@drmaj.com   
Area Served: Chicago & Suburbs   

Training & Background: Offering pediatric wholistic care, chiropractic, women's health, and nutrition services. Pre and postnatal care. Pediatric Fellowship certified in Webster technique.


David Miller MD, FAAP, LAc, Dipl OM   
East-West Integrated Medicine, LLC   
Chicago IL   
Phone: 773-960-8901
web site: www.eastwestintmed.com  
e-mail: eastwestkiddoc@hotmail.com              
Area Served: Chicago & Suburbs

Training & Background: One of the only US physicians with dual Board certification in Pediatrics (ABP) and Traditional Chinese Medicine / Chinese Herbalism (NCCAOM).  MD - Brown University; Pediatrics Residency - University of Chicago;  TCM - Pacific College of Oriental Medicine (PCOM).  Other techniques: Reiki Master-Teacher & Bach and North American Flower Essences. 


Jennifer Paschen LAc Dipl Ac (NCCAOM) MSOM
The Nest
Chicago IL
Phone: 773-267-0248
web site: www.thenestchicago.com
e-mail: acupeds@sbcglobal.net
Area Served: Chicago

Training & Background:
A group practice specialized in Chinese Medicine for women and children. Extensive training and experience working with pregnancy, childbirth, postpartum care and pediatrics. Birth attending, home or hospital. Jennifer is the mother of two girls, one home birthed.


Daniel Purdue DC FICPA
Healthy Futures Chiropractic
Aurora IL
Phone: 630-907-1300
Area Served: Western & Far Western Suburbs

Training & Background: Certified in Webster Technique. Fellow in the International Chiropractic Pediatric Association. Graduated Valedictorian Palmer College, the founding school of Chiropractic. Offers gentle effective care for the entire family. Husband and father of two (freestanding birth center birth and homebirth).


Liselotte Schuster BA BS DC CIMI
Schuster Chiropractic
Northbrook IL
Phone: 847-509-9067
web site: www.liloschuster.com
e-mail: drliloschuster@sbcglobal.net
Area Served: Chicago, North Shore, North West

Training and Background: Since 1989 has used gentle touch with pregnant women, babies, toddlers and teens. Certified in Webster Technique for breech or transverse pregnancies and is a Certified Infant Massage Instructor. She loves to educate her patients and they appreciate this extra information.


Gregg  Stern DC DACCP
Stern Chiropractic  
Buffalo Grove IL  
Phone: 847-537-2225      
web site: www.sternchiro.com  
e-mail: docstern@sternchiro.com
Area Served: NW Suburbs

Training & Background: National College of Chiropractic. Certified in maternity, pediatric,family wellness care, and Webster technique. Private practice since 2000. Wonderful success with maternity, infertility, challenged children, as well as many different kinds of health concerns. Educational seminars available for groups. Family plans are available. Diversified technique.


Elaine Stocker DN
Healing Hands
Chicago IL
Phone: 773-281-7100
web site: www.healinghandschicago.com
e-mail: estocker@mindspring.com
Area Served: Chicago & Surrounding Suburbs

Training and Background
: Doctor of Naprapathy and a senior cranial practitioner plus a trained psychologist. She specializes in cranial work for children, infants an Moms. Her gentle, and non-invasive approach is ideal for treating children. She is a board member of Birthlink.




...................Photographers...................

Professional photography can be a wonderful token of your birth after the big event. As in wedding photography, a photographer can quietly stay in the background, capturing those special moments that many people find they want to remember. Most birth photographers focus on discreet and expressive images of the experience. Hiring someone to take pictures also allows the father or partner to be completely involved in their efforts of supporting mom and baby. Additionally, images of your brand new child right after birth (or a short time afterward) can capture the innocence and sweetness of this fleeting time forever. Click here to read a BirthLink Community News article about birth photography.


Hannah Maximova
Viscosity Productions
Glendale CA
Phone: 818-243-1341
web site: www.bodyhuntsmind.com
online portfolio: www.birthlink.com/hanphot1.html (and this BirthLink.com site's images)
e-mail: viscprods@sbcglobal.net
Area Served: Entire Chicago Area

Services Offered: Fine art photography, graphic design & filmmaking, BirthLink Advisory Board Member


Claude-Aline Nazaire CNT
Essential Blueprints Inc
Chicago IL
Phone: 312-224-8977
web site: www.eseeentialblueprints.com< /a>
e-mail:
claudie@essentialblueprints.com
Area Served: Chicago & Suburbs

Training & Background:
EB captures a woman's journey through pregnancy. We document their experience of giving life through writing, and photography. Each woman comes away with not just a custom album, but a spiritual and emotional connection with their newborn and with themselves.


...................Physical and Occupational Therapy...................

OB/Gyne physical therapy addresses problems that have come about due to birth. If you are experiencing pain or discomfort you could be helped by a physical therapist specially trained to correct these problems.

Katie Andrew PT
Lakeview Physical Therapy PC
Chicago IL
Phone: 773-755-9214
web site: www.Lakeviewpt.com
e-mail: Katie@lakeviewpt.com
Area Served: Chicago & Suburbs

Training & Background: Women’s Health Specialist training for the treatment of pre-post natal pain, pelvic pain, and urinary incontinence. Orthopedic training utilizing manual therapy and progressive exercise techniques. Practicing since 2001.


Bridgid Ellington MPT OCS BCIA-PMDB
Lakeview Physical Therapy PC
Chicago IL
Phone: 773-755-9214
web site: www.Lakeviewpt.com
Area Served: Chicago & Suburbs

Training & Background: Manual therapy for pregnancy and post-partum back and pelvic pain, bowel and bladder issues. Pelvic floor rehab including biofeedback certification. Also using real-time ultrasound imaging for abdominal and pelvic floor muscle rehab. Pediatric bowel and bladder physical therapy now offered. Practicing since 1994.


Judy Florendo PT
Florendo Physical Therapy PC
Chicago IL
Phone: 312-337-8840
e-mail: florendopt@sbcglobal.net
Area Served: Chicago & Suburbs

Training and Background
: Member of Women's Health section of Amer PT Assoc, Musculoskeletal pain & dysfunction during pregnancy & postpartum pelvic pain & weakness post surgical pain of episiotomies.



Malcolm Fraser MCSP PT
Vital Points Therapy
Libertyville IL
Phone: 847-281-9999
web site: www.vitalpointstherapy.com
e-mail: vitalpointstherapy@yahoo.com
Area Served: Northern Suburbs


Training and Background
: Studied physical therapy (Bath UK), and specializes in CranioSacral and Integrative Manual Therapies. He incorporates Focusing and other consciousness techniques to facilitate healing the body's illnesses and injuries. Visit our web site for more detailed information.



Elizabeth Hart MPT
Elizabeth Hart & Assoc PT & Healing
Evanston IL
Phone: 847-425-1800
e-mail: elizabethhart@hotmail.com
Area Served: Chicagoland Area


Training and Background
: Physical therapist since 1994, since 1996 training in and using craniosacral therapy for adults and pediatrics to address musculoskeletal dysfunction, pain, alignment, breech turns and developmental issues.



Amanda Kreiss MA Cert Adv Rolpher
Inner Architecture Inc
Chicago IL
Phone: 773-704-1551
e-mail: amanda@innerarchitecture.com
web site: www.innerarchitecture.com

Area Served: Midwest


Training and Background
: Manual medicine and movement re-education for the full life cycle. Visceral manipulation as indicated. DONA and ALACE trained (though not practicing as a doula). NADA Certified. Past Associate Intern in Acupuncture/TCM at the Chicago Women's Health Center. Current Associate Intern at the Pacific College of Oriental Medicine. Certified Advanced Rolfer.



Laura Marzulli PT
Advanced Women's Care Center Elk Grove
Village IL
Phone: 847-981-3698
Area Served: North & Western Suburbs

Training & Background
: Received her BS in physical therapy from the University of Vermont in 1985. Received a specialist certificate in Women's Health Physical Therapy from Texas Women's University in 2000. Therapy for pregnant women includes treatment for back pain, sciatica and pelvic floor dysfunction.



Meredy Parker
Lakeview Physical Therapy PC
Chicago IL
Phone: 773-755-9214, 773-368-6176
web site: www.lakeviewpt.com
e-mail: meredy@rcn.com
Area served: Chicago & Suburbs

Training & Background: Manual therapy for pregnancy and post-partum back and pelvic pain, general orthopedics and spine care. Experience working with post-urogynecological surgery patients; bowel and bladder dysfunction including male clients; training in biofeedback and real-time ultrasound imaging. Practicing since 1996.




...................Postpartum Caregivers...................

    This type of care is agency based and is often a home health worker or companion that helps with house, sibling care and baby during the initial adjustment period. They are different from a postpartum doula in that they may also care for the elderly. They usually prefer full-time, long-term assignments but many will do shorter jobs if they're available.




...................Postpartum Doulas...................

The postpartum doula has a special calling to this work. She understands the needs of the postpartum mother. Her job is to mother the mother so she can mother the baby. She will also help with house, sibling care and baby as well as run errands as she will often have her own vehicle. They usually work half days for about two weeks. They are independent so they set their own schedules, have more flexibility, and often have advanced degrees in other fields. They understand the emotional needs of the new parents. Breast feeding support is also offered.

BirthLink Members: Please be aware that Neida - BirthLink members are listed first in this category.


Neida - BirthLink Members
Northeast Illinois Doula Association Members are listed first in this category. We have a special partnership with Neida. To find out about membership discounts please visit our home page.

Becky Geils
Dove Doula Services
Schaumburg IL
Phone: 224-361-6163
e-mail: beckygeils@yahoo.com
Area Served: Northwest & Western Suburbs

Training & Background:
I'm a Dona trained Doula and CPR certified. I'm a mother of one (born at home and breastfeed) I have five years experience in lactation support and post-partum care with singletons, multiples and preemies. I am available overnights.


Lori Beth Geils CD
Dove Doula Services
Bensonville IL
Phone: 800-801-5652
e-mail: dovedoula@yahoo.com
Area Served: Northwest & Western Suburbs

Training & Background:
"Mothering the Mother" prenatal throughout her postpartum period and beyond is our specialty with a Christian Focus. Labor and Postpartum Doula, Bradley Method Childbirth Educator, Lactation Educator, Certified Nursing Assistant. Practicing since 1993. Extensive experience in Postpartum Doula Care with MULTIPLES and Professional Labor Support at home or hospital.


Debbie Klein
Ingleside IL
Phone: 847-366-8060
e-mail: dklein1@comcast.net
Area Served: Chicago and Suburbs

Training & Background:
DONA certifed Doula. Providing labor support and postpartum care. Attending births and caring for infants professionally since 1992. Desiring to bring a calm loving atmosphere to a mothers labor. Assist new families with the transition from hospital to home. Experience with special needs infants and twins.


Paula Lieberman CD(DONA)
Labor Support and Postpartum Doula Care
Evanston IL
Phone: 847-338-5578
e-mail: pelieberman@msn.com
Area Served: Chicago & North Shore

Training & Background: DONA certified Doula. Providing care since 2002. I am up to date with current changes in maternity care and am prepared to address a variety of needs for the birthing and postpartum family. Training in lactation support and postpartum mood disorders.


Ellen Richter CPD CD LE
BirthRight Doula Services
Cary IL
Phone: 847-639-4604
e-mail: erdoula@aol.com
Area Served: NW Suburbs & NW Chicago

Training and Background
: Certified postpartum doula, lactation educator. Specialty first time parents and multiples. Worked with over 130 babies, many multiples. Breastfeeding support Will consider nights. I love my job! DONA, CAPPA, APPPAH and LLL.


Julia B Roth CD DONA
Birth Companions Guild
Skokie IL
Phone: 847-207-5413, 847-677-8480
web site: www.birthcompanionsguild.com
e-mail: ejulia.doula@comcast.net
Area Served: Chicago & North Suburbs

Training and Background
: Doula since 1994. Served over a hundred clients as primary birth support. Have only attended two c-sections. Try to make my services available to all individuals on a sliding fee scale basis. I support the goals of each client including the choice of having an epidural..



BirthLink Members: Please be aware that Neida - BirthLink members are listed first in this category.

Heather Bowler
Birthways Doula Services Inc
Chicago IL
Phone: 773-506-0607
web site: www.birthwaysinc.com
e-mail: info@birthwaysinc.com
Area Served: Chicago & Suburbs

Training and Background
: Supporting families since 1993. Completed Birthways postpartum doula training and ongoing education program, CPR certified. Extensive lactation experience. Has worked with premature, multiples, special needs, and postpartum mood disorders. Available for day or overnight postpartum care. Certified Lamaze teen specialist.


Kathy Bresnahan CPD
BirtDiapers-n-Dreams Inc
Chicago IL
Phone: 773-233-0830
Area Served: South & SW Chicago

Training and Background
:Certified Postpartum Doula


Nancy Bresnahan RN CPD
BirtDiapers-n-Dreams Inc
Chicago IL
Phone: 773-233-0830
Area Served: South & SW Chicago

Training and Background
Neonatal RN for over 20 years, CPD, infant massage instructor, instructor for Happiest Baby on the Block, member of breast feeding committee.


Susan Diamond-Tsingos
Poplar Grove IL
Phone: 815-765-1062 , 815-814-7837
e-mail: kibitzwithme1@verizon.net
Area Served: Entire Chicago & Rockford Area

Training & Background
: Specializing in OVERNIGHT, CEIM (Certified Educator of Infant Massage) CPR certified, education in Early Childhood, experience working with: premature,multiples, special needs, and postpartum mood disorders. Completion of Infant Apnea Monitor training and Infant Waveform Analysis.


Kerry Maiorca
Bloom Yoga Studio
Chicago IL
Phone: 773-463-YOGA (9642)
web site: www.bloomyogastudio.com
e-mail: kerry@bloomyogastudio.com
Area Served: Chicago

Training & Background:
Bloom Yoga Studio offers Prenatal Yoga, Childbirth Prep Classes, Pregnancy and Postpartum Massage, Doula Referrals, Infant Massage Workshops, New Mom Support Groups, Infant CPR, Mom & Baby Yoga, and more - all in a sunny, spacious, and welcoming studio in Lincoln Square. We look forward to meeting you and helping you celebrate this special time.


Carol Montgomery RN BSN CD (PCE) CBC
Chicago IL
Phone: 773-626-6299
e-mail: carolm@alheri.net
Area Served: Chicago & Near Suburbs

Training & Background
: Certified birth doula with medical surgical nursing experience. Preemie, sick baby and special needs experience. Six children, five born at home and all breast fed. Cross cultural experience in West Africa. Will do nights and multiples. Committed to helping your family have the best start possible.


Sarah Sparks RN CPD
BirtDiapers-n-Dreams Inc
Chicago IL
Phone: 773-233-0830
Area Served: South & SW Chicago

Training and Background
Neonatal Registered Nurse and Certified Postpartum Doula



...................Pre/Postnatal Yoga...................

    Breath work and stretching will benefit both you and the baby. Bringing you into balance as well as being a form of self care. It is a wonderful way to connect with other mothers. Appreciate your body and baby by preparing for birth with yoga. Recovering from birth or taking a mother baby class are also great options.

Jennifer Barron Fishman CMT
Sweet Pea's Yoga & Massage
Chicago IL
Phone: 773-248-Yoga (9642), 773-316-5410
web site: www.sweetpeasstudio.com
e-mail: jenny@sweetpeasstudio.com

Training & Background: Chicago & NorthsideTraining & Background: Prenatal massage, infant massage, prenatal yoga, Bouncing Back from Baby program. Has had birth doula training.  Massage since 1991 and yoga since 1996. Kriya Yoga Temple, member ABMP.


France Yoli Maya Yeh Joseph
Yoga with Yoli
Evanston IL
Phone: 847-912-4101
web site: www.yogawithyloi.com
e-mail: kokypus@yahoo.com
Area Served: Chicago & Northern Suburbs

Training & Background
: Yoli Maya Yeh (Ma Kurukulla Prajna) is a certified Yoga Therapist, Healer,and Educator of men, women and children all around the world. Yoli lived in India for eight years studying meditation and healing arts. Yoli's unique approach to health draws from her many influences.


Rhonda Kantor RN BSN HNC RYT-500
Global Yoga Center
Chicago IL
Phone: 773-719-6227
web site: www.globalyogacenter.com
Area Served: Chicago

Training & Background: Registered Nurse, Board Certified Holistic Nurse, Birth Doula, Prenatal yoga classes, Mom and baby yoga classes, Yoga/Relaxation and Labor/Birth preparation class for couples, Childbirth education, Childbirth/Doula consulting, Teacher Training Courses for Hatha Yoga and Prenatal Yoga.


Carolyn Leech RYT200
Naperville IL
Phone: 630-865-4853
web site: www.home.comcast.net/~cleech
e-mail: cleech@comcast.net
Area Served: Western Suburbs

Training & Background: Registered Yoga Teacher (RYT200); Complete Temple Of Kriya Hatha Yoga Teacher training; Complete Pregnancy Yoga Teacher seminar - Sweet Pea Yoga Studio plus internships with Dr Wellspring and Shannon Woods; I have been teaching yoga since 2003.


Kerry Maiorca
Bloom Yoga Studio
Chicago IL
Phone: 773-463-YOGA (9642)
web site: www.bloomyogastudio.com
e-mail: kerry@bloomyogastudio.com
Area Served: Chicago

Training & Background: Bloom Yoga Studio offers Prenatal Yoga, Childbirth Prep Classes, Pregnancy and Postpartum Massage, Doula Referrals, Infant Massage Workshops, New Mom Support Groups, Infant CPR, Mom & Baby Yoga, and more - all in a sunny, spacious, and welcoming studio in Lincoln Square. We look forward to meeting you and helping you celebrate this special time.


Corinne Peterson CMT CD
Evanston IL
Phone: 773-562-5933
e-mail: corinne.peterson@gmail.com

Area Served: Lakeview & Evanston
Training and Background: Licensed Massage Therapist, Certified Yoga Therapist - specializing in the childbearing year and women's health for over 10 years. Please call for locations and information.


Kristine Scott Schultz RYT
Focus Yoga Studio
Brookfield IL
Phone: 708-471-0487, 708-308-9460
web site: www.focusyogastudio.com
e-mail: kschultz002@ameritech.net

Area Served: Western Suburbs
Training and Background: Certified Prenatal/Postnatal Exercise Specialist 2007. Certified Yoga instructor, 2004,Temple of Kriya Yoga. Completed Prenatal Yoga Teachers workshop at Sweet Peas Studio, February 2003. Trained in Comfort Measures for Childbirth and Womancentered birth. Birthed three beautiful babies "naturally".


...................Water Birth Tub Providers...................

    Many hospitals now offer hydrotherapy and/or water birth. Hydrotherapy is used only for comfort during labor and is not water birth. Water birth is when the baby is born into the water in the tub. Water can be very effective in reducing pain and helping progress labor. Some hospitals will let you rent your own tub and bring it with you. Some have their own tubs. You can rent one for a home birth. There are several home birth practices that rent only to their clients. Watch out for the many risking out factors that may prevent you from ever getting near the tub. It also may be a first come, first served availability.


BirthLink Members: Please be aware that Neida - BirthLink members are listed first in this category.


Neida - BirthLink Members
Northeast Illinois Doula Association Members are listed first in this category. We have a special partnership with Neida. To find out about membership discounts please visit our home page.

Julie Elliott CCE CLA CD MH
Birth Essentials
Zion IL
Phone: 847-258-7233
web site: www.BirthEssentials.us
e-mail: Julie@BirthEssentials.us
Area Served: Chicago Area & Southeast WI

Training and Background
:Naturopath / Master Herbalist. Wellness consultations – Women’s / Children’s health, PMS, Fertility, Morning sickness, Hyperemesis gravidarum, Miscarriage, Breech turns, Hypertension, Pre-eclampsia, Labor induction, Cesarean recovery, Milk supply, Postpartum depression. Holistic homebirth support, VBAC, Waterbirth, Spa/Pool rentals. Attending births since 1995.


Kimberly McCarty CD
Inner Birth Doula Service
Brookfield IL
Phone: 708-255-5311, 773-793-8836
web site: www.innerbirth.com
e-mail: innerbirth@aol.com
Area Served: Chicago & Suburbs

Training & Background: DONA certified Doula. Providing Local Waterbirth Tub Rentals & Monitrice services. Home and hospital experience,including waterbirth. With good support and trust in our bodies we can do the amazing work it takes to birth our babies.


Barbara Harper
Water Birth International
Wilsonville OR
Phone: 800-641-2229 (US only), 503-673-0026
web site: www.waterbirth.org
e-mail: waterbirth@aol.com
Area Served: International

Training and Background: ICEA certified, was direct entry midwife for 6 yrs - tub rentals & inservice workshops also have lists of hospitals doing water birth.

 

.....................Women's Health...................

Midwives and family doctors can provide normal gyne care for women. They often spend more time with clients and will take time to get to know you as an individual. They will support or provide alternative medicine choices. They should have a nonintervention oriented approach and take time to educate you about your options. As with childbirth you will want to weigh any risks vs benefits of any type of treatment. The emphasis should also be on the individual taking responsibility for their health. There should be a partnership approach to your care.


Ayesha Atique LAc Dipl OM MSTOM
Clarus Center
Warrenville IL
Phone: 630-393-9800 x 214, 630-640-6763
web site: www.claruscenter.com
e-mail: atique.acupuncture@gmail.com
Area Served: Western Suburbs

Training & Background:
Nationally Board Certified (NCCAOM) in Acupuncture, IL state licensed, graduated from Pacific College of Oriental Medicine in Chicago. Women's health issues, pregnancy care, labor inductions, insufficient lactation,post-partum care, headaches, anxiety, depression, and pain. Birth attending, home or hospital.


Deana Burrows LMT AMTA
Family Practice
Chicago IL
Phone: 773-878-0444
e-mail: deana.burrows@att.net
Area Served: Chicago & Suburbs

Training & Background: Pre/Postnatal massage therapy, women's issues, depression, anxiety, fibromyalgia. Graduated 1993. Numerous continuing education and specialty classes. On staff at Prentice until 2006. On-site in hospital massage therapy is my specialty including high risk and bed rest. Pre/postnatal certified since 2002.


Michelle Dougherty DC
Main Street Chiropractic
Plainfield IL
Phone: 815-230-9070
web site: www.mainstreetdoctors.com
Area Served: Southwest Suburbs

Training & Background: Chiropractic care for the whole family, massage, specializes in pediatrics and women's health (pre and post natal) to include hormone testing/balancing for PMS, infertility, menopause transition, and adrenal fatigue & and nutrition/detox & member of International Chiropractic Pediatric Association & trained in Webster Technique.



Jennifer Gagnon CNM

A Woman's Place Birth & Health Resources
Chicago IL
Phone: 773-539-9870
e-mail: grace980701@yahoo.com   
web site: www.awomansplacechicago.com
Area Served: Chicago & Suburbs

Training & Background: Attentive midwifery care, hospital (Lincoln Park) or home birth option. Experienced with hospital, birth center, and home birth. Special interest in VBAC, waterbirth and teens. Committed to personalized care to meet each client's particular needs.


Linda Given Welch CNM MS
AGSO Assoc Gyne Surgery Obstetrics
Evanston IL
Phone: 847-869-3300
web site: www.mcwh.net
e-mail: lgwcnm@sbcglobal.net
Area Served: Chicago & Suburbs

Training & Background: Master's prepared Certified Nurse Midwife. Preconception & prenatal care with deliveries at Evanston Hospital. Full scope gynecological care with special interest in contraception, counseling, adolescent healthcare and
midwife menopause care. Offices in Evanston & Glenview. Supportive collaborating physicians.


Amy Willen CNM    
A Woman's Place Birth & Health Resources
Chicago IL   
Phone: 773-539-9870       
web site: www.awomansplacechicago.com   
e-mail: midwife@awomansplacechicago.com   
Area Served: Chicago & Near Suburbs   

Training & Background: Attentive midwifery care, hospital (Lincoln Park) or home birth option. Experienced in hospital, birth center, home, and international. Special interest in VBAC, waterbirth and teens. Committed to personalized care to meet each client's particular needs.
 

Stephanie Maj DC   
Community Chiropractic   
Chicago IL   
Phone: 773-528-8485       
web site: www.CommunityChiropractic.net
e-mail: drmaj@drmaj.com   
Area Served: Chicago & Suburbs   

Training & Background: Offering pediatric wholistic care, chiropractic, women's health, and nutrition services. Pre and postnatal care. Pediatric Fellowship certified in Webster technique.
 

Jennifer Paschen LAc Dipl Ac (NCCAOM) MSOM
The Nest
Chicago IL
Phone: 773-267-0248
web site: www.thenestchicago.com
e-mail: acupeds@sbcglobal.net
Area Served: Chicago

Training & Background:
A group practice specialized in Chinese Medicine for women and children. Extensive training and experience working with pregnancy, childbirth, postpartum care and pediatrics. Birth attending, home or hospital. Jennifer is the mother of two girls, one home birthed.


Coreen Smith CNP MS
Advanced Women's Care Center Elk Grove
Village IL
Phone: 847-981-3698
Area Served: North & Western Suburbs

Training & Background: Graduated from Purdue University in 1999 with her BSN. Completed her MS in Nursing with a focus of Women's Healthcare Nurse Practitioner at the University of Illinois in Chicago in 2005. Special interests include adolescent health, preventive care and family planning. Certified Nurse Practitioner.


Sonia Rivera Lac
Inner Spring Wellness
Oak Park IL
Phone: 708-445-0012, 708-724-6098 c
web site: www.innerspringwellness.com
e-mail: acupuncheals@aol.com
Area Served: Chicago & Suburbs

Training & Background:
Nationally Board Certified (NCCAOM) in Acupuncture, IL state licensed, Owner at Inner Spring Wellness offering Acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine for fertility, breech turns, morning sickness, labor induction, fatigue, sciatica, postpartum care, insufficient lactation, women's health issues, anxiety, depression and pain.


 

......................Women's Ritual...................

 

When women gather together to celebrate and support each other the experience can be very empowering. Our society is constantly giving us negative messages through the media and other cultural beliefs. Many of us struggle with self esteem issues. We need to honor and respect ourselves and each other. Learning about our life cycles and our bodies physiological processes can help a great deal. “Long ago before the patriarchal period, in many places the Goddess was worshipped. Woman in the train of history has been orphaned by the death of this Great Mother, has suffered loss of connection to her own beingness, lack of sense of legitimacy and belonging in the universe or in her own individual life. Woman can draw comfort from the image of the Great Mother reaching out to her to fulfill and to bring manifest form in her own individual life that of the Archetypal Eternal Feminine,” Circle of Stones by Judith Duerk. Groups or individuals in this category lead workshops or ceremonies for women.


Jo Anne Lindberg
Evanston IL
Phone: 847-733-8050
e-mail: bestbirth@birthlink.com
Area served: North Side & NW Suburbs

Training & Background: Founder & President of BirthLink, shiatsu practitioner and also offering ritual ceremonies for namings, pregnancy, menarche, menopause and house blessings. These events raise funds for BirthLink.