About Melissa
Melissa Friesen
Certified Birth Doula
Certified Breastfeeding Counselor
Red Cross Adult & Pediatric First Aid/CPR/AED Certified
Medicaid Approved Provider
Hi, and thanks for stopping by!
With a Master’s in Education, I’ve worked with people of all ages—children, teenagers, and adults—across three continents. I've always loved supporting and empowering others. Becoming a certified doula through the International Doula Institute allowed me to combine my passion for education with hands-on care, helping fellow parents have confident, positive birth experiences and a beautiful, smooth start into parenthood. It is a true privilege to support parents during one of the most transformative times of their lives.
When I’m not supporting families as a doula, you can find me dancing or practicing yoga at the Rec Center, playing piano or enjoying “strum and sip” nights with friends. I love hiking with my small-but-daring family of three, and hosting cozy dinner parties where good food and laughter are always on the menu.
Respecting All Families
Everyone deserves to give birth with dignity and respect.
I strongly believe that there is no space for discrimination in the birthing room. I am honored to support families of all backgrounds, ethnicities, abilities, gender identities, sexual orientations, ages, and relationship statuses.
My Philosophy
I believe birth is like a dance — the birther leads, and I follow their rhythm. Every step, sway, and pause is guided by intuition, not choreography.
Your body already knows how to give birth; it’s been preparing for months. I never underestimate a birther’s intuition or the innate wisdom of a body designed to birth. Throughout, I purposefully suggest positions and movement that support labor progress and help your baby find an ideal position for birth.
And if the rhythm falters, your partner and I step in together — steadying, encouraging, and helping you find your beat again — until you’re ready to lead once more.
Birth is not one-size-fits-all. Whether you hope for an unmedicated birth, plan to use pain relief, or simply want to see what feels right in the moment, I’m here to support you without judgment.
My role is to create a calm, safe space where your wishes are respected, your options are clear, and you and your partner feel like the most empowered team in the room.