Rates

I provide a FREE, no obligation initial interview. This enables us to get acquainted, answer one another’s questions and see if we will be a good match. I will NOT have my feelings hurt if you decide to engage the services of another doula. For such an important occasion in your life, it is important that you feel a positive connection with the person you employ.

Please call me at 661-717-0152 to verify the current rates for my services. (Please see the payment schedule below) You may notice that this is lower than some doulas in the area. The reason for this is that, despite the fact that I have over 40 years of experience, starting with my own births, and then assisting many friends and family members with their births, I have only recently started working as a “professional” doula. As my experience and certifications increase, so will my fees also.

As part of my fee, we will have 2 to 3 pre-birth visits. We will use these visits to become better acquainted with one another, help you develop a birth plan (what kind of environment you want, pain management issues, who you want present, at what stage do you want to go to the hospital…), and discuss any other issues that you need to. At your request, one of these visits can also be used to accompany you to a visit with your midwife or Obstetrician.

Payment Schedule:

• $250.00 deposit to be paid when you hire me. This will place your name and estimated due date on my calendar. (please see note below regarding deposit)
• Remainder due at 36 weeks gestation.

Note: Discounts will be considered on a case by case basis.

There will be an additional charge for travelling expenses if the birth place is not in Bakersfield, California. Please feel free to ask if you have any questions about this.

Note: Very rarely I am unable to attend a birth. This can occur for a myriad of reasons.

• Very rapid labor and delivery (my own 3rd labor was 45 minutes long and even the doctor did not arrive in time!)
• Your failure to contact me in a timely manner
• I have 2 clients in labor at the same time (I do work with back up doulas to cover this circumstance)

If the missed birth is due to a failure or error on my part, you will receive a refund of the full amount of the fee. If the missed birth is due to circumstances beyond anyone’s control and foresight, or your failure to notify me when labor has begun, I will keep the initial $250.00 deposit and refund you any other money you have paid.