
Crystal Broer, Portland Doula
I believe that pregnancy, childbirth, and the postpartum period are highly emotional and profoundly rewarding times in a person’s life. Support during these times is so crucial and can make a huge impact on how people feel about themselves and the mind frame with which they approach parenthood. As a doula, I specialize in physical and emotional comfort measures, natural pain coping techniques, and birth advocacy. I enjoy using touch as a way of offering comfort, reassurance, and presence. My ability to be a calm and informed presence in the room provides comfort not only to the birthing person but also to the loved ones supporting the birth experience. My goal is to always stand beside a birthing person to support their beliefs and desires, and if those are being challenged, to help them adjust as the birth unfolds. My overarching intention is to ensure the memory of birth is positive and cherished and that it can be looked back on fondly for a lifetime.
My own journey to motherhood began as a single teenager in high school. My midwife treated me with respect and dignity, which is how I imagine she treated all her patients regardless of their age or socioeconomic status. I don’t recall what exactly it was my midwife did or said but I do remember how she made me feel. This experience led to my passion for working with families in all walks of life during their own incredible journeys into parenthood. I strive to provide my own version of unbiased support that leaves families feeling capable, cared for, and respected. I currently live in Vancouver with my husband, Zame, who offers unwavering support while pushing me to chase my dreams. We have two wonderful boys, Drew, who is now grown and out of the home, and my teenage son, Aubyn. I enjoy traveling with my family, cruising around on my bicycle on a sunny day, and quiet Sundays at home with my boys watching football in our lounge wear.
Training
Oregon State Certified Traditional Health Worker
DONA-approved Birth Doula Training with Mother Tree Doula Services
DONA-approved Postpartum Doula Training with Mother Tree Doula Services
6-month Intensive Birth Doula Internship with Mother Tree Doula Services
Infant and Adult American Heart Association Heartsaver CPR AED Certified
Culturally Competent Care Training with Ciné-Med
Collaborative Practice and Professionalism Training through PDX Doulas at OHSU
Trauma Informed Care with Brooke Noli, MFT, PCW, CD
Advanced Massage and Acupressure Training for Doulas with Jennie King, LAc, LMT
HypnoBirthing with Kadie Barber, HBCE, CD(DONA)
Spinning Babies Training with Gail Tully, BS, CPM, CD(DONA)
Areas Of Specialty
Unmedicated Birth, Out Of Hospital Birth, Water Birth
Vaginal Birth After Cesarean (VBAC)
Single Parent Support
IVF Pregnancy
High Risk Pregnancy/Birth
Medical Induction
LGBTQIA+ Families
Body Positive
Trauma Informed Care
Pregnancy or Infant Loss
Postpartum Doula Care
Rebozo, Massage, Spinning Babies
Babywearing