Krissie Oliver, Portland Doula

Birth is a transformation. Each pregnancy, whether your first or fifth, creates a shift for each individual as the family expands and grows. Transformation often brings many rewards and typically comes with its own set of challenges. Birth and parenthood are no exception. And yet, like many transformations that bring about profound change, the efforts of the hard work are well worth it.

After my own birth and postpartum experiences, I began offering support to friends with newborns by bringing meals, helping with household tasks, or being with the baby while the at-home parent had a much needed nap or took a shower. Little did I know, these were the first seeds planted that would eventually grow into me becoming a doula. 

My goal is for each client to feel supported in their personal experience, recognizing that each labor journey has its own unique path to birth. My background in massage therapy for the last 12 years allows me to offer clients soothing comfort touch and my experience as a bodyworker has also helped me acquire the skill of holding space for emotional components that may arise on the journey. I also truly enjoy sharing resources and handouts to help clients learn as much as they may want. The techniques I learned about baby communication while becoming certified as an infant massage instructor are already being put to good use, especially with infant feeding support as I help parents to learn their baby’s cues.

Since becoming a doula, I have been initiated into a variety of birth experiences and each unique journey was a profound experience for all involved. I recognize what a gift it is to be invited into these precious family moments.

When I’m not pursuing my work passions, I enjoy getaways with my daughter to the beautiful Northwest Coast for beach walks and rock hounding. Whether at the coast or home on the couch, I relish every moment spent with my teen daughter. I love going for hikes, especially any that involve being amongst the magic of trees or nearby waterways. Though I transplanted to the area in 2007, I feel at home in the Pacific Northwest and my appreciation for this region deepens with each passing year. Realizing that self-care often comes in moments, I enjoy sitting with a cup of tea on my balcony watching the hummingbird races and discovering the many benefits of simple mindfulness practices.