The WOMB Milton

Angie Stenback

Co-Founder, Director

Founders

Angie Stenback is a woman who is inspired by nature, who is passionate about everything she does, and who seeks to inspire the world. It is why she spends most days working alongside an amazing team of experts and leaders in fertility, pregnancy, birth and the postnatal period at The WOMB^™. Her goal is to facilitate in each and every team member a desire to create an environment that is healing, loving and supportive.

Before becoming a birth and postnatal doula in 2006, Angie received her Hons Bachelor of Physical and Health Education from the University of Toronto. She became a pre- and post-natal fitness trainer working with FitMom^™ in Toronto and then started her own baby and me fitness program called Mommy Bootcamp. Angie was also the driving force behind both orthopaedic research, and a wellness initiative and program at a Toronto hospital for 5 years.

After the birth of her 2^nd son, Angie felt inspired to give more of herself to birth work and so trained as a birth doula through DONA International, lactation educator and childbirth educator. She has had the privilege to have received the mentorship of such notables as Pam England and Virginia Bobro (Birthing from Within^™), Jennifer Elliott (HypnoBirthing^™) and Gena Kirby (Rebozo techniques). Angie, with her business partner, Lorri then went on to first found Halton Doula Group in 2007 and then The WOMB in 2014 where Angie takes on the financial, policies and procedures role and especially loves the new, creative projects entrusted in her care.

Angie has birthed 5 children and has been married to her husband, Troy since 1999. If you don’t see Angie at The WOMB^™, you will find her driving her kiddos around to hockey, dance or film school, hiking with her pup through the woods or reading a book.

Lorri Fleming

Co-Founder, Director

Founders

Lorri Fleming has a deep interest in nature, travel, health, personal growth and fostering deep connections to family and friends. She knows the importance of connecting to those core values in order to live an inspired life. As a Founder, Co-owner and Director of The WOMB: The World Of My Baby Inc. Lorri loves leading The WOMB culture, communication and marketing initiatives.

Lorri and Scott have been married since 1992 and they are proud parents to their now adult children, Cole (wife Moriah) and Kyra. Her background before becoming a Birth/Postnatal Doula and Parent Educator was coaching wellness and hospitality based companies how to offer an exemplary customer experience to their clients. Her consulting company, Divine Connections offered seminars and coaching across Canada.

Lorri’s long time dream has been to build and run a successful, collaborative wellness company. To help unite a dream team of healthcare professionals who are all passionate about fertility, pregnancy, birth, parenting and self growth. This dream became a reality when she and her business partner Angie Stenback, opened The WOMB in 2014 and this team started working synergistically all under one roof. The dream has now expanded to help more families flourish. Coaching and Mentoring the wholeness centres that now nurture, love and inspire their communities is the most fulfilling part of her role.

Every community and every family deserves The WOMB.

Dr. Diane Meyer

Bsc, Dc, Ficpa, Daccp

Chiropractor

Passionate for babies and belly bumps, Dr. Diane Meyer is a sought after expert in Chiropractic care amongst Mothers to be and their babies. Mom to four fabulous and holistically raised children, Dr. Diane lives the Chiropractic principle that health comes from the inside out.

Since 1994 Dr. Meyer has held a Fellow of the International Paediatric Association. In 2006 she completed a 3 year Diplomat specialty with the American Council of Chiropractic Paediatrics.

A popular speaker amongst community groups and at established institutes such as the Canadian Memorial Chiropractic College and McMaster’s Midwifery program, Dr. Meyer continuously strives to educate others about the Chiropractic life as well as enhance her skills and education as a leader assisting families with their pre and post natal experience.

Dr. Meyer currently uses a variety of techniques, including:

• Thompson Terminal Point
• Activator
• Kale Upper Cervical
• Bio-Geometric Integration
• Torque Release Technique
• Cranio Sacral Technique
• CATS Cranial Technique
• Diversified
• Toggle
• SOT

Dr. Minal Gandhi

Bsc, Dc

Chiropractor

Dr. Minal Gandhi’s inspiration to become a Chiropractor began while she was a young high school student. She began having headaches in her teens and tried a variety of treatments, with no relief. She had an interest in health sciences, and on a whim decided to give Chiropractic a try. Not only did she find relief, she also found her calling.

Her passion has grown from delivering full family care to prenatal, postpartum and pediatrics. Dr. Minal has been in private practice since 2006. She is committed to continuing education and to giving her patients the most up-to-date care.

A recent mother herself, Dr. Minal is intimately aware of the issues surrounding pregnancy, birth and recovery. Dr. Minal is thrilled to be a part of The WOMB and serving it’s wonderful clients with gentle and loving hands.

Jennifer Lynne Walker

Msw, Rsw

Counseling Team

Jennifer Lynne Walker has an honours undergraduate degree in Child Studies from the University of Guelph and a Masters in Social Work from Wilfrid Laurier University. With close to twenty years in a professional helping role, her past roles include Camp Director, International Volunteer Coordinator, Case Manager, Child and Youth Advocate, and Social Worker. She has 15 years of experience in Child Welfare and has lived and worked in both Africa and Asia, which allows to her to offer culturally-sensitive care.

"It is my privilege to walk alongside children and families, individuals and youth during both the struggles and celebrations that define us. I am a mom, a wife, a daughter, a sister and a friend – just like you – and I am also an experienced social worker and therapist. I’ve struggled through loss, I’ve struggled through parenting, I’ve struggled to find balance and I enjoy working toward wellness, hope and change. Extending empathic support and encouragement is my goal for each interaction."

Kathleen Francis

Rp, Rpc

Counseling Team

“Have you been putting off time for self-care? Are there changes you want to make but you feel stuck? Do you become overwhelmed as stress mounts? We all struggle, and we all have the capacity to rise above and create positive changes in our lives. Let’s work together to focus on your strengths and see the life-enhancing options that lie before you.”

Kathleen Francis is a Registered Psychotherapist (CRPO) and Registered Professional Counsellor (CPCA). She specializes in Integrative and Holistic Psychotherapy and offers Trauma Informed care. She takes the perspective that we are all inherently whole, yet through life’s challenges we may come to see ourselves as broken or incapable of surmounting the difficulties and life transitions we are facing. She will work with you towards unearthing the beliefs that may be driving your behaviours, reactions and choices. She the gently guide you towards reframing your thoughts, goals and beliefs in order to move towards a new experience of your life.

Kathleen pays close attention to the mind-body connection, and will teach you ways to work with your nervous system by providing the brain and body with coping skills, grounding exercises and breathing techniques, along with mindfulness exercises where appropriate. She also draws from the following perspectives, adjusting therapy to fit your needs:

• Family Systems Theory (relationship patterns and dynamics)
• Psychodynamic (how our past impacts our present)
• Trauma Informed
• Mindfulness
• Integrative Neurobiology (inter-related body and mind)
• Polyvagal Theory (nervous system regulation)
• Safe and Sound Protocol (5 day Auditory Listening Therapy to help calm the body and the emotions through the nervous system)
• Positive Psychology

Kathleen is a mother of 2 school aged daughters, and wishes The WOMB had been around when she started on her personal journey of motherhood. Having experienced both miscarriage and a traumatic birthing experience, she has a deep respect for Nature’s hand in the process of pregnancy, birthing, and post-partum adjustment to motherhood (for new and seasoned mothers). Social support is so important during this time of transition, and she is excited to have the opportunity to connect with The WOMB community.

Anita Arora

IBCLC, LE

Lactation Consultants

Anita is an international board certified lactation consultant, lactation educator and a member of CAPPA Canada. Anita’s aim is to help mothers reach their breastfeeding goals in a non-judgmental, accepting and natural approach. She volunteers her time with the Halton Breastfeeding Connection both as a volunteer for mother-to-mother support and with the Advisory Committee while also committing her time as Treasurer for the Halton Baby Friendly Initiative. She is a graduate of the Breastfeeding Program at Mohawk College where she also teaches Advanced Breastfeeding Practice.

Anita has her MBA and previously worked in the business world until the birth of her children. She found her passion for breastfeeding at that time and decided to make it a career. In additional to also working at a private clinic in Burlington, Anita enjoys an active lifestyle, baking and spending time with her family. Anita lives in Oakville with her supportive husband and her 2 wonderful children.

Dr. Amy Dobbie

BHSc., ND

Naturopathic Doctors

Dr. Amy's passion is helping families like yours to establish optimal fertility, nourish healthy pregnancies and raise resilient children.
She believes that healthcare should be empowering and customized to meet your needs. Dr. Amy's practice focuses on wellness, using natural and effective therapies that treat the root cause of disease or discomfort and that are proactive to help you feel great today and even better tomorrow.

Dr. Amy is a Naturopathic Doctor and has a Bachelor's Degree in Health Sciences with a Minor in Psychology. Having spent years adding to these skills to serve you better, she has extensive training in fertility, pregnancy, labour, postpartum and pediatric health. This includes fertility symposiums, naturopathic doula training, pediatric intensives, breastfeeding focused training, sleep training, facial acupuncture, bio-identical hormone therapy and more.

Seeing the need for more support in our community, Dr. Amy has created the Fertility Share Space to offer a safe and empowering outlet for people experiencing fertility challenges. Dr. Amy is also an ambassador and certified practitioner for The Umbrella Project, a proactive mental health initiative designed to strengthen and build children’s mental wellness skills to protect them from the rain of life.

Dr. Amy treats all ages and stages and welcomes the entire family to her practice.

Dr. Renata Mola

ND

Naturopathic Doctors

Dr. Renata's clinical focus began to shift in the direction of pediatrics after becoming a mother herself. She quickly realized how incredibly strong a child's life force is, and that often with minimal and gentle natural interventions children are able to reach optimal states of health. Dr. Renata is passionate about children's health and believes that providing a loving, nurturing and attuned environment is critical in achieving vibrant health through out childhood and beyond.

Her other passion is working with parents and helping them to trust their own instincts and intuition when it comes to their child's health and wellbeing.

The approach that she takes in her practice is an integrated mind-body-soul approach where she addresses not only the physical causes of illness, but the mental, emotional, and spiritual contributors as well. These latter aspects are just as important as the physical (if not more important in many cases). In addition to her degree in naturopathic medicine she is a trained homeopath, has extensive training in herbal medicine, and is also trained in Neuro Emotional Technique.

Outside of her clinical practice she is an avid cyclist, writer and fermenting enthusiast!

Dr. Afrousheh Amini

ND

Naturopathic Doctors

Dr. Afrousheh Amini, ND is a Naturopathic Doctor with additional training in Functional Medicine through the Institute of Functional Medicine. She also holds a Masters in Counselling Psychology as well as a degree in Holistic Nutrition. She is passionate about women's health. Her clinical practice has a special interest in fertility, preconception and postpartum care. She is thrilled to be part of The WOMB family and is looking forward to taking care of Dr. Amy's patients while she is away on her maternity leave.

Kara Egelton

Kinesiologist, Osteopathic Manual Practitioner

Osteopathic Manual Practitioners

“I have a passion for helping people realize the potential that lies within themselves to ignite change and within their physical body to self-regulate, self-heal and achieve balance.”

Kara chose osteopathy as a profession because she loves to help others achieve their optimal wellness. She believes the human body has the ability to rehabilitate itself, to fight infection, to gain strength and to adapt. As an Osteopath, Kara strives to assist the body to achieve optimal wellness through science based techniques and practices. Kara has a passion for helping people realize the potential that lies within themselves to ignite change and within their physical body to self-regulate, self-heal and achieve balance. She is specifically passionate about care for women and believes in the value of community and the mind-body connection for optimal wellbeing and health. Kara has over 15 years experience in the wellness and fitness world and specializes in pre and postnatal wellness. As a mom of two, who has experienced pregnancy, labor and emergency and planned cesarean births, Kara understands the unique physical and emotional experiences of other women during these stages.

As a former figure skater, Kara is very passionate about fitness and body-awareness and enjoys sharing this passion with others. Kara began her career with a science degree in Kinesiology and certifications as a personal trainer and pilates, barre and yoga instructor. Kara then obtained a Masters in Kinesiology with a focus on the Psychology of Exercise and Sport, specifically Health & Emotion Behaviour. As a Certified Kinesiologist Kara has counselled individuals, athletes, sport teams and large corporate organizations regarding physical and emotional wellbeing related to health behaviours. Kara counsels large organizations regarding health behaviour change for happier, healthier and more productive employees. With a passion for motivational speaking, Kara also offers corporate wellness presentations and workshops for organizations. Kara continues to offer Pilates, Barre & Yoga classes and certifies instructors in the JaleoBarre and JaleoMommy&Me methods.

Sinead Dufour

PT, PhD, Director of Physiotherapy

Physiotherapists

Dr. Sinéad Dufour is Assistant Clinical Professor in the Faculty of Health Science at McMaster University. She completed her MScPT at McMaster University in 2003, her PhD in Health and Rehabilitation Science at Western in 2011 and retuned to McMaster in 2013 to complete a post-doctoral fellowship. She contributes to both the Master of Science in Physiotherapy program and the and Midwifery Education Program at McMaster University. Her current research interests include: conservative and lifestyle approaches to manage pelvic pain, conservative approaches to optimize pelvic health, technologies to support pelvic floor rehabilitation, and interprofessional collaborative practice models of service provision in women’s and pediatric health. Sinéad currently collaborates with faculty from both the Departments of Obstetrics and Gynecology and Pediatrics on various research projects. She was the recipient of one of the International Continence Society Research Awards in 2017, the Elaine Meadows Research Scholar award (American Physical Therapy Association, Section on Women’s Health) in 2018 and is an invited speaker at conferences around the globe.

Sinéad stays current clinically through her work as the Director of Pelvic Health Services at The World of my Baby (the WOMB) in Milton, Ontario. Her clinical practice focuses on optimizing women’s and children’s pelvic health. She is also an associate of Pelvic Health Solutions, an active member the Urogynaecology Committee of the Society of Obstetricians of Gynaecologists of Canada and a proud mother of twins.

Jenny Telfer-crum

BScHK (Hons), MScPT

Physiotherapists

Jenny holds an Honours Bachelor of Science degree in Human Kinetics from the University of Guelph and a Masters of Science in Physiotherapy from McMaster University. Jenny is Rostered with the College of Physiotherapists of Ontario to perform internal pelvic exams and is a member of the Women's Health Division with the Canadian Physiotherapy Association. Jenny also works in continuing education for physiotherapists through her role as a Lab Assistant with Pelvic Health Solutions and Teaching Assistant with Antony Lo "The Physio Detective".

Jenny became interested in addressing pelvic floor concerns after experiencing chronic hip pain that did not resolve through traditional Orthopedic Physiotherapy treatment but resolved quickly after experiencing Pelvic Health Physiotherapy. Jenny has always had an interest in women’s health and wellness concerns, including fitness, pain management, stress reduction and sexuality, and she integrates all these topics into her biopsychosocial approach with clients. Jenny’s philosophy is to help the body help itself through education, exercise and empowerment.

Jenny has completed courses in Pelvic Health Physiotherapy that allow her to treat women before, during and/or after pregnancy, experiencing new or ongoing pain in the pelvis, back, hips and abdomen, pain with intercourse, bladder or bowel incontinence and pelvic organ prolapse. Jenny has a special interest in preparing the body for birth and then helping women return to exercise and activity after pregnancy (and beyond!) and has taken advanced courses to help high intensity weekend warriors return to their training of choice. Specifically, Jenny has completed two courses under Antony Lo “The Physio Detective” including the Masterclass Mentorship Program which focused on marrying pain science/chronic pain management and pelvic floor training concepts with high intensity exercise such as CrossFit and power lifting. Jenny can also fit pessaries (ring with support and Gelhorn pessaries), which act as structural support through activity if leaking with activity (stress urinary incontinence) and/or pelvic organ prolapse is a concern.

Outside of Pelvic Health Physiotherapy, Jenny enjoys singing, dancing, being outdoors and cycling through different forms of fitness activities including yoga, CrossFit, Orangetheory, body weight HITT, standard strength training, spin classes and jogging.

Lea Damata

MScPT

Physiotherapists

Lea has a Master of Science degree in Physiotherapy from McMaster University and a Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology from York University. She has always had a special interest in women’s and paediatric health, and has pursued additional training in both specialized areas. Lea's training in pelvic health encompasses the care of women throughout their lifespan, including pregnancy and pediatrics. This includes the assessment and treatment of urinary incontinence, complex pelvic pain, sexual pain, gastro-intestinal disorders, pelvic organ prolapse, diastasis rectus abdominis and perinatal care. Most importantly, she is committed to empowering her clients on their active recovery, using a biopsychosocial approach, to improve their health, well-being and quality of life.

Over the years, Lea has also been fortunate to expand her expertise in paediatrics and has worked at McMaster Children’s Hospital and Holland Bloorview Kids Rehabilitation Hospital. She has worked with a variety of paediatric populations including, Cerebral Palsy, Spinal Cord Injuries, ASD, etc. She has successfully completed her level one in Cueves MEDEK Exercises, Dynamic Core for Kids and a variety of courses on gross motor developmental. She was the recipient of CanChild's Paediatric Research Award in 2017.

Lea is a strong advocate of pelvic health and holds a Public Relations subcommittee position with the Women’s Health Division. She also holds an executive position with Ontario Physiotherapy Association’s Westgate District and has been a member of the Canadian Physiotherapy Association since 2015. Currently, she is in the process of developing the first inpatient paediatric pelvic health program at Holland Bloorview Kids Rehabilitation Hospital.

In her spare time, Lea enjoys dancing, exercising and spending time with family & friends. In recent years, she has developed an appreciation for meditation and yoga as adjuncts to healing and wellness. Instagram Account: @leadphysio

Bhawan Sekhon

MScPT

Physiotherapists

Bhawan Sekhon has a Master of Science in Physiotherapy from McMaster University, a Bachelor of Science in Neuroscience from Carleton University, and is a current member of the Canadian Physiotherapy Association. Through her experience working in both acute and rehab hospital settings, as well as private orthopedic clinics, Bhawan has learned to provide a dynamic view of physiotherapy care to all her patients through an evidence informed lens.

Bhawan believes in creating a treatment protocol for patients that includes hands on therapy, education, and a home exercise program so that every patient can thrive on their road to recovery. She also is a strong believer in preventative and proactive care to ensure patients are well equipped to manage their symptoms as effectively as possible to prevent future problems. Bhawan also has a special interest in treating neurological populations, and pelvic health physiotherapy.

Bhawan is a collaborative practitioner who works with your existing and expanding health care team to provide you with holistic care, enabling you to take an active role in your health and recovery. She is a strong believer in patient education so that you feel as empowered as possible in understanding your body with a focus on how it is connected to your mindset, lifestyle, and overall management.

Priya Akbari

MScPT

Physiotherapists

Priya Akbari graduated from Mcmaster University with a Bachelor of Life Sciences and furthered her education at McMaster by completing a Master of Science in Physiotherapy with an elective in women’s health. She has expanded her knowledge by pursuing continuing education courses such as Manual Therapy Level 1 and advanced pelvic health physiotherapy courses on urinary incontinence and diastasis recti. Priya is currently a member of the Women’s Health division of the Ontario Physiotherapy Association and has a combined skill set of providing pelvic health physiotherapy to women in the perinatal period as well as working with high-performing athletes in a sports medicine rehabilitation setting.

Priya is a lifelong learner and strives to stay informed on the latest research in order to provide the most current evidence-based care to her clients. She views physiotherapy through a holistic lens and recognizes the importance of having a balance in life that emphasizes the value of exercise, sleep, nutrition, relationships, and stress management. Priya uses a comprehensive client-centred approach consisting of hands-on manual therapy, individualized exercise prescription, and education as tools to design an effective treatment plan. Priya aims to utilize her expertise to empower individuals like you to find the confidence in reaching your highest potential.

Shannon Cook

RMT

Registered Massage Therapists

Shannon Cook graduated with Honours in the Massage Therapy Program at Canadian Therapeutic College in 2011 and has been practicing in her hometown of Milton ever since. She is passionate about the field of Massage Therapy and all it has to offer, whether it be for preventative treatment or recovery. Shannon’s style provides deep relaxation as well as treatment-oriented work by incorporating a variety of Swedish techniques in addition to Trigger Point Therapy, Myofascial Release, Lymphatic Drainage and Hot Stone Massage with a special interest in Pre and Post Natal care. Shannon enjoys spending time outside with her family and taking advantage of Milton’s many conservation parks and trails. She is delighted to be able to positively contribute to her community and is thrilled to be a part of the health care team at The WOMB.

Jennifer Dunsford

RMT

Registered Massage Therapists

Jennifer has been a Registered Massage Therapist since the year 2000 and has worked closely with many health care professionals to assist clients in finding the treatments that will be most effective in their healing process. Jennifer uses Swedish massage, myofascial and lymph drainage techniques, as well as trigger point therapy and is comfortable treating individuals from infants through to aging adults with special attention to treating stress and tension-related symptoms, pregnancy and post-natal discomfort, sports injuries, work-related injuries, Motor Vehicle Accident recovery and other health concerns. Jennifer trained at Canadian Therapeutic College in Burlington and is a certified dance teacher and outdoor enthusiast in her spare time. She has also completed a Bachelors degree in Biblical Studies and Counselling at Emmanuel Bible College in Kitchener. Jennifer most loves to spend time with her husband and two young sons hiking and camping.

Ummul Patrawal

Yoga Instructor

Instructors

Ummul is a yogi and mom to 3 wonderful and active boys and a former marketing executive. When her children were young, they turned to yoga and mindfulness to help their family through through a personal crisis. Reflecting on the positive changes that they experienced, at an emotional and physical level, she embarked on her mission to share the joy of Yoga with other children and families.

Ummul has grown up with yoga and has been actively sharing and teaching yoga to her own kids and within her community since 2010. She is a Children's certified Yoga teacher, who has attended several online yoga and mindfulness seminars, healthy eating seminars and personal growth and development conferences. She has been teaching Yoga to families, parents and children at public and private schools, libraries, parenting centres and at her local studio, YogaVision.

Karen Mcwilliam

HypnoBirthing(R) Practitioner, Birthing from Within(R) Mentor, Birth and Postnatal Doula, Yoga Instructor

Doulas, Instructors

Karen is a DONA-certified birth & postnatal Doula, certified Mongan Method HypnoBirthing® practitioner, and creator of The McWilliam Method™ childbirth prep classes. She is a certified prenatal yoga teacher, trainer, breastfeeding educator and sleep educator. Karen offers private, group, and virtual birth prep classes as well as in-person and virtual doula support. Karen is also the founder of the “Life With Baby™” course designed to help families prepare for the myriad of changes that come with a new baby. All of Karen’s offerings are richly steeped in a wisdom born from 16+ years of nurturing and empowering families during this exciting and transformative time.

Karen’s extensive training spans 16+ years. However, Karen’s shine is found within her intuitive and organic approach. She has a special way of creating a customized suite of support services to suit your birthing time needs. What will you need? It is likely you don’t know. But trust Karen to read the energy in the room and know in her bones what combination will be right for you and your family. Intuitive, wise, and grounded, Karen will be there to offer the stability and centering energy you need during this time.

Char Dudek

Fitness Specialist

Instructors

Charmaine is a Certified Personal Trainer who turned her interests into a passion when completing her Health Wellness and Fitness Diploma at Mohawk College in 2018. Char is part of the pelvic health team led by Dr Sinead Dufour and continued educating and keeping herself current through pelvic health certifications and workshops.

Char began instructing the Mommy Bootcamps and fell upon the love of helping and educating women on Pelvic health. Char facilitates the Bringing Back your Core Workshop and The Pelvic Health Pfilates classes at The WOMB - at both the Milton and Burlington locations.

Char is a mother to her son, daughter and Furbaby Hope. She enjoys spending most of her summers staying active camping, hiking, biking or relaxing on the beach with her family and Friends.

Emma Smith

General Manager

Administration

Emma is our General Manager at The WOMB Milton, starting with us in 2017 as a member of our Care Team. Having come from a background as a health care professional, Emma is well versed in understanding the needs of clients and practitioners alike. Her shift in focus came as a result of knowing she enjoyed getting to know and talk with every client who came through the door. Emma loves babies and children, and is a mother to her own happy and silly little girl. Ensuring people are well taken care of brings her great joy, and she is always ready with a welcoming smile and bright "Hello!". In her spare time, Emma loves to bake yummy treats to share with friends and family, dabbling in cake decorating, and has an annual Christmas baking day with her sister-in-law.

Dawn Doering

Care Team Member

Administration

Liz Malcolm

Marketing Coordinator

Administration

Jennifer Bendle

Human Resources Coordinator

Administration

Angela Jackson

Birth & Postnatal Doula & Coordinator

Doulas

Angela is a certified Birth and Postnatal Doula, as well as the Doula Coordinator for The WOMB's Doula Team. She is also a certified Prenatal and Postnatal Yoga Teacher and fitness specialist. After graduating from Western University with a degree in Finance, Economics and French, Angela spent 10 years working for a major corporation which landed her in Costa Rica for two years. During her first pregnancy, she fell in love with Prenatal yoga, and felt that there was a need for more positive, nurturing environments for pregnant people. After the birth of her second child, she left the corporate world and completed her yoga training, began teaching yoga part-time and built a Prenatal and Postnatal yoga community in Halton. Soon after, her prenatal yoga students were requesting that she attend their births and doula support happened organically.
Angela served as a Halton Breastfeeding Connection volunteer for several years and has taken many lactation courses. She is passionate about guiding new parents towards their own innate wisdom, strength and intuitiveness.

Angela presently lives in Oakville with her husband, Simon-Peter, and two children, Tessa and Oliver. Angela is the Vice-President of the Crusaders Rugby Club and the head coach of the under 14 girls’ rugby team. She is an avid athlete and a nature lover.

Deb Brintnell

CD(DONA), Birth Doula

Doulas

Deb is a Certified Childbirth Doula and is a member of DoulaCARE. Deb has always had a passion for children and pregnant women, especially after experiencing four high risk pregnancies herself. Because Deb has experienced vaginal birth, caesarean birth and VBAC (vaginal birth after caesarean), as well as medicated and unmedicated births, she feels her personal experiences have allowed her to be a much more empathetic and well rounded doula. Deb lives in Oakville with her husband and their 4 dynamic children.

Liz Daher

CD(DONA), Birth & Postnatal Doula

Doulas

Liz is a Certified Birth Doula with DONA International while also studying for her Breastfeeding Educator Certification. As a licensed professional engineer, Liz gained over a decade of experience in the nuclear industry before answering the call that had tugged at her heart since becoming a mother - to love and support other parents as they navigate the metamorphosis inherent to pregnancy, birth and beyond. A volunteer with the Halton Breastfeeding Connection for several years, Liz is also active in her local online communities, giving her time, energy and empathy to help other parents feel connected and supported. She loves running, yoga, lipstick, coffee, podcasts, and hiking the Oakville trails with her husband and two young kids.

When babies are born, families are born (or grown) as well, and each time is nothing short of a miracle. Liz would be honoured to share in your journey and help you define and manifest your ideal experience.

Tammy Manzo

CLD, Birth & Postnatal Doula

Doulas

Tammy is a Certified Labour Doula, and Postpartum Doula with training through INFACT Canada for lactation support. She LOVES doula-ing and is inspired to make a difference in the "birth" community. Tammy has supported many families in the Halton Region, Peel Region and Toronto through the prenatal, labour, delivery and immediate post partum periods. Tammy loves spending time with her busy family, cottage life and scrap booking. Tammy is a mother of three and has an amazing, supportive husband Louie.

Vanessa Rizzotto

CD(DONA), Lactation Educator, Birth & Postnatal Doula

Doulas

Vanessa is a Certified Birth Doula (DONA), Lactation Educator (CAPPA) and is certified in HypnoBirthing support techniques through the HypnoBirthing Institute. She believes women in labor significantly benefit from a loving and devoted tribe around them. Imagine for a moment, you have a birth experience that feels protected, honored and free of judgment. You feel empowered. You are deeply connected to the power of your body and mind, to all of the other women who are birthing their babies and you think, “I can do this!” This is what Vanessa works towards as a birth doula for laboring women and their partners (if there is one). She is grateful for the wisdom of her mentors, teachers and all of the women, partners and babies who have helped form her as a doula. Vanessa has a supportive husband Marat and the greatest teacher of all, her daughter Ariana. She feels blessed to work in a field that truly lights her up.

Dawn Gunn

Postnatal Doula, Sleep Coach & Lactation Educator

Doulas

Dawn is a Postnatal Doula, trained Sleep Coach, Lactation Educator and has completed a Working with Multiples Advanced Training workshop. Dawn has been empowering families to achieve their desired outcomes for the past 20 years by providing support both practically and emotionally.

While aligning her career in Community Living as a Manager in the Supported Independent Living program, with her career today, as a Postnatal Doula (DONA International), Dawn is continuously developing her knowledge and experience to provide what is best for her clients. With this client-centered focus, Dawn strives to maintain the healthiest nurturing relationships with her clients, while working alongside what matters most to them.

When Dawn is not busy spending time with babies as well as nurturing clients, she is adoring and spending time with her two girls and Husband Josh.

Kim Mlekuz

(Ece, Rhn, Rihr, Cnpa), Postnatal Doula

Doulas

Kim is a Postnatal Doula with an educational background in Nutrition, Holistic Health, Psychology, Early Childhood Education, Infant Mental Health and Attachment Parenting.

She is dedicated and passionate about helping others, with a special place in her heart for babies and their families. After many years of experience in working with babies and children, she is known for her compassionate and empathetic nature.

As a Mother, Kim understands the profound emotional and lifestyle changes that arise following the birth of a baby.

For the past 9 years, Kim has also enjoyed her work capturing life’s most precious moments as newborn/baby photographer.

With a life long passion for education, Kim loves to learn, teach, guide and share her knowledge. Above all else, she believes that the most important thing a Mother can do to care for her baby(s) is to trust her own Mommy intuition. Kim is here to nurture the family, offering daytime support within the Burlington and surrounding areas.

Regina Nakamura

Postnatal Doula

Doulas

Regina is a certified postpartum doula with training through DTC. She found herself searching for a job she truly felt passionate about, so she finally left her administration career and dove into starting a doula business. Her passion for babies and helping moms have always been something she felt called to. She knew she had the ability to see the strength in other women and to empower them in their journey as a new mom. Being a mom of 3 grown daughters she can handle anything with a calm presence. Her specialties include travel doula, over night care, breastfeeding support and twin support. Her goal is to provide a safe, non-judgemental space to support your growing family while focusing on baby’s care and mom’s well being after birth, and all of the challenges and joys that come with it!!

Erica Nedelko

Postnatal Doula

Doulas

Erica is a certified postnatal doula (CPD) with training through Doula Training Canada, a member of the Association of Ontario Doulas, a volunteer and coordinator for the Halton Breastfeeding Connection and continues to pursue updated education for postnatal support topics through various learning mediums. After pivoting almost instantly several years ago from her corporate job to caring for families in the Halton region, Erica considers herself a forever student in this realm of postnatal life. Her passion has become guiding families through ways they can embrace the beauty of early parenthood by providing them time to create space for healing, trust and transition. She specializes in overnight care and families having multiples.

Lesley Neeve

Postnatal Doula, Certified Night Coach & New Parent Educator

Doulas

Lesley Neeve has been a Doula for over 20 years providing non- judgemental, physical, emotional and informational support to hundreds of families in Ontario. She has been married for 25+ years and has 3 daughters. She is a Certified Night Coach, trained Postpartum Doula, New Parent Educator, Childbirth Educator and Birth Doula through CAPPA. Lesley has her PPE Health Care Provider Controls Certificate as well as her Reducing the Risk of SIDS and SUID in Early Education and Childcare Certificate. Lesley continuously attends workshops and seminars on various topics to keep current and up to date in her practice. A Police check and Emergency First Aid and Baby CPR are always up to date.

Lesley provides virtual and overnight support. Lesley has a thorough understanding of the many challenges families may face in the initial weeks/months after your baby or babies arrive. Lesley has worked with many different parenting styles and has experience with twins, preemies, sleep support, postpartum depression and breastfeeding.

Joanne Warner

Postnatal Doula

Doulas

Hello I am Joanne - I am a Postnatal Doula and I love children! I came to childcare after a career in the UK and Canada as an Urban Planner. Over the past 10 years I have worked in elementary schools, with special needs children, in a daycare infant room and as a nanny in private homes and enjoyed every moment.

I was lucky enough to be employed by The WOMB as their ‘Mary Poppins’ at the Milton location and got to work with an increasing number of new babies and their families which opened my eyes to my true ‘calling’, a Postnatal Doula. I went on to train formally as a Postnatal Doula with DONA International.

Spending time with new mum’s, caring for them and their babies, providing support both in practical terms and emotionally has been the most fulfilling job I have ever undertaken. I have personal experience of struggling through the postpartum period, working full time with a young family and living away from a family support system.

In order to support new parents feeling challenges I have training in breastfeeding support, and I have Halton Regional Police Security Clearance including Vulnerable Sector Screening and First Aid and CPR certification.

Andrea Strang

Certified Child Sleep Consultant and Gentle Sleep Coach

Sleep Consultants

Andrea is a Child Sleep Consultant and Certified Gentle Sleep Coach as well as a Postpartum Doula and mother of three. She started her sleep practice in 2004 after supporting families as a Postpartum Doula for many years. Since then, Andrea has completed several training programs starting with Naturally Nurturing in the UK and the Gentle Sleep Coach Certification program with Kim West. Since has helped over 5000 families get better sleep, including providing over 10,000 hours of in-home sleep support.

In her sleep practice, Andrea uses a variety of methods and tailors sleep plans to take family values and child temperament into account. She believes in offering support to children as they learn the important skills for a good night's sleep, employing the gentlest methods possible with the goal of seeing results in a time frame that is reasonable for each family. Sleep coaching methods include coping strategies, sleep nurturing and gentle sleep coaching when appropriate, focusing on supportive, responsive methods such as fading and cue-based strategies.

Philosophy: Offering gentle support and sleep help for families while promoting secure attachment. Supportive of breastfeeding, attachment parenting, co-sleeping, infant mental health and informed choice.

Becky Soehner

Certified Infant Sleep Educator

Sleep Consultants

Becky is a certified Infant Sleep Educator and mom of two. Her introduction to the world of infant and child sleep began during her first pregnancy, when she and her husband attended a prenatal sleep education class. It was eye opening to gain knowledge and insight on normal infant sleep behaviours, and the science behind it, beyond the anecdotal stories and general sleep assumptions in our society. Parenting a very challenging sleeper fueled her passion to help other families navigate the roller coaster of infant and child sleep, and provide parents with the knowledge of what is normal, tools to implement during challenging times, and strategies for striking a balance between the fundamental needs of baby, and the equally as important wellness of the parents.

Becky's approach to sleep starts with education, and she is excited to provide a Prenatal Sleep Education class through The WOMB! Each child is unique and every family is different, and so all sleep support is customized, working together with parents to create a strategy that works best for them. Becky's goal is to create positive associations with sleep for the child, while balancing the needs and well being of tired parents.