I couldn't recommend Noleen more! I actually had no plans to have a doula for my first pregnancy until I was at a birthing class and found out that I was one of the only ones there who hadn't secured a doula. After doing some research, I found that my insurance covered doula services, so I immediately began researching doulas. I came across Noleen and noticed her across the board 5 star reviews. At this point, I was 36 weeks pregnant and thought "There is no way this woman is going to be available for my delivery." I reached out to her on a Friday night and she responded back within a few hours! We briefly corresponded over the weekend and had a meeting set up for the next week. I'm SO grateful she was available. I enjoyed learning from her and hearing her balanced perspective about labor and delivery. It quickly became apparent that as a woman going through all of this the first time, having a doula was a must! By the time I went into labor a few weeks later, I texted Noleen, who was in labor with another patient. I was heartbroken to think she may miss my labor. She was able to send a backup doula to my birthing center, but that was only needed for a few hours before Noleen went from her other labor into mine (with maybe a few hours rest in between). Noleen showed up in the morning on a Tuesday and my baby wasn't born until the following day (Wednesday) at 9:23am. So to think Noleen went from one labor to the next with very minimal rest shows that she is superwoman! My labor wasn't an easy one and I REALLY struggled to relax and just allow everything to loosen up. I would get so tense, which ended up prolonging labor to the point where I requested to be transferred from the Birthing Center to a hospital so that I could get an epidural. I was scared that Noleen, my birthing team and my spouse would be disappointed in me, but Noleen was so reassuring that this was the right move for me. I felt supported and understood. There were many moments in the labor where it was so helpful to have Noleen there to answer questions, provide perspective and expertise. Which was incredibly helpful for my spouse as well. It felt like he and Noleen were partners in the birthing process. It's now something I tell all expecting couples is that the Doula is there for the husband just as much as she's there for the wife. My husband really appreciated having her there to ask questions (and vent about the prolonged process!). I also got the package with the photography and the photos Noleen took are so very special to us. It's actually hard to narrow down which ones to frame. There is one that Noleen captured of my husband crying immediately after the baby was born. It's something I didn't notice or even see because I was so focused on the baby. But every time I see that picture, I tear up (currently tearing up as I'm writing this!). I never would have known that moment even existed without Noleen capturing it! We also had her do the postpartum visit with photos and I've sent them to so many family members and they all agree that Noleen did a fantastic job! I could go on and on, but I want others to read this, so I don't want to be too lengthy :). I will definitely be reaching out to Noleen as soon as I find out I'm pregnant with baby #2 (God willing!). read more

I had the pleasure of having Noleen by my side at the birth of my second child at a freestanding birth center. Initially, it seemed sort of unlikely that she would be the one at my birth due to the timing of some international travel for her, and even though baby's timing and hers ended up aligning, I was always confident I would have the care I needed thanks to her thorough backup plans. I was in touch with her and a backup doula while she was away. Noleen helped keep me grounded through transition, encouraged me through pushing and captured moments that will forever be amazing to my family and me. She is easy to talk to, confident and assertive - you definitely want her at your birth! And all the help before and after as well read more

There simply is not a better doula out there. Noleen was so amazing during our first pregnancy/birth that I couldn't imagine not having her there for our second. And I'm so glad she did as she ended up catching our baby before my midwife got there! She is so knowledgeable and a calming voice to have throughout pregnancy and birth. If you're looking for the best doula, look no further. Thank you so much Noleen! read more

Working with Noleen was one of the best decisions we made during my pregnancy. From the beginning, she made me feel supported and confident in my ability to give birth. Her constant words of affirmation and reminders that my body was made for this helped me stay grounded and trust the process. During early labor she guided me through different positions that helped me stay comfortable and keep things progressing naturally. What meant even more was how deeply she respected and supported the birth experience I wanted. At one point she even suggested a different provider and hospital that would better align with my goals, and that guidance made a huge difference in my journey. Throughout it all she was calm, encouraging, and completely present. Her support helped me feel strong, informed, and empowered during one of the most important experiences of my life. I'm incredibly grateful we had her by our side. Because of her guidance and support, I was able to have the unmedicated birth I had hoped for!! She also took wonderful photos throughout the process. If you're considering working with a doula, I cannot recommend her enough. Having someone knowledgeable, calm, and truly invested in your experience makes such a difference. read more

Noleen is amazing and her support and guidance is absolutely unmatched. I found Noleen a tad late in my pregnancy at 36 weeks but thankfully she was able to meet with me and after discussing my birth plan/wishes she encouraged me to switch providers and hospitals to ensure I received the care and support I needed to have the birth experience I wanted and I'm so glad I did! Noleen was available to answer any questions or concerns I had leading up to the birth and was an invaluable resource during labor and delivery. I truly don't think I could have achieved my goal of an unmediated birth without her. I hope to work with Noleen again for any future births read more

When we decided to have a home birth, one of the first things we prayed about was finding the right team. After looking at Doula Noleen's website we knew she was the one! We immediately sent her a text, she was so quick to get back to us and schedule a consultation. The conversation went so good that it felt like we'd known her forever! She was so open, and realistic about home-birth and just instantly made us feel so comfortable! Her resources were so helpful, I loved looking through all her recommendations and so much information. We picked the deluxe package which includes photography on the big day. The day of our home-birth Noleen was such a dream. The moment she walked through our door I felt so much peace and so safe knowing she was there. She knew exactly what to do and what to say to make me feel safe and in control of my birth. She was so quick to shift to photographer mode and transition to doula at the same time! She stayed for a couple hours after to make sure baby and I were getting the proper care and our birth plan was being respected. I never thought past my birth, and I didn't expect all the attention she was giving us. She was so quick to reach out and make sure we were doing good. I got a few sneak peaks a couple days after of our photos and they just helped us replay our birth in our heads. At the two week check up she came with the most amazing package! She read us our birth story from her perspective and had all of our 100+ photos Printed, as well as a hard drive with everything on there. Seriously all of this just made birth such a wonderful experience. Words cannot express how grateful we are for her. Birth will never be the same to us, she made our dream birth a reality. We will cherish our first home birth forever and we will never have a hospital birth again! read more

Doula Noleen - Doulas Near Me

See all

Noleen is the best of the best. Three years ago, she supported me through a twin pregnancy and then through a scheduled C-section. She was an amazing support to me as we welcomed my baby girls into the world. When I got pregnant again with a baby boy, I knew I wanted Noleen with me again. I got the VBAC I wanted, but it happened in a very unexpected way- a precipitous, very fast labor!  Noleen met me at the hospital and held my hand as the midwife told me I was already 10cm dilated. I was scared about how fast things had progressed and wanted an epidural, but the midwife told me it was too late for one because it was time to push.  At that moment, Noleen was my rock. She was completely calm and reassuring. She looked me in the eyes and said, "Amber, you can do this." And I believed her. I felt her strong and steady presence with me throughout the entire process of pushing. Her supportive words and presence allowed me to stay calm and feel safe through a completely unmedicated VBAC.  Noleen captured that momentous occasion through beautiful photographs that I will treasure for the rest of my life. She also typed out my labor and delivery story to give me along with my photographs. She truly loves mamas and babies and is passionate about offering quality birth support. Why would anyone want to go through birth alone when they can have Noleen by their side?  I seriously love you, Noleen! -Amber J. read more

Doula Noleen - Doula Noleen loving on my twin girls. :) - Doulas Near Me

Following a traumatic birth experience of our second daughter, my husband and I knew that we needed to educate and surround ourselves with a support group that would be there to empower us through the birth of our third baby. Noleen was integral part of our redemptive unmedicated birth experience with our baby boy. I could not have asked for a better birth team. Noleen was knowledgeable, communicative, patient, respectful and very professional. She helped us through an unexpected last-minute complication and brought us peace of mind through what could have been a very unnerving time. If you're wondering whether you should sign up for her photography services, I'll be the first to encourage you to do so. I will always cherish the photos she was able to get and am so glad we decided to pay a little extra for the photos. read more

Doula Noleen - Doulas Near Me

Where do I start ? My fiancé and I decided to have a home water birth and we really didn't think we needed a doula. But we went ahead and interviewed a bunch and Noleen was by far the best of the bunch. During labor my mind changed instantly WE NEEDED A DOULA! Noleen was the most helpful person for my fiancé during labor. As a dad you feel like crap because you feel so helpless but I was very comfortable just because Noleen guided her through her contractions with breathing exercises and stretches. Without Noleen I don't know how labor what of went. She will for sure be our doula for the rest of our children. read more

We can't put into words how integral Doula Noleen was to our son's birth (and keeping us sane)! He is our first so we didn't even know what a doula was until recently. But we knew we wanted Noleen at our side right after meeting her. Not only was she referred to us by a trusted friend, but we know that her calm nature and vast experience would be needed as we navigated a home birth. I was surprised at how much Noleen helped before the birth, too. She connected us to two really helpful courses and provided many resources along the way. Noleen did everything she said she was going to the day of the birth. She helped prepare us for what to expect and most of all, she was right there with us explaining what was happening and offering suggestions to manage the pain. Noleen also captured the events of the day with photographs and a sweet birth story. I'd highly recommend adding this because it is such an overwhelming day you are bound to forget all the sweet moments. Even if you aren't considering working with a doula, at least talk with Noleen. We are so thankful for her support before, during, and after the birth. We could not imagine doing it without her. read more

When we had our first baby, some of our plans had to change including our doula. I went into labor early and our doula was not available. Insert Noleen to the rescue. She was sent as a backup and she exceeded any possible expectations we had. Even though we had never met, she made me feel so comfortable with her calming and supportive presence. My husband and I loved how knowledgeable she was especially since it was our first child. Having a doula like Noleen was one of the best parts of our birth story. We're so grateful we had her. read more

Noleen was our wonderful doula for my recent hospital birth. Throughout the entire pregnancy and birth experience, Noleen was incredibly responsive, knowledgeable, and provided much needed guidance and support. I knew that I wanted a hospital birth with a doula present so that I could be aware of my options and resources. Noleen helped make that happen. She also captured my son's birth so beautifully with her great photos. I would recommend her to my closest friends. read more

Noleen was amazing to work with from start to finish! For our first child we were nervous about the process and wanted a knowledgeable resource for questions and recommendations, and Noleen definitely provided that! I appreciated how open she was to anything we wanted around the birth, wasn't trying to talk me out of an epidural and really just was a sounding board to make sure we understood all of our options to make the best decision for us. Leading up to the birth Noleen recommended labor classes, consultants and resources that all really helped calm me and make me feel more prepared for a hospital birth to advocate for myself. I had a long slow labor which was challenging but Noleen was incredibly responsive through every decision point we were met with at the hospital and helped us navigate the options with zero judgement. Once she arrived at the hospital I felt immediately calmer (she has such a great presence about her) and her encouragement during the pushing phase was absolutely critical for me after such a long tiring labor. She helped advocate for us with the staff, stayed until we were ready to go to recovery and captured amazing photos of those first special moments with our girl. We have a detailed birth story with Noleen along with the photos that we will treasure and had a 2 week newborn photoshoot at our home with her which was fantastic! Overall Noleen made a big positive difference in our journey to parenthood and I cannot not imagine doing this without her!! Thank you Noleen!! read more

If you're looking for a doula, look no further. Noleen was amazing during labor. She knew just what to do and say to encourage me along the way. After our first birth & postpartum experience we wanted to experience something completely different. With Noleen we were able to have the successful VBAC that we longed for! Noleen helped me in so many ways, gave me resources & supported me in my decisions. Although due to COVID-19 restrictions she wasn't able to be there for the last 30 minutes while pushing the baby out, she was able to be there for some of it and helped me labor at home. I'd highly recommend her if you're on a doula hunt! Dad review: This review is from the dad to other dads on the fence. I was not for a doula kinda thought it was a waste of money and unnecessary. If that's you don't let that stop your decision to get a doula. It was a game changer having Noleen at the birth. For all our next children we will always have a doula. Definitely worth every penny and more. I would recommend to everyone (especially dads) to get a doula, especially Noleen and it will forever change your mind. read more

If I could give Noleen 10 stars I would! Noleen is amazing. Granted, I've never had another doula, but I know for sure that if I ever had another baby, she'd be my doula. My husband and I were so blessed by Noleen's calming presence. She really brought a sense of peace and strength to our home birth. She stood back and let me labor with my husband's support until she felt like I could use some additional support and then she'd gently but firmly step in and make a suggestion. My labor was VERY long and didn't seem to be progressing for a long time. Because of that, Noleen helped me try many, many things--both to try and hasten labor and to help me endure the contractions and get some rest. In addition to providing exactly the labor support I (and my husband) needed, she is a birth photography ninja! She's talented and the photos she took are incredible, and there was only one time during my entire labor and delivery when I was even aware that she was taking a picture. Anyone would be incredibly blessed to have Noleen as their doula!!! read more

We are so glad we had Noleen as our doula during the pregnancy and labor process! As first time parents, it was extremely helpful to have someone with Noleen's experience and expertise guide us through what to expect during the pregnancy and delivery process. She provided lots of tips and knowledge that we never would have learned about or discovered ourselves. On the day of the delivery, we felt reassured having someone like Noleen on our side at the hospital--she was a calm presence throughout, and a great cheerleader. We had a wonderful delivery experience thanks to Noleen's help. We also highly recommend getting her photography package - it was a wonderful way to remember the experience especially since it often passes in a blur. read more

Noleen is a wonderful person and a huge asset to your birth team. She was been our doula for the birth of both of our sons (2017 & 2020). Most recently, she supported my wife and me through my successful VBAC! She is kind and gentle, but assertive. Her presence helps calm and comfort you in moments where that doesn't seem possible. Her deep love birth and knowledge shows in her work. We love Noleen and could not imagine not having her by our side for the births of our babies. And I cannot forget about her amazing work as a photographer (go check out her Instagram!). The moments she captures are raw and beautiful and we will forever cherish the photos and the birth story she provided to us. Thank you, Noleen, for being there for us and our boys. You are so appreciated. read more

What a blessing Noleen has been on our journey to bring our baby girl into the world! Despite my AMA status, Noleen guided us to amazing providers (Premier ObGyn). Even though not everything went according to our birth plan, Noleen was there every moment of the way and provided support. Her wealth of knowledge was priceless. We also cherish the photos of our labor and birth so much - what a gift Noleen has shared with our family! We are so grateful~ xoxo read more

Doula Noleen - Doulas Near Me

See all

Hiring Noleen to be our doula was one of the best decisions I made during my pregnancy. As an African American woman, and a first-time mom with a high-risk pregnancy (IUGR), I was very aware of the possible negative maternal health experiences that many women of color face. It was important for me to have someone who was knowledgeable enough to educate me and provide me with resources and who could also serve as my advocate. Noleen did that and more! 1st- she armed me with MotherBoard (an educational platform for pregnancy and childbirth). I literally used the site even while I was being induced at the hospital. 2nd- she checked in with me and was available to answer my questions after my doctors visits. 3rd- She even advised me on hospitals around the Valley. Thanks to her advice, I was able to switch my hospital to a more "mother/baby friendly hospital" to ensure I would have the best birthing experience. 4th- Noleen made sure I knew I had a choice. As a first-time mom, I honestly thought I had to go with what I was told. Noleen encouraged me to push back and ask my OB, specialists, and providers questions to ensure I understood and felt conformity my birthing experience. I waited till I was about 31 weeks to hire Noleen. The only regret my husband and I have is that we didn't hire her earlier in my pregnancy. I believe she would have been a tremendous support for us even in my early weeks of pregnancy. Hire Noleen-- you will not regret it!!! :-) read more

Noleen is an amazing Doula & Birth Photographer! I was so happy to have her support during my pregnancy & birth. She kept me informed of my choices during labor & supported me with whatever I chose to do. I was extremely grateful to have someone who didn't push their agenda on me & supported me with the decision I made! Noleen not only supported me physically & emotionally during birth, she was able to capture some beautiful photos of my birth! I would 100% recommend Noleen! read more

Noleen was a wonderful support person for both my husband and I. Delivering our first child during the COVID-19 pandemic presented some unique challenges in which Noleen was unable to be present with us at the hospital and attend the actual birth. However, she labored with us for two days at our home prior to our hospital admission and continually kept in contact with us during our hospital stay. She coached me through each contraction, encouraged me to continue on when I said I couldn't, and helped coach my husband as he helped me through some exercises to get baby in a more optimal birthing position. Her genuine care for each of us provided a huge amount of comfort during one of the biggest transitions of our lives. We'd have her join our birth team in a heartbeat. read more

Noleen is a wonderful doula! My husband and I decided around 35 weeks that we'd like to seriously pursue a doula. After perusing websites of several local doulas, I found Noleen. Everything she said on her site really spoke to me (and the beautiful photography was a huge bonus) and I contacted her hoping she still had availability for me. She did, and her response time was so quick! My husband was so worried about how he'd handle labor - he really wanted to do everything he could for me, but didn't know what to expect for our first child. Noleen's knowledge and demeanor helped put Ben at ease during pregnancy and delivery, and of course helped me through as well! I was so relieved when she showed up, knowing that Ben was no longer alone helped ease some of the tension. My labor was pretty fast and after having thrown up several times, I was ready to give up on my plans for a natural birth, but Noleen's calm voice telling me my baby was almost here and helping me through each wave was exactly what I needed. Noleen was also wonderful in the postpartum period. We had her do our newborn photos as well, and she checked in several times before and after that time. She has nearly unlimited advice and resources! I held off hiring a doula for so long because I had done so much research, listened to podcasts, read through all the research, etc. I didn't hire a doula to advocate for me, since I already knew what I needed to know and could do that for myself. I hired a doula to be an additional source of support since my mother couldn't be with me at that time, and I got everything I hoped for out of my birth experience. Her written perspective of my birth story is absolutely beautiful, and reminds me of all the little details that I would have quickly forgotten otherwise. - Jackie Hiring a doula was one the best ideas we had during the pregnancy and hiring Noleen made it that much better of a decision. I will admit the labor itself was the most frightening part about having a child for me because I could read and try to prepare as much as I wanted before the time came but I knew that it would all likely go out the window once the stress of the situation came. Having Noleen put my mind at ease knowing we had her expertise to rely on. With Noleen there I was able to relax a little because I had someone there to help me help my wife and I was able to be more emotionally there for my wife because I was a lot less stressed. She took amazing photos that captured the beautiful moments which was also one less thing I had to worry about. - Ben read more

Doula Noleen - Doulas Near Me

We are so grateful that God led us to Noleen. I had been planning on a hospital birth even thoigg I felt very uncomfortable about it. I decided I would look for a doula to help me stick to my birthing plan in the hospital and just support me in general. I found Noleen and she was so incredibly helpful in every aspect. She led me to an amazing birthing class which was wonderful. And she led me to my midwife who ended up delivering my son at home. Noleen encouraged me to follow my desire and dream of a home birth and introduced me to an incredible midwife Jetta Anderson, who could not have been more of a perfect match for our family. I am so grateful I had this support right when I needed it otherwise I would have ended up not following my hearts desire to have a home birth. Noleen was very calming and confident. She was very encouraging and ultimately helped me to give birth to my beautiful, healthy son. Noleen is a God-send and I can't recommend her enough to someone who needs some strong, calming and loving guidance through a birth. Thanks Noleen! P.S. Noleen's photography is completely amazing. Highly recommend her taking your birth photography as well. read more

From the moment I met Noleen, I knew she was the doula/birth photographer for us. She made us feel so comfortable and treated us like family. Our visits were always pleasant and she went above and beyond what we requested of her. She was my rock through my homebirth and supportive even after I had to be transferred to the hospital. She checked on us and always made sure I was supported in every way. Our photos turned out amazing and the prints/birth story/thumb drive capture my birth experience so well. I couldn't ask for a better doula and birth photographer. She even gave us the cutest little onesie for our sweet boy! read more

See all

I will forever be grateful and thankful for Doula Noleen. I cannot imagine my birth experience without her, she was an integral part. Prior to labor, she was a wealth of knowledge, I learned so much from her and honestly I thought I would learn that from my midwife but I got so much more information from Noleen and felt so much more prepared for labor and delivery because of it. Throughout my labor, Noleen was a calm force, consistently encouraging me and reminding of my strength and ability. I seriously don't know what I would've done without her! read more

Noleen answered my questions along the way and was there in the hospital with me to answer questions, make recommendations, and offer support. But it was the little touches I appreciate most after the fact. She took beautiful photos of the moments leading up to my daughter's arrival and her first couple of hours. My family and I were too captivated to document these important events and I am so happy I had someone there to make sure this life changing event was captured. read more

I can't imagine my labor and birth experience without Noleen. I felt so comfortable with her that I told her about all about the symptoms I was experiencing that I thought were early labor symptoms (turns out I was very much in active labor and she walked me through it) and she was very much available as I was trying to figure out what part of the labor process I was in. She also made me feel empowered and confident, and stay focused and strong during delivery, when I really needed it the most. Both my husband and I are so thankful she was part of our team and helped me achieve the labor and delivery I wanted. read more

Noleen Thurman was our doula for the birth of both of our two children (Emily, now 2 1/2 years old and Logan, 2 weeks old). Noleen is incredible. She starts by really helping us think through our birth preferences and plan. In the months and weeks leading up to labor and delivery, she guided us through thinking about concerns that we did not even know to think about. The preparation and planning she helped us with made decision-making during labor much easier and more effective. Noleen made herself available day and night by phone call or text message and provided excellent guidance and support when labor started at home. When it was time to go in to the hospital, Noleen met us at triage and stayed with us all the way through delivery. As may be expected, things didn't go quite as planned. Noleen helped us think through options provided by the medical professionals against our birth preferences. When labor stalled out, Noleen was able to help get it back on track with different movements, stretches, and sifting - without which may have required medical intervention. In both of our deliveries, Baby and Momma both ended up healthy and happy. Following delivery, Noleen continues to check in and make sure feeding is going well and that we are coping with our new reality. A week or two after delivery, we had a post-partum visit in which Noleen shared a very heart-felt birth story and photographs of the first moments we had with our sweet baby. This is an emotional experience, to be sure. Noleen does a great job at capturing this important time in our lives in a very succinct narrative. Although we are not planning to have any more children, if we were we would absolutely hire Noleen again. She is an incrediblly caring individual and made a big difference in easing our concerns and guiding us through the birth of our two children. read more

This is our second time using Noleen and we couldn't be happier about our decision. We've had two hospital births and Noleen has made each experience wonderful. She has a superior knowledge of the hospitals, staff and providers and is able to help navigate any situation that may arise. She is a great advocate for all of your needs and has a wealth of knowledge to help walk you through each step of your journey. She is an excellent communicator and continues to check up on mom and baby throughout the duration of your pregnancy and is super quick and responsive to any questions we might have had. We've used her photography for both births and we absolutely cherish the moments that she was able to capture! Noleen is the best! read more

Noleen was wonderful to have on my side during the birth of our second son. She had so much knowledge to help get my labor moving along more quickly than my first. She was also a great advocate for me during the delivery. I'm so glad we made the decision to use her. I addition, we used her photography services for our sons first pictures. These pictures are irreplaceable as we'll never be able to repeat that day. I highly recommend all future clients take full advantage of this added bonus! I have 100% confidence in Noleen and I know anyone who decides to hire her will be completely satisfied. read more

Noleen was covering for my birth photographer when I went into labor. She was awesome and her pictures came out amazing.

Noleen is such a warm, caring, nurturing, educated birth doula and her photography is incredible! She has a gift for anticipating her clients needs before they even know what they need! If you're looking for a doula, DEFINITELY give her a call! read more

Big Thank you to Noleen for quick call back, connection to resources and listening to by story and needs. I would totally recommend her in the future to others. read more

Hiring Noleen was the best thing we did to prepare for this birth! She was such a wonderful support throughout my pregnancy. When it came time for the birth, Noleen intuitively knew what I needed at each stage. Her calm and loving presence was so comforting during my birthing time. I felt safe and supported with her by my side. My husband was very hands on during the birth and Noleen helped give him the confidence and tips he needed to help me as well. But there is something very comforting about having a knowledgeable doula to support you. I can't even imagine how my birth would have gone without Noleen. I owe my positive experience to her and I would recommend her to anyone. Thank you Noleen!! read more

When I look back on the day I gave birth, Noleen is an integral part of my birth story. She coached us through the beginning parts of my at home labor and let us know when we should head to the hospital. Having this support eased our minds and made the experience at home more relaxed. At the hospital, Noleen was very professional and worked so well with the staff. I actually felt like she was the one running the whole operation at the hospital. It was so great to have her on our team. I never felt alone or out of control with her there motivating and empowering me through every step. Noleen also encouraged my husband to be actively involved throughout the whole process. The nurse on duty even made comments about how well we all worked together and how beautiful the labor was to watch. An added bonus was she was able to capture our special experience with pictures that tell the story. Everything became a blur so I am very grateful to have these moments documented to look back on. Without Noleen I'm not sure how the day would have unfolded. Her presence that day was invaluable. With the help of Noleen, I was able to stick to my birth plan and deliver my beautiful Olivia completely natural. It's hard to fully describe all she did for me that day. We are so grateful Noleen was our doula. From the day we hired her, I felt more confident knowing I had her as part of my support system. She was always so responsive and extremely helpful during every stage of my pregnancy and labor. Anyone would be lucky to have her as a doula. read more

The best decision we made to prepare for the birth of our first child was hiring Noleen as our doula. Initially we had planned to birth in a local hospital, but towards the end of the first trimester we decided we wanted to do a home birth instead. Noleen was incredible at helping us make this transition and in connecting us with an amazing midwife and birth team. Every conversation we had with Noleen was very valuable. She is extremely knowledgeable, friendly, and kind, and prompt in responding to all of our questions. I never felt pressured by her in any way, but rather equipped with information and knowledge to make my own decisions. My favorite quality of working with Noleen is her calm and peaceful spirit. I want to have this quality like her one day! In our prenatal meeting, all during the home birth, and during the post-partum appointment she filled the room with peace! It is a priceless gift. Noleen's ability to help me cope with the intensity of childbirth was something everyone should have during their birth. Everyone needs a doula and we highly, highly recommend Noleen! read more

We met Noleen when I was already in active labor--she was standing in as a backup for our doula who was unavailable. This sounds like a potentially distressing situation to a woman in such a vulnerable state, but Noleen's calm and warm demeanor put me at ease immediately. Her expertise made us feel confident in decision-making. She was incredibly sensitive in supporting me with her words of encouragement and ideas for symptom management strategies, without stepping on anyone's toes or being overbearing in the slightest. She captured precious images of our birth, and wrote a beautiful birth story, putting the miracle we experienced into words. In short, her graceful presence was an incredible blessing to our birth experience, and I couldn't be more grateful! read more

Noleen Thurman was our doula for both of our daughters' births. Prior to the births, she patiently listened to all my questions and provided a wealth of informed responses and information. I felt ready to venture into unknown territory and was comforted to know that she'd be there even if things didn't go as expected. Neither of my daughters' births went as expected! But Noleen was there when we needed her, and she was a huge help to both my husband and me. She provided support he couldn't provide and assured him when he became concerned. My husband and I both had more confidence and peace because of her presence. After the births, Noleen followed up (just enough, not too much) and visited us at home, staying as long as we wanted and presenting us with the special gifts of beautiful birth photos and birth stories written from her perspective. These are treasures we will keep forever. I'd recommend Noleen to anyone seeking a doula who is highly knowledgeable, empowering, encouraging, and calm under pressure but also assertive when necessary. read more

My birth was a wonderful experience with the help of Noleen as my doula! She ended coming in the middle of a storm when my original planned doula was busy with another mother on the opposite side of town. Noleen advocated for my wishes for a natural birth and helped to keep focus on those wishes when times got really rough and I thought I couldn't go on. She motivated me through her words and suggested and helped me to find positions of comfort as my baby boy was in the occipital posterior position! My husband wasn't fond of the idea of a doula to begin with, but he's a total believer now. He was glad that he someone with experience to support him in supporting me! After my baby was born she stayed with me and helped me to get our first latch and tell me that I did a good job. And oh man, the photos that she got were amazing and my family enjoyed the slideshow she put together. It made them "feel like I was there" minus some of the more intimate photos that she captured as well! If we remain in town for my next child, we for sure will request Noleen's services again! read more

Noleen was a knowledgeable and reliable support during my pregnancy. After interviewing several doulas, I chose Noleen because of her passion for birth, calm and confident demeanor, and active approach. I knew she would be a good balance with my midwife, who highly recommend her. I also felt like she could handle the variety of situations and environments that can arise during birth, and was respectful of our birth plan. Unfortunately, due to a very fast labor, she arrived just after our baby was born, though not for a lack of trying to get there on her part. Even so, she was able to capture beautiful photos of our baby's first moments and took wonderful care of us in the hours after birth. Noleen generously offered to do a newborn shoot for us to make up for not being able to be present at the birth and I'll always treasure both these photos. She was also a great support after our birth. There are a lot of great doulas to choose from, but I highly recommend Noleen! read more