Victoria was AMAZING for prenatal yoga!! The store is so lovely, full of so many goodies and I…read moreabsolutely loved the yoga room! Everything was clean, relaxing, and Victoria was so attentive to me and my pregnancy needs throughout the session. I can't wait to go back!!

This is the best local all stop everything baby shop! Not…read moreonly do they have all the best baby gear, but super knowledgeable and friendly staff. They have Classes, Mommy and me, it's a literal find you village type of place. Free mommy mixers, awesome deals, baby friendly store, they even rent hospital grade pumps and sooooo much more! If you or someone you love is expecting this is the place you need to explore for real support. I wish there were more locations and I can't say enough good things!

My review is late, my daughter was born in June of 2019 and it was quite the traumatic experience…read more Destiny, was my assigned doula and I opted for the premium binding experience. So Healing, So relieving, and extraordinarily supportive. Destiny was a postpartum angel that came in and gave me information to help me with my immediate struggles as a new mother and help me heal from the trauma of bringing life to this world. Both Princess and Destiny were extremely professional in way that made you feel embraced as a woman, by women. Simply stated, the massages and wraps and process was beautiful and if I were to have another I would definitely get this service again. This service is as much as a must have to new birthed mothers as that medela breast pump... y

[Acknowledging the gaslighting undertones of the owner's response. Fluffy messaging, sidestepping…read morecore issue.] Working with Princess, the owner of BelliBind, was one of the most unprofessional and distressing experiences I've had. For a long time I suppressed the memory and didn't leave a review in December 2021 because I was overwhelmed postpartum. However, receiving a recent automated email from the company brought the experience back, and I feel it's important to share a word of caution for other mothers -- especially those whose postpartum experience may not be smooth or well-supported. Like many mothers, my daughter's birth did not go according to plan. I nearly lost her, she required hospitalization in the NICU for respiratory distress, and when she came home she had an extremely severe case of colic. She could not be soothed by anyone except me, including my husband, and the situation in our home was incredibly stressful and overwhelming. When the BelliBind employee came for the first session, she was kind and genuinely tried to help. I have no criticism of her personally. She attempted to support me by assertively requesting that my husband manage the baby so I could have the appointment. Unfortunately, the reality of our situation made that impossible. Our baby was extremely distressed, tensions escalated, and I simply could not relax or continue the session. I ultimately asked to cancel the remainder of the visit. My concern arose afterward when I contacted Princess to request a refund for the remaining unused sessions. I made it clear that I was completely willing to pay for the first visit, but asked if she could consider a prorated refund for the thousands of dollars of services that had not been rendered and realistically could not be completed given my circumstances. At the time, I was in a very fragile psychological state postpartum, experiencing severe depression and even suicidal thoughts -- something I could clearly recognize as an otherwise strong Licensed Clinical Social Worker (knowing postpartum can be suddenly triggering for those who survive childhood abuse/neglect). I communicated this openly in the hope that she might approach the situation with compassion and flexibility. She knew my mission in life was to protect other vulnerable individuals, and I thought in this moment of vulnerability, hers was to look after postpartum moms. Instead, the response I received was shockingly cold and combative. The empathy that had been conveyed earlier in the process disappeared entirely. In my own telephone conversation with Princess, she refused any form of accommodation or refund and communicated in a manner that felt volatile and dismissive. The interaction became so upsetting that my husband ultimately had to step in to try to handle the conversation in order to protect me during an already vulnerable postpartum period. Following our joint attempts to reason with her over the phone and seemingly reaching a mutually agreeable resolution at the time, Princess later emailed to inform us that she decided NOT refund 4 unused sessions, and she requested that I use them in a "2-week postponement period" ... as if our unglamorous situation would somehow magically resolve in 2 weeks. If only the reality of our lives could morph it one of her captivating social media marketing photos in that 2-week period. As referenced in the attached screenshots, she states, "Please note we have offered to provide you with: 2 week postponement of services, once you have more of a handle on your child's needs." Needless to say, the latter comment to "get a handle on our child's needs" was incredibly offensive. Her additional comments were equally perplexing: "I truly believe, as a post-birth professional with a team providing in-home recovery support and newborn care guidance to birthing families for nearly a decade now, that we would be doing you a great disservice by just giving you a full refund opposed to the many options you could use with the care you already have paid for with us." The fact that a business owner of a service directed towards postpartum mothers, could be so rigid, inflexible, and tone-deaf continues to baffle me. Ultimately, I filed a claim with my credit card company, and Chase quickly reviewed the situation and happily obtained a refund for the *unused amount*, as per my request to Princess. This experience was deeply disappointing. Postpartum mothers are often in extremely vulnerable positions, and businesses that market services specifically to new mothers should operate with a basic level of compassion, integrity, and professionalism. Unfortunately, that was not my experience here, and the utter lack of integrity continues to shock me in memory. I can only hope that some version of karma eventually reinforces the importance of genuine integrity, so that other mothers receive what is truly good for them ... even when life has unexpected challenges in store.

My Postpartum Doula Workshop experience was truly life changing. It was positive, eye opening,…read moreinspiring, and, at times, overwhelming in the very best way. From the moment I walked in, I felt like I was in such a safe, welcoming space. The energy was incredible, and being surrounded by such a wonderful group of women made the experience even more special. There was so much learning, sharing, encouragement, and connection. And Kathrin, our trainer, was absolutely amazing. Her knowledge, passion, the way she guided us through the workshop made such an impact on me. She created an environment where I felt comfortable learning and truly taking in everything this beautiful work has to offer. Honestly, I would do this workshop all over again not because I needed to, but because I would love to experience that same energy and connection with another group of women. Every group brings something different, and I can only imagine how beautiful each experience can be. I highly recommend Kathrin's Postpartum Doula Workshop to anyone who is interested in becoming a postpartum doula. It is an experience I will carry with me as I begin this new chapter. Lizette

Ana Paula is a wealth of knowledge and compassion. She's a beautiful mix of warm and calming with a…read morefun energy and the utmost professionalism.

Sharon is a very special and one of a kind birth specialist. She has a great medical background, is…read moreenthusiastic, and just pure joy to work with. We met her initially at a class through the Mother's Haven and were so impressed by her that we ended up booking a private session. Sharon was thoughtful, focused on our questions/concerns and honestly made some of the scarier components of giving birth fun. Highly recommend her and would sign up for one of her sessions again in a heartbeat.

This review was a long time coming. My little angel came three weeks early and we have been rocking…read moreat life ever since. He is a happy and healthy baby boy. Sharon is such a wonderful person. My husband and I found her through Yelp and had a great time in her Lamaze class and early infant class. Sharon was so welcoming and made the experience as first time parents so special for us and eased a lot of our anxiety. I don't think I would have been as mentally prepared as I was if I did not take her classes. I would even say emotionally too because I had to do a lot of healing with losing my first angel. Thank you so much Sharon. Our little Rami is doing wonderful. You were such a great impact on our journey as first time parents and have our upmost respect. Please keep doing what you're doing because first time parents really need you!

I can't recommend Village Birth enough. So many amazing practitioners, so much helpful information…read moreall in one place, and a great community to boot. My husband and I took several classes at Village Birth leading up the birth of our baby, and I found my amazing lactation consultant, Hideko, after taking a very informative breastfeeding class with Yvonne. Hideko was an invaluable resource to me after the baby was born and continued to be for many months afterward. There was no way I would be able to breastfeed as long as I have if it weren't for her. Separately, I worked with prenatal chiropractor Dr. Jenny Stofer as well, who is also part of the Village Birth group now. I had experienced quite a bit of discomfort in my back during my pregnancy and she always made me feel at ease, listened to my concerns, and took care of any issues I had quickly and gently. I always left my sessions with her feeling energized, supported and like my baby had more room in there! It was incredible. Village Birth is made up of such a thoughtful, supportive and kind group of individuals who are talented and passionate about their work. If you're nearby and having a baby, it is the best place for top notch care and information!

I went to village birth in their bundle it was well worth the money. My husband and I did our birth…read moreeducation classes, newborn essentials, feeding and getting ready for the fourth trimester. Thru their doula match we found an amazing postpartum doula. I also did some of their prenatal circles and will be doing their post partum circle soon. Always a fun mix of women who go there, and I know the business can't control who signs up for classes but I wish more POC women and couples went. My first circle it was very intimidating being the only POC there.

I don't know how I would have survived my pregnancy or birth without Jaquelin's help!! From the…read morebeginning of our relationship (while I was still pregnant), she was very supportive and helped me learn more about what I was going through via personal meetings, phone calls, email & web articles. She has a very calm and attentive nature (and I love her South African accent!) During my labor & delivery (32.5 hours!) her assistance was invaluable, since my husband did not want to be in the room at all - since he was afraid of passing out...lol! She knows what she is doing to keep you and your family comfortable and to move the process along. I don't remember a lot about that weekend as I was exhuasted, in pain, & eventually took some drugs to help with the pain, so it was great to have Jaquelin's story of my birth, with all of her notes! She also took some still photos with my camera, so I would remember this important moment in my life! If you are even thinking of hiring a doula, look no further! Her postpartum visit was also very nice & I can honestly say that she was much more than just another body in the delivery room...I now consider her a family friend and we stay in touch often. She is well worth the money that she charges for her services...I only wished that insurance would cover it. Either way, if I did it again, I would still use her. She made the whole experience as comfortable as it could be! :)

I was newly sober and pregnant!! I was warned about the dangers to my sobriety that could come from…read morebeing given prescription pain relievers after giving birth. Especially when C sections and medical interventions are at their highest. I was told to do some research on how to avoid unnecessary C sections and this eventually led me to a doula. I was planning to move back home to California from Florida. I looked up doulas in the area. When Jaquilin returned my phone call I was a mess and nervous over becoming a new mom & screwing it up! She brought peace to my heart answered ALL my questions which brought hope for what was about to come. I was not sure if I could even hire a doula and still living in Florida at the time. I can remember standing in one the isles of a grocery store in Florida. I was so concerned over fish oil in DHA inside the prenatal vitamins. I called Jaquilin, feeling silly because she hadn't been hired yet, but she returned my phone call over such a silly question like that or, "I ran out of my prenatal vitamins and it's only been 2 days. I'm worried about the baby!" She was there and helped bring peace to me! I knew then, standing in the middle of the store that she was the doula for me! I moved back to California, finally at 7 months. When I hired Jaquilin and started the lamaze classes with her they were intimate, small and fun. Very "homie". As well as extremely informative. I felt free to ask any questions. Any! Our choice for birth was for it to be all natural, but in a hospital (we chose the UCLA midwives Westwood. Also an A+ experience) As I'm writing, I'm thinking there is just too many wonderful things and experiences with jacqueline to to say! So I'm writing a list of the 1st ten things hat come to mind below!! My experience far superseded what I paid for and what I expected. I have the most memorable, REAL and intentional birth to thank from her support! 1. She was there for me after the birth, more than she "should" have. In regards to me being at risk for post Partum depression. Supported me all the way through & called in to check up on and make sure I made the phone calls I needed. 2. Jaquilin came over at exactly the right time during my labor. Supported me in all the ways I wanted and needed in order to move into active labor and through the pain. 3. Helped me with my birth plan and met me For walks in the park. 4. Helped me find organic and holistic approaches to many things. 5. The birth!!!! The birth was exactly what I asked for. Exactly!!!! She believed in me the whole time and I in turn believed in my bodies ability to do exactly what it needed to do. 6. I used her experience and knowledge with birth as my guide. I needed her to know when I was ready to go the hospital (I know I would have gone way to soon if I didn't have her!) and because of that there was no need for the hospital to do "hospital things" I was ready! 7. I showed up at 7 centimeters. (All the nurses and the midwives were impressed) I couldn't have done that without the support from my doula Jaquilin. 8. An hour after arriving I gave birth to Liam! Beautiful, all natural, healthy and strong! 9. She was there the whole way through, to the end & then some. 10. I didn't receive any narcotics or epidural. No medical interventions. I was aware. My birth was intentional and I was empowered. Thank you Jaquilin for helping me achieve the birth I was meant to have

For my second pregnancy, I knew I wanted to be in an environment that would let the natural process…read moreof physiological birth unfold. At Pure Births, the prenatal appointments are rooted in connection, while being very thorough and professional. The midwives have a wholistic approach to pregnancy, while also ensuring that you and your baby are safe up until the day of delivery. Mid Wife Angela and Summer were on call the day my baby joined our family. They welcomed us into the birthing room and empowered us with space- they trusted my body and baby to know what to do, while also being very attentive by monitoring the baby's heart rate, and checking in with me throughout the process. I felt safe and comfortable every step of the way, and our sweet baby girl joined us an hour and a half after we arrived at the birthing center. It was a powerful and beautiful experience I will never forget. The post partum appointments are just as caring and attentive, the midwives want to ensure mama is healthy and healing, and baby is thriving. I would recommend Pure Births to any family seeking an out of hospital experience, seeking genuine and empowering care.

I'm so glad I decided to have my placenta encapsulated with Tiffany at Pure Births! Tiffany was…read moretruly so great to work with. She was always quick to respond, answered all of my questions, and was really informative throughout the whole process. She made everything feel so easy and stress-free. Even being a holiday weekend, dropping off my placenta was super easy and convenient, which I really appreciated, especially with a newborn and everything that comes along with those first few days postpartum. I personally felt like the pills really helped me with both my energy and my mood during those early postpartum weeks. I felt like I had a little more energy to get through the long days and nights, and I noticed a positive difference in my overall mood as well. I know everyone's experience is different, but for me, I'm really happy I chose to do it! The capsules were also wrapped so cute, and Tiffany included our sweet baby boy's umbilical cord as a keepsake, which was such a thoughtful and special touch.

It is hard to put into words just how much Jennifer has meant to our family…read more From the very beginning, she made us feel heard, supported, and empowered. Jennifer has an incredible gift for listening to your hopes and helping create a birth experience that honors your wishes while always keeping mom and baby safe. Her guidance, education, hands-on support, and adaptability gave us confidence every step of the way. Whether you're a first-time parent or growing your family, Jennifer meets you with compassion, knowledge, and unwavering encouragement. One of the most special parts of our journey was watching her help prepare our son to become a big brother. She made him feel included and excited to welcome our newest family member. Jennifer created a space where our voices truly mattered especially when they can often feel overlooked in healthcare system. She helped us feel informed, respected, and empowered throughout our entire journey. Now that Jennifer is a midwife, we know even more families will experience the incredible care and advocacy she brings. Jennifer, thank you for helping our family grow and for the lasting impact you have made on our lives. We are forever grateful.

Working with Jen was one of the greatest gifts of our birth experiences (for both myself and my…read morewife). She supported both of us through two births, about two years apart, and each experience was very different (including one with pre-eclampsia and the other with heart rate decels). Her ability to meet each of us exactly where we were, with such calm, confidence, and care, was remarkable. We trusted her completely. From our first phone call, it just felt right. Jen is a powerful advocate for her clients and brought a steady, reassuring presence that allowed us to feel safe, informed, and deeply supported. Her care extended far beyond labor and delivery. Her prenatal and postpartum home visits were incredibly helpful, especially as she guided us through preparing our older child for siblinghood, and she always made us feel seen as a whole family. We also loved how intentional she is about building community among her clients, helping families feel connected to one another and supported beyond their individual journeys. Her work is deeply equity-centered, and as an LGBTQ+ family, having affirming care was incredibly meaningful to us. We are so grateful to have had Jen alongside us during such transformative moments and would recommend her without hesitation to anyone looking for compassionate, affirming, and truly exceptional birth support (especially for those whose journeys end up looking differently than initially planned)!

Words can't describe the vibes & energys that was on our birth room ..my wife was having her birth…read moreexperience to the fullest and exactly like her birth plan and all of that couldn't happened without Cynthia's services Cynthia is well educated in all of birth world and know everything about woman's needs in this precious time of newborn coming to the world she made our birth room look like a yoga class in a spa and our minds clear of fear allso as a husband i felt much more confident and secure to have a professional educated and highly sensitive doola that listen to my wife's needs ( and allso giving me my sleep time :) .. me and my wife moved into California not long time ago and our families are over seas it was so important to us to have a natural birth experience she was giving birth in a hospital and we were afraid to deal with medical intervention i really believe and know that we couldn't do that without Cynthia's help Thank you Cynthia for giving us the opportunity to have an amazing experience of life

From the owner: The Birth Whisperer, Cynthia Marie, PhD, has a passion for the birth process and wants to support…read moreevery woman in having the birth they choose with as few interventions as possible. She encourages each client's partner to be involved as little or as much as they are comfortable with. She offers doula and lactation support during conception, prenatal, birth, and postpartum She supports all births including Natural/Non-Medicated/Minimal Interventions, VBAC, C-Section, Home Birth, Water Birth, HypnoBirth, and Birth Center. She offers special sessions in Couple’s Birth Preparation, Childbirth Eduaction, Child Development, Reiki Energy Healing, The Fourth Trimester, The First Forty Days, Attachment Parenting, Safe Bedsharing, and Effective Child Discipline. Clients may attend sessions with a partner or solo. Birth the way you choose... Get attached to your birth plan... Happy mama, happy baby, happy family.

If it wasn't for Sandra Bojorquez I wouldn't know what to do. She made the enrollment process very…read moreeasy. She explained the course well and showed me around the campus ensuring me that I'm in good hands. If it wasn't for her I wouldn't have attended.

This school was extremely disappointing and, in my experience, unprofessional…read more I graduated from UEI Reseda almost a year ago after completing my externship in December. I graduated with good grades, a high GPA, and as a Medical Assistant student ambassador. One of my biggest concerns is that admissions does not clearly explain that completing the program does not make you a Certified Medical Assistant (CMA). You receive a diploma, but you still have to take and pay for a separate certification exam. I feel this should be made much clearer before students enroll. The lab experience was also disappointing. Many necessary supplies were out of stock, unavailable, or broken, which limited our hands-on training. I knew before enrolling that I wanted to eventually work in pediatrics because I enjoy working with children, yet we weren't even shown how to properly weigh/measure pediatric patients or administer pediatric injections. My biggest issue, however, was Career Services. My assigned representative, Markia, told me, "It's not about what you're comfortable with. It's time for you to put your big girl panties on" when I explained that I was uncomfortable being placed at a primary care clinic for my first job and wanted to find a more specialized setting. I was shocked and didn't know how to respond. Interviews were also scheduled without asking what times worked for me. I was sent to Encino, taking two buses, only to find out upon arrival that the position was for a traveling Medical Assistant. I was then scheduled at another clinic for 8 AM, only to arrive and discover the clinic wasn't even open yet. When I was upset and crying while explaining this to Career Services, I felt there was very little empathy or support. During my externship, I also felt I wasn't learning enough because much of my time involved front-desk duties rather than hands-on back-office Medical Assistant work. When I asked about finding another site, Markia told me, "Now you want to travel? Last time the issue was that you didn't want to travel." My issue had always been my transportation limitations, not that I refused to travel. The financial aspect makes this experience even more frustrating. I personally paid a little over $13,000 out of pocket, which I paid off in less than a year after completing the program. Based on my experience with my payments, interest was charged daily. After spending over $13,000, I attempted two different Medical Assistant jobs over approximately nine months and ultimately decided not to pursue the field. I understand that students need to be flexible and step outside their comfort zones, but students also deserve clear information, adequate hands-on training, respectful communication, and genuine career support. I strongly recommend researching the program carefully, including the certification requirements, additional costs, hands-on training, externship placement, and Career Services, before enrolling.