About Me - Kimberly Mathews, Antelope Valley Doula Services
About Me:
My Name is Kimberly Mathews. My husband and I have been married since 1988 and we have been blessed with five wonderful children. After the birth of my third daughter, I started to entertain the idea of becoming a labor and delivery nurse. It was something about that particular birth experience that made up my mind that this was something that I wanted to do with my life. I could not quite put my finger on exactly what it was that had me so intrigued, but I knew this was the job for me.
Over the next five years, I had two more children and it was with my last pregnancy that I had heard the word Doula for the very first time. I wasn't quite sure exactly what a Doula was until a friend (Thanks Vikki!) of mine encouraged me to do a little research. I was pleasantly surprised after pouring my heart out in an e-mail to doula trainer Ellie Shea, about my passion to work with women in labor and delivery; she simply said “you already have the compassion and desire, come to the next training.” After going through my training and providing supportive care during those first few births, I then realized what it was that had been so special about the birth of my third daughter. During the later phase of my own labor, I had a nurse (I wish I knew her name) who had come in to help while my nurse was with another patient. She was so incredibly encouraging; I did not want her to leave my side. I was hanging on to her every word as if I needed to hear what she was saying just to keep going. Even though I had my very supportive husband by my side, this woman was getting me through each and every contraction. I was drawing on her knowledge and strength to continue on in my journey. It is amazing the difference it makes when you are well supported and you know that person is there solely for you and only you.
Since becoming a birth doula (certification through DONA), I have been busy working toward a broader goal to diversify myself to meet the needs of others. I am proud to say that I have passed a rigorous course and examination in childbirth education and now hold a credential through Lamaze. Beyond childbirth education I saw a need for help during the 4th trimester (when baby comes home) and looked to a well respected pediatrician and child development expert, Dr. Harvey Karp. The Happiest Baby on the Block caught my attention with Dr. Harvey Karp's 5 step extraordinary approach to sooth a crying baby with the 5 S's. As a certified instructor for Happiest Baby, I can teach parents techniques that really work. Currently I am working on my postpartum Doula certification through CAPPA (childbirth & postpartum professional association) so that I can offer extended support during this transitional time for families.
I look forward to meeting you and supporting you and your partner through this incredible journey!
Kimberly Mathews, CD, LCCE, CHBE
(661) 547-0130
kimberly@avdoula.com
