Welcome to

Centered Beginnings Doula

Supporting growing families in Central Washington
Free Consultation

Your experience matters!

  1. 60%
    reduction in epidural requests

  2. 40%
    reduction in forceps use

  3. 31%
    reduction in oxytocin use

  4. 28%
    less likely to have a cesarean section

  5. 25%
    shorter labor

  6. 9%
    less likey to use any pain medication

What is a doula?

Doula (n): a trained professional who provides continuous physical, emotional and informational support to a mother before, during and shortly after childbirth.

Find out what a doula can do for you with a free consultation!

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The Vision

Centered Beginnings Doula started in Central Washington with a desire to help families thrive and feel empowered. The overall vision is to support families however they deem fit.

Every birth is a unique experience. The approach to each relationship starts with creative collaboration which oftentimes includes hands-on care, encouragement and a desire to make the birth experience as positive and memorable as possible.

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The Goal

To empower you with the knowledge and skills you need to make confident decisions that are right for your family. The intention is that you feel heard, validated and respected every step of the way. Whether you are a first time parent, a parent with multiple children, single parent or surrogate – your experience matters.

Your needs, your baby, and your family are unique! Your care and support should reflect that.

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ASHLEY MELIN

My name is Ashley Melin (Muh-leen). I believe birth is the most intimate and rewarding gift there is and should be treated as such. My interest in this field started with my second pregnancy. I didn't know that doula services existed until my care provider suggested having one. After doing some research, I realized that this was the path I wanted to eventually take.

Upon completing my education at Bastyr University's Simkin Center for Allied Birth Vocations, receiving my certification through DONA International and having attended several births, it was reinforced that being a birth doula is all I have ever wanted to do.

I wanted a career that allowed me to make a difference in other's lives, something I could put my whole heart into. It is important to me to create a judgement free space and for people to connect to themselves, to their partners, and to their families as they make the transition into parenthood.

I spend my free time with my husband Mitch, our son Owen and our goofy golden retriever Millie. We enjoy outdoor family activities and love to travel when we are able. I love painting, cooking, baking, camping, traveling, sewing, organizing and helping others whenever possible.

DOULA

Learn more about what I do

Services

I strongly believe in a mother’s ability to listen to her body’s strength and intuition. I believe all mothers should be encouraged and supported during this challenging, but very rewarding time in their life. I consider myself to be a family doula and work with mom, partner and children. By offering a range of services and evidence-based support, I help each family member be as informed and prepared for childbirth as possible.

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What to expect

During labor, we will try different positions, breathing techniques, and visualization just to name a few. I encourage mom to listen to her body and work with it. I encourage partners and children to be involved as much as they or mom wants them to be.

My goal as your Doula is to help you achieve the birth you desire. My focus is always on your family and being sure that everyone understands what is going on and what to expect. I am here to help answer any questions you, your partner, or your children may have about the birth and birth process. And if I don’t immediately know the answer to your question, I will do research with you to get you the answers you need. My services include a free consultation, two prenatal visits, birth support, two postpartum visits, and 24/7 phone, text, and email support.

I work with your medical care team whether you choose hospital care or midwifery care at home or at a birth center. I do not provide medical services and do not provide support for unassisted births at this time.

I also offer bereavement support for perinatal and infant loss.

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Ways I can support you

I provide physical assistance during labor

I offer emotional reassurance and support before, during, and after labor

I help enhance communication between you and your medical care team

I help prepare your family and support them during birth

I help you and your baby initiate breastfeeding

I am here for you and your family in the event of loss

Pricing

What's Included

  • Initial consultation

  • Two prenatal visits

  • Labor support

  • Two postpartum visits

  • One meal provided

  • 24/7 phone, text, and email support

If your circumstances do not allow for these fees, please contact me anyway. We can work together on a flexible payment arragement that works for you.

I believe all mothers should have the right to doula care, whether they can afford one or not. It is an honor to assist mothers have the birth they desire. I make allowances for mothers who need pro-bono birth doula care and offer low-cost fees on a case-by-case basis.

I have several years of experience supporting families through Sky Valley Midwifery in Ellensburg and Yakima, Kittitas Valley Hospital (KVH) in Ellensburg, Yakima Valley Memorial Hospital (YVMH) in Yakima, Samaritan Hospital in Moses Lake, Astria Toppenish Hospital in Toppenish, Prosser Memorial Hospital (PMH) in Prosser, Kadlec Regional Medical Center (KRMC) in Richland, Swedish Issaquah Campus in Issaquah, The Birth House by Sky Valley Midwifery (formerly Watershed Birth Center) in Yakima and several home births thoughout Central Washington. As an independant birth doula, I will support you wherever you are planning to give birth.

Although I do not provide support for unassisted births at this time, I can refer you to a doula that does.