Even before I had babies of my own, I was reading all the birth stories and birth books and birth documentaries I could get my hands on. I have a degree in music, but the human body, babies, and birth have always been of special interest to me. Somewhere in these years of informal learning, the term “doula” floated to the surface and planted a seed in my heart.

In 2015, my dear friend allowed me the amazing privilege of supporting her and her husband during the labor and delivery of their daughter. After that, I knew without a doubt that I wanted to pursue this important work, serving women and their families during the vulnerable and transformative process that is birth. I completed a DONA International workshop at Bini Birth with Ana Paula Markel, and I am currently in the birth doula certification process.

I’ve been married to my husband Patrick for 15 years, and we have four  joyful and busy children: Peter (11), Betsy (8), Timothy (5), and Joanna (born August 2022). Their very unique births have taught me more about pregnancy and childbirth than any amount of reading or documentary-watching ever could, and my kids continue to teach me more about myself and motherhood every day. Together, we love spending time with our friends, music, playing games, reading, and making (and eating!) food.

I believe that everyone deserves to have a labor and delivery they can look back on and know that they were supported, respected, and well cared for. It would be a joy and honor to come alongside your family to help facilitate this kind of birth experience.

– Jen Bourckel