Biography:

My name is Irva, and I am a Haitian American doula fluent in English, French, and Haitian Creole. I am dedicated to supporting birthing families, especially Haitian immigrants through education, emotional, and physical encouragement. I draw from my own experience as a mother, healthcare worker, and immunology-oncology researcher in women’s related cancer. My personal traumatic birth experience opened my eyes to the needs of Black birthers-- I vow to be a voice for individuals with language barriers to help them navigate the miracle of birth, by offering my trauma-informed, non- judgmental, wholehearted presence. I come from a deeply spiritual background and invite my clients to be their whole selves as they encounter the transformational journey of birth.

Why did you become a doula?

I vowed to advocate for birthing families especially Haitian with limited English oftentimes new to the system that can be frightening and confusing. I want them to feel comfortable speaking their language knowing that someone hear, see, understand them and want their birthing experience to be memorable.

What is your personal connection to birth/family/community?

All my clients refer to me as auntie to their babies and I love how they feel comfortable to share their stories with me and wish that my doula care never ends.

What is your philosophy of doula care?

My philosophy of doula care listening, observing, resourcing, referring and sharing

Who is your ideal client?

My ideal client is anyone in need that I can fit in my schedule.