We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Danielle Watson Murray. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Danielle below.

Danielle , appreciate you joining us today. Was there a moment in your career that meaningfully altered your trajectory? If so, we’d love to hear the backstory.

A defining moment in my life is having children. Pregnancy and the labor and delivery process can be terrifying for many families. It is sometimes isolating and the lack of awareness to what can happen is not often talked about enough. My first pregnancy journey, I was hospitalized in month eight and have never heard of the term preeclampsia, which I was diagnosed with at the time. Besides the provider and nurses, there was no one to break down the situation, the terminology and the procedures that could happen to me. Going into my next pregnancy, I researched what a doula does and realized this person is necessary and what I needed. All families should have the access to one.

Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.

As a birth doula, I provide emotional, physical and informative support during pregnancy and labor and delivery. I also support families in the immediate postpartum phase. Examples would be attending prenatal visits with the families, providing resources for healthy eating habits and discussing and implementing a birth plan. Most importantly being present for the birthing process while providing breathing exercises and comfort techniques to my client. Honoring their birth plan and supporting self advocacy.

Do you think you’d choose a different profession or specialty if you were starting now?

If I could go back, I would choose this profession! This profession is not easy physically but emotionally fulfilling. Supporting birthing people during a crucial and vulnerable time in their lives is an honor.

Any advice for growing your clientele? What’s been most effective for you?

The most effective strategy for growing my clientele has been providing meaningful and caring support to all of my clients. These clients will refer me to their friends and families while sharing their incredible experiences.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: Danielletheedoula
• Other: Podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/5Bp1qfy7UbnL9WLm5NNbV4?si=7njcJyIdQtGnwVREbpIQMQ

Image Credits

Danielle Watson Murray