Sakinah Irizarry
Saugerties, NY
Labor Doula

I left a corporate career in NYC to move to the Hudson Valley and pursue a vocation that would allow me to help people in a more direct and personal way.

I've been a Nationally Certified Massage Therapist since 2002, and am currently pursuing an Associates Degree in Massage Therapy and my New York State license.

I've been married to my wonderfully supportive husband for seven years and although we have yet to start a family, I have always loved children and babies. A friend involved in the birth community made the suggestion that sparked my interest in becoming a Doula. She knew I had been searching for the best way to support my pregnant teen sister. I received my DONA training in October 2005 and two weeks later was present for the arrival of my beautiful baby nephew. I've been hooked on the birth experience ever since.

As a Doula, I believe in helping new parents by providing clear information and unbiased support, so they can make empowered choices for a birth experience they will cherish for life.

My husband and I am currently pregnant with our first child. I will be resuming doula services in September 2008.

August 2, 2006

To Whom It May Concern,

Sakinah Irizarry was the doula at the birth of my second child this past February.   From our very first meeting, months before the birth, I was struck by her warmth, intelligence and professionalism.   As the pregnancy progressed, Sakinah often contacted me to offer her support, knowledge, and to plan preparations for the birth.   Knowing she would be there helped ease much of the natural anxiety that built as the due date drew closer.   She did everything possible to make sure I could contact her at any time In felt I needed her, and assured me that no matter what, she would be there whenever labor began.  

During the labor and delivery, Sakinah's patience, intuition, and ability to be fully present with me in the process, really came through.   She possesses both gentleness and incredible strength, an amazing combination for a doula to embody.   She spent hours tirelessly walking with me, massaging me, and suggesting different ways to ease the discomforts of labor.   When the birthing process reached it's hight of intensity, Sakinah was able to offer support, both emotionally and physically.

My choice was to have a natural, medication free birth, and Sakinah's presence was crucial in this process.   I literally cannot imagine having the fantastic birthing experience I had, without her wonderful, caring energy there.   Although a natural birth was the right choice for me, I know that Sakinah's presence would immeasurably enhance any woman's birth, whatever her choices might be in terms of pain management, etc.  

I cannot recommend Sakinah as a doula highly enough.   Please feel free to contact me with any questions.

Sincerely,

Empowering choice.

*DONA trained, certification pending
*New York State Licensed Massage Therapist
*Nationally Certified Massage Therapist (NCBTMB)
*Certified in pre and perinatal massage therapy
  New York State license pending

To contact Sakinah
email her at sakinah.irizarry@yahoo.com