Lactation - Supporting Your Breastfeeding Client

I began my career in women’s health in 1995, without even realizing it. I volunteered at a women’s clinic in Chicago run by a group of diverse, but like- minded women (considered radical by some). We all agreed that everyone deserved to be listened to, to be treated with respect, and to have access to health care. Unfortunately, it seemed like a novel idea to many outside of our walls. But the work done at this particular clinic inspired me to leave my job as a theater producer and go to midwifery school so that I could do my part in changing health care. I have worked with women in hospitals and clinics in Russia and Guatemala, which has only solidified my belief that we all want the same thing: respect, good health, and support. Since then, I have collected many licenses and certifications, but the original passion is still there.

I graduated from the midwifery program at the University of Washington in 2005. I continued to earn a post-masters certification in Women’s Health and was also certified as an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant. Though I am a midwife and feel honored to have been a part of so many babies coming into the world, I no longer attend births. Instead, I focus my practice on working with women throughout the other stages of their lives, providing well- woman care, including, but not limited to annual exams, birth control, and breast health care. Because I want to stay in the baby world, I also specialize in lactation issues. Before opening Eastside Total Health, I provided lactation support through home visits, and worked in various women’s health clinics. I recently published my first book: I Can Breastfeed, Visualizing Your Way to Breastfeeding Success.

As ETHL grew, it became clear that it was time to expand. With that expansion came some changes, including adding more providers, and more services, such as pelvic floor therapy and family building via fertility awareness and inseminations.

It humbles me that so many women and their families have trusted me to be a part of their health care.

I am certified by or a member of the following organizations:

• Advanced registered nurse practitioner (ARNP)
• International Lactation Consultant Association
• American College of Nurse-Midwives
• National Certification Corporation
• International Affiliation of Tongue-Tie Professionals