Who is The Manistee Doula?

Hello and welcome! I’m Chelsea, the heart and hands behind The Manistee Doula. My journey to becoming a doula is rooted in a deep love for holistic care, family, and empowerment through education. Here’s a bit about who I am and why I’m passionate about supporting families like yours.

I served as a Hospital Corpsman in the U.S. Navy from 2010 to 2015, where I developed a strong foundation in healthcare and patient advocacy. After my military service, I earned my Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) from Resurrection University in 2018 and worked as a registered nurse. While nursing, I became disillusioned with the traditional healthcare system and its approach to birth, and I felt called to make a more holistic, personalized impact in people’s lives.

In 2020, my family and I moved to Wellston, Michigan, where we began our homesteading journey. We’ve embraced a life focused on self-sufficiency, holistic practices, and connecting with the land. I homeschool our five children (mother of six!), and our daily life is rooted in nature, wellness, and sustainability. My husband and children are Anishinaabe, and this has fueled my passion for supporting Indigenous and other marginalized populations, providing care that is culturally sensitive and deeply respectful.

As a survivor, I am also dedicated to offering trauma-informed care. I understand the importance of creating safe, nurturing spaces where people can feel empowered and respected, particularly those who carry trauma into their birth or postpartum journey. My approach to doula care is rooted in compassion, patience, and non-judgment, helping every family navigate their experience with confidence.

I’m also deeply committed to supporting the LGBTQ+ community, ensuring that all families feel welcomed, seen, and supported in their birth journey. My belief in inclusivity drives my practice—everyone deserves personalized, holistic care that respects their unique identity and choices.

At my core, I believe birth is a natural process, not a medical event in most cases. I strongly believe in the importance of being informed and empowered to make decisions about your body and your birth experience. My role as a doula is to help guide you through this journey, offering support that is individualized and rooted in evidence-based, holistic practices.

As a doula, I am here to offer personalized care that honors your values and vision for birth. Let’s create a birth story that reflects your strength, resilience, and the choices you want for yourself and your family.