About Lisa – Doula in SW London
Here I am with my crew: my husband Tim, and our three brilliant kids — Caleb, Elsa, and Merryn.
Let me tell you a bit about how I came to be a doula, and why I care so much about the work I do.
Why I Became a Doula
When I was pregnant with my first child in 2012, I knew almost nothing about pregnancy or birth. I was the “baby” of my family, and none of my close friends had children yet.
I quickly discovered just how much there was to learn. I was shocked to find out that at least 1 in 25 women in the UK are reported to develop PTSD following birth — with many more having difficult or traumatic experiences.
I always felt in my heart that birth wasn't something to be feared but that I would need to be prepared and able to advocate for myself and my choices. I couldn't just "go with the flow" and hope for the best.
That turned out to be essential: I developed gestational diabetes, and navigating my birth choices became even more important. In the end, I had one hospital induction and two beautiful home water births. You can hear the full story in the first episode of my podcast.
I learnt so much and my passion for positive birth was ignited.
When Caleb finally arrived, I realised I’d spent all my energy preparing for the birth — and none on what it would actually be like to care for a small human. The transition into motherhood was harder than I expected, even with loving support around me.
I felt so deeply the lack of societal support and open conversations around what it truly means to become a mother. In those early weeks, I remember thinking again and again:
“Why has nobody told me this?”
I was kinder to myself with each postpartum period I had, but I still would have loved a doula alongside me to help me mark all three of those transitions for the sacred time they were. To encourage me to pause, prioritise, and accept support. To nurture me as I deserved, and as you deserve too.
This is my story. I would love to make a positive difference to yours.
My Training and Experience
Lisa at RCOG World Congress after staying
up all night for a birth!
Before having children, I worked as an Occupational Therapist in the NHS, helping people work toward meaningful goals in their health and wellbeing.
Since becoming a parent, I’ve spent the past 12+ years deepening my knowledge and experience around birth and the transition into parenthood.
Highlights include:
- Fully recognised Birth & Postnatal Doula with Doula UK
- Over 50 families supported at birth
- Accredited Diploma in Antenatal Education (2021)
- Volunteer with the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (2019–2023), helping improve communication in maternity care
- Trained Birth Companion supporting women facing inequality and disadvantage at their births
Additional Specialist Training:
- Breastfeeding Outpatient Champion with IABLE
- Biomechanics for Birth with Molly O’Brien.
- Birth Debriefing with Mia Scotland
- Doula Skills with Natalie Meddings
- Mindfuless for birth training with Nadia Rafaat
- LGBT+ Competency in Perinatal Care workshop with the Queer Birth Club
- Three-step process for birth trauma with Birthing Awareness
- Supporting All Births & Cultural Competency with Mars Lord
- Photography Skills for Doulas – I love to capture your amazing journey for you if you choose this as part of my service (no additional charge).
If you’re looking for support and think we might be a good fit, I’d love to hear from you — please do get in touch.
