Erin D. in Los Angeles, CA

I am a birth worker and power embodiment alchemist that uses a variety of skills and modalities to holistically and radically empower my clients during one of the biggest adventures of their lives. I began my career empowering women as a sexual assault counselor in the non-profit sector, over a decade ago. I have since volunteered with and worked for numerous domestic and international non-profits—the majority of which have specifically served to protect women’s rights and/or inspire women-centric socio-economic development. In June of 2016, I—with my partner by my side—was able to confidently navigate a traumatic birth experience and postpartum period with my daughter, Elliotte. The experience opened my eyes to the important role that a supportive birth team plays in taking charge of one’s birth story. Now I am able to look back on that time with great pride. After training as a birth and postpartum doula with DONA International, I created Alayla Birth. The name “Alayla” is derived from the Ancient Greek goddess, Ἀλαλά (or Alalá), who was the female personification of the battle cry, or call to arms. It is also the middle-name that my partner and I gave our daughter after we not only survived, but thrived after late-onset preeclampsia, a pre-mature and unplanned cesarean birth, and a rocky first year as a result of policy-before-patient care. My experience is what inspires the Alayla Birth approach to birthwork, and the name honors the fighting spirit that I hope to nurture in all of you.