Welcome to

Centered Beginnings Doula

Supporting growing families in Central Washington
Free Consultation

Your experience matters!

  1. 60%
    reduction in epidural requests

  2. 40%
    reduction in forceps use

  3. 31%
    reduction in oxytocin use

  4. 28%
    less likely to have a cesarean section

  5. 25%
    shorter labor

  6. 9%
    less likey to use any pain medication

What is a doula?

Doula (n): a trained professional who provides continuous physical, emotional and informational support to a mother before, during and shortly after childbirth.

Find out what a doula can do for you with a free consultation!

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The Vision

Centered Beginnings Doula started in Central Washington with a desire to help families thrive and feel empowered. The overall vision is to support families however they deem fit.

Every birth is a unique experience. The approach to each relationship starts with creative collaboration which oftentimes includes hands-on care, encouragement and a desire to make the birth experience as positive and memorable as possible.

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The Goal

To empower you with the knowledge and skills you need to make confident decisions that are right for your family. The intention is that you feel heard, validated and respected every step of the way. Whether you are a first time parent, a parent with multiple children, single parent or surrogate – your experience matters.

Your needs, your baby, and your family are unique! Your care and support should reflect that.

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ASHLEY MELIN

My name is Ashley Melin (pronounced Muh-leen), and I am a certified birth doula through DONA International with training from Bastyr University's Simkin Center for Allied Birth Vocations. I believe birth is one of life's most intimate and transformative experiences, and I strive to provide compassionate, nonjudgmental support that allows families to feel connected, empowered, and supported as they transition into parenthood.

I am also a certified bereavement and miscarriage doula with training from The Miscarriage Doula. After experiencing four miscarriages, I realized how vital compassionate, informed support is during such a difficult time. As I worked through my grief and found a healthier place both mentally and emotionally, I recognized that many other families were carrying similar losses and seeking the same kind of support I once needed. It is my hope to extend this support to the community I serve.

Outside of birth and bereavement work, I spend most of my time with my husband, Mitch, our son, Owen, and our loveable golden retriever, Millie. Together we enjoy outdoor adventures, camping and traveling whenever we can. I also find joy in painting, cooking, baking, sewing, and organizing–and above all, in finding ways to help others.

DOULA

Learn more about what I do

Services

I strongly believe in a mother’s ability to trust her body and intuition, and in the importance of surrounding families with encouragment and support. As a family doula, I work with mothers, partners, and children–providing evidence-based care that helps everyone feel informed, prepared, and supported throughout the birth journey.

I also offer bereavement/miscarriage support at no cost.

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What to expect

Birth Support ($1600-$2100)
During labor, I guide families through comfort measures such as position changes, breathing techniques, and visualization. I encourage mothers to trust their bodies and invite partners and children to be involved at whatever level feels right.

My goal as your Doula is to support you in achieving the birth experience you desire. I focus on ensuring your family feels informed, prepared, and supported every step of the way. I am available to answer questions throughout the process–and if I don't have the answer immediately, I will work with you to find it.

My services include a free consultation, two prenatal visits, birth support, two postpartum visits, and 24/7 phone, text and email availability.

I work with your medical care team whether you choose hospital care or midwifery care at home or at a birth center. I do not provide medical services and do not provide support for unassisted births at this time.

Birth Plan Preparation ($150)
I offer up to two hours of virtual support to help you prepare your birth plan by helping you explore your options, clarify your preferences, and understand the choices available to you. Together, we'll discuss topics such as comfort measures, interventions, and newborn care so you feel confident and informed. My goal is to ensure your birth plan reflects your values and wishes while remaining flexible for the unique journey of labor and birth.

Bereavement and Miscarriage Support (no cost)
As a miscarriage doula, I provide compassionate support for families navigating the pain of pregnancy loss as well as the unique emotions that come with pregnancy after loss. I offer a safe, understanding space to process grief, share resources, and explore coping tools, while also providing encouragement and reassurance for those moving forward in hope. My role is to walk alongside you with empathy and care, honoring both your loss and your journey ahead.

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Ways I can support you

I provide physical assistance during labor

I offer emotional reassurance and support before, during, and after labor

I help enhance communication between you and your medical care team

I help prepare your family and support them during birth

I help you and your baby initiate breastfeeding

I am here for you and your family in the event of loss

Pricing

What's Included

  • Initial consultation

  • Two prenatal visits

  • Labor support

  • Two postpartum visits (second visit optional)

  • One meal provided

  • 24/7 phone, text, and email support

If your circumstances do not allow for these fees, please contact me anyway. We can work together on a flexible payment arragement that works for you.

I believe all mothers should have the right to doula care, whether they can afford one or not. It is an honor to assist mothers have the birth they desire. I make allowances for mothers who need pro-bono birth doula care and offer low-cost fees on a case-by-case basis.I have several years of experience supporting families through Sky Valley Midwifery in Ellensburg and Yakima, Kittitas Valley Hospital (KVH) in Ellensburg, Yakima Valley Memorial Hospital (YVMH) in Yakima, Samaritan Hospital in Moses Lake, Astria Toppenish Hospital in Toppenish (now closed), Prosser Memorial Hospital (PMH) in Prosser, Kadlec Regional Medical Center (KRMC) in Richland, Swedish Issaquah Campus in Issaquah, The Birth House by Sky Valley Midwifery (formerly Watershed Birth Center) in Yakima and several home births thoughout Central Washington. As an independant birth doula, I will support you wherever you are planning to give birth.

Although I do not provide support for unassisted births at this time, I can refer you to a doula that does.