• B.S. in Sociology, Law, & Justice, Minor in Public Health, University of Minnesota Twin Cities
• Master’s of Public Health (MPH) in Maternal & Child Health, University of Minnesota School of Public Health
• Birth Doula Training, DONA International (Certification In Progress)
• Postpartum Doula Training, DONA International (In Progress – Available Starting December 17th, 2024)

From a young age, Katie has been passionate about nurturing and supporting babies and families, ultimately leading her to pursue an education in public health focusing on maternal and child health. As she progressed in her studies, she became increasingly concerned about the lack of recognition and support for the challenges families often face during pregnancy, birth, and the postpartum period. Her education also deepened her understanding of the various factors contributing to barriers to achieving health and well-being for both parents and children. This insight only strengthened her commitment to advocating for care that empowers families, reduces preventable health issues, and creates a supportive space where everyone can thrive through one of life’s most transformative and vulnerable experiences.

Katie’s journey took a profound turn at age 22 when she was faced with a significant medical diagnosis that shifted her perspective on how healthcare can and should be provided. Going through such a transformative health experience gave her firsthand insight into vulnerability, resilience, and the importance of compassionate, individualized care. Navigating chronic illness has taught her the power of choosing strength over surrender—a lesson that deeply informs her approach to birth work. Through this experience, it became clear how crucial it is to have support during transformative moments, helping to make difficult experiences feel more manageable and empowering.

This personal transformation, combined with her education in maternal and child health, further fueled Katie’s commitment to becoming a doula and pursuing a career in birth work. She knew she wanted to offer others the same support and care that had helped her heal, find strength, and navigate challenges.

With her background in public health, Katie understands the importance of integrating evidence-based practices into care and deeply values informed decision-making. She is committed to offering guidance that empowers families, reduces stress, and fosters a more positive experience for everyone involved. Additionally, Katie believes that emotional support—which creates a sense of safety, calm, and connection—can make a world of difference. She recognizes that the emotional aspect of the journey—whether during pregnancy, labor, or postpartum—is just as crucial as the physical. For her, it’s essential to create a space where families can freely express their feelings, concerns, and hopes without judgment, and feel supported every step of the way.

Every person and family is unique, and Katie approaches each with an open heart and mind, ready to adapt and support in whatever way is needed. Whether planning to start a family or adjusting to the postpartum period, her goal is to create a space where families feel seen, heard, and fully supported—empowered to make the best decisions for their health and future.