Melissa Vernon, Doula & Childbirth Educator

Hi, I'm Melissa! I'm a seasoned birth and postpartum doula and childbirth educator. I was drawn to this field ten years ago after the birth of my oldest son. Throughout my pregnancy, I lacked the support I truly needed from my provider. My birth included interventions I didn’t know I had the right to decline, which ultimately led to significant challenges during my postpartum period, difficulties with breastfeeding, and moments of self-doubt as a new mom. A year later, I discovered the role of a doula and was deeply inspired by the empowering work they do. This sparked my passion and commitment to ensuring other parents don't have to navigate this transition alone. 

 One of the things that I love most about birth work is education. When parents truly understand the birth process and the choices available to them, they approach labor and parenthood feeling more prepared and capable. This is where my workshops and classes come in. I take a holistic approach to teaching, emphasizing the mind-body connection and highlighting the power of physiological birth. Drawing from my years of experience, my workshops are thoughtfully designed to spark engaging discussions, with fun, hands-on learning that provide you with practical tools to navigate labor, birth, and the early postpartum period with greater ease.

I'm trained through DONA International, Women's Choice Perinatal Services, The Newborn Care Training Academy, and Lamaze International. In addition to birth-work, I have a background in parent coaching. I've served as a Parenting Specialist at a women’s treatment center for substance abuse, where I provided parent coaching to mothers navigating CPS involvement. This experience deepened my passion for supporting families in all walks of life, particularly those navigating complex challenges.

Originally from San Antonio, I now call Austin, TX home, where I live with my wonderful husband and our four kids. Outside of work, I enjoy a good audio book, trying out new recipes, thrifting for hidden treasures, and soaking up time with my family.