Hi! I’m SJ.
Postpartum Doula, Chef and Sleep Counselor
I’m a Postpartum Doula, Chef, and Sleep Counselor, and I’ve spent my entire life working with families.
I started babysitting at ten years old and never really stopped. Over the last decade I’ve worked as a nanny with families across New York, supporting parents through the everyday realities of caregiving. During that time, I became especially drawn to the postpartum period and the transformation families go through when they bring a baby into the world.
I pursued a Master’s degree in Urban Planning at Hunter College because I wanted to answer a bigger question: How can families be supported at an institutional level?
What I learned along the way was surprising and clarifying. While there are many policies and programs designed to support families, my deepest strengths (and my heart) live in hands-on, in-home care. I wanted to be with families where life is actually happening: in the kitchen, in the nursery, in the quiet moments of exhaustion and joy.
So I followed that calling.
I began cooking for postpartum families and quickly saw how deeply mothers needed nourishment….not just food on the table, but nourishing meals designed to help them heal postpartum. I listened as parents struggled with infant sleep and became certified as a Sleep Counselor through Moorea Malat. I noticed fear and uncertainty around babywearing and trained with Adriane Stare to help parents feel confident and connected while wearing their babies. I witnessed how deeply mothers needed to be touched and cared for postpartum, and studied with Yiska Obadia to offer restorative massage for tired, caregiving bodies.
Again and again, mothers told me, “SJ, I feel like my stomach is an empty suitcase after birth.” That led me to study postpartum core recovery with Lara Kohn Thompson and Beth Donnelly, and postpartum nutrition with Alicia Allison, so I could better support strength, awareness, and nourishment after birth. To better support rest and restoration, I trained with Abby Paloma in restorative practices for mothers.
Along the way, I’ve listened to countless conversations between parents with different perspectives, needs, and hopes. I’ve learned how to witness families with compassion, supporting all members of the household, (pets included!) with care and respect.
Postpartum is an entire world of care. And I truly believe I was put on this planet to support families during this time.
I became a postpartum doula because I believe mothers are the foundation of human and ecological well-being. We often prepare extensively for birth, yet what comes after is overlooked. Our culture has a deep care gap, one that leaves mothers without the rest, nourishment, and guidance they need to heal.
My goal is to help fill that gap, even in small ways through warm meals, sleep support, hands-on care, and steady presence.
Because when mothers are supported, entire families and communities thrive.
A little about me…
Since 2021, I’ve supported over 20 families in New York as a Postpartum Doula, Sleep Counselor, and Postpartum Chef. My approach combines compassionate witnessing, practical tools, and evidence-based care to help you embrace the postpartum journey with strength and maybe even a little fun!
I’m certified in postpartum doula care, lactation support, infant sleep counseling, and postpartum nutrition. My services include meal preparation tailored to postpartum recovery, guidance on establishing healthy sleep rhythms, and restorative practices like yoga and massage to support your healing postpartum.
When we work together, my goal is to create a nurturing, supportive environment that allows you to recover, bond with your baby, and thrive in this new chapter of life.
Trainings and Credentials
NOURISH Trained Postpartum Chef Alicia Allison of Clover & Timothy - 2022
Postpartum Doula Training with Erika Davis of Wholebody Pregnancy - 2021
Lactation Training with Francie Webb of Go Milk Yourself - 2022
200-hr Yoga Teacher Training with Amy Wren of Boston Yoga School - 2020
Restorative Teacher Training with Abby Paloma - 2023
Sleep Counselor Training with Moorea Mallat - 2024
compassionate witnessing
Some moms just need to sit on the sofa and be heard, some moms want to explore gentle movement, and some moms want to be tucked into bed while they know the baby is cared for. Whatever it is, I hold space for your unique journey by providing a safe, empathetic presence as you bravely navigate the joys and challenges of postpartum life.
practical tools
I equip you with practical, actionable tools to ease your postpartum transition. Whether it’s creating a sleep plan, offering newborn care tips or strategies for managing feeding, streamlining household routines or learning baby soothing techniques, I’ll guide you in building confidence and finding what works for you and your baby.
evidence-based care
Your postpartum care should be grounded in the best available knowledge. I combine up-to-date research with a personalized approach to support your recovery, parenting choices, and overall well-being. From breastfeeding guidance to mental health resources, my care is rooted in science and compassion.
