About Abby Mikkelson
I have felt the pull to work with birthing families ever since I saw my first birth video at age ten.
When my first child was born in 1994, with the support of a midwife and my mom, I realised how empowering a well-supported labour and birth can be, no matter how that birth happens.
After my son was born, I obtained my Bachelor of Applied Science degree in psychology with a minor in women's studies from the University of Minnesota. Through my studies and experience I was shown the importance of a strong support network during life's transition periods. As my life continued to unfold, I married, moved to Vancouver, British Columbia and gave birth to two more children.
In order to build my support network after the birth of my second child, I became a member of La Leche League, a mother-to-mother-breastfeeding support group. After three years as an active member, I decided to put my knowledge and experience as a breastfeeding mother to use as a La Leche League Leader. I was accredited as a La Leche League Leader in April 2005. I continued to lead monthly La Leche League meetings in Vancouver until 2008 when I retired from La Leche League leadership. My doula clients, however, continue to receive the benefit of my experience in La Leche League.
In March 2006, I took the DONA International approved doula course at Douglas College in New Westminster, BC. In March of 2007 I attended a Birthing From Within Level I mentor and doula training and my doula care continues to be inspired by the Birthing From Within approach and philosophy.
In the late winter of 2009 I began mentoring Birthing From Within classes through Dancing Star Birth. I'm primarily mentoring weekend immersions about once a month.
As a doula and former La Leche League Leader, and Birthing From Within Mentor I am honoured and privileged to witness and support women and their partners as they experience birth and unfold as parents.
Find out more about the services offered through Heartsong Birth
Heartsong Birth Abby Mikkelson Vancouver Doula Service
