About

After more than a decade teaching preschool and becoming a parent 8 years ago, I decided to expand the ways I support families to include birth work and doula services.

I grew up in California and have been living in NYC since attending Barnard College. I now live in Brooklyn with my partner, our two cats and our “baby” who is now an amazing Kindergartner. I completed a full-spectrum doula course with Birthing Advocacy Doula Trainings in 2021 and began collaborating with Brooklyn Birth Collective in 2022. My transition into full-spectrum doula work is informed by my deep knowledge of child development, my experiences with tiny humans in and out of the classroom, and years of supporting parents through learning and social-emotional challenges. I empower parents-to-be and parents with evidence-based resources, hands-on comfort methods, breath work, and compassionate emotional support.

When not supporting parents-to-be and parents, I love snuggling my cats and family, biking, reading, and writing. And I try to find my way to the water and waves whenever possible.

“Marina was a fantastic partner during our birth experience. We had done all sorts of reading and taken classes prior to labor, but it was a constant comfort to have someone with Marina’s experience during the (many) stressful decision-points along the way. Marina is caring, patient, non-judgmental, and smart. Not only her expertise in positioning, massage, showers, scents, etc, but also her general tone of calm and competency helped us through the experience of our first baby. Hire her as your doula, and thank us later!” -Chris, Brooklyn, NY

My philosophy is that one of the best ways to support and care for children is to provide support and care for the grown-ups in their lives. None of us grow and change through shame or judgment; we all need compassion and connection. I will meet you as you are, wherever you are on your journey. I will ensure you have the evidence-based information you need to choose what is best for you and your family, working from the assumption that everyone is an expert on themselves.

I look forward to supporting you on your journey! Please reach out to me at marina.guides123@gmail.com or through this website to chat further.