About Leah - The Anchor
“I have always been a creature of the water.”
From the moment I began swimming unassisted at two years old, I felt a deep kinship with the rhythm of the waves. That early connection evolved into years of competitive synchronized swimming and the high-stakes discipline of waterfront lifesaving competitions.
Today, that lifetime of aquatic experience and over 10 years of professional expertise serves a different purpose: providing a calm, unshakable presence for families navigating life’s deepest waters.
A Decade of Holding Space
With over 10 years of experience as a doula, I have supported hundreds of families through changing tides. My practice is built on the belief that a peaceful transition is not a matter of luck, but the result of being well-informed and well-supported. Whether we are welcoming life or honouring its end, we deserve to do so with autonomy and dignity.
I bring a clear, evidence-based lens to every client I serve. I don’t just offer comfort; I offer context. From navigating the physiological milestone of childbirth—to understanding the complex rhythms of the postpartum period—or the clinical realities of pregnancy loss or end-of-life care. I help create the foundation you need to make empowered, autonomous decisions for your care.
Stillness, Science and Resilience
As someone who utilizes cold plunging and nervous system regulation to manage chronic illness, I have a personal, “in-the-trenches” understanding of how the body responds to stress and intensity.
I bridge the gap between mindfulness and biology. My experience in high-pressure environments has taught me how to remain analytical and decisive under pressure—a skill I bring into the birth room, the nursery, and the hospice space. I help you regulate your internal “tide”, using the science of the nervous system to find stillness in the middle of life’s most powerful currents. As a steady anchor, I help to ensure your care plan remains respected and your environment remains secure.
When you work with me, you aren’t just getting a doula; you are getting a seasoned guide who knows how to navigate the “deep end” so you don’t have to.
My Unique Toolkit
Every family I support—at any stage of life—benefits from a unique blend of professional tools:
Water-Based Wisdom: Beyond my history in competitive swimming, I hold specialized training in waterbirth safety and offer the therapeutic effects of water in baby’s first bath, or those soothing assisted last showers of life. I understand the physics and the peace of water and make every effort to make them accessible, whether in a home, hospital or hospice setting.
The Mechanics of Mindfulness: I teach mindfulness not just as a concept, but as a physiological tool to manage pain, anxiety, and grief by shifting the body’s stress response. Whether through prenatal meditations or simply learning and integrating the qualities mindfulness as a life transition approaches, clients experience the scientific benefits of mindfulness.
The Science of Sound: Drawing on my vocal music background, I use sound, song, and personalized playlists as a tool for grounding, fear release, and relaxation. Through intentional vibration, I help birth clients find their labour rhythm and end-of-life clients find a peaceful, sonic environment for letting go.
Evidence-Based Advocacy: I am a relentless learner! My toolkit is constantly updated with the latest research in maternal health, neonatal care, and death-positive practices. I work alongside (never against) healthcare practitioners to create the most smooth, fluid experience for my clients.
My Professional Training
As a Doula, I maintain up-to-date with continuing education. Over the years, I have taken the following trainings to add to my knowledge base.
CAPPA Birth & Labour Doula Training
ProDoula Childbirth Education Certification
Home Hospice Association Death Doula Training
Power Yoga Canada Certification of Mindfulness Meditation Training
Waterbirth Support Staff Certificate of Training
The Farm Midwifery Centre Midwife Assistant Training
Breastfeeding & Lactation Support Training
Fetal Positioning Training
Infant CPR-C/First Aid (always up-to-date)
Why Choose “Doula By The Bay” ?
Leah is an independent doula, not an agency, so what you see is what you get. With the belief that continuity of care is an essential element to safety in doula care, we do not rotate doulas or send strangers to your home unless back-up care is requested.
Doula work is unregulated in the province of Ontario, meaning anyone can call themselves a doula. Leah has an elevated level of education, training, and professional standards to ensure clients receive top-notch care and education. Safety-first! Leah balances and evidence-based knowledge base with holistic care to keep clients safe — physically and emotionally.
After a decade in the field, Leah has broadened her practice area from Toronto to the shores of Georgian Bay to align her work with the very environment that restores her….. the water. Leah’s philosophy is simple: Life comes in waves. She is here to help you ride the tide, understand the currents, and find your footing.
Whether we are preparing for your birth, settling into the gentle ebb of postpartum, or walking toward the quiet shoreline of a life’s end, Leah is your your advocate, your gentle guide, and your anchor.
Care Consultation
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