About Erin Gabriel

I was raised in Erie, PA with my parents and two sisters. I moved to Fredericksburg in 2006 with my husband, when he got a job at NSWC Dahlgren. We now have three children and a cat. I am a DONA (Doulas of North America) International trained postpartum doula, currently working towards my certification. I am American Red Cross certified in Adult, Child and Baby First Aid/CPR/AED. I am trained in Suicide First Aid. I also have my Associates in Science from GCC. I feel strongly about evidence-based research. I have always been fascinated by pregnancy, birth and new life. I love working with all walks of life and learning about others' cultures and life experiences.

When I'm not doula-ing or chasing my own kids around, I love to read fantasy, historical fiction and nonfiction. I dabble in crochet. I enjoy a good pun and Marvel movies.

Journey and Philosophy

Raised in a Catholic family, I grew up with A LOT of aunts, uncles and cousins always around. We had large gatherings on holidays and birthdays. There was always someone of age to be a mother's helper or babysitter. I learned early on the importance of family and hospitality.

In my youth, I participated in several mission trips working with underserved families in Appalachia, providing summer camp opportunities for kids and a break for their parents. I learned I loved taking care of one another and working towards a common goal, all while getting dirty, having fun, and being myself.

After moving away from home, I have yearned for that sense of village, especially after having children of my own. My family stays connected, and we visit each other often, but I have found it vital to build my own village for myself and my family right where we live.

Many modern families today find themselves in a similar situation, whether they be military or drawn to jobs in the area. Without a village, where is the support and compassion of those going through the same phases of life and wisdom of those who have already walked in your shoes?

Personal Perinatal Experiences

I have experienced infertility, perinatal mood disorders, extended morning sickness, and gestational diabetes. I was monitored for borderline preeclampsia. I have been seen by phenomenal care providers and some not great care providers. I have felt respected and valued and other times have been forgotten.

I have been given upsetting test results and sent to the genetic counselor. I have sat through fetal echocardiograms. I had two genders revealed and had one gender kept a surprise. I have been 12 days past my due date, been induced early, and have birthed with and without pain medication. I have gotten out of the hospital in one day and been stuck there up to five days.

I have been fortunate enough to have breastfed, exclusively pumped and formula fed. I have had mastitis and sore nipples. I have tried cloth diapers, disposable diapers, and eco-friendly disposable diapers. I have worn my babies and pushed them in strollers. I have worked with Early Intervention and almost every medical specialty available.

I have not been through it all by any means, but I have been through enough to know every journey is so different and precious. We must hold space for each one. Everyone has their own triumphs and challenges. I am here to meet you where you are. I can help you reach your goals, whatever they may be without judgement.