About Earthy Births
Melissa Hentschel
Melissa has been married to her husband, Carl, since 2003. Melissa and Carl, both avid cyclists, live in Hickory Creek, Texas with their two children. Melissa holds a BA in Psychology from the University of Texas, Austin, is a DONA certified Birth Doula and certified Yoga Instructor, specializing in Prenatal and Mommy and Me Yoga. When giving birth to both her children, Melissa was inspired by nature and also by all of the women who went before her on this incredible journey. She worked hard to prepare her mind and body for the births of her children. Melissa firmly believes women were made to give birth naturally without intervention (in most cases). However, she also believes that no matter how a woman chooses to birth (i.e. hospital, birth center, at home, natural, epidural, etc.) that she deserves the unconditional support of a birth doula.
Because of those beliefs and her positive experience having a doula present at both of her births, she chose to become a doula. Simply having a doula present in the room has shown that overall, women are more satisfied with their labors and are less likely to experience medical interventions during labor than a woman giving birth without a doula. Melissa will work with you to help you achieve the birth of your dreams!
Deanna Van Brocklin
Deanna is married and lives in Lake Dallas, Texas. She and her husband, Jeremy, have two children. She went to school at the American Institute of Allied Health and is a Licensed Massage Therapist specializing in Pre/Post-Natal massage. It was during her massage therapy training and research that she learned about Birth Doulas. When she gave birth to her son she was unaware of the many alternative birthing methods that women have and deserve. Deanna was inspired by what she had learned and believes that women do have a choice to experience a birth that is meaningful to them. With this knowledge, and her experience in Martial Arts, she feels that a mind/body connection is beneficial in any situation. Deanna is currently a DONA certifying Birth Doula and hopes to provide the support you desire, both as your doula and massage therapist.