our doulas:
Melissa Chakmakian
Mother Tree Birth & Postpartum Doula

Ever since the day my first baby was born peacefully at home, I had wanted to pay forward the beautiful gift I received from those who attended. I was blissfully awakened to the possibilities that birth brings along with the incredible opening of one's soul to the world around them. I believe in the very personal and powerful nature of birth and in a woman's ability to birth any way she chooses. I am deeply grateful to be in the presence of growing families during such an important time.

I have a passion for the natural birth, homebirth, vbac, and for supporting non-traditional families on their journey into parenthood. I excel at being flexible, keeping perspective and in honoring choices made by a birthing woman and her family. I enjoy being a bridge for families with their caregiver and providing information and education when the need arises. I also have experience with hypnobirthing and am open to the many wonderful and unique ways that babies can be brought into the world.

I received my doula training through Birthingway College of Midwifery in the fall of 2009. I also completed a childbirth educator's workshop there in 2010.

I was born and raised in the Portland area, and spent time living in Chicago and Los Angeles. I received a Bachelor of Fine Arts Degree from the School of the Art Institute of Chicago in 1998 with a focus on fiber art. I have a passion for knitting and weaving and spent more than 10 years of my life in yarn shops, ultimately owning one of my own at age 26. I love yoga, cooking and little kids.

I delight in the joy of raising my 6 year old, Charlie and my 4 year old Mary with my beloved husband and partner of almost 16 years.

"Melissa is a rockstar doula with a wealth of knowledge, objective advice - offered only when asked, communicates with compassion and humor and steps ahead on her journey as a doula - winning favor with new and experienced staff and moms all around." -Shirley

"I'm so grateful for your help and support, for always sharing the worst case and keeping me grounded, for being my inner voice when mine was somewhere else, for helping (my partner) feel and be involved and comfortable by my side, and for helping me feel in charge and safe at the hospital." -Anne

Please contact us:
Portland ~ 503-343-9911
Vancouver ~ 360-635-5666
...or contact us online!