The Dutch Doula
A bit about me
My Doula Do's
Provide loving and continous reliable support
To listen, to hear, to validate and
help you grow in confidence
Signpost to evidence based information, specialised organisations and local support groups
Help with preparations so you
and your partner (if applicable) are as
ready as can be for the
amazing adventure that lies ahead
Guide you to make informed decisions
Help creating and holding a safe space
Be as hands-on or hands-off
as you want me to be
Work client lead
My Doula Don't's
Perform any clinical tasks
Make medical diagnoses
Make decisions for you
Project my own beliefs onto your experiences
Judge your decisions
Past life...
Being born and raised in the busy cities of the Netherlands it was quite the jump (over 20 years ago) to move to rural Carmarthenshire in Wales.
Have not looked back since.
After having worked in Cardiology for nearly two decades I went back to school to do an art degree and after graduating I became a self-employed designer/maker of craft products.
Being emerged in creativity not only gave a lot of joy, it also very clearly brought the message home that I can't escape caring for others.
It is an undeniable part of my genetic make-up and is deeply connected to my own sense of well being and purpose in life.
(If you like, watch this little video that I made back in the day - since then devadesign has changed to haverkamp design).
Current Life...
So fast forward, here I am as a doula.
Finally, a lifelong collection of dots and threads have miraculously come together in this wonderful and amazing profession.
I love being able to share my calm, my care, my warmth, my knowledge, and I would feel deeply honoured to be by your side to offer support during this very special, life changing period in your life.
In this day and age, sometimes everything can feel quite overwhelming, fragmented, and even devoid of humanity.
With my support I aim to counterbalance any worries or concerns and encourage confidence and trust in your own innate wisdom and strength, should you feel the connection is obscured.
Interests...
In addition to all things doula related, I love indulging in creative activities to satisfy that persistent itch.
I am also interested in mid-century to modern furniture and interior design, meditation and non-duality, holistic therapies, veggie recipes (although I'm not a 100% strict vegetarian) and sustainability.
My travels - more in the past than in recent years - have opened my eyes to different cultures and I'm always eager to learn more about various customs.
Oh, and I don't mind watching some sports on tv (still living in hope that somebody can explain those rugby rules to me!).
