Yoga Mamas has evolved — welcome to kāer. Learn More.

wellness concierge

Meet the kāer Team

At kāer, we believe in whole-person wellness. Our team brings together diverse expertise—from acupuncture and physiotherapy to fitness, doula care, and client support—so you feel supported in every aspect of your health journey.

 

Everyone shares a commitment to evidence-based care, compassionate guidance, and creating a safe, welcoming space. Whether you’re seeking pain relief, strength and movement, or nurturing support through life’s transitions, our team is here to meet you where you are.

 

Together, we form a community dedicated to helping women feel strong, connected, and cared for.

Client Care

Jamie Kalynuik

Jamie Kalynuik, Founder

Jamie Kalynuik is the Founder and CEO of kāer, and the quiet force behind its evolution.

More than a decade ago, she created Yoga Mamas as a place for women to feel supported in pregnancy and early motherhood. In doing so, Jamie opened Toronto’s first maternal wellness clinic, helping set a new standard for integrated care in the city. As the community grew, she listened closely to what women were asking for next — fertility, postpartum recovery, pediatrics, perimenopause, and long-term wellbeing. The care expanded because the women did. kāer is the name that now reflects what this space has become: a home for exceptional care across every life phase.

Jamie has spent 13 years building a multidisciplinary clinic known for thoughtful, evidence-informed, whole-woman care. She leads with an uplifting kind of support — for her team, and for the clients they serve — believing that the strongest clinics are shaped in relationship, through deep listening and steady refinement.

As a mother, she understands the tenderness and intensity of life’s seasons firsthand. Her philosophy is rooted in balance and daily wellbeing. Self-care is not something we reach for only when we are depleted, but something we weave into ordinary life. Small, steady rituals. Consistent care. Wellbeing that is lived, not postponed.

Through kāer’s pathways, culture, and community-first approach, Jamie continues to shape a thriving space where women feel oriented in their season, supported in their decisions, and held for the long arc of their lives.

Wellness Concierge

Janet Hill, General Manager & Wellness Concierge

My name is Janet and I’m a mom of two incredible girls (Neva, and Loie) who were born 10 years apart. Raising two truly unique humans together with my partner is clearly exactly where I am supposed to be in life and these years have taught me so much.  I am absolutely still learning along the way. I first came to kāer as a client. My daughter was 6 years old at the time, so I didn’t exactly fit the demographic-or at least that’s what I thought. There were two things I’ll never forget about my initial visit to our studio. First was the space. As a person with a creative background and a degree in fine arts, I am so aware of the impact that space, order and light have that can really elevate your creative mind and unlock a sense of calm within. These were elements of the studio that I instantly appreciated. I felt like I could escape for a moment and was inspired by the layout and brightness of each room. Every item had its purposeful place. For a busy mom, this level of detail brought peace and clarity to a season in life that can be perfectly messy and unpredictable.

Looking back, what was most unforgettable was how I was made to feel when I walked in. I was warmly welcomed, given a tour, and guided to my class. I felt welcome, valued and included- like I belonged here. And these are feelings we need to experience now more than ever.

If you’re landing on our website for the first time you may be wondering: Which one of these services is for me? And when should I book them? My job is to help you navigate through our offerings, answer your questions, and walk alongside you as you experience the amazing benefits of each one with our team of caring professionals and it is truly my pleasure. I’ve been a yoga instructor for almost two decades, and I owe a lot to the benefits of my yoga practice. I can’t wait for you to experience the joy of community, wellness, and support that Kaе̄r strives to bring to every mama in our neighbourhood and beyond.  I can't wait to meet you.

kristine

Kristine Squire, Director Marketing & Programming

As the director of marketing and sales at kāer, I bring many years of experience in marketing and communications, grounded in a deep passion for women’s health and wellness. I’m a mom of two, and it’s both my personal and professional mission to see women thrive through every stage of life.

My career began in agency and nonprofit settings, where I learned the impact of meaningful storytelling, community connection, and thoughtful brand building. But it was my own experience as a kāer client — through pregnancy, recovery, and the evolving realities of motherhood — that reshaped my path. The care I received changed the way I understood my wellbeing, and I felt compelled to help more women access the same support.

Today, I lead kāer’s marketing and sales efforts with a focus on education, accessibility, and elevating the latest in women’s health. I’m dedicated to creating spaces where women feel informed, empowered, and cared for — ensuring that the modalities that can transform their wellbeing are known, understood, and within reach.

kayla profile pic (2)

Kayla Berry, Clinic Care Coordinator

Sophia Neff

Sophia Neff, Clinic Care Coordinator

Naturopathic Medicine

Toronto Naturopathic Doctor

Dr. Aida Martinez

Dr. Aida Martinez, Naturopathic Doctor

Registered Naturopathic Doctor Dr. Aida Martinez works out of the kāer Wellness Clinic offering Naturopathic Care for adults, babies and children. As part of her care she also provides acupuncture treatments and intramuscular vitamin injections. Dr. Aida also provides online daytime and evening appointments.

 

After completing a Bachelor of Science from the University of Manitoba, Dr. Aida's love and fascination of natural methods of supporting the human body's innate healing potential grew, which led her to her training in homeopathic medicine.A few years later, she aspired to expand her knowledge in modern and traditional forms of medicine and became a Naturopathic Doctor in 2014. She uses a less-is-more approach to her care plans for her patients and strives to create a non-judgemental and collaborative relationships with them.

 

She is very results-focused and blends a combination of acupuncture, herbs, homeopathic remedies, nutrition, supplements, vitamin injections and lifestyle guidance to achieve this.

With over 15 years of clinical experience and having experienced the magnificence of pregnancy and birthing, the heartbreak of pregnancy loss and the wonderful journey of raising children, she brings a wholehearted approach to the world of pediatrics, fertility, pregnancy and postpartum care.

TCM Acupuncture

Registered Acupuncturist

April Kowaleski

April Kowaleski, R.Ac

 

April is a Registered Acupuncturist (R.Ac) with the College of Traditional Chinese Medicine Practitioners and Acupuncturists of Ontario (CTCMPAO).

 

She started her journey in health care 35 years ago as a pharmacy technician at the Hospital for Sick Children. When she started having children of her own, her focused changed to natural health and she became a holistic nutritionist. After having children, April fell in love with the birth process and turned her focus to working as a birth and postpartum doula, supporting families through this wonderful but sometimes challenging stage of life. She worked as a doula for 15 years, and at this point, decided to study Acupuncture. She had witnessed many times the power of Acupressure points during labour and decided to make this medicine the next step in her journey in health care.

 

April uses her experience and education to help people move through the many stages of life. She can treat both mental and physical aliments to help create balance and good health in the body.

tomoyo - square profile kaer

Tomoyo Furusho

Tomoyo Furusho, R.TCMP, R.Ac

Tomoyo is a Registered Traditional Chinese Medicine Practitioner and Registered Acupuncturist under the College of Traditional Chinese Medicine Practitioners and Acupuncturists of Ontario (CTCMPAO). She believes a holistic approach is key to achieving optimal health at any stage of life.

 

After earning her diploma in Applied Holistic Nutrition, her passion for holistic health led her to study Traditional Chinese Medicine. She completed a Diploma in Practitioner of Traditional Chinese Medicine at the Toronto School of Traditional Chinese Medicine. Tomoyo's personal journey has inspired her to focus on women’s health, particularly reproductive, prenatal, and postnatal care, utilizing a holistic approach.

 

Her goal is to help people become familiar with Traditional Chinese Medicine and enjoy the benefits of its ancient wisdom.

 

Services available in English and Japanese.

Registered Acupuncturist in Toronto

Paola Borges

Paola Borges, R.Ac

Paola is a Registered Acupuncturist (R.Ac.) with the College of Traditional Chinese Medicine Practitioners and Acupuncturists of Ontario (CTCMPAO). She originally trained and practiced as a Medical Doctor in Brazil, driven by a deep passion for healthcare and a desire to help others. After working for two years as a general practitioner, Paola moved to Canada in 2019 and transitioned to a career in acupuncture. She was inspired by the remarkable results she observed in her patients' healing processes through acupuncture.

 

Paola combines her extensive Western medical knowledge with the principles of Traditional Chinese Medicine to provide holistic support for health and well-being. Her particular focus is on women's health, a passion that deepened when she became a mother and personally experienced the emotional and physical challenges of perinatal and reproductive health. Paola is dedicated to supporting women throughout their perinatal and reproductive journeys, offering compassionate and knowledgeable care. She values the stories and experiences of her patients and enjoys building meaningful connections with them.

 

Services available in English and Portuguese.

Online Chinese Herbal Medicine Practitioner

Viola Wong

Viola Wong, R.TCMP, R.Ac

Viola is a highly qualified Traditional Chinese Medicine Practitioner and Acupuncturist, registered with the College of Traditional Chinese Medicine Practitioners and Acupuncturists of Ontario (CTCMPAO). She earned her bachelor's degree in Traditional Chinese Medicine from GuaZhou University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, receiving a comprehensive education in both theory and practice. To further her expertise, Viola completed her master's degree in acupuncture at Hong Kong Baptist University.

 

With over 6 years of experience gained from working in hospitals and clinics in China and Hong Kong, Viola has treated a diverse range of patients and addressed various health concerns. Her clinical background has enabled her to develop a deep understanding of Traditional Chinese Medicine principles and techniques. Viola's commitment to excellence is evident through her additional certifications in pain management, oncology, pediatrics in Chinese medicine, community psychiatry, facial acupuncture, and gynecology. These certifications reflect her dedication to staying current with the latest advancements in the field and ensuring the highest quality of care for her patients.

 

While Viola possesses expertise in various aspects of Traditional Chinese Medicine, her primary focus is on women's health care. She has a special interest in helping women achieve optimal well-being through holistic and natural approaches. Viola is devoted to creating personalized treatment plans that may include herbal medicine prescriptions, acupuncture, facial needling, TCM massage therapy (Gua Sha), cupping, and lifestyle recommendations.

 

Viola takes a compassionate and caring approach to her practice. She takes the time to attentively listen to her patients' concerns, conducts thorough assessments of their conditions, and develops tailored treatment plans to meet their specific needs. Her dedication ensures that patients feel comfortable and confident on their journey to improved health.

Massage Therapy

Toronto RMT

Susan Lamb

Susan Lamb, Registered Massage Therapist

Susan is a year 2000 graduate of the comprehensive three-year program at Centennial College. She has consistently worked in a variety of treatment therapies, including pre and post-natal care, cranial sacral therapy, lymph drainage, cupping and restorative exercise. She is also an educator at Centennial College and Canadian College of massage and hydrotherapy. She looks forward to seeing you at kāer!

Susan has been a Registered Massage Therapist for twenty years and has been treating prenatal / postnatal clients for twenty years.

Toronto Registered Massage Therapist

Sandra Pasquali

Sandra Pasquali, RMT

Sandra Pasquali graduated from Sutherland-Chan and has been working as a Registered Massage Therapist at kāer for over 5 years. Her previous experience includes working at Sunnybrook Hospital's high risk pregnancy unit, and Sutherland Chan's prenatal clinic. Sandra has continued her education with additional training in Lymphatic Drainage techniques, breast health, manual scar release therapy, kinesiology taping, and medical acupuncture. In addition to manual scar release therapy, Sandra has also received specialized training in MPS Scar Release using the Dolphin Neurostim, to help release all types of scars including c-section scars. Scar release appointments with Sandra include manual and MPS scar release for best results. 

Sandra is passionate about women's health and helping women feel empowered and connected to their bodies.

Sandra leads her massages intuitively and works holistically to help identify the root cause of pain and discomfort. She adapts her treatments to each clients unique and changing needs Sandra ensures each treatment includes tailored aftercare in order to maintain and improve well being on an ongoing basis.

Sandra is prepared to help you maintain health and wellness in all stages of life, pregnancy, and postpartum. 

Toronto Registered Massage Therapist

Tracy Wong

Tracy Wong, RMT

Tracy graduated from Centennial College for Massage Therapy and is excited to return to kāer and work with the perinatal Community. Having lived a pretty active lifestyle growing up on the West Coast in Vancouver, her interest in wellness peaked at a young age.

As a practitioner, she likes to educate and empower her patients to take an active role in their treatment goals. Whether it be a stiff neck, stress relief, or a post-surgical treatment, she is by their side every step of the way.

During her treatments, she encourages her patients to focus on their breath and slow things down to connect their mind and body. Focusing on the small wins while having our eyes on the bigger picture.

In her down time, she can be found on a nature trail in the fall with a hot cup of joe and a big warm scarf or strapped into a snow tube in the winter flying down the hills. Otherwise, she will be travelling and stuffing her face with all the yummy food the world has to offer. Food is fuel but also delicious!

Toronto Registered Massage Therapist

Marion Penny

Marion Penny, RMT

Over the past ten years, Marion has dedicated her practice to Women’s Health, with a focus in fertility, pre and post-natal care and all of the stages in between. Her journey with infertility, having experienced both the physical and emotional challenges that can arise, has driven her passion for maternal care. She is also one of the few RMTs with a dedicated focus in breast health, having published a paper in UHN’s Princess Margaret’s Breast Care Centre. and feels this is an area that needs to be better supported.

Marion provides a safe space for those going through their own journey and provides the necessary care and support that her clients deserve. She listens to her clients, and always ensures their needs are met by providing personalised care. As a mother of two she strongly believes in ‘nurturing the mother.’

Marion graduated from Sutherland Chan in 2008. She holds a certification in paediatric massage and has facilitated workshops for infant massage to new parents in the GTA. To ensure the best possible care for her clients, she is currently in the process of becoming a fertility support practitioner.

Toronto Registered Massage Therapist

Jazmine Stinson

Jazmine Stinson, RMT

 

With over a decade of experience in wellness entrepreneurship, Jazmine brings a seasoned perspective to her practice as a Registered Massage Therapist. She is
dedicated to providing a grounded space where care is both purposeful and deeply restorative.

 

A graduate of Sutherland-Chan, Jazmine’s clinical foundation includes
hospital-based rotations at Sunnybrook’s high-risk pregnancy unit, Toronto General Hospital, and Lyndhurst Rehabilitation, as well as experience in Sutherland-Chan’s
perinatal clinic. She also has experience providing scar tissue release for top surgery clients within the community.

 

Jazmine’s client-centered approach is slow, focused, and collaborative, treating each client as an active partner in their own care. Her treatments are designed to help balance the nervous system while alleviating physical restrictions, helping clients reduce pain and move with greater comfort and resilience. By integrating various techniques
such as Swedish massage, myofascial release, dynamic stretching, trigger point therapy, and reflexive techniques, she works with her clients to address the root causes of tension and support their long-term wellness goals.

 

Jazmine is also a Certified Holistic Nutritionist and Clinical Herbalist with certifications in yoga and birth/postpartum support. Her personal journey into parenthood inspired her to
found Little Tree Wellness, a botanical wellness company focused on family health.

 

As an RMT, Jazmine is dedicated to supporting individuals through all life stages, including infants, children, and parents.

Registered Massage Therapist in Toronto

Krysta MacNeil

Krysta MacNeil, RMT

Krysta is a Registered Massage Therapist with more than 15 years of clinical experience and a proud mom of 3 little ones. Her practice is centred on working directly with her clients on their individual needs and loves making them feel better than they did when they walked in.

Krysta has worked mainly with MVA's and athletes over the years. On her journey to becoming a mom she found her passion in pre- and post-natal health. She is a lifelong learner and values continuing her education to better support her clients.

Krysta knows firsthand that mothering is a unique experience for everyone. She feels that having a safe community to be nurtured, encouraged and recharged is essential. That is why she is very excited after years of being a guest at kāer to now becoming part of the team.

Registered Massage Therapist in Toronto

Lisa Wideman

Lisa Wideman, RMT

Treating both physical and emotional stress, Lisa encourages her clients to take an active role in their therapy by learning about their bodies and working to maintain and improve their overall wellbeing.

Though Lisa has worked in various clinics over her 14+ year massage career, she has found her work at kāer to be some of the most fulfilling. Having gone through the journey of pregnancy, and beyond, she is aware of how essential self care and support is for new mamas and mamas-to-be.

Lisa’s passion is working with children. She believes that getting an early start in self awareness shapes how we develop and continue living as adults.

Toronto Registered Massage Therapist

Katie Woodford

Katie Woodford, RMT, Craniosacral Therapist

Katie has been a practicing Registered Massage Therapist since 1995! Her passion is to deliver the best care through listening to her client's needs and tailoring the best approach to treatment to meet those needs. 

Her specialities include Swedish, myofascial/deep tissue, Orthobionomy and Craniosacral techniques.  She has worked with many pre and postnatal clients throughout the years as well as infants and children. She has recent training as a Labour Support Provider/Doula and looks forward to building upon these skills with the wonderful kāer team!

Katie is also a QiGong practitioner and finds this ancient Chinese art involving breath work and stretching exercises can be a wonderful tool to share with her clientele to help with stress and pain relief.

Registered Massage Therapist in Toronto

Chanelle Gardner

Chanelle Gardner, RMT

Chanelle is a Registered Massage Therapist, Fascial Stretch Therapist and Personal Trainer. As an ex-competitive athlete she has endured numerous injuries that she has worked through - which is what led to her to start offering bodywork when she saw first hand the its effect on her wellness and how valuable your body is. Since starting in this line of work, she has felt such joy in being able to help clients get relief from pain. She has been able continue her education to be able to better serve clients and to be able to give them a well rounded, holistic approach to their individualized treatment.

As a new mom, Chanelle experienced the physical and emotional challenges of pregnancy and postpartum firsthand. This personal journey has deepened her understanding as a massage therapist, making it even more fulfilling to provide relief and relaxation to others during this transformative time.

Chanelle focuses on long term sustainability in her treatments, recommending exercises, mobility work and stretches to help further your progress in getting your moving better and living pain free.

Registered Massage Therapist in Toronto

Elizabeth Stewart

Elizabeth Stewart, RMT

Elizabeth's treatment style is rhythmic and soothing. She uses a variety of techniques tailored to each client. Whatever your needs, she creates a space of safety and serenity, approaching everyone with empathy and compassion. With extensive experience in pre and post-natal massage, Elizabeth is dedicated to helping her clients feel their best. She believes that massage is nurturing for both the body and the mind.

Elizabeth also has advanced training in lymphatic drainage from the Dr. Vodder School. This type of massage targets swelling and water retention, often a specific concern during and after pregnancy. She loves helping clients manage the discomfort this brings via massage and self care education, while providing relaxing treatments.

Elizabeth graduated from the Sutherland-Chan School of Massage Therapy in 2019, where she first discovered her passion for pre and post-natal care. Now she devotes her career to working with people in all stages of childbirth and parenthood.

Elizabeth provides in-clinic care on Thursdays and Sundays.

Toronto Registered Massage Therapist

Deana Wort

Deana Wort, RMT

Deana graduated from Sutherland-Chan in 2002 and over the years has developed a very diverse skill set, deeply rooted in evidence-based, patient-centered care. Deana has four years of teaching experience in Massage Therapy, which has strengthened her foundation as a therapist.

Deana’s approach to care is a balance of therapeutic techniques with a focus on trigger point therapy, deep tissue, and myofascial restrictions. Deana thrives in helping her clients with acute and chronic pain issues and the rehabilitation process in their recovery. She is passionate about her work and her goal is to help patients achieve optimal health and wellness.

Toronto Registered Massage Therapist

Shuya Zhang

Shuya Zhang, RMT

Shuya is a Registered Massage Therapist with a deep love for her work. She has supported clients of all ages, from babies to adults, and brings a gentle, attentive presence to every session.

Her treatments combine Swedish and deep tissue massage with techniques such as Tuina, Lymphatic Drainage, Cupping, and Gua Sha, creating care that is both nurturing and therapeutic. With experience in baby massage and a growing passion for supporting mothers through their wellness journey, Shuya is dedicated to helping families feel cared for through every stage of life.

Currently studying Traditional Chinese Medicine, she is expanding her knowledge to integrate Eastern and Western approaches to health. Shuya is excited to join the Yoga Mamas team and looks forward to supporting both mamas and little ones with warmth and care.

Chiropractic Care

Toronto Doctor of Chiropractic

Kari Edman

Kari Edman, Doctor of Chiropractic

Dr. Kari is an experienced Doctor of Chiropractic with over 20 years of experience with a focus and specialization in perinatal and pediatric care.

 

Background
Throughout her career, Kari has focused her practice on family care, both her own and that of her patients. She is dedicated to helping individuals become the best version of themselves and achieve optimal health. 

 

Approach to care
Kari is known for her patience, thoughtfulness, and attention to detail. Her empathetic nature and strong listening skills enable her to understand patients' personal experiences and consider them when providing care. She maintains open and respectful communication, allowing her to make the best decisions for her patients. With a proactive approach to health and wellness, she ensures that individuals and their growing families have everything they need to be healthy and productive.

 

Kari looks forward to helping patients on their personal wellness journeys.

 

Kari's Qualifications include:

  • Doctor of Chiropractic (Canadian Memorial Chiropractic College)
  • Webster Technique Certified (Prenatal care)
  • Member of ICPA (International Chiropractic Pediatric Association)
Toronto Doctor of Chiropractic

Nicole Procyk

Nicole Procyk, Doctor of Chiropractic

Dr. Nicole is a Doctor of Chiropractic with over 9 years of experience with a focus and specialization in prenatal and pediatric care.

 

Pregnancy and Postpartum Care
Nicole is an advocate for chiropractic care for the whole family for optimal health. Her holistic and comprehensive approach to care helps educate, empower and inspire entire families to improve their health and wellbeing in a proactive manner. Whether you are pregnant or postpartum, experiencing low back, hip or pelvic pain, SPD, adaptations in posture or looking for an optimal pregnancy and labor she will help you to be as comfortable as possible along this incredible journey. She provides safe, specific, gentle, effective adjustments and custom supportive exercises, to achieve your goals and improve your quality of life. 

 

Pediatric Care
With years of experience working with infants and children with numerous challenges, she is able to create a warm, stress-free environment for not only the child but parents as well. Nicole welcomes your baby to get assessed by a chiropractor with experience with infants as the birth can be be quite an ordeal not only for you but baby too. This can help support and enhance your baby's function through difficult challenges such as kinematic imbalances, torticollis, plagiocephaly, breastfeeding and those ever important developmental milestones

 

When she is not working, she can be found adventuring in nature, trying a new workout or DIY project and spending time with her family.

 

Nicole’s Qualifications include:  

  • Doctor of Chiropractic (Life University)
  • Webster Technique Certified
  • Member of the ICPA(International Chiropractic Pediatric Association)
  • DONA International trained birth doula
  • BIRTHfit Professional training
Toronto Doctor of Chiropractic

Elisa Petricca

Elisa Petricca, Doctor of Chiropractic

Background  
Dr. Elisa Petricca is a family Chiropractor and Acupuncture provider with a special interest in pre and post natal care as well  as pediatric care.  

 

She grew up in the suburbs of Toronto and was a competitive  dancer for many years. She has always had a strong passion for movement and overall health and wellness. Elisa thoroughly enjoys the opportunity to make connections  with all of her patients and provide them with the best quality of care. When not at the clinic, she spends her time practicing and teaching yoga, travelling outside the city and spending as much time as possible with family and friends.  

 

Approach to Care  
Elisa focuses on providing her patients with an individualized  plan of care to address their needs and goals. She has a special interest in working with women during and after pregnancy. Her continued education and training in the Webster Technique allows her to help pregnant mum’s find comfort during their pregnancy and maintain an active, healthy lifestyle.  

 

Elisa also focuses on pediatric care and addresses common concerns after birth including head positioning, feeding  difficulties, colic and sleep to name a few. She truly loves working with little ones and their families in helping them navigate through this new and exciting time.  

 

Elisa’s Qualifications include:  
 • Doctor of Chiropractic (Canadian Memorial Chiropractic  College) 

 • Medical Contemporary Acupuncture (McMaster University) 


 • Webster Technique (prenatal care) & member of ICPA  (International Chiropractic Pediatric Association)   


 • PIPS Intraoral Technique (for the pediatric patient)

  
 • Certified Yoga Instructor (250 hours) & Yoga Mamas Postnatal Yoga Training

  
 • GrowCo Postnatal Rehab Certification


 • Specialized training in MPS Scar Release using the Dolphin Neurostim, to help release all types of scars including c-section scars

Lactation Consulting

Lactation Consultant in Toronto

Sara Tomenson

Sara Tomenson, Certified Breastfeeding Specialist, Qualifying IBCLC

Sara is a Certified Breastfeeding Specialist, and Qualifying IBCLC (International Board Certified Lactation Consultant). Additionally she has received training in Advanced Lactation Consulting, Low Milk Supply Specialization, Oral Motor Skills, and Flange Fitting for Pumping. She has completed an abundance of clinical hours under the guidance of Paola Vallarino (IBCLC).

 

She has been working closely with families and young children for 16 years and is passionate about supporting and helping families achieve their feeding goals. Whether you are seeking breastfeeding support, guidance on pumping, or assistance in overcoming lactation challenges, her expertise and experience allows her to deliver amazing care and support, ensuring that you and your baby receive the highest level of attention and care.

 

Sara offers in clinic, at home and online appointments.

Lactation Consultant in Toronto

Deana Zacks

Deana Zacks, IBCLC

Deena is a certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC). She provides prenatal classes, feeding support, and education on introducing solids online, in person and in the comfort of your home.

 

She has an undergraduate degree in Kinesiology from York University, completed the Breastfeeding program at Mohawk College and has over 500 hours of clinical experience under the guidance of Paola Vallarino (IBCLC). She has received extensive training in identifying tethered oral tissues (tongue and lip ties), clinical management of low milk supply and other feeding challenges.

 

She is dedicated to helping families achieve their feeding goals, whatever they may be. Every baby and family is unique and Deena is passionate about providing holistic and non-judgemental support to anyone in need.

taya griffin

Taya Griffin

Taya Griffin, IBCLC

Taya is a breastfeeding mother with over 1,000 hours of clinical experience helping mamas to reach their breastfeeding goals. 

 

In 2007, she graduated from the Ontario College of Homeopathic Medicine with a Professional Diploma in Health Sciences and Homeopathic Medicine.  From here, she practiced as a Homeopathic Practitioner with a special interest in pregnancy, pediatrics and women’s conditions.

 

In 2011, she graduated from the International Breastfeeding Centre/ Newman Breastfeeding Clinic’s Lactation Medicine Program and In 2014  became an Internationally Certified Board Lactation Consultant (IBCLC). In 2019 she attended the IBCLC Master Class in New York learning additional techniques on how to help breastfeeding mothers and their babies.  

 

She teaches a "Breastfeeding Essential for Doulas and Health Care Practitioners" at our clinic and has educated high level executives with a desire to understand more about breastfeeding and how to support breastfeeding mothers. She also teaches yoga and pilates to a variety of prenatal and postpartum clients. 

Taya Griffin is available for online and home visit appointments.

Physiotherapy

Toronto Pelvic Floor Physiotherapist

Namita Patel

Namita Patel,
Registered Physiotherapist - Pelvic Health, Women's Health, Orthopaedic

Accepting new patients

Namita is a Pelvic Floor and Orthopaedic Physiotherapist with over a decade of experience. Namita specializes in treating prenatal, postpartum, and menopausal women facing issues such as urinary incontinence, pelvic floor weakness, pelvic pain, and post-surgery recovery.

Namita's commitment to her field is evident through her continuous pursuit of knowledge and expertise. She has undertaken a diverse range of courses to enhance her skills, including pelvic health, visceral mobilization, acupuncture, manual therapy, rapid neurofascial reset, and the improvement of pelvic floor function through spinal manual therapy. This extensive training equips her with a versatile set of tools to address the unique needs of her patients effectively.

Namita's approach to physiotherapy is rooted in a comprehensive and holistic philosophy. She combines hands-on treatment with the development of individualized exercise programs and provides personalized education to empower her clients in managing their conditions. Her compassionate and patient-centered care ensures that each person receives the attention and guidance needed to achieve optimal health outcomes.

Beyond her professional practice, Namita is an enthusiastic advocate for women's health and wellbeing. She is dedicated to promoting awareness and understanding of pelvic health issues, contributing to the overall betterment of women's lives.

Outside of her work, Namita finds joy in exploring new places, embracing outdoor adventures, and cherishing quality moments spent with her friends and family.

Registered Pelvic Floor Physiotherapist in Toronto

Lamiya Zaidi

Lamiya Zaidi,
Registered Physiotherapist – Pelvic Health, Women’s Health

Accepting new patients

Lamiya graduated from Queens University in 2012, with her masters in Physical Therapy. After working as a Orthopaedic Physiotherapist, Lamiya's passion for women's health led her to pursue further training in pelvic floor physiotherapy.

She works closely with patients who suffer from pelvic floor dysfunctions, with a focus on pre and post natal effects on the pelvic floor muscles. Her goal is to empower and help educate females to combat the effects of pregnancy and delivery on their bodies. 

Using a variety of treatment modalities such as manual therapy, functional taping techniques and exercise prescription, Lamiya creates an individualized treatment plan geared to meeting a patients' goals! 

In her spare time, Lamiya enjoys working up a sweat with yoga and spin classes!

 

Jocelyn Ye profile

Jocelyn Ye

Jocelyn Ye,
Registered Physiotherapist - Pelvic Health, Women's Health, Orthopaedic

Accepting new patients

Jocelyn Ye is a Registered Physiotherapist with a strong commitment to supporting women in overcoming pelvic health challenges and achieving their health and wellness goals. She holds both her undergraduate degree in Kinesiology (HBScKin) and her Master's in Physiotherapy (MScPT) from McMaster University, where she developed a deep passion for women's health and the impact of pelvic health on quality of life.

Jocelyn's approach to physiotherapy is holistic and patient-centred, drawing on her extensive education and personal experiences to provide personalized care for issues such as urinary incontinence, pelvic floor dysfunction, and pelvic pain. Having personally experienced pelvic health concerns, she understands the physical and emotional challenges her clients face. This deeper connection allows her to foster a safe, supportive environment, where women feel empowered to address their concerns and reclaim their quality of life.

Jocelyn Ye is dedicated to continuous learning, having completed courses in pelvic health physiotherapy, and always actively seeking out opportunities to further strengthen her skillset. This commitment ensures her clients receive the most up-to-date, evidence-based care tailored to their unique needs, helping them achieve optimal health and wellness.

In her spare time, Jocelyn enjoys exploring Toronto's vibrant cafe scene and is committed to ongoing professional development to stay at the forefront of women's health physiotherapy.

Toronto Registered Physiotherapist

Paula Jaloul

Paula Jaloul,
Registered Physiotherapist - Pelvic Health, Women's Health, Orthopaedic

Accepting new patients

Paula graduated with a Master of Science in Physiotherapy from the University of Toronto. She has developed a broad range of clinical experience, with a strong focus on pelvic health concerns, chronic pain management, and musculoskeletal conditions. Her pelvic health practice includes supporting individuals navigating prenatal and postpartum recovery, as well as those seeking to improve pelvic floor function and overall well-being at all stages of life, including urinary or fecal incontinence, pelvic organ prolapse, pelvic pain, diastasis recti, or menopause-related changes.

 

As a lifelong learner, Paula has also received additional training in Pilates and enjoys integrating these concepts into practice, particularly to support core control, breath mechanics, and functional movement - foundational elements of pelvic health.

 

Her approach to treatment begins with a comprehensive assessment to identify the underlying cause of symptoms. She integrates evidence-based techniques including manual therapy, soft tissue release, exercise prescription, and movement retraining, while also placing a strong emphasis on patient education and self-management. Each treatment plan is tailored to meet the unique goals, needs, and lifestyle of her clients, empowering them to take an active role in their recovery, long-term health, and return to the activities they love - whether that’s competitive sport, recreational exercise, or daily living.

Counselling

Registered Social Worker offering couples and individual therapy in Toronto

Sara Hashmi

Sara Hashmi, Registered Social Worker (RSW, MSW)

Accepting new patients

Sara is a Registered Social Worker, who is passionate about working with women, through all the beautiful, painful and chaotic seasons of life. She has experience working with children, youth, adults, couples and families. At kāer, she offers individual and couples counselling.

She recognizes every human comes with a variety of experiences in life, and takes a strengths based and trauma informed approach to counselling. She is passionate towards helping clients to strengthen their self care, and learn to nurture, soothe and care for their body, mind and soul. She takes a warm, gentle and authentic approach in helping clients to overcome challenges and strengthen coping strategies through difficult transitions, including pregnancy, birth, postpartum and through the fertility journey.

She takes an eclectic approach to counselling, incorporating models of therapy including Mindfulness- based techniques, Family Systems, Narrative and Relational approaches. She has experience supporting clients through perinatal grief and loss, relationship challenges, perinatal depression and anxiety, chronic health challenges and family traumas. Sara is a mother of a little boy, and continues to be inspired by her own healing journey, to help women find their own power within. Her hope is to support you on your healing journey, and help you to shine the light within yourself.

Additional Certifications:

  • Birth and Reproductive Trauma Program- Canadian Perinatal Mental Health Trainings
  • Family Therapy Training Program- The George Hull Centre for Children and Families
Registered Social Worker providing therapy in Toronto

Susan Haller

Susan Haller, Registered Social Worker (RSW, MSW)

Accepting new patients

Susan is a trained clinician with over 25 years experience providing exceptional care to self identified women across the lifespan. She has worked in the community, hospitals, primary care and private practice. She has a Master of Social Work from Wilfrid Laurier University and advanced ongoing training and supervision in Perinatal Mental Health.

Susan is the mother of 5 adult children which has provided her with a rich lived experience in parenting. She is also a grandmother of 6, keeping her up to date on the joys and challenges of present day parenthood.

Planning to become a parent or not to become a parent, navigating fertility challenges and/ or losses, becoming a parent, dealing with an infant, toddler, school aged child, or
teen can be stressful.

Navigating a shifting partner relationship or family relationships, managing mood and physical changes can be difficult.

Entering perimenopause or menopause and managing the accompanying physical and emotional changes can also be challenging.

Any major transition can be complicated and messy and at the same time joyful. It’s OK to hold seemingly opposites together at the same time, since life is rarely black and
white.

Susan invites you to talk about whatever you are experiencing in your stage of life, to try to make sense of it in a way that brings you understanding of yourself and the important
others in your life.

Toronto Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)

Kat Bayang

Kat Bayang, Registered Psychotherapist 

 

Hello! I’m Kat, a parent of three and a Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) offering individual and couples counselling at kāer. With over a decade of experience in perinatal healthcare and peer support, my practice is deeply informed by principles of anti-oppression, inclusivity, and cultural safety. I’m committed to providing compassionate and comprehensive care tailored to each individual’s unique journey. 

 

I house my practice in Filipinx Liberation Psychology and Relational Cultural Theory. This dual approach guides me to focus on relational dynamics and cultural attunement in therapy, while finding grounding in an eclectic practice that draws on various therapeutic techniques like Narrative Therapy, Somatic Therapy, Polyvagal Theory, and Internal Family Systems (IFS) to address your needs.

 

My background in midwifery also plays a significant role in my approach. The skills I developed through midwifery—such as harnessing agency and autonomy, offering emotional support and validation, being attuned to both physical and emotional needs, providing crisis care, engaging community and supporting people through significant life transitions—enhance my ability to provide thoughtful care through your own perinatal journey.

 

Topics close to my heart include: parental identity, relational dynamics and disconnection, obstetric violence, birth trauma, racism and discrimination, grief and loss, blending families, sex and pleasure, and raising interracial children. 

 

My hope is to journey with you as you establish clarity and insight, reconnect with your embodied wisdom and your restore trust in your innate ability to parent yourself, your children and/or your wider community. Your story is important, and I am eager to understand where you are, the challenges you face, and the future you envision. It would be an honour to support you on this journey.  

 

Related Certifications & Experience:

Toronto counsellor

Kimberley Orton

Kimberley Orton, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)

I am a Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) and a Registered Midwife (Inactive) with a background in birth work, grief work, sexual and reproductive health, and in supporting perinatal and general wellbeing. With a diversity of expertise and a deep understanding of the unique emotional challenges that arise during pregnancy, postpartum, and beyond, I can offer you a collaborative, trauma-aware, brave, safe, and nurturing space to explore and address concerns such anxiety, depression, fear, feelings of loss of self, existential questioning, identity disconnection, self-abandonment, betrayal, relationship issues, partner experience, body image challenges, and parenting adjustment difficulties. I can help you explore how trauma and grief reside in the body, help make the invisible visible with courage and creativity, and empower you to centre yourself as the expert of your own, unique experience.

Through evidence-based, feminist-based, relational-cultural, narrative, parts work rooted, and person-centred counselling, I aim to help you find balance and voice during your challenging and transformative life journeys and will support you to navigate the complexities of major life transitions, traumatic events, loss, intimacy challenges, separation, identity exploration, fertility, pregnancy, birth, postpartum, parenthood, and develop coping strategies to enhance developing connection and fulfilling relationships with self, family, expectations, and others.

I am a Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology graduate, hold an MFA in Creative Writing from UBC, and have a keen interest in storytelling and the ways people choose to share stories as a way toward wellness. When I am not supporting clients, I find enjoyment in writing short stories, working on my novel, listening to music, and spending time outdoors with my family hiking and hanging out on the dock of an old brick farmhouse in Creemore.

Registered Social Worker providing therapy in Toronto

Lisha Cash

Lisha Cash, Registered Social Worker (RSW, MSW)

Lisha is a counsellor and psychotherapist in Toronto. She completed her Master of Social Work at the University of Toronto, with a specialization in children and families. Lisha has a special interest in working with women as they navigate life and role transitions, specifically in the areas of pregnancy, motherhood, co-parenting, fertility, and loss. 

Lisha’s approach focuses on building a therapeutic relationship that encompasses trust and respect, while creating an environment that is safe for clients to explore the most sensitive areas of their lives. Working together with her clients, Lisha helps to identify their strengths and abilities, while helping empower clients to harness these in order to overcome obstacles in their lives. 

Each person is unique, therefore, Lisha utilizes a trauma-informed, eclectic approach to counselling, drawing from various theoretical orientations based on the client’s needs and presenting issues. These may include, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Mindfulness-based practice, and Solution-Focused frameworks. Lisha has received perinatal mood and anxiety disorders training by Postpartum Support International, which focused on the components of care surrounding pre and postnatal depression and anxiety, with advanced training in psychotherapy.

Lisha’s passion for this work was further ignited when she became a mom herself in 2018. 

Kinesiology

Fascial Stretch Therapist in Toronto

Sadie Hamilton

Sadie Hamilton, Registered Kinesiologist

Sadie is a Registered Kinesiologist who blends evidence-based kinesiology with a commitment to whole-person wellness. She earned an Honours Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology from Queen’s University, where she served as a Student Athletic Therapist with Queen’s Sports Medicine, supporting the Varsity Women’s Soccer team in injury prevention and rehabilitation.

 

BACKGROUND:
During her undergraduate studies, Sadie became acutely aware of how women’s bodies respond uniquely to training, stress, and recovery—particularly across menstrual cycles, aging, pregnancy, and postpartum phases. This focus continues to shape her graduate research and clinical practice as she supports the evolving physical and mental demands of women through movement-based and manual therapies.

 

PHILOSOPHY:
Sadie integrates manual therapy—including Fascial Stretch Therapy (FST) and osteopathic techniques—with tailored movement and exercise interventions such as ELDOA kinetic-chain exercises.

 

Modalities I may use:

  • Exercise prescription and intervention
  • ELDOA Kinetic Chain exercises and myofascial stretches
  • Manual therapy
  • Fascial Stretch Therapy
  • Manual Osteopathic techniques
  • Soft tissue release
  • Athletic/Kinesio taping
  • IFC/TENS
  • Therapeutic Ultrasound

 

CREDENTIALS + AFFILIATIONS

  • Registered Kinesiologist (R.Kin)
  • College of Kinesiologists of Ontario (member)
  • Ontario Kinesiology Association (member)
  • Ontario Association of Osteopathic Manual Practitioners (Student NP member)
  • Honours Bachelor of Science (Kinesiology) - Queen’s University
  • D.O.M.P student - Ontario Academy of Progressive Osteopathy
  • Fascial Stretch Therapy - Stretch to Win Institute

 

PERSONAL:
As a D.O.M.P. candidate at the Ontario Academy of Progressive Osteopathy, Sadie deepens her understanding of the body’s interconnected systems. This perspective guides her personalized care: she recognizes that each body responds differently and designs treatment plans that address individual imbalances, enhance adaptability, and promote long-term structural health. Dedicated to lifelong learning, she strives to make wellness accessible and to foster a compassionate relationship with the body. Outside the clinic, she enjoys running, practicing yoga, and spending time by the water.

Registered Kinesiologist in Toronto

Bethany Spiers

Bethany Spiers, Registered Kinesiologist

Bethany is a Registered Kinesiologist working with people throughout preconception, pregnancy and postpartum by using evidence-based research to treat and prevent injury and disease. She helps people with both pre-habilitation and rehabilitation to improve movement, pain, and quality of life.

 

BACKGROUND:
Bethany is dedicating her care in the maternal world focusing on pregnancy and postpartum. In addition to her perinatal experience, she has worked with a variety of populations including spinal cord trauma, geriatric, physical and mental exceptionalities and sports injury rehabilitation.

 

Her dedication to Women's Health began during her undergraduate degree at University of Toronto, where she found herself repeatedly studying various ailments that affect women. This led her to conduct various primary research studies, work in various perinatal clinics, and further her education on topics such as pelvic floor rehabilitation, prenatal kinesio-taping, fascial stretch therapy, and more.

 

Bethany is well versed with a variety of injuries from diastasis and the pelvic floor, to knees, hips, ankles, shoulders, and more. Aside from her clinical skills, her empathy and compassion create a welcoming and nurturing environment where her patients are truly cared for.

 

PHILOSOPHY:

Kinesiologists are Regulated Health Professionals that focus on preventing and rehabilitating injury, illness, and dysfunction. They utilize active care such as exercise prescription and intervention, manual care such as joint and tissue mobilization, and passive care such as cupping, NMES/TENS, and taping. Bethany believes that optimal patient care is achieved when we address the body as an interconnected system, rather than just individual parts. Her goal is to educate and empower people by providing the adequate knowledge and skills they need to achieve their wellness goals. She is a thorough believer in pre-habilitation, preparing people's bodies for pregnancy, labour and delivery. This helps prevent injury or dysfunction. Physical rehabilitation that builds upon pelvic floor, movement, and mobility is a cornerstone of her practice. As a Regulated Health Professional, Bethany ensures she stays up-to-date with current literature and ensures that she communicates this with her patients in a comprehensive way.

 

CREDENTIALS + AFFILIATIONS

  • Registered Kinesiologist (R. Kin)
  • College of Kinesiologists of Ontario (member)
  • Ontario Kinesiology Association (member)
  • Canadian Kinesiology Alliance (member)
  • Bachelor of Kinesiology - University of Toronto
  • Non-Internal Introductory Pelvic Floor Course - Pelvic Health Solutions - Certification
  • Fascial Stretch Therapy - Certification
  • THRIVE Exercise and Cancer - Certification

 

PERSONAL:
Bethany is a regulated health care professional under the College of Kinesiologists of Ontario and graduated with a Bachelor of Kinesiology from University of Toronto (2020). Bethany's goal is to provide outstanding care that helps people transition from preconception, maternity, and postpartum by addressing physical ailments and dysfunctions. During her spare time, Bethany is likely reading up on the latest literature, seeking new pelvic floor courses, or spending time outside exercising. As a Regulated Health Professional, Bethany feels it is essential that she provides individualized treatment plants that are patient-centred and research informed. "Your body is your only permanent home - let's take care of it. Together." "Our bodies go through many changes throughout our lives. With adequate attention, we can welcome these changes with grace, and keep you moving with ease. Let's do this, together.

EFT Tapping

Emotional Freedom Technique Practitioner

Karina Lusink

Karina Lusink is an EFT Tapping Practitioner, an artist, birth doula, and yoga instructor - passionate about supporting you in your big emotions. She is trained as an art therapist, and has been a part of this healing path since 2011. She is here to support sensitive human beings in navigating their emotions and regulating their nervous system. 

 

She witnesses with her birth doula clients how many fears rise up to the surface during pregnancy and absolutely loves the results from EFT tapping to prepare for giving birth and becoming a parent. Whether you are just beginning your fertility journey, or are a parent with little ones - she is here to help you be with the challenging emotions, and teach you to regulate your nervous system, finding more compassion to grow your ability to love yourself and your growing family.

Fitness

strength training and personal trainer in Toronto

Barbara Contreras

Barbara Contreras, Registered Health and Exercise Practitioner

Barbara tailors her approach to meet clients at their individual fitness levels, providing support, valuable resources, and empowerment unique to each person. She is currently pursuing a Pre- & Postnatal Coaching Certification with Girls Gone Strong and is dedicated to helping mothers recover from delivery, focusing on pelvic floor rehabilitation and safe training strategies before and after childbirth.

Whether you're new to fitness or looking to enhance your current routine, Barbara is committed to guiding you through every phase. She offers specialized programs for prenatal clients, including safe exercises to manage discomfort and build strength, as well as postnatal support that emphasizes core recovery, pelvic floor health, and effective workout plans that fit into busy mom’s schedule.

Toronto barre instructor

Lina Jiménez

Lina Jiménez, Fitness Instructor

Lina Jiménez is a registered yoga teacher and holistic lifestyle coach, certified fitness professional and personal training specialist. She is co-creator of the Barreworks™ fitness program.

Lina combines western and eastern approaches to health, kinesiology, movement, anatomy, injury prevention and rehabilitation to help encourage holistic and long lasting benefits for her clients.

Dance provides a great foundation for her work. She received her early dance training at the Academia de Ballet Anna Pavlova in Bogotá, and then completed the certificate program at the world renowned School of Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater in NYC. She has performed extensively across Canada, New York, Colombia, Mexico, Europe and Japan. Lina is the co-director of the humanitarian program Healing Through Dance.

barre, yoga and pilates instructor in Toronto

Ashima Suri

Ashima, Fitness Instructor

Ashima uses therapeutic movement as a tool for releasing old blockages to allow in healing. She would best describe herself as an intuitive healer.

As a Yoga and Barre Teacher, Ashima’s teachings emphasize on connection to the self through mind, body and spirit integration. She guides her classes using creative story-telling to engage best with class participants.

In addition to being a teacher, Ashima is an award-winning dance artist that has received a number of grants for her work in the arts and community. You can follow Ashima on her IG @ashima_limitless

Toronto prenatal yoga instructor

Jessica Nagy

Jessica Nagy, Yoga Instructor

Jessica first started practicing yoga as a way to manage the stress and anxiety of university life, and has continued to find her way back to her mat for support and connection over the years. After becoming a new mum, she was called back to yoga again to begin her teaching journey.

As a lifelong student of the body, Jessica offers classes that balance strengthening and stretching, along with a focus on breaking down the mechanics of movement to best serve you in your daily life.

Jessica believes in the deep connections among body, mind, and heart, and that you should always leave your mat feeling better than when you stepped onto it. She has completed more than 300 hours of training, including pre- and post-natal yoga, and a mentorship with one of Toronto’s most senior instructors.

If you crave a movement practice that is grounded, supported, and offers moments to challenge yourself along with a dash of humour, then you will enjoy any of Jessica’s classes.

Toronto prenatal yoga instructor and doula

Anuta Bondarenko

Anuta Bondarenko, Yoga Instructor
 

Anuta is a prenatal movement specialist, a birth and postpartum doula, and a mom of three. She helps you navigate pregnancy, birth and postpartum in a way that is holistic and empowering. With her guidance, you will be preparing your body and mind for the transition into parenthood in a way that is rooted in knowledge, trust and intuition, not in fear.

She is a somatic yoga teacher and a certified Body Ready Method ® practitioner and her skills set is especially valuable to those who are looking to have a physiological birth experience as well as VBAC clients. Her care is highly personalised and hands-on, when needed. She is also a trained patient advocate.

Her birth doula package offers four in-person prenatal visits, in-person support during active labour and birth, and one postpartum in-person visit. You also receive 6 weeks of virtual postpartum care and an option to sign on for more in-person postpartum visits focused on baby and new mama care, nourishment and processing your birth.


Certifications:

  • Intentional Birth Patient Advocacy Training
  • Rebozo in perinatal care with Collective
  • Rebozo training
    Awakening the Village Mentorship Program with Sasha Padron
  • Comforting Touch for doulas with Yiska Abadia
  • Birth and Postpartum Doula Training with DONA international
  • Body Ready Method® certified
  • Breastfeeding for birth professionals
  • Infant First Aid/CPR
  • Spinning Babies Workshop
  • Prenatal Yoga teacher training with Sasha Padron

Doula Care

doula care coordinator in Toronto

Kaia Sloley

Kaia Sloley, Doula Care Coordinator & Wellness Concierge

 

Kaia studied Politics and Health with a focus on health inequity, maternal health, and international development.

 

She has always had an interest in pregnancy and childbirth seeing it as area of health where there is potential for improvement and change through recognizing this as a special and transformative time in a woman’s life and utilizing practices that empower women and lead to more positive experiences.

 

Kaia completed her Birth Doula Training with us in June 2016 and is beginning her Childbirth Educator Training later this year.

Toronto prenatal yoga instructor and doula

Anuta Bondarenko

Anuta Bondarenko, Birth and Postpartum Doula

 

Anuta is a prenatal movement specialist, a birth and postpartum doula, and a mom of three. She helps you navigate pregnancy, birth and postpartum in a way that is holistic and empowering. With her guidance, you will be preparing your body and mind for the transition into parenthood in a way that is rooted in knowledge, trust and intuition, not in fear.

 

She is a somatic yoga teacher and a certified Body Ready Method ® practitioner and her skills set is especially valuable to those who are looking to have a physiological birth experience as well as VBAC clients. Her care is highly personalised and hands-on, when needed. She is also a trained patient advocate.

Her birth doula package offers four in-person prenatal visits, in-person support during active labour and birth, and one postpartum in-person visit. You also receive 6 weeks of virtual postpartum care and an option to sign on for more in-person postpartum visits focused on baby and new mama care, nourishment and processing your birth.

 

Certifications:

  • Intentional Birth Patient Advocacy Training
  • Rebozo in perinatal care with Collective Rebozo training
  • Awakening the Village Mentorship Program with Sasha Padron
  • Comforting Touch for doulas with Yiska Abadia
  • Birth and Postpartum Doula Training with DONA international
  • Body Ready Method® certified
  • Breastfeeding for birth professionals
  • Infant First Aid/CPR
  • Spinning Babies Workshop
  • Prenatal Yoga teacher training with Sasha Padron
Toronto birth and postpartum doula

Marj Wong

Marj Wong, Birth and Postpartum Doula

 

Marj is a birth and postpartum doula, a yoga / fitness instructor, an essential oil educator, and a mom of two! She is deeply committed to wellness as a holistic lifestyle.

As a DONA certified doula, Marj believes that it is within each birthing person’s innate wisdom and ability to give birth. Further, she believes that birthing should be an empowering experience.

 

Throughout both of her own pregnancies Marj practiced prenatal yoga, and she attributes her own remarkable birth experiences to her yoga practice and the HypnoBirthing method.

From motherhood, becoming a birth and postpartum doula was a natural progression for Marj and she quickly found herself fully immersed in supporting clients through pregnancy, labour and beyond. It is in this role where Marj feels her intuition, guidance, and personal experiences to be incredibly supportive and valuable.

 

Marj is a diaper free, breastfeeding, and HypnoBirthing advocate. She is trained in many comfort techniques and keeps her approach educational and informative. With her help, you will gain the confidence to nourish and care for your baby and yourself in the best way possible.

 

Credentials:

  • DONA International certified doula
  • Working with Multiples Training
  • Acupressure for Labour – Canadian Gynecology Institute of Chinese Medicine (CGICM)
  • Acupressure Comfort Measure Workshop for Birth Professionals – Better Birth 360 & AcuMassage Therapy Center
  • Trained in TENS Machine comfort measures ( DONA)
  • The Rebozo Connection – Gena Kirby Method
  • Prenatal Coaching Essentials – Birth Coach Method
  • Certified in HypnoBirthing – Support Techniques for Birth Professionals
  • Certified in Breastfeeding – Support for Birth Professionals (Level 1&2)
  • Hot HIIT Pilates Instructor Training
  • Certified Blooma Prenatal Yoga Instructor (Level 1&2)
  • Certified Bikram Yoga Instructor (750hrs)
  • Emergency First Aid & CPR/ AED
Toronto doula

Karla Jassoy

Karla Jassoy, Birth and Postpartum Doula

Karla is a dedicated birth and postpartum doula and childbirth educator with over 10 years of experience supporting families throughout Toronto. Her journey in this field has been driven by her passion for helping families navigate the beautiful and transformative experience of childbirth and early parenthood.

Karla's proactive nature, coupled with her skills as a good listener and highly organized individual, ensures that she is always ready to provide the best possible support to the families she works with. Her three young children are her greatest inspiration and motivation to be her best every day.

Karla specializes in creating personalized birth plans and providing holistic postpartum care, ensuring that each family’s unique needs and preferences are met. She also has a niche in supporting parents with sleep education, helping them establish healthy routines and confidence in their parenting journey. Karla also has extensive experience guiding parents through breastfeeding, ensuring they feel confident and supported during this crucial time.

Drawing from her experience as a ballet dancer, Karla incorporates ballet fitness techniques, such as barre, into her prenatal classes. These exercises are amazing for preparing the body for birth, promoting ease and calm during pregnancy and labour.

In her free time, when she’s not supporting families or teaching prenatal classes, Karla enjoys cooking and practicing ballet. She is fluent in Spanish, French, and English, which has enabled her to connect with people from diverse backgrounds.

Credentials:
● DONA-trained Birth and Postpartum Doula
● Member of the Association of Ontario Doulas
● Badt-Certified Childbirth Educator
● Hypnobirthing Practitioner
● Certified Sleep Educator
● Member of the Association of Professional Sleep Consultants
● Member of the Sleep Research Association
● Completed Newborn Baby Care Specialization at The University of Colorado
● Nutrition and Lifestyle in Pregnancy certification from Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität
München
● Certified in Clinical Aromatherapy
● Pursuing a degree in Health Science

suki gaetz

Suki Gaetz

Suki Gaetz, Birth and Postpartum Doula

Suki has a genuine, creative and real approach to life, whose passion for all things Birth and Babies motivated her to begin her next career journey as a fully trained Birth Doula.  She comes from past work experience in the field of Social Services helping women, children and families advocate for support through difficult stages and experiences of life.

As a doula, she is eager to assist women through their births, so that they can have the kind of experiences that they envision as they go through this beautiful and unpredictable moment.

She brings an easy-going, kind hearted and vibrant nature to the work with birthing people and their partners, and her ability to listen and empathize helps birthing individuals feel heard and understood.

Suki's credentials:
• Dona trained postpartum and birth Doula
• certified birth Doula through Dona
• social service worker diploma
• bachelors of sociology
• certified medical transcriptionist
• Health Canada standard infection control
• Dona infant sleep care for Doula’s course

Toronto birth and postpartum doula

Juliet Beckwith

Juliet Beckwith, Birth and Postpartum Doula

Juliet Beckwith is a full spectrum doula currently working in the GTA to support hospital and out-of-hostpial births as well as postpartum.

She possesses training and two years of experience in birth comfort measures, physiology, HypnoBirthing as well as a decade of care work, advocacy and conflict resolution. During postpartum, she is trained to support breast/chest-feeding, sleep, newborn care, and physical and emotional recovery.

Juliet strongly values informed consent and evidence-based care. In her practice she offers tangible, physical assistance, helping families develop tools to listen to intuition, access self-trust, and hone advocacy skills. She hopes you will leave working with her feeling like someone was truly there for you and you were celebrated with attention and care during a big moment in your life.

Toronto birth and postpartum doula

Melissa Acuña

Melissa Acuña, Birth and Postpartum Doula

Melissa is a full-spectrum birth and postpartum doula, herbalist, and holistic wellness advocate dedicated to supporting mothers through pregnancy, birth, and beyond. She provides compassionate, evidence-based, and intuitive care, honouring the physical, emotional, and spiritual journey of motherhood.

With a strong foundation in herbalism and holistic nutrition, Melissa has worked with medicinal herbs, crafting custom formulas to support pregnancy, birth recovery, and postpartum wellness. Her experience at Roncy’s Apothecary and Aiyana Nutrition deepened her understanding of nourishment and natural healing, allowing her to guide mothers in caring for their bodies with gentle, plant-based support.

Melissa supports mothers in a variety of birth settings, including hospitals, birth centres, and home births, with a special appreciation for the natural rhythms of birth. She helps families feel informed and confident, holding space for them to embrace birth with trust and support.

Having cared for children since her teens through teaching and childcare, Melissa brings a nurturing and intuitive approach to postpartum care. She also draws from her background as a dancer and her experience facilitating a women’s intuitive dance circle, believing in the power of movement and embodiment. Fluent in Spanish, she strives to make her care accessible to a diverse community of families.

Melissa sees birth as a sacred, transformative experience. She walks alongside mothers with warmth and wisdom, holding space for them to embrace motherhood with trust, strength, and support.

Credentials

  • Certified Full-Spectrum Birth & Bereavement Doula - Still Birthday
  • Postpartum Doula Certification - Birthing Supernaturally
  • CPR/AED First Aid Level C Certification - Heaven Can Wait Emergency First Aid Training
  • Mentored - By Charmaine Hinds, full-spectrum birth & postpartum doula
  • Community Herbalism - Commonwealth School of Holistic Herbalism
  • Current Herbalist Assistant - Gaia School of Healing (Ontario)
  • Basics of Breastfeeding - Laleche Legue
  • Birth Justice & Advocacy - Med Melenin
  • Water Birthing - The Giving Tree
  • Intuitive Dance - Dancing Eden
Toronto birth and postpartum doula

Adrienne Wetherell

Adrienne Wetherell, Birth and Postpartum Doula

Adrienne is a birth & postpartum doula, yoga teacher, and proud mama. She attended her very first birth in 2012 and was immediately hooked! Adrienne offers caring, compassionate, non-judgmental support to expectant parents and is honoured to work with families during such a life-changing time. As an experienced doula, she supports clients who are low or high-risk, who have had fertility challenges, previous traumatic births or pregnancy loss, anxiety, depression and trauma. 

A certified yoga teacher since 2005, Adrienne is passionate about making the practice of yoga a safe, nourishing and fun experience for her participants. She has taught in corporate, hospital and yoga studio locations throughout Toronto and has additional training in mindfulness, prenatal/postnatal yoga and trauma sensitive yoga.

Adrienne gave birth to her breech baby in September 2013 and has since been journeying through the joys and challenges of motherhood.

Credentials:

  • Birth & Postpartum doula training with DONA International 
  • Birth doula training with Heart of Birth
  • Breastfeeding for birth professionals
  • Acupressure for birth professionals
  • Spinning Babies Workshop with Tammy Ryan
  • First Aid/CPR
  • Yoga for pregnancy & birth
  • Postnatal yoga
  • Mindful Motherhood facilitator training (Cassandra Vieten, PhD)
  • Trauma Sensitive Yoga certificate program (The Trauma Center at JRI/Kripalu Center)
Toronto birth and postpartum doula

Rhondda Smiley

Rhondda Smiley, Birth and Postpartum Doula

Rhondda is a full spectrum doula, breastfeeding specialist, yoga & meditation instructor, who offers grounded and compassionate care to diverse families across Toronto. She feels honoured to be invited into some of the most important yet vulnerable moments of their lives.

She began supporting moms and babies over 15 years ago, providing breastfeeding support as a La Leche League Leader. Rhondda completed her first yoga teacher training with The Yoga Sanctuary in 2014, and soon added certification in prenatal and postpartum yoga. She has been practicing as a doula since 2015, and is certified by DONA. Her continuing education and certifications include: Rebozo, TENs Machine, When Survivors Give Birth, Birth Story Listening, Yoga Nidra and more. She holds a fine arts degree in dance, and has been practicing yoga for over 20 years. She has a Toronto Police Services vulnerable sector check, and Infant CPR and First Aid training.

Rhondda is devoted to your birth and postpartum experience. All of her training, skills and expertise are at your service, so that you will feel prepared and confident. She listens deeply to what is most important to you, helping you to navigate the many decisions that arise, while supporting your choices without judgement. She is committed to using the most current evidence-based resources. As a movement professional, she shares practices and positioning to optimize your pregnancy and birth. Rhondda's yoga classes are loved for their meditative slow flow that leaves you feeling more ease and joy in your body, mind and heart.

ali santin

Ali Santin

Ali Santin, Birth and Postpartum Doula

Rooted in a deep desire to help people, being a birth and postpartum doula comes naturally and easily to Ali. She feels at the heart of her role as a doula is meeting you wherever you are. Which means tailoring her approach to meet that of your individual needs.

As a mother of 2, she knows first hand that the pregnancy, birth and postpartum period can be overwhelming. In her experience having someone in your corner who is sensitive to your needs can ease the journey. 

Along with her experience, evidence based information, emotional and physical support Ali will always bring her love and care, nurturing you and your growing family. 

Credentials:

  • Birth and Postpartum Doula Training with DONA International
  • Advanced VBAC Doula Certification with the VBAC Link
  • Breastfeeding for Birth Professionals
  • Infant Aid/CPR
  • Spinning Babies Workshop
  • When Survivors Give Birth
  • Trained in TENS Machine Comfort Measures
  • Trained in Rebozo Techniques - the Gena Kirby Method
  • Pregnancy and Infant Loss Training with Doula Canada 
Toronto postpartum doula

Nwando Ononye

Nwando Ononye, Postpartum Doula

Nwando Ononye is a certified postpartum doula with a heart for caring for new families. She understands that the transition into parenthood can be both beautiful and overwhelming, and she is passionate about offering gentle support, reassurance, and guidance to help new parents feel confident and at ease.

Before becoming a doula, Nwando spent four years as a nanny, supporting families with infant care, early childhood development, and day-to-day family life. Her experience caring for little ones has given her a natural, calming presence and a deep understanding of what both babies and parents need to thrive.

With a warm and nurturing approach, she helps families feel more confident, rested, and supported. Whether through newborn care, postpartum recovery, or emotional encouragement, her goal is to create a peaceful, reassuring space where parents feel cared for as they care for their baby.

Toronto doula

Valeka Norbi

Valeka Norbi, Birth and Postpartum Doula

Valeka Norbi is an Ontario Certified Teacher and Certified Full Spectrum Doula with over a decade of experience supporting families, children, and individuals through transformative life moments. With a background in education and holistic care, I have worked in both traditional and specialized learning environments, teaching students from kindergarten to grade 8 while focusing on inclusive, culturally sensitive approaches to support diverse learning needs. 

As a full spectrum doula, I provide emotional and physical support during pregnancy, birth, postpartum, and bereavement, always prioritizing empowerment, informed decision-making, and healing.

My approach blends my expertise in education and doula care to offer families a compassionate, personalized experience. Whether guiding families through pregnancy or loss, supporting those with newborns, or offering childbirth preparation, I am dedicated to fostering trust, open communication, and a sense of empowerment. Passionate about community, advocacy, and healing, I work to ensure every family feels supported and confident during life’s pivotal transitions.

Registered Acupuncturist

April Kowaleski

April Kowaleski, R.Ac and Postpartum Doula

April is a Registered Acupuncturist (R.Ac) with the College of Traditional Chinese Medicine Practitioners and Acupuncturists of Ontario (CTCMPAO).

She started her journey in health care 35 years ago as a pharmacy technician at the Hospital for Sick Children. When she started having children of her own, her focused changed to natural health and she became a holistic nutritionist. After having children, April fell in love with the birth process and turned her focus to working as a birth and postpartum doula, supporting families through this wonderful but sometimes challenging stage of life. She worked as a doula for 15 years, and at this point, decided to study Acupuncture. She had witnessed many times the power of Acupressure points during labour and decided to make this medicine the next step in her journey in health care.

April uses her experience and education to help people move through the many stages of life. She can treat both mental and physical aliments to help create balance and good health in the body.

Toronto Birth and postpartum doula

Giselle Johnston

Giselle Johnston, Birth and Postpartum Doula (Currently on parental leave)

Giselle provides support to birthing people during labour, postpartum families and those experiencing pregnancy & infant loss & termination.

Giselle became a doula because they wanted people to feel safe, validated and well cared for during the unique transitions that one experiences once they become pregnant. Giselle is a lactation counsellor with clinical training (Newman Clinic). They continue to provide in person & virtual care for families through perinatal education, evidence based information, and an attentive ear-free of judgement. Their full spectrum practice is rooted in reproductive justice and anti-oppression.

Credentials:

  • DONA doula training
    Birthing From Within doula training
  • Karma Yoga Teacher training 200 hours
  • Lactation Medicine Student at the International
  • Breastfeeding Centre (Newman Clinic) (ongoing)
  • PAIL advocate - Pregnancy and Infant Loss Training
  • Car seat Technician CPSAC (The Child Passenger Safety Assoc. of Canada)
  • Abortion Support Skills Course with Full Spectrum Doula Circle
  • Acupressure for Birth
  • 9 years supporting twin families
  • Anti-Oppression training with SOY
Toronto birth and postpartum doula

Léa Beauvais

Léa Beauvais, Birth and Postpartum Doula (Currently on parental leave)

Léa is a Mama of one sweet soul and a lover of the perinatal period. Her own journey through matrescence (the transition to motherhood) sparked her passion for supporting parents through this vulnerable and life-altering season. She offers a compassionate, non-judgmental and trauma-informed approach to doula care. She also has a keen interest in helping parents process the time leading up to their birth and beyond, should they feel the call. She is here to lend a listening ear.

Léa has ample experience working with families from her many years as a parent and tot music teacher with Rainbow Songs. She also has training in prenatal yoga, kids' yoga, and Hatha yoga. She further supports families as a part-time receptionist at a prominent parent- and baby-centred health clinic. She is looking forward to supporting you!

Credentials:

  • Postpartum Doula training - Doula Canada
  • First Aid/CPR
  • Prenatal Yoga Instructor training - Yoga Mamas
  • Kids' Yoga Teacher training - Appleseed Yoga
  • Trauma-Informed Yoga training - New Leaf Foundation
  • 200h Yoga Teacher Training - Kula Annex
  • Music Teacher of Young Children with Rainbow Songs
  • Honours Bachelor of Applied Arts in Musical Theatre Performance - Sheridan College
  • Honours Bachelor of Humanities in English - McMaster University
  • Fluent in French

Educators

Toronto Childbirth Education Instructor

Corina Tudor

Corina Tudor: Certified Childbirth Educator, Doula & Yoga Teacher

Corina Tudor is a doula, yoga teacher, and childbirth educator. After leaving her career in academia in 2012, Corina began teaching yoga full time. When she started teaching prenatal yoga at Yoga Mamas in 2015, Corina devoted herself to supporting people during their perinatal journeys and became a doula and childbirth educator. She is certified through DONA for doula care and through Birthing from Within for childbirth education and has since supported over 150 families through full spectrum doula care and childbirth education. Corina also continues to teach yoga. 

 

Corina's approach to childbirth and postpartum education combines physiological and obstetric information with practical skills, decision making, and nurturing the transformation of the perinatal journey.  She believes that a childbirth education class should go above and beyond information you can find in a book. As such, she guides expectant parents through processing information, asking questions, making decisions, practicing a variety of coping skills, providing gentle baby care, and preparing for the journey of childbirth and parenthood. 

 

Corina is a mother of a very fiery little one named Rémi and lives in Riverdale. 

Toronto Infant CPR Instructor

Jessica Price

Jessica Price

Jessica is a First Aid and CPR Trainer, bringing over a decade of experience in emergency response and a passion for family wellness. After earning her undergraduate degree in the Child and Youth Care Program at Humber College in 2019, Jessica honed her skills as a lifeguard and swim instructor with the City of Toronto, where she became proficient in managing emergency situations.

 

Today, Jessica specializes in leading Infant CPR & Choking Workshops where she empowers parents and caregivers with the crucial skills needed to handle first-aid situations confidently and effectively. Her extensive background in emergency training makes her a trusted resource for parents seeking to ensure their children’s safety.

 

Jessica's expertise extends beyond first aid—having also completed her schooling at the Institute of Holistic Nutrition and Oh Baby School of Nutrition. She is a soon-to-be mother with a deep commitment to family wellness, integrating her knowledge of holistic nutrition to support overall family health.

 

Credentials:

  • First Aid and CPR Trainer from Life Saving Society (LSS)
  • Bachelor of Child and Youth Care from Humber College
  • Certified Holistic Nutrition with First Class Honors from IHN
  • Yoga Instructor 200 HRS from Yoga and Ayurveda Center
  • Fertility Awareness Method Educator from FEMM
Certified HypnoBirthing Instructor

Allison Thompson

Allison Thompson is a certified HypnoBirthing practitioner, hypnotist and parent. 

In addition to being a certified HypnoBirthing® instructor, Allison is also an EVIDENCE BASED BIRTH® instructor and brings the most up-to-date research into all of her classes.

She has three children who have taught her the importance of patience, presence and kindness. Having been a young single mother and an older married mother, she brings a wide array of experiences to her classes. 

 

She believes that giving birth can be a joyful experience and has a passion for empowering families to experience birth with love and peacefulness. She is committed to personal growth and practices Qi Gong and meditation to expand her compassion for herself and others. A researcher and analyst at heart, she never tires of learning about birth and is continually reading about evidence based practices while being firmly rooted in the philosophy that birth is a normal, human experience rather than a medical event. 

 

She believes that the best possible births occur when medical expertise is brought together with a deep respect for our bodies and our innate birthing wisdom. Birth is an aspect of our sexuality and as such, should be treated with love, respect, compassion and consent.

Adrienne Cote

Adrienne Côté

Adrienne Côté: Childbirth Educator and Doula

Adrienne Côté is a Mother, Holistic Nutritionist, Doula and Childbirth Educator. She has been working with clients in the prenatal and postpartum space for well over a decade. She's been working with Yoga Mamas Co since 2012.

 

After working for 5 years as a Counsellor at a not for profit with young parents, Adrienne became immersed in working with pregnancy, postpartum and newborns. It was during this stage of her life that she trained and certified as a Birth and Postpartum Doula and then as a Childbirth Educator. Since then she has supported over 300 families within these roles. 

 

As an Educator her goal is to provide a supportive and welcoming space where parents can ask questions, share knowledge and create community while learning about the birth experience and postpartum journey. She is passionate about supporting families in finding their power and increasing their confidence.

 

Adrienne is a Mother to a strong willed toddler who keeps her on her toes and reminds her daily that each moment is a gift. She lives in the east end of Toronto with her family.

“There really aren’t enough good things I can say about Adrienne, but let me try. Her classes were engaging, kept the students at ease and provided a safe open space, free of judgement to prepare for a new phase as parents. Her focus on the full gamut of pain management felt comforting but my favourite was her focus on the first 5 days postpartum because those get real…You’d be lucky to have Adrienne involved in any part of your pregnancy, birth, or postpartum experience.” -Simran D

Birth and Postpartum Doula Educator

Trena Gallant

Trena Gallant, Doula Trainer

Trena Gallant is a Fellow of the Academy of Certified Childbirth educators, a DONA Approved Birth and Postpartum Doula Trainer, Infant Massage Instructor, Certified Sleep Educator, Child passenger safety technician and HypnoBirthing Practitioner. Her passion for birth and babies began at a very young age, when she frequently offered her family pets doula support (much to their dismay), and helped care for the many foster babies who her parents welcomed into their home.

 

After graduating with her Bachelor of Arts, she began pursuing her education in birth and postpartum, and has been educating and supporting families in groups and individually for over 19 years. In addition to supporting families, Trena felt drawn to adult education, and went on to become a Birth and Postpartum Doula Trainer, and established one of only 24 Lamaze Educator programs in the world. Despite her many years of formal education, her most influential teachers continue to be her partner and their four amazing children.

Qualifications & Experience

  • DONA Doula Trainer since 2013 
  • Practicing Doula since 2004
  • Mother of 4
  • Childbirth Educator
  • HypnoBirthing Practitioner
  • Lamaze Educator
  • Certified Sleep Educator