How We Can Support You
Specialized Support for Your Unique Path. Get the continuous, attentive care you deserve, focused on empowerment and safety through pregnancy, birth, and recovery.
Hi! I'm Daina.
Here to support your unique journey with warmth, knowledge, and understanding.
For nearly three decades, I have navigated life’s most significant transitions alongside families and children across the country. My journey as a long-term military spouse instilled in me a deep understanding of resilience, logistical complexity, and the vital importance of a steady presence during times of upheaval.
As a Full-Spectrum Doula serving the heart of Central Washington, I provide more than just support—I provide Integrated Perinatal Navigation. With a Master of Science in Integrated Health Care Management (MSIHCM), my work bridges the gap between clinical systems and the lived human experience. I offer a trauma-informed, evidence-based framework that honors all reproductive pathways and outcomes.
My Strategic Focus: I am dedicated to serving a diverse spectrum of families, specializing in high-acuity stabilization for:
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System-Impacted Families: Including those navigating the justice system (MH/SUD), reentry, and domestic violence recovery.
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Complex Journeys: High-risk pregnancies, surrogacy, adoption, and families within the BIPOC, LGBTQ+, and Military communities.
My mission is to ensure that professional, high-level advocacy is not a luxury, but a standard of care. Whether in a resort setting or a community shelter, I am here to provide the knowledgeable, systems-level presence that every unique family deserves.
Daina Higley, MSIHCM, CD
She/Her
What Families Often Ask
Here are some of the questions I’m most often asked about my doula services. If you can’t find your answer here, feel free to reach out — I’m happy to help.
A doula provides emotional, physical, and informational support before, during, and after birth — but does not perform medical tasks. A midwife is a trained healthcare provider who manages the clinical aspects of pregnancy and birth. Many families choose to have both.
The earlier, the better! Most families reach out during the second trimester, but I sometimes take bookings later in pregnancy if my schedule allows.
Yes! I support families in hospitals, birth centers, and at home. My role is to make sure you feel comfortable and empowered in any setting.
Absolutely. I work alongside your partner to help them feel confident, supported, and included in the birth experience. My presence frees them to focus on you without the pressure of remembering every detail.
I always have a trusted backup doula available if I’m unexpectedly unable to attend. We arrange an introduction in advance so you feel comfortable.
At The Nurtured Nest, we recognize that your history—including your experiences with healthcare, recovery, and life’s challenges—shapes how you navigate pregnancy and birth. We believe that high-quality, non-judgmental care is not just a preference; it is a clinical necessity for stabilization and long-term wellness.
Our Five Pillars of Practice:-
Safety & Transparency. We prioritize your physical and emotional safety. You will always know what to expect from our time together. We use a "no-surprises" approach to birth planning, ensuring you are prepared for every stage of the medical process.
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Choice & Agency. You are the primary decision-maker in your care. We work to ensure you have the evidence-based information and the voice to lead your own birth team. We support your choices without shame or bias.
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Collaborative Advocacy. Utilizing a Master’s-level understanding of integrated healthcare, we act as a bridge between you and your clinical providers. We help translate complex medical language and ensure your trauma-informed birth plan is respected by your care team.
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Radical Non-Judgment. Rooted in thirty years of experience in addiction and mental health, our practice is a shame-free zone. Whether you are navigating MAT/OBOT, recovery maintenance, or previous birth trauma, you will find only support and stabilization here.
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Somatic Support. We understand that the body holds memories of the past. During labor and postpartum, we use trauma-sensitive techniques to help you stay grounded, present, and empowered in your body.
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Kind Words from Families
"From the moment we met, I knew she was the right doula for us. Her calm presence during labor made all the difference. I felt heard, supported, and never alone."
— Emma R., First-time Mom
"She brought such reassurance and strength into the room. Even when things felt overwhelming, her gentle guidance kept me grounded. I couldn’t imagine going through labor without her."
— Sarah L., Second-time Mom
"Her presence gave us so much peace. She explained every step with care, making sure we felt informed and empowered. Thanks to her, we welcomed our baby with confidence and joy."
— Megan T., First-time Parent
Education, Certifications & Training
My academic instruction and ongoing professional training reflect my commitment to providing safe, informed, and compassionate care for every family I support.
DONA training in 2024: Birth Doula, Chest/Breastfeeding Support
American Red Cross in 2024: Adult, Child and Baby First Aid/CPR/AED
WGU in 2018: MS in Integrated HealthCare Management
APU in 1995: Triple BA in Psychology & Education & Human Resources
Let’s Connect
I’d love to hear from you. Whether you’re ready to book a consultation or simply have a question, reach out and I’ll get back to you as soon as possible.
Important Links & Resources
Here are some trusted resources to help guide you through pregnancy, birth, and the postpartum journey.
Breastfeeding Support
State of Washington Department of Health Lactation Support
Statewide resource for lactation support, WIC offices, and higher level support including virtual lactation consultants.
Kittitas County Breastfeeding Coalition Resource Guide (English / Spanish)
Local breastfeeding support and guidance.
Yakima County Breastfeeding Coalition Resource Guide
Padlet of breastfeeding support and guidance.
Women Infants Children (WIC)
Evidence-based information on breastfeeding, nutrition, and parenting.
Know your rights at work and at school
The Pregnant Workers Fairness Act & Title IX
(there's also a ton of lactation support information)
Article: Breastfeeding FAQ for trans and non-binary parents
Maternal Mental Health
Perinatal Support WARM LINE
(English / Spanish)
The first weeks and months of being a new parent can be overwhelming, but you don't have to do it alone.
Postpartum Support International
Available in English and Spanish, this is an incredible resource with a comprehensive FAQ as well!
Policy Center for Maternal Mental Health
Providing ready access to standardized, evidence-based mental health care from providers birthing persons respect and trust.
Pregnancy Health & Education
Kittitas County Maternal & Child Health
Local maternal and child health information.
The Birth Partner
Research-based resources for expectant parents.
Evidence Based Birth
YouTube channel. This link is an episode about Doulas.
State of Washington
Department of Health
The most current vaccination schedule guidance
OCT-FEB is flu season!
Be sure to talk with your provider about FLU/RSV/COVID vaccines
