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IMPORTANT DISCLAIMER: The content on BirthGuide does not provide medical advice. Always consult a medical provider for diagnosis and treatment. The Complementary Care Directory is a paid membership directory. Members provide the information in their listings, which is not vetted by BirthGuide. The listing of an individual or entity in this directory does not constitute an endorsement or recommendation by BirthGuide. By using this directory you agree to be bound by the BirthGuide Terms & Conditions of Use. If you do not wish to be bound by these terms and conditions, please do not access the directory.
Evanston, Illinois 60202
Labor Support Doula Services for All Families
We recognize the importance of providing comprehensive support to ALL birthing individuals and their families. Our collective includes a variety of doulas with a wide range of education, skills, and experience. We will find the right fit for you.
We offer:
Comprehensive and Culturally Competent Support: Our doulas are trained to provide comprehensive support that is sensitive to the diverse needs, backgrounds, and experiences of our clients. We prioritize culturally competent care, recognizing the importance of honoring cultural traditions, preferences, and beliefs throughout the birthing process.
Advocacy and Empowerment: We believe in advocating for the rights and autonomy of birthing individuals, empowering them to make informed decisions about their care and ensuring their voices are heard and respected by healthcare providers. Our doulas serve as trusted advocates, providing information, guidance, and support to help clients navigate the healthcare system and assert their rights during labor and delivery.
Trauma-Informed Care: Our doulas are trained in trauma-informed care, understanding the potential impact of past trauma on the birthing experience and providing sensitive and compassionate support to individuals who have experienced trauma. We create a safe and supportive environment where clients feel empowered, respected, and validated throughout their birthing journey.
Care for underserved communities
Addressing Disparities in Maternal Health: As part of our commitment to birth justice, we work to address disparities in maternal health outcomes by providing accessible and affordable doula support to underserved communities. We recognize the disproportionate impact of systemic racism, socioeconomic inequities, and inadequate access to healthcare on maternal health outcomes, and we strive to mitigate these disparities through our services.
Community-Centered Approach: We believe in the power of community support and collaboration in promoting birth justice. Our doula services are rooted in a community-centered approach, working closely with local organizations, healthcare providers, and community leaders to address systemic barriers to quality care and advocate for positive change in maternal health policies and practices.
Max rate: $1,500
Our Fee Structure:
We believe that cost should not be a barrier to accessing our services. Full fees are listed under each service and are intended for those who are able to pay them. For families who need additional support, we offer the following sliding scale based on annual household income:
Household income: $0 – $24,999 | Fee $150
Household income: $25,000 – $44,999 | Fee $300
Household income: $45,000 – $64,999 | Fee $700
Household income: $65,000 – $84,999 | Fee $1,000
Household income: $85,000 – $99,999 | Fee $1,350
Household income: $100,000 and above | Fee$1,500
Sonia Collins, Co-Founder
Birth Doula, Lactation Consultant, Childbirth Educator, Doula Trainer, Mentor
Nancy Cowans, Co-Founder
Postpartum Doula, Lactation Consultant, Childbirth Educator, Doula Trainer, Mentor
Sonia Collins, Co-Founder
For more than 16 years, I’ve been deeply entrenched in the realm of childbirth, earning me the affectionate moniker of a “birth junkie.” My journey began as a community-based doula, where I provided invaluable support to pregnant teens at a Chicago-based social service agency. Over time, my role evolved, and in 2013, I transitioned into private practice as a birth doula.
Armed with certifications as a birth doula, lactation educator, and childbirth educator, my passion for improving maternal and infant health outcomes has only grown stronger. In 2021, I co-founded Sokana Collective, a birth justice organization dedicated to empowering Black, Brown, and marginalized communities. Through our direct services and training academy, I continue to mentor aspiring doulas, advocate for health equity, and provide compassionate, culturally competent care to families.
Beyond my professional life, I find joy in nurturing connections with my two daughters, often bonding over movie nights and board games. My work, both personal and professional, is rooted in the belief that every family deserves support, advocacy, and respect throughout their reproductive journeys.
Nancy Cowans, Co-Founder
As the co-founder of Sokana Collective, a Birth Justice Doula agency and Training Academy, my focus is on supporting marginalized communities especially during the postpartum period when reality sets in.
I have been a Labor and Postpartum Doula since 2008. Witnessing new families evolve into parents brings me immense joy, and I’m particularly passionate about the postpartum period because I believe I can make a huge difference in helping new parents feel comfortable and settled with their newborn. I’m also a Lactation Counselor and enjoy providing support through in-home visits.
My guiding philosophy is to “meet the family where they are.” When I’m not furthering my education, mentoring, or teaching new Doulas, I cherish spending time with my family and 11 grandchildren.
The Collective
You can see bios for the doulas, lactation consultants and educators who are part of the collective here.