Hi, I’m Marlene
A passionate Hypnobirthing educator and birth doula based in Ventura County, California.
My journey into birth work started with two very different births, my son’s and my daughter’s.
When I had my son, I thought I was prepared. I had a hospital bag, a plan (kind of), and the mindset of “get the epidural, have the baby, go home.” But when things didn’t go quite as expected, I found myself overwhelmed, unsure, and honestly... scared. He ended up in the NICU, and while we left the hospital a few days later with a healthy baby, I walked away feeling like I had missed something important, something deeper.
Fast forward to my daughter’s birth—and this time, I knew I wanted things to be different. A co-worker told me about Hypnobirthing, and I thought, “Why not?” My husband and I took the classes together, and let’s just say... it changed everything.
I labored calmly at home, felt deeply connected to my body, and trusted what it was doing—no fear, no panic, just peace. By the time we got to the hospital, my body was ready to give birth to my baby girl. I even remember the nurse telling me not to push because the doctor wasn’t there yet. But I was so in tune with my body, I chose to listen to it instead. Her birth changed the course of my life. It showed me that a calm, confident birth was possible, and it lit a fire in me.
Now, I help mamas prepare for their calm, confident birth experience, whatever that looks like for them.
Why I Do This Work
Because I’ve lived both sides of birth—the one where you feel unsure, overwhelmed, and like things are happening to you… and the one where you feel in control, connected, and truly at peace.
I know how powerful it is to go into birth with knowledge, tools, and support—and I want every mama to have that. You deserve to feel calm, confident, and in tune with your body, no matter what your birth ends up looking like.
This isn’t about a perfect plan. It’s about knowing your options, trusting your instincts, and feeling grounded as you welcome your baby.
What You Can Expect When We Work Together
I'll share evidence-based info, tried-and-true tools, and practical guidance that feels supportive. You'll have space to ask questions, get hands-on practice, and prepare in a way that truly feels like you.
My cozy home studio is where I host in-person classes. I've created this space with so much care, and you'll always feel welcome here (yes, there are snacks and drinks waiting for you!).
And even after the course ends, I'll still be here for you if something comes up or you just need a little reassurance. You'll get real tools, honest information, and someone who's genuinely in your corner as you get ready to meet your baby.
My Experience & Training
I’ve been teaching Hypnobirthing for the past five years, supporting families both in-person and online. I’m certified through the Hypnobirthing Institute, Love Your Birth Training, and trained in body-based support with the Body Ready Method®. Most recently, I became a certified birth doula, so I can now support families through birth itself, not just in the classroom.
I’ve also completed a Mindfulness Teacher Certification through YogaRenew because I believe calm isn’t just something we hope for, it’s something we can practice.
Whether you’re planning a hospital birth, home birth, or something in between, I’m here to offer real tools, grounded guidance, and a whole lot of heart.
When I’m Not Teaching...
I'm usually reheating my coffee (for the third time), flipping through a birth book, or reminding myself to slow down and breathe. I love to meditate, though some days that means closing my eyes for two minutes.
My family is my world. Being a mama and wife is what drives me. I'm their biggest cheerleader, showing up at baseball games, volunteering in classrooms, and winding down at night binge-watching a show with my hubby (with snacks, of course).
Life isn't always rainbows and butterflies, but we take it one day at a time. The little things, fresh air, laughter, connection, and a hot cup of coffee (finally!), those are the moments that fill me up.
