A Supportive Experience Starts With Clear Expectations
Please review the following policies, disclaimers, and client information before booking services.
Scope of Practice
Upstate NY Doula provides non-medical postpartum support designed to help families feel supported, informed, and cared for during the transition into life with a new baby.
Although I am a licensed Registered Nurse, all services provided through Upstate NY Doula are offered solely within the role of a postpartum doula and not as medical or nursing care.
As a postpartum doula, I follow the standards, scope of practice, and code of ethics established by DONA International. Doula support is centered around emotional support, evidence-based education, practical assistance, and nurturing the overall well-being of the postpartum family.
Postpartum doula support may include:
Emotional support and active listening
Evidence-based education and guidance
Newborn care support
Feeding support for breast, bottle, pumping, or combination feeding
Recovery support during the postpartum period
Partner and family support
Light household assistance related to baby care
Community referrals and educational resources
Doula services do not include:
Medical diagnosis or treatment
Clinical assessments
Prescribing medications or therapies
Emergency medical care
Mental health counseling or psychotherapy
In accordance with DONA standards, doulas do not perform clinical tasks, make medical decisions for clients, or replace licensed medical professionals.
Clients should contact their healthcare provider, pediatrician, lactation consultant, or emergency services for any medical concerns or urgent situations.
Payment Policy
A signed service agreement and non-refundable retainer may be required in order to reserve postpartum doula services and secure availability on the calendar.
Remaining balances, payment schedules, package details, and any additional support hours will be outlined within each client’s individual agreement.
Accepted payment methods will be communicated prior to booking.
Please note:
Payments are due according to the schedule outlined in the client agreement.
Unpaid balances may result in paused or canceled services.
Unused package hours are non-refundable and non-transferable unless otherwise discussed in writing.
Additional support hours requested outside of the original package may be billed separately.
Upstate NY Doula reserves the right to adjust pricing or service offerings at any time; however, signed client agreements will honor the pricing agreed upon at the time of booking.
Payment plans may be available on a case-by-case basis when discussed in advance.
Testimonials & Results Disclaimer
Testimonials shared through this website, social media, emails, or marketing materials reflect the personal experiences of individual clients and families.
Because every postpartum recovery, infant, feeding journey, and family dynamic is unique, individual experiences and outcomes may vary.
Testimonials are not intended to guarantee or promise specific results, outcomes, or experiences from doula support services.
Free Downloads & Digital Resource Terms
All digital downloads, checklists, guides, educational resources, and free materials provided through Upstate NY Doula are intended for personal, educational, and non-commercial use only.
These resources are designed to provide general postpartum education and support and should not be considered medical advice or a substitute for care from a licensed healthcare provider.
By downloading or accessing these materials, you agree that:
Content may not be copied, reproduced, redistributed, modified, or sold without written permission.
Resources are intended solely for individual use.
Information provided is educational in nature and does not establish a medical provider-patient relationship.
Upstate NY Doula is not responsible for decisions made based on the use of these materials.
All content remains the intellectual property of Upstate NY Doula unless otherwise stated.
Education Disclaimer
The information shared through Upstate NY Doula — including this website, social media content, emails, digital downloads, consultations, and postpartum support services — is intended for educational and informational purposes only.
While every effort is made to provide evidence-based, up-to-date information, nothing provided through Upstate NY Doula should be considered medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
Doula support is not a substitute for care from your:
Obstetric provider
Midwife
Pediatrician
Mental health provider
Lactation consultant
Emergency medical services
All parenting, feeding, recovery, and healthcare decisions remain the responsibility of the client and their healthcare team.
Every postpartum experience, recovery journey, infant, and family dynamic is unique. Because of this, specific outcomes cannot be guaranteed.
If you or your baby are experiencing a medical concern, emergency, worsening symptoms, or mental health crisis, please contact your healthcare provider, call 911, or seek immediate medical attention.
Scheduling, Cancellation, & Communication
The postpartum period can be unpredictable, and every effort will be made to provide flexibility and understanding whenever possible. Clear communication and mutual respect help create the best support experience for all families.
Scheduling
Postpartum visits, virtual support, and availability will be discussed during the booking process and outlined within each client’s individual service agreement.
Availability is scheduled on a first-come, first-served basis and may be limited depending on client volume and scheduling needs.
Communication
Communication between visits may include text, email, or virtual support for non-emergency questions, guidance, and emotional support.
Please note:
Response times may vary depending on business hours, client visits, and family obligations.
Messages received outside business hours may be responded to on the following business day.
Doula support is not an emergency service.
If you or your baby are experiencing a medical concern or emergency, please contact your healthcare provider or call 911 immediately.
Cancellations & Rescheduling
I understand that life with a newborn can change quickly, and reasonable schedule adjustments will always be approached with compassion whenever possible.
However:
Visits canceled with less than 24 hours notice may be deducted from package hours.
Repeated last-minute cancellations may impact future scheduling availability.
Missed visits without communication may be considered forfeited.
Emergency situations, illness, labor complications, or family emergencies will be handled with understanding on a case-by-case basis.
If I am unable to attend a scheduled visit due to illness, emergency, or unforeseen circumstances, I will communicate as soon as possible and make reasonable efforts to reschedule the visit when appropriate.
Accessibility Statement
Upstate NY Doula is committed to creating a website experience that is welcoming, accessible, and easy to use for all individuals, including people with disabilities.
Efforts are made to improve the accessibility and usability of this website by:
Using clear and readable language
Maintaining simple navigation and layout structure
Providing accessible text formatting when possible
Regularly reviewing website content and functionality
While every effort is made to improve accessibility, some areas of the website may occasionally not function perfectly for every user or assistive technology.
If you experience difficulty accessing any part of this website, encounter accessibility barriers, or need assistance accessing information or services, please reach out directly. Feedback is always welcomed and appreciated as accessibility improvements continue to be made.
Upstate NY Doula is committed to providing an inclusive and supportive experience for all families.