Christy Smith
full spectrum birth worker | childbirth educator | prenatal yoga instructor
Christy (she/her)
I am a trained, full spectrum doula with a background in raising three children, growing food, and teaching yoga. After 23 years of watching my children grow up too fast, 20 + years of farming, and almost two decades of teaching yoga, becoming a doula brings me to a passion that I have held since becoming a mother myself.
My life experiences have taught me the importance of community support, connection to ourselves and the world around us, and the embodiment of our innate wisdom.
I hold deep the belief that reproduction is magical, as are the bodies that are capable of reproducing, and that they are worthy of our highest care.
I envision a world where everyone has access to the care they need and desire, is safe in all spaces, celebrated in their bodies, and encouraged to be exactly who they are.
Birth Philosophy
My doula practice is rooted in the tenet that birth is instinctual and a naturally occurring event. I center bodily autonomy and informed choice. “You have the right to be. You have the right to have children and the right to not have children. You have the right to decide what is best for you and your baby and you have the right to parent your children in a safe, healthy and sustainable environment” ~ sistersong.net
Holding Space
I am in ongoing practice to provide trauma-informed, anti-oppressive and gender-affirming care for all birthing people. I embrace all family structures, members of the LGBTQIA+ community, single parents, teen parents, and pregnant/postpartum folks with partners away on military deployment. I seek learning and growth within the areas that I have lived experience, and those that I do not. I dedicate my energy to providing the kind of support that holds, sees and listens fully. This means providing referrals and connections when I am not able to provide the support a client is needing, seeking, and deserving.
Education & Trainings
Full spectrum doula training (DONA) 2021
birth & postpartum training (DONA)
introduction to childbirth course for doulas (DONA)
perinatal loss
abortion doula
Basics of lactation management training 2021
Childbirth Education training (Cornerstone) 2022
Yoga instructor (200hr) 2003
Prenatal yoga instructor 2003
Board member, Cape Fear Area Doulas
Talk to me about self expression, connecting with our bodies, healing, uplifting, all things reproduction, conscious parenting, cyclical ways of living to mirror nature, dismantling systems of oppression, and gardening. I am grounded, intuitive, and nurturing. My deepest interest is in getting to know you as an individual.
Love Notes
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"Christy is the best of the best. With her soothing presence, patience and grace, there is no one more qualified and comforting to have by your side at this important time in your life.
We used Christy’s birth and postpartum services and I’d give them an 11/10. Having Christy there to coach us through the labor made a world of a difference. I seriously couldn’t have done any of it without her.
I never would’ve been that calm or prepared without her one-on-one classes as part of the birth services. She went through everything in detail and was very patient with our questions. We felt empowered going into the hospital with her by our side. She had prepared us for what the doctors and nurses would ask us, so we were ready with our own research and answers to those anticipated questions. She was our translator when we didn’t understand certain medical terms and gave us the space to make our own informed decisions and didn’t show any bias. She was an amazing advocate with our medical staff when we didn’t see eye to eye and made it clear she was looking out for my best interest and our birth plan. We didn’t realize how important it would be to have a strong advocate in our corner in the hospital until we were there and are forever thankful we had Christy.
There are a million reasons I would recommend Christy. She is one of a kind and the only person (besides my husband) that I want with me along for the ride for every birth in my future.
I also suffered PPD and Christy was a major help with her postpartum services after our baby arrived.
We can’t say enough good things about Christy. She is like family to us now and we can’t recommend her enough!"
Update: "We used Christy for our second birth 10.30.23 and will continue to work with her for each birth going forward. She is a true blessing!"
Sarah & Kyle 2.22.22 & 10.30.23
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“Christy is an amazing doula. She made my unmedicated medical induction a wonderful and beautiful birth experience. I’d recommend her to any pregnant mama. Having labored before without a doula I can say it truly was a night and day experience. She’s worth it!”
Update: "I used her again for baby #3! It was another unmedicated medical induction. Definitely my favorite and most empowering birth yet. Christy was amazingly supportive and fun to be with."
Update #2: ”Baby #4 ended up being an emergency preterm c section at 33 weeks after going into L&D for decreased fetal movement, my baby was in severe distress from a double nuchal cord and focally disrupted/damaged placenta from a fall I suffered 10 days prior. There was no time for anyone to be with me, not even my husband, but Christy was there with me all day in recovery helping me navigate my very painful and traumatic emergency c section recovery while my husband had to start his new job to establish our new insurance policy.
I would’ve been completely lost without Christy. Everybody deserves someone like Christy for their birth, whether that’s a vaginal delivery or c-section. Christy is so kind, knowledgeable and generous, it’s clear that birth work is her calling and I’m thankful that I had her support while growing our family. ❤️”Lucy & Ryan 3.13.22 & 7.11.23 & 4.6.25
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“We are so glad we chose Christy to be a part of the experience of bringing our second baby into the world! Her supportive and hands-on approach were just what we needed to ensure the labor and delivery process was smooth and as close as possible to our birth plan. We especially appreciate the ongoing education and training Christy pursues - for example, her knowledge of the spinning babies techniques was vital to getting our 9lb 8oz baby out with limited discomfort and no pain meds. Christy was also great at helping alleviates worries prior to the start of labor (e.g., what will we do with our six-year-old when labor starts?) We would recommend Christy without hesitation to any mom or family, whether this is your first baby or tenth and whatever your ideal birth looks like to you.”
Tina & Patrick 5.26.22
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“Thank you so much to Christy for helping me to find peace, to regain my power, and to have the birth of my dreams. My first birth with my son was very traumatic. I was medically assaulted, abused, silenced, and given a multitude of false information. This time was a night and day difference. My daughters birth was everything I dreamed and more thanks to Christy. She explained everything to me, (because you think you know what you’re doing the second time around but you don’t!). She was there for me and didn’t mind when I have a million false alarms which she happily drove to meet us each time (because you think you know the second time around but you don’t 😆 lol). She advocated for me making sure my voice was heard loud and clear every step of the way. Most of all: she made me feel safe. There was no fear, no anxiety, because I knew no matter what that she had my back. I am a photographer and she even happily took my camera and got these amazing shots and several more! You can see my face, I am not anxious, I am not scared. My daughter was born with nothing but pure joy surrounding her. That day I was born a new woman as well. I no longer felt like a helpless victim, I was in control and I felt powerful. I am bawling writing this because I am just so beyond thankful to her for everything she did for me. She was crucial to every aspect of bringing my daughter into this world and I will be indebted to her for the rest of my days.
Thank you Christy we love you!!!”
Shea & Scotty 6.4.22
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“We cannot recommend Holding Space Doula Services enough. Christy was absolutely wonderful as our postpartum doula. She helped with… everything! And comes from a place of love and nonjudgement.”
Meg & Sam 8.22.22
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“The best decision we made during pregnancy was hiring Christy to be our doula. This was our first child and we had no idea what to expect. Christy took the time to explain all the steps of labor and delivery and our available options so we could create an individualized birth plan. She put our minds at ease and provided us with a ton of materials, resources, and knowledge so we could make informed decisions. The support both myself and my husband received during labor and delivery was more than we could have imagined. Christy was there with us every step of the way. I felt empowered, relaxed, and fearless throughout the entire process. It’s so clear how much Christy enjoys her work as a doula. The experience and professionalism she brings to her work is outstanding. We will definitely work with her again!”
UPDATE: "We were so thrilled to get to work with Christy again! We welcomed another baby in May and Christy was there every step of the way. When I got wrapped up in information coming at me left and right from doctors during the pregnancy and during labor/delivery, Christy was always there to remind me to advocate for myself. She even had questions at the ready for me to think about and ask my providers (things I didn’t know I could ask for or hadn’t thought about). Her positivity and calmness helped me get through some tough moments, especially when we found out I had to be induced during a routine visit. The pain relief she provided during labor was tremendously helpful. She created a spa-like environment in the delivery room and everything! Haha. We are truly so grateful for Christy and everything she did for us and our kiddos."
Megan & Sam 8.31.22 & 5.17.24
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“Christy is a genuine and caring person and she was the perfect doula for our family. She checked in often and provided endless resources for me during all stages of the pregnancy and beyond. By the time I was in labor, I was equipped with the knowledge and techniques to be at peace with my labor and delivery process. I have always had anxiety, but Christy’s presence kept that to a minimum and that was priceless. She was there for me anytime I needed, and I wholeheartedly recommend her doula services to any expecting parent who wants to better their journey. Having her with me during labor kept myself and my husband level headed and gently reminded and recommended techniques to progress through labor. She is such a positive energy and you have made the best decision by choosing her.”
Summer & Michael 9.9.22
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"Having Christy’s support through my first pregnancy/childbirth was seriously one of the best choices my partner and I have ever made. She is so knowledgeable, patient, trustworthy and kind. She facilitated a calm and peaceful atmosphere during my birth while supporting my partner and I through the entire birth experience. I cannot recommend Christy enough. Amazing person and wonderful doula!! :)"
“Christy was recently our doula for baby #2 and having her presence during my second labor was just as great of an experience as the first. Her calmness is comforting and empowering, and her knowledge on all things birth is truly unmatched. We are so grateful for her!”
Nicole & Cody 11.15.22 & 2.17.25
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"Christy is the best! I had her as my doula during the birth of my first child and I have only great things to say about her. She came over to our house several times before I gave birth and discussed everything in and out related to birth and the labor process. She gave my husband and I literature to read and discuss for my birth plan. She also came over to my house post partum to check and make sure everything was okay. I had a very long strenuous birth and when I was too weak to make my opinions known she advocated for my birth plan for me along with my husband. I never felt judged or pressured by her only supported for any decisions I made throughout the whole process. She was so great that after I gave birth I told her I know exactly what I want to do next time! She had great pain relief techniques and anticipated my every need. I HIGHLY RECOMMEND HER TO ANYONE GIVING BIRTH!"
Rachel & Cody 5.13.23
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"Christy is truly amazing . After the traumatic birth of my third child I was determined to have a different experience with my fourth . From the moment we met with Christy I felt heard and embraced . She was very patient , kind and informative throughout my whole pregnancy and birth . She went above and beyond our expectations and we are forever grateful for her . I had the birth I’ve always wanted and felt confident with every decision made . I highly recommend Christy for all of your supporting needs"
Kenyatta & Edward 5.30.23
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"I had my baby in October of 2023. This was my first child so of course I was completely clueless and scared… I had no idea what pregnancy or birth entailed. My friend had recently had a baby and hired a doula and I heard great things about her experience so I decided to look around and found Christy! From the first time we met I knew she was the perfect fit for me and my fiancé. Her energy is truly unmatched… throughout my pregnancy, our meetings/texts/phone calls kept me grounded and high-spirited no matter how challenging my pregnancy got. Christy was able to teach me and my fiancé so much about what we were experiencing & what we would experience, which I am so grateful for… this truly made our birthing experience run smoother and kept me at ease. An important thing to mention about Christy that I was scared about with hiring a doula is that I never ONCE felt judged by her. We talked through everything but she supported every choice I made & my birth plan.
When it was time for baby, Christy was there and ready. She was able to comfort me and keep me calm at high stress moments (and my fiancé lol) She encouraged me and made me feel strong in tough moments. Christy truly made me feel powerful. I have no idea how I would have done this without her. Christy is a knowledgeable, organized, loving and gentle woman. I would 1000% recommend her to all of you moms really looking for that support and guidance. My birthing experience was truly amazing because of her & I will always feel a special bond between her & I."
Aleah & Alec 10.23.23
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"Christy is the BEST person you can have during your pregnancy and journey into parenthood! She spends quality time getting to know you and will be your biggest advocate all along the way. When doctors were pressuring me to do something I didn't want to do, Christy was my sounding board. She helped me navigate a lot of uncertainty at a time when I needed it the most. When we were in the hospital, she created a peaceful environment, worked seamlessly with the nurses (they loved her, btw!), and when the time came was literally on the bed for hours helping to ease the pain! My husband was amazed and so incredibly grateful for her guidance. Cannot recommend enough! ❤️"
Laura & Andrés 12.26.23
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"I can not recommend Christy enough! She guided me through my second pregnancy and labor/birth. I was so uninformed for my first, which was a big part of a tough experience. I knew I wanted a different experience for my second and I am so glad to have found her! She is so full of love and peace and has such a comforting presence. Christy is so knowledgeable and empowering, even beyond the birth experience. My baby ended up coming super fast! But I was so well prepared and empowered from our time together that when Christy called back to check in and be on her way, I said “Actually, I’ve got this!” and I could not have done that with out her all along."
Grace & Cameron 3.16.24
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“I cannot recommend Christy highly enough! From our first meeting, it was clear that she was not only knowledgeable but also genuinely passionate about supporting families during such a significant time. She provided invaluable guidance throughout my pregnancy, helped me navigate my birthing options, and was a constant source of encouragement.
During labor, Christy was an incredible presence—calm, supportive, and attentive to my needs. Her techniques for pain management and emotional support made a world of difference. I felt empowered and informed every step of the way.
After the birth, she continued to check in and offer support, which was so comforting. If you're looking for a caring and experienced doula, Christy is the perfect choice!
This was my fourth, my first two were naturals and my third resulted in a c section. I really wanted a TOLAC this time. She gave me so many resources that were useful even after already birthing three babies before. She gave me so much support before, during, and followed up after making sure baby and I were doing great. She will helped in any way you may need. Christy listened to me, really heard me with everything I told her. She was a huge value and asset to my successful VBAC.
You will not be disappointed and you will be blessed to have her apart of such a valuable experience. I can never thank her enough!”Elizabeth 5.7.24
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"Christy is AMAZING!!! Our son was born today and she was truly a blessing. She was a great advocate, she helped my wife labor in so many different positions that worked for her, and she made sure we knew what was going on every step of the way. Our nurses were so impressed with her and said she was “the best doula they’ve ever seen”. Thank you, Christy. What you did for us today will never be forgotten!"
Courtney & Nick 8.29.24
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"Christy is the person you want in the room with you. She reads the room better than anyone. We had a handful of home visits with Christy prior to the birth and the amount and effectiveness of the material we went over is incredible. While teaching my wife and I about childbirth, she was also taking mental notes on us and tailoring her training to our strengths and weaknesses. My wife has been around babies her entire professional career and yet, Christy found several ways to further expand her knowledge base and make her further confident in her decisions. Going into this pregnancy, I was very nervous about the gap between my wife and I’s knowledge. Up to the very day of her going into labor I was beside myself. When it came to finally being in the room, that’s where it all changed for me. Christy’s training had become muscle memory and I found myself doing exactly what she recommended before I could even think. Right beside us was Christy, on her knees in the bed with my wife massaging and moving her for hours, constantly offering mental and physical support. I have no idea where she got the time, but the amount of photographs and videos she took for us is like a time machine for the entire birth. Christy met us outside when we arrived at the hospital, setup the most relaxing space in labor & delivery, and she stayed up until we were cleared to move to mother-baby. She was there for every moment and I can’t think of anyone else I would want to be there more. Christy was more than just hired help, she was my missing link and my wife’s guardian angel seeing to her safety and wellbeing. There is no one better suited to advocate for your family than Christy. We are now blessed with the sweetest angel we could ever ask for and I’m so thankful Christy was present when she was brought into this world."
Alicia & Stephen 9.6.24
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“I recently had the incredible opportunity to work with Christy, although we only met a few days prior during a birthing class put on by Cape Fear Area Doulas. She was an absolute anchor during my labor and now during my postpartum journey. From the very beginning, she helped me advocate for myself, ensuring that my voice was heard and respected. Her support was invaluable in helping me stay focused on my birth plan, and when things didn't go as planned, she reassured me that it didn't make me any less of a mom. During labor, I had moments of anxiety and feeling overwhelmed, but Christy was there to keep me grounded and calm. She used techniques like soothing music, birthing combs, and counter pressure to help ease my discomfort and anxiety. Her amazing, loving personality made it so easy to connect with her, and I truly felt cared for every step of the way. I can't recommend her enough to anyone looking for a loving, compassionate, and dedicated doula!”
Jamie & James 1.28.25
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“There are not enough words to describe how much help Christy provided not only to me, but to my husband as well during our journey in pregnancy as first time parents. I had a birth plan in mind and discussed with Christy how we would prepare for it. When things did not go as I originally hoped for at the hospital she still made me feel confident in the decisions that we needed to make. During labor and delivery she provided physical help in movement & helped my husband in what to do as well. We couldn’t be more thankful for her and she truly made our first birthing experience more comfortable than we could’ve imagined.”
~ Ashlee & Tanner 2.4.25
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“Christy is amazing at what she does!! Highly recommend her if you want a calming and supportive person with you during labor and prior to labor for childbirth education. Couldn’t imagine my labor experience without her being apart of it :)”
~ Emilee & Phil 7.2.25
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“I cannot say enough wonderful things about Christy as our birth doula. During labor, Christy was an anchor for me. She anticipated what I needed before I could ask—using counter-pressure, positioning, and breathing cues that made a huge difference in my comfort and progress. She advocated respectfully with the care team, translated medical options clearly, and kept both me and my partner grounded when emotions ran high. Her steady reassurance helped me trust my body and the process. She is professional, warm, and endlessly encouraging. If you’re considering a doula, choose Christy. She’s the perfect blend of knowledge, advocacy, and heart—and our family is so grateful she was by our side.”
~ Valarie & Murphy 8.20.25
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“Christy was my birth doula and my husband and I don’t know what we would have done without her. At first we were both skeptical if we would need a doula at all- but our birth experience left us feeling immensely grateful for Christy’s presence. She coached us through tough decisions, advocated for us to the hospital team, and provided relief to me throughout my contractions through massage, counterpressure, and repositioning. She created a relaxed and reassuring vibe for us in the hospital room that helped us navigate a very challenging day. Also, Christy came and educated me in my home through sessions prior to my labor. I would highly recommend her to anyone who is pregnant- having a doula is essential and Christy is excellent!”
~ Peyton & Keith 9.27.25
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“Christy’s experience is the highest level I’ve ever been around. She surrounds her clients with education and comfort. She is extremely generous with her time and knowledge. What an incredible, loving and kind woman. Any mama and her support people would be very lucky to have her!!!!”
~ Michelle, fellow birth worker
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“Christy is such a passionate and well-equipped doula to support any family of any background. With a gentle presence, she will ensure you are taken care of during this vulnerable time. I highly recommend Christy for any family who is looking for educated and understanding support.”
~ Alayah, fellow birth worker
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“Christy was outstanding from the first time I spoke with her, all the way through our baby’s birth and after. The first time I spoke with Christy, I was unhappy and anxious with the OBGYN I had seen and she listened and validated all of my feelings. She helped point me in the direction of better care and gave me excellent advice before we even hired her as our doula.
I had a very specific birth plan that I wanted and it ended up having to change dramatically. With Christy’s support, I was able to shift my mindset and focus on what really mattered.
Christy is very kind, supportive and has such a calming presence. We don’t have family in the area so having her to help us prepare for the birth of our child was truly wonderful. We can’t recommend her enough.”~ Cassi & Drew 3.29.25
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“Christy was the most supportive and comforting resource throughout our pregnancy, birth, and postpartum experience. As first time parents, she helped us feel prepared and confident going into birth and was always readily available to answer any questions we had. During our unmedicated labor, she went above and beyond to make me feel as comfortable as possible and was a strong advocate for our birth plan in the labor and delivery room. She also has visited us postpartum to offer support as new parents. Not only is Christy knowledgeable and thorough in her birth preparation, but incredibly caring and passionate about supporting parents in having the best birth experience possible. I’d highly recommend her to both first time parents or just anyone looking for more agency headed into childbirth!”
~ Allie & Zach 9.17.25
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“As first-time parents, my husband and I had so many questions and uncertainties about the birth and hospital process.
From our very first meeting, Christy was a calm, knowledgeable, and grounding presence. She took the time to help us understand every part of what to expect, and guided us in figuring out how we wanted our birth experience to go.
When the time came, Christy was by my side for nearly 24 hours through an unmedicated labor. I truly cannot overstate how invaluable her support was. She helped me manage contractions and stay focused. Her calming presence, encouragement, and support made all the difference to me. I genuinely could not and would not have been able to do it without her.
Even when our plans changed during labor, Christy was right there to help us navigate decisions and adjust without fear. Her support didn’t end after birth, she followed up with visits and was there to help me process everything and feel supported through the postpartum period.
Every mom-to-be, whether it's your first baby or your fourth, can benefit from having a doula. If you're considering one, I cannot recommend Christy enough. Christy is incredible at what she does and she will absolutely be my first call if we ever find out we’re expecting again.”~ Sara & Duffy 9.19.25