Today we’d like to introduce you to Sonia Rivera.
Hi Sonia, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
Hi, I’m Sonia Rivera, a graduate of Ferris State University with a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice Generalist since 2016. For over 15 years, I’ve been working as a Community Health Worker in Kent County, and now I also support families, particularly expectant mothers, as a doula. Through this role, I’ve had the privilege of providing prenatal and postnatal support to numerous women. Being bilingual in Spanish and English has been instrumental in my work.
I’ve received comprehensive training from local hospitals and the County Health Department, covering a range of areas including breastfeeding, parenting, advocacy, and nutrition. Serving my community, especially women, brings me immense joy. I understand the significance of being heard and supported in a way that caters to each woman’s unique needs. Together, we can help you achieve your desired birthing plan, because every birthing story is one-of-a-kind. Some things can only be learned through action and experience, not just from textbooks.
My ultimate goal is to empower every woman I meet, ensuring they have the knowledge and confidence to make informed decisions when it’s time to welcome their baby into the world. Apart from my professional pursuits, I cherish spending time with my seven grandchildren. I love church, drawing, writing poetry, and painting, which are activities I deeply enjoy. Camping in tents and cabins, surrounded by the scent of burning firewood, the soothing sounds of nature, and the gentle flow of water, is among my favorite ways to unwind. Faith plays a vital role in guiding all aspects of my life.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
There have definitely been barriers to serving our most vulnerable women in our community as a doula. The amount of time to get through Medicaid paneling, obtaining a formal training for my doula certificate, and learning how to do my own billing, to name a few. The biggest challenge is that we live in a society that doesn’t believe women can give birth to children on their own, causing an increase in inductions and c-sections. We are often prevented from supporting our mothers in the operating rooms. Black and Brown women still have the highest mortality rate, and the same is true for black and brown babies, due to racial bias, racism, and inequitable care. Doulas are often not accepted as a vital asset to the healthcare team, although evidence suggests that they do improve birth outcomes.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I am committed to providing members of our community with comprehensive care, encompassing emotional, educational, physical, and spiritual support. I remind families that they have the right to be treated with respect, honor, and dignity. They have the right to say no; they have the right to informed care. I am a nurturer, and that helps support women during the most vulnerable time in their lives, which is giving birth. I continue to educate myself through the support of my mentor, Allison Brito, and the support of all the doulas in the Radiant Roots network. I am bilingual and a strong advocate for not only mothers but also fathers.
I am most proud of being the mother of three adult children, Isabella, Richard, and Liborio, and a grandmother to seven grandchildren.
We’d love to hear about how you think about risk taking?
Anytime you take on a new role, you’re taking a risk. I started this journey as an apprentice. I took the risk of dropping part-time work to follow my purpose, something that doesn’t feel like work but a labor of love. Most doulas are young, and being over 50 pursuing a career based on passion was a risk in itself and has been so rewarding.
Pricing:
- Accept Medicaid
- Private Pay
- Price varies on insurance and affordability for the familey
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.allisonbritodoula.com and radiantrootsdoulanetwork.com
- Instagram: radiantroots_doulanetwork
- LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/sonia-rivera-b-s-chw-doula-certificate-879109103
