Hi, I'm Marissa Palin, a doula, student midwife, and homeschooling mother of three. I believe birth is one of the most transformative experiences in a family's life, and every family deserves compassionate, individualized support as they welcome their baby.

After the birth of my second child, I knew that I was called to this work. The passion I’d found for care during the perinatal time led me to train formally with the Community Doula Program in March of 2023, so that I could become a Traditional Health Worker and serve families who receive the Oregon Health Plan. My doula certification was also an intentional first step in my journey to becoming a midwife. Since then, I have attended almost 40 births, both as a doula and assisting as a student.

My philosophy is that childbirth is inherently normal, and a physiologic function of the body. Sometimes, it is also a medical event, either out of necessity or due to personal preferences. Women and their families thrive better with support, whichever way the birth unfolds. Families who work with me can expect calm, steady support throughout pregnancy, labor, and the postpartum period. My goal is not to direct your experience, but to help you feel informed and unhurried as you make the decisions that feel the best for you. One of my most important roles is helping families understand their options, communicate their preferences, and remain active participants in decision making about their experiences. Whether you are planning a home birth, birth center birth, hospital birth, induction, epidural, or cesarean birth, I always strive to provide compassionate, nonjudgmental care.

When I am not accompanying families as they meet their babies, I can be found outdoors somewhere with my own kids, or hassling them around the house! My hobbies include birding while driving, buying more houseplants than I can keep alive, and a daily long walk by myself. I am a recovering chicken lady who is enjoying some relaxing down time from meeting the needs of a large flock. Once a year, I build and then starve to death a hapless sourdough starter, producing 5-10 acceptable loaves in between.

Whether you're expecting your first baby or welcoming another child into your family, I would be honored to support you during this exciting season of life. I look forward to listening to your story and helping you create a birth experience that feels well supported and uniquely your own.