Get to Know
The Village Doula
Way, Iskwist Sierra sanchez.
Hello, my name is Sierra Sanchez. I am a descendant of the Coeur d’Alene Tribe of Indians and a Mexican-American. I have roughly 3 years of experience under my belt as a doula and lactation counselor. I have supported hospital, birth center, and home births. I am confident in my skills and services and am devoted to continued development.
This year I have really started focusing on bringing more culture into my work and connecting with my communities. I attended the first annual Returning from the Stars conference hosted by the Center for Indigenous Midwifery and completed the Cerrando Caderas Challenge with IndigeMama this summer.
I recently began a part time position aiding Spokane Tribal Network in supporting local Indigenous doulas, such as myself, by providing Medicaid billing support. I look forward to future opportunities to progress the work we are doing in our communities.
Training
I have completed the SMC Full Circle Doula Birth Companion Training as well as an Indigenous Lactation Counselor Training in May of 2023. I believe in, and have been trained in, culturally competent care. My training is very inclusive from conception to postpartum (“full circle”) and allows me to serve clients with confidence.
In 2023 I completed an L & I approved CPR training. I have to say a special thanks to the Shades of Motherhood Network for providing CPR training free of charge to our community. The training was open to doulas, parents, and other community members who wished to attend. I am so grateful for events such as this, which allow me to better myself and my services without raising prices for my clients.
Later in 2023 I completed my bloodborne pathogen training and as of February, 2024 I completed the Coeur d’Alene Holistic Doula Training. I feel that it is very important to pull from various sources when continuing education. Each source holds unique knowledge that you may not have found elsewhere. I was very pleased with the training and new wisdom I was able to take away from it. I am so thankful for the amazing birth workers in our area.
why hire a doula?
A doula can be a huge part of your support system. An emotional crutch when you need it, a connection to resources, and an educator/informant to help you feel confident in your decisions by providing evidence-based knowledge. As your doula, I can help you establish and enforce your expectations. I can help you manage life and guide you through those early days with your little one. I can support and assist in your breastfeeding journey. I can hold space that makes you feel safe and comfortable.
Doulas carry some of the load as you adjust to your new lifestyle.
My Approach
I practice culturally competent, evidence-based care. I believe in our body’s ability and intuition. If you have any traditions, rituals, or ceremonies related to your experience I would love to help make them happen.
I work for YOU, not the hospital/midwife/state or anyone else. You can rest assured knowing I will always have your best interests in mind.
