MILK doula academy
OUR MISSION, SCOPE & TRAINERS
Our Mission
Our mission at M.I.L.K. (Maternal Interventions & Lifestyle Knowledge) is to reduce the maternal death rate in the United States and worldwide by sending trained doulas into their communities as advocates for expectant and new mothers.
Doula Scope of Practice & Code of Ethics
M.I.L.K. doulas are trained to create nutritional and lifestyle plans that support holistic health; provide attentive mother and newborn care; and offer spiritual, emotional, and physical support as “their sisters’ keeper.”
Our doulas do not provide medical advice, and only assist in implementing lifestyle changes that align with mother's medical recommendations or personal desires.
Our doulas do not complete any clinical or medical tasks, and will not
diagnose or treat in any modality.
M.I.L.K. doulas do not provide professional counseling regarding lactation, medical treatments, vaginal steaming, child development, or Ayurveda but do provide professional referrals.
Doulas do not make decisions for their clients, but provide evidence-based recommendations, guidance and support.
Mother's health, comfort and preferences are the doula's highest priority.
She maintains a standard of professionalism and excellence in care.
She adheres to the latest studies and practices regarding perinatal health as researched and published by leading peer-reviewed journals, through continuing education.
Doulas do not share private information publicly, including pictures or conversations without consent from their clients.
MEET OUR TRAINERS
LAVI RE'
Postpartum Doula & Certified Holistic Health Coach
LaVerne, affectionately known by family as Lavi, is a postpartum doula and newborn care specialist who began her career working with a prestigious pregnancy/birth agency in the Houston area, caring for newborns and assisting dozens of families.
Her passion for health led her to train as holistic health coach, and she incorporates mental & spiritual health, along with natural healing in her practice. She holds a BA in Communication with a concentration in Electronic Media & Marketing, and is a Master's student of Public Health in Vegetarian Nutrition and Wellness. She works with women, helping them improve their health and regain their confidence. She has designed meal plans, group challenges, health retreats and classes aimed at combating lifestyle diseases.
LaVerne is a mother, educator, doula & business mentor and owner of Pacifiers + Peaches Doula Co. She created the curriculum, MedicalMissionaryKids.org to teach children practical health principles and how to be missionaries in their own neighborhoods. She combines over 14 years of in-home experience, group and one-on-one coaching, and plant-based meal preparation to provide a tailored approach to care and doula training.
DR. SHARIFA GLASS, MD, IBCLC
Pediatrician and Lactation consultant
Dr. Sharifa Glass is a pediatrician, lactation consultant, media expert, and corporate consultant. She studied at University of Houston where she graduated with High Honors and a Bachelor of Science degree in Mathematics. Her educational journey took her to Drexel University College of Medicine where she received her medical degree (M.D.) before she returned back to the Houston area. She completed a pediatric residency at the University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston. Since finishing residency, Dr. Glass has worked in general pediatrics, pediatric emergency medicine, and pediatric urgent care medicine. She is board-certified by the American Board of Pediatrics and the International Board of Lactation Consultant Examiners.
Dr. Glass is a wife and mother to two young children. Both children were breastfed thanks to the support of her family and the children’s pediatrician. As a result of her breastfeeding journey, she was inspired to start this medical practice to support all mothers in reaching their breastfeeding goals. Whatever your feeding preference may be (breastfeeding, expressed breast milk, or formula), you'll find personalized experience for your child’s healthcare with Dr. Glass. She is our in-house IBCLC Lactation Consultant and the owner of The Vine Pediatrics, and facilitator of our monthly Q & A with the Doc.