Callista Bierkos

“Good beginnings make a positive difference in the world so it is worth our while to provide the best possible care for mothers and babies throughout this extraordinarily influential part of life.” – Ina May Gaskin

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Hello, I’m Night Owl Doula, a DONA trained Birth Doula who serves communities within a 150km radius of Gull Lake. I’m here to help you feel respected and supported throughout your pregnancy and birth experience. All types of birth are supported in my care, and I am equally comfortable in hospital or home birth settings.

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I became a Doula after having had the honor of supporting my sister with the birth of her first child in 2015. It was then I realized that I had a passion and aptitude for birth work. Over the past ten years I’ve worked in the health care sector in both Canada and the UK. I was fortunate to have spent 6 years as a MOA in Family Practice where I was involved daily in the care of women and children, including prenatal and postnatal care. Beyond that, I have volunteered with the Airdrie Urgent Care Centre and the Brenda Stafford Centre in Calgary. Because of this experience, the principles of confidentiality, respect for personal autonomy, informed consent, and inclusivity are the foundation of the compassionate support I provide as a Birth Doula. I’ve had the privilege of learning under the incredible midwives at The Farm Midwifery Center in Summertown, Tennessee at their Midwifery Assistant Workshop. In order to support mothers who have suffered from previous trauma, I completed the workshop “When Survivors Give Birth” and continue to stay up to date on the latest data so that each mother can feel safe and supported throughout their delivery. In addition to my doula training, I have completed courses in Tetraplegia care, concussion prevention and management, and I am a certified Bioflex LILT Technician.

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Being a Birth Doula is rewarding in many ways, but one of my favourite components is the continuing education. This allows me to find new ways to better support families during pregnancy and birth.

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In my spare time I play ice hockey with a ladies rec team, hike, frequent libraries, and enjoy quality time with family.