Atlanta Doula photo headshot. Atlanta abortion doula, Atlanta birth doula, Atlanta postpartum doula

Meet Marissa Rae

When I’m not doula-ing, my days are spent with people I love moving my body, making art, and exploring new places. I enjoy a good story, steam rooms, reality tv, and hugs that last just a little bit too long!

I’ve been a nanny for over 10 years, caring for kids from tiny newborns to busy teens and supporting families through all kinds of transitions. Being welcomed into people’s homes and lives has taught me so much about what family really looks like…the laughter, the mess, the love, and the constant change. That hands-on experience deeply informs my doula work and helps me show up with patience, playfulness, and a calm, steady presence no matter what stage you’re in.

Through years of caregiving, I’ve witnessed how powerful it is when people feel truly supported and seen. My path to this work also comes from personal experiences where my choices and autonomy weren’t always respected — and that’s what drives me to create safe, affirming spaces for others. I want every person I work with to feel held, heard, and empowered, no matter your background or where you’re at in your journey.

My Philosophy

With so many options surrounding birth, postpartum recovery, and childcare, it's easy to feel overwhelmed by the pressure to make the “right” choice. From pregnancy announcements to parenting decisions, people are met with opinions, unsolicited advice, and stories that can stir up fear or self-doubt. The more I’ve listened to families through these moments, the more I’ve come to understand how deeply people want to feel confident and supported in their choices. At the end of the day, there is no one “right way” to give birth, recover, parent, or raise your child, there’s only what’s right for you. And that's where I come in!

I offer compassionate, nonjudgemental support grounded in real conversation and connection. My goal is to create space where you feel heard, respected, and empowered to make your own choices, not just be educated about them. 

My prenatal sessions aren't formal lessons. We yap. We laugh. We share stories, fears, hopes, and realities. No materials, no pressure, just honest, supportive connection. And if you need more structure, I've got tools and resources ready when you want them.

Atlanta Doula photo headshot. Atlanta abortion doula, Atlanta birth doula, Atlanta postpartum doula

Image by Lisa Sorgini

Credentials

  • Labor Doula | CAPPA

  • Postpartum Doula | CAPPA

  • CPR & First Aid Certified |American Red Cross

  • Sexual Assault Counselor (SAC) Certified | PAAR

  • Mentorship with Johanna Storey

  • Lactation Support Workshop | Lauren Archer

  • Babywearing for Birth Workers | Laura McCarthy

  • Childbirth Education Bootcamp | Empowered Holistic Birth

  • Homebirth for Doulas | Cornerstone

  • Fetal Positioning Masterclass | Cornerstone

  • Understanding the Infant Microbiome | Toni Hartman

  • Ayurvedic Postpartum Doula | Inner Sun & Moon