About Rooted Way

Rooted Way was created from a simple belief. Birth deserves to be supported, informed, and deeply respected.

I’m The Rooted Way Doula, Ashley, and I am a birth doula, baby wearing expert, and cloth diaper guru serving families across Northern Michigan. I work with families who want more than just appointments and checklists. I work with people who want to feel seen, heard, and supported through pregnancy, birth, and the early moments of parenting. My approach is calm, practical, and compassionate. I believe in evidence-based information, honest conversations, and meeting you exactly where you are. There is no one right way to give birth or become a parent. Your story, your body, and your family matter.

Let’s Chat!

Payment Plans & Bartering Available

Michigan Medicaid, FSA/HSA, Venmo, Credit Card, Cash.

A Little More About Me

I’m a mom of five, and a lot of what I know about pregnancy, birth, and early parenting has been shaped not just by training, but by lived experience. I’ve navigated newborn seasons, sleepless nights, feeding questions, babywearing, cloth diapering, and the constant learning curve that comes with growing a family. That real-life perspective shows up in how I support my clients. I understand that families need care that fits into real, sometimes messy, everyday life.

Before stepping into birth work, I became a certified babywearing educator. I am currently working toward a new certification, as Babywearing International, who originally certified me, is no longer around. Babywearing has been a huge part of my own parenting journey, and I love helping families find ways to carry their babies that feel safe, comfortable, and supportive for both parent and child. Whether you are brand new to babywearing or just want to fine-tune your fit, I meet you where you are and help you build confidence.

I’m also a longtime cloth diaper parent, which has turned me into a pretty thorough problem-solver when it comes to fit, leaks, routines, and realistic laundry systems. I know how overwhelming it can feel at first, and I love helping families simplify things and find a setup that actually works for them.

Alongside my doula work, I am a massage therapy student and will graduate in October 2026. I see massage and bodywork as a natural extension of birth work. Supporting the nervous system, easing tension, and helping people feel more at home in their bodies matters, especially during pregnancy and the postpartum season.

All of these pieces come together in how I support families. My work is rooted in both education and experience, and in a deep respect for the physical, emotional, and practical sides of this journey.

Why I Do This Work

Like many people, my path to birth work was shaped by real experiences, real questions, and a deep desire for better support. I’ve seen how confusing, overwhelming, and isolating this season can feel, especially when care feels rushed or impersonal. I’ve also seen how powerful it is when someone has steady, informed, nonjudgmental support by their side.

Rooted Way exists to offer that steady presence. Someone who explains your options in plain language. Someone who supports your choices. Someone who holds space for both your hopes and your fears.

What You Can Expect

With Rooted Way, you get more than a checklist of services. You get a relationship.

You can expect:

  • Honest, evidence-based information so you can make confident choices
  • Emotional support that honors your experience and your boundaries
  • Practical preparation for birth, not just theory
  • Continuous support during labor
  • Thoughtful care before birth and beyond birth
  • Referrals and resources rooted in our local community

My role is not to replace your medical team. My role is to support you, help you advocate for yourself, and walk alongside you through this season with care and respect.

Who I Serve

Rooted Way proudly serves a wide range of families, including first-time parents, growing families, LGBTQ+ families, and families using Medicaid. I believe everyone deserves access to compassionate, high-quality birth support.

Whether you want an unmedicated birth, a planned cesarean, an epidural, or something in between, you are welcome here.

Reach out to connect with Rooted Way for personalized support.

Serving Northern Michigan Counties: Grand Traverse, Leelanau, Kalkaska, Benzie, Antrim & Wexford

+1-231-668-1370

rootedwaydoula@gmail.com