Introducing Dr. Rae!

Between 2019 and 2021, California saw 226 pregnancy-related deaths out of 1.28 million births. For Black women, the toll was especially devastating—nearly 50 deaths for every 100,000 births, compared to 17.3 for Latinas, 14.4 for Asians, and 14.0 for Whites. Out of all babies born in California, 40% are covered by Medi-Cal and their pregnancy-related deaths are 2.7 times higher. These are not just numbers. These are mothers—and sometimes their children.

I am a Managed Care Expert with 25 years of leadership experience in the health insurance industry, then I went back to school to become a Public Heath Doctor. I want to influence equitable and better health outcomes in the healthcare ecosystem, especially in maternal health. Everyone deserves to feel empowered and cared for during their birth journey—especially those who might otherwise feel unseen or unheard.

I volunteer at UC Davis Medical Center as a birth doula for normal to high-risk pregnancies. I see how much of a difference it makes for families having the right support. That's why I started this private practice.

As a Public Health Doctor and Certified Doula, I can make a real difference by helping you get the care, support, and guidance you need to feel safe, prepared, and confident for labor & delivery. We can talk about anything that might get in the way. Whether you need help planning for your new life, sorting through big emotions, or building a birth plan that fits your values—I’m here for all of it. If you don’t have family or friends nearby to support you, I’ll be that trusted person you can turn to.

My qualifications include:

• Doctor of Public Health (DrPH) in Global Health Leadership – Indiana University

• DONA International Certified Birth Doula, mentored by Dr. Teri Nava-Anderson, PhD, ICCE, CLE, BDT/PDT, AdvCD, PCD (DONA)

• UC Davis Medical Center - Trained in hospital-based births, lactation, and postpartum doula support for normal to high-risk pregnancies

• UC Davis Medical Center - Active Doula Volunteer, background checked with medical clearance

• MBA in Healthcare Management – Western Governors University

• BA in Psychology – California State University, Northridge

Let’s work together to give you and your baby the healthiest, strongest start possible. Birth is my passion!

-Dr. Rae

Dr. Rae, DrPH, MBA-HM, CD (DONA)

Public Health Doctor & Certified Doula

About our Doula