About Me
My Story
As an accredited Doula certified by the International Doula Institute, my passion lies in educating and empowering individuals to feel confident in their journey through pregnancy, childbirth, and postpartum care.
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A bit about my background: I originally hail from Oklahoma City and currently reside with my family on our quaint boutique farm in Arcadia. My father's life story is one of resilience—he was born in the Czech Republic and immigrated to the United States in 1969 to escape communism. He realized the American dream, ascending to an executive role within Walmart International. His career took us on a remarkable journey, leading us to call California, Texas, and even Jakarta, Indonesia our homes. During my time in Jakarta, I attended The British International School.
On the other hand, my mother contributed significantly to our adventures. She worked for Trans World Airlines, enabling us the means to explore various corners of the globe, from Europe and Southeast Asia to Africa. From an early age, I was fortunate to encounter the rich tapestry of people and cultures that our world has to offer. These experiences have allowed me to form meaningful connections with individuals spanning the globe.
I firmly believe that the birth of your child should be a collaborative effort within your family and community. In my role as your Doula, I aim to bridge the gaps often encountered in the conventional 'Western' model of pregnancy care. I provide continuous, one-on-one physical, emotional, and evidence-based informational support. As your Doula, my unwavering focus will be on you and your family's unique needs. This commitment extends beyond conventional birth planning and postpartum care.
Why I Became a Birth Worker
I am Dominique Zak, the proud owner of Hands On Demand Doula. My unwavering passion drives me to offer this invaluable service to my local community. The fusion of my profound love for infants and my desire to serve others ignited my path towards becoming a Doula. This profession is an impeccable match for me. I made the deliberate choice to enroll in the prestigious International Doula Institute to attain comprehensive proficiency and formal certifications. Now, I am deeply honored to empower birthing families as they embark on their remarkable journey.
Frequently, I encountered narratives from acquaintances and individuals dissatisfied with their childbirth experiences. They often expressed a sense of helplessness, as if they lacked the knowledge needed to advocate for themselves and their children. Hospitals are typically focused on expediting patient turnover, prioritizing efficiency for the institution's financial benefit rather than delivering quality care. Can you envision undergoing an unnecessary induction solely to boost a hospital's revenue? It is truly outrageous, and I was determined to be part of the solution. Knowledge is the ultimate power, and my role is to instill confidence and empower all individuals during childbirth. We serve as advocates for your needs and work tirelessly to achieve the best possible birth experience.
With the guidance of a Doula, families no longer need to blindly follow the hospital's recommendations, especially when pressured to undergo certain medical procedures. Doulas possess a wealth of evidence-based information to share with their clients, enabling them to comprehend the entire childbirth process. This assurance ensures that the appropriate measures are taken to safeguard your best interests. When you choose me as your Doula, you eliminate uncertainty, granting you the freedom and assurance to fully engage in labor, knowing you are making informed decisions for yourself and your family's future.
In general, most doctors and nurses have commendable intentions, but hospital policies and procedures often fall short of patient-centric care. For instance, nurses are frequently overwhelmed by charting requirements and medication administration, leaving insufficient time for hands-on labor support. This is where a certified Doula can bridge the gap. I am entirely dedicated to providing uninterrupted physical, emotional, and informational support throughout pregnancy, childbirth, and the crucial postpartum period. Regardless of your chosen birthing path, we extend our helping hands, implementing comfort measures, guiding you towards optimal labor positions, and fostering a serene and nurturing environment throughout your entire labor journey. Serving as your Doula is both an honor and a privilege.
