In Print & On Air
The published writing, press, and conversations of Melissa Harley.
Melissa has been honored to contribute to publications across the childbirth field, as an author, an interview subject, and part of national conversations about maternal health. A selection of her favorite contributions is gathered here.
Podcast & Webinars
In conversation and on stage.
The CCDS Doula Collaboration Podcast
Melissa’s own show, where she spotlights the doulas she has trained, sharing their stories and the many ways doulas collaborate to support families.
DONA International: Certifying Doulas to Serve Families Since 1992
A conversation with Melissa about the work of doulas and the mission of DONA International.
Melissa joined U.S. Representatives Alma Adams and Lauren Underwood and fellow Lamaze leaders as a panelist for this national webinar.
Books, Essays & Articles
Written by Melissa.
A Mother’s Strength
Melissa shares her experience supporting a couple through a true non-medical emergency when Emma and Ben were forced to evacuate during Hurricane Ivan.
The Many Faces of Joyful Birth
In her second essay for the series, Melissa explores what it means to have a joyful birth and how doulas can help clients leave room for joy in every kind of birth.
Welcoming All Families: Supporting the Native American Family
Melissa explores Native American birthing customs of the past and present, and ways childbirth professionals can honor them in birth today. Read ›
Collaboration: Doula Practice Models in Action
Melissa weighs the options doulas face when structuring a business, from agency to co-op to solo practice, and the benefits of each. Read ›
Almost Home: Stories of Hope and the Human Spirit in the Neonatal ICU
A book review that takes readers inside the NICU, told from the perspective of a neonatologist. Read ›
Nurturing Baby and Me During Pregnancy
A book and CD review of a resource that encourages bonding between parent and baby during pregnancy. Read ›
The International Doula Magazine
Where Melissa’s articles and columns appear.
Melissa is a regular contributor to the quarterly magazine of DONA International, from president’s letters to feature articles. Browse the publication to find her work.
A selection of Melissa’s president’s letters, features, and articles in The International Doula.
Featured & Quoted In
Press that has interviewed or quoted Melissa.
Cherokee set to run international doula organization
A profile on Melissa’s election as president of DONA International, and the path that brought her to lead the organization.
Research & Citations
Scholarship Melissa has contributed to.
Surviving in the midst of ‘Nowhere’: Disrupting the conceptualisation of a maternity care desert
Researched and written by Rose Archer, a doula and former student of Melissa’s, this peer-reviewed study gives voice to families navigating maternity care deserts. It is a meaningful contribution to the field, and Melissa was honored to be interviewed and quoted in Rose’s work.