Providing Experienced Birth and Postnatal Doula Support in Essex
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About Me
I’ve spent over two decades working in maternity and healthcare – in paediatric nursing, as a midwife, midwifery lecturer, and eventually as a private independent midwife.
Throughout my career, I’ve had the privilege of supporting families through some of the most extraordinary and life-changing moments they will ever experience.
Somewhere along the way, I discovered a deep love for a different kind of care – doula care.
I'm passionate about preparing parents for birth and parenthood. I love teaching hypnobirthing, antenatal education and biomechanics for birth – all powerful tools to help you feel calm, confident, and in control.
Alongside this, I bring fourteen years experience of both breastfeeding support and as a qualified massage therapist, with additional training in the safe use of aromatherapy during pregnancy and birth.
My Background
Being a doula allows me to support you in a way that traditional clinical settings often can’t. There are no handovers, no shift changes, and no systems pulling me away – just consistent, dedicated support from someone who is fully present with you throughout your journey.
With my clinical background, I understand the maternity system you may be navigating. I’m here to help you feel informed, prepared, and truly seen within it, while always respecting and honouring my role as your doula.
Outside Work...
Outside of my work, I’m a wife and a mum to four teenagers (including non-identical twins). We live in Chelmsford, Essex, with our two rescue dogs, Coco and Pepper, who are happiest out on a muddy walk in the woods.
I’m a big fan of a good vegetarian curry and a cosy movie night. You’ll often find me with my nose in a birth-related book – or enjoying the simple pleasures of a lovely hand cream or a beautifully scented candle.
If you’re looking for someone to hold your hand, hold your space, and help you feel calm, confident, and supported, you’re very welcome to book a free video call – I’d love to chat with you.
Qualifications
Enhanced DBS checked and fully insured with Balens Insurance Brokers for health, wellbeing, fitness and beauty professionals | Balens
Fedant accredited antenatal education teacher - 13957
https://www.fedant.org/for-parents/find-a-registered-course-tutor/
Member of Doula UK
https://doula.org.uk/doula/cheryl-samuels
The Birth Bliss Academy Doula Course Birth Bliss Academy - 2026 https://www.thedouladirectory.com/doula/chelmsford/cheryl-samuels
PGCert – Advanced Midwifery Practice Anglia Ruskin University, Chelmsford, Essex - 2022
Biomechanics For Birth Training with Midwife Molly O'Brien – 2021
Beyond Bea Bereavement Training – 2021
Make Birth Better Professional Training in Birth Trauma - 2019
Diploma in Hypnobirthing
KGHypnobirthing Teacher Training Course - 2018
Certificate of Aromatherapy for Childbirth - 2017
BSc Hons Midwifery – First Class Degree Anglia Ruskin University, Chelmsford, Essex - 2016
Diploma in Body Massage Level 3, Distinction, City and Guilds - 2012
