In this episode, we explore the inspiring story of Tara — a dedicated birth doula, childbirth educator, IBCLC, and Birth Trauma Resolution Practitioner who traded the bright lights of New York City for the Irish seaside. Living in Galway for almost twenty years, Tara’s journey is a testament to how moving abroad can deepen our understanding of birth, mental health, and holistic support systems. With her rich background in publishing, Women’s Studies, and English Literature, Tara has spent more than a decade helping new parents find the support, information, and confidence they need to navigate pregnancy and parenthood with calm and clarity.

As a volunteer with Cuidiú and a mother of three, Tara’s work is driven by a passion for empowering parents and transforming birth experiences. Her holistic approach—covering emotional well-being, trauma support, and informed decision-making—reminds us that birth support is about more than just the physical; it’s about nurturing the whole person.

Tune in as we discuss:

✨ How Tara’s move from New York to Galway shaped her approach to birth, mental health, and community support

✨ The vital role doulas play in empowering parents during pregnancy and birth

✨ Practical tips for managing pregnancy anxiety

✨ Resources for mental health and trauma healing

✨ The importance of emotional health and decision-making tools like BRAIN in supporting informed choices

Whether you’re an expat, a parent-to-be, or someone passionate about holistic birth care, this episode offers heartfelt stories, practical advice, and a fresh perspective on supporting parents across borders.

🎧 Listen now and discover how compassion, resilience, and community are transforming birth experiences worldwide.

ℹ️ Check out the resources mentioned in this episode:

Find a Doula: https://doula.ie

Evidence on Doulas: https://evidencebasedbirth.com/the-evidence-for-doulas/

Mental Health & Birth Trauma Supports - Pregnancy and Postnatal

• Perinatal Mental Health Team at your hospital
• Community Mental Health Services
• Therapies that can support birth trauma healing and are available privately and some publicly: Birth Trauma Resolution (BTR) see Birth Trauma Ireland; EMDR Therapy - Therapists in Galway : Therapists in Galway
  https://www.ebtc.ie/emdr-therapy/

Cuidiú Ireland: @cuidiuofficialireland @cuidiuparentsupport

📌 Follow Tara:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/doulanextdoor.galway

Email: tara@doulanextdoor.ie

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#BirthSupport #ExpatParenting #HolisticBirth #BirthTrauma #MentalHealthMatters #Doula #NaturalBirth #miscarriage #highriskpregnancy