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Zach Nunnally, DEM, CLE, CHW
A lover of West Virginia, Zach has dedicated most of his adult life to the people of Appalachia. He began his journey into midwifery and women's health by volunteering at pregnancy care centers, teaching birth classes, and working with other medical providers to find solutions to loosen the grip of postpartum depression. As a husband and father, Zach is committed to providing gentle care for all. He is a member of the Appalachian Breastfeeding Network and the National Association of Certified Professional Midwives.
Abi Hengst, CH
A homebirth mom of three, Abi has extensive experience in what it means to need access to a place like Gentle Care Women's Clinic. As the director of education, Abi continues to show her love for the people of Appalachia. She holds a certificate in herbalism and uses her expertise to provide a more natural touch for our community.
Lori Bray, CD
A nurturer by nature, Lori enjoys caring for people of all ages and she has created a balance of work with her passions. Lori is a mother, a full-time birth doula, midwife assistant, and birth educator. Her life is centered around supporting families, midwives, nurses, and obstetricians during this miraculous time of life. She has a big passion for birth work and continues to grow and learn as much as she can to bring excellent and well informed care to all the people that she supports. Lori finds great fulfillment in creating connection and community for the families she works with. It's our pleasure to have her as our billing manager and birth assistant.
Desirae Ellison, LMT
A native of southern West Virginia and someone easily inspired by the healing arts, Desirae wandered from home to follow her dream of becoming a massage therapist. She studied at the Costa Rica School of Massage Therapy, brought her learned skills back to Appalachia, and opened Wandering Waters Healing Massage. Desirae has a great desire to work with pregnant and postpartum women in giving them a better overall experience. Her welcoming smile and passion for healing makes her a wonderful part of our Gentle Care team.
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Karissa Heidemann
As a passionate birth doula and home birth mother of two, Karissa gives her all to support families on their journey into parenthood. She believes that each birth story is unique and should be honored and supported. Her passion and effort make her a great birth assistant and a vital part of our Gentle Care team.
Caroline Smith
Informed by her own experiences during the birthing process, Caroline focuses on elevating parents' voices so they feel heard throughout the birth journey. Experienced under pressure, she confidently guides her client through the unpredictable and extraordinary time of birth and parenting. She is a valuable birth assistant and we are happy to call her a member of our Gentle Care team.
Kayla Stinnett, MA
Recognized in her community for her kindness, Kayla makes a great addition to our Gentle Care team as a Birth Assistant. She graduated as a medical assistant and has a strong desire to support women and babies.