Mika Kleban
Postpartum care offering practical and emotional support for
new and expanding families
I received my postpartum doula training and certification from Natural Resources in San Francisco, CA over 14 years ago. When back in my native hometown of NYC, I decided to strengthen my offerings to my breastfeeding clients by becoming a Certified Breastfeeding Counselor through an amazing course with Lea Rivera at Birth Day Presence. I have been told by my clients that I have a very nurturing, calming, intuitive and reassuring way and that I often know what they need before they do. I strive to minimize any anxiety that parents may be experiencing and to teach them to be self sufficient and confident. I find each family has unique needs that I can meet to provide them with peace of mind. I support all members of each family… siblings and pets alike! Everyone is going through a big transition and I am there for it all! I truly love this work.
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Read an inteview with Mika on the South Slope Pediatrics blog »
Services
DOULA SERVICES
Daytime postpartum doula support, including recovery guidance, newborn care and emotional support.
LACTATION SUPPORT
Breastfeeding advice ranging from establishing a latch and a comfortable feeding position to troubleshooting issues with letdown, supply and breast care.
FAMILY SUPPORT
Support for each family member as you transition to life with your new baby. Each family member should feel seen and heard.
To say that Mika was helpful during our postpartum time would be an understatement-- her knowledge, intelligence and sensitivity helped us through the hardest parts of new parenthood and she often offered what we needed-- physically and psychologically-- before we knew I needed it. She helped me and my daughter find our rhythm and best positions for breastfeeding in a way that made something that was at first unexpectedly challenging into the joyful experience I had hoped it would be. She was so caring and related with my daughter and they formed a lovely bond. Mika is not only an outstanding Doula-- she is an outstanding person who I feel lucky to know and to have in my (and my family's!) life. I can't say enough how incredible her presence was for us at such an
important time.
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-Erica E.
After the birth of my first child, Mika was like a fairy godmother. She was endlessly kind, optimistic, and calming, exceptionally reliable and supportive, and could somehow predict what I needed before I knew I needed it. Despite frigid winter storms, she always arrived on time and was available to answer questions - no matter how small - any time of day. She brought warmth and happiness into our home each time she arrived, and was as essential to my physical recovery from childbirth as to my mental and emotional recovery. Mika wasn't just there for me or my baby, but also essential to giving my husband support as a new father. As first-time parents, we were often unsure or overwhelmed with our newborn, but she consistently lifted us up, and reminded us to trust our instincts. No task was too small for Mika - she would fold laundry, pick-up groceries, and make me (delicious!) breakfasts, as well as give exceptional care to our son while I napped or simply needed a break. She was also there for me while I struggled with the stress and sadness that accompanied breastfeeding difficulties, a part of motherhood I was not prepared for. I wish every mother had the support that Mika gave me and my family. I recommend her with my full heart and
highest compliments.
- Helen D.
I have struggled with depression most of my adult life. I was working with my doctor during my pregnancy and she suggested I find a postpartum doula to support me and my partner once our baby was born. We met Mika and connected right away. She was kind, calm and reassuring with zero judgment. Mika came to our home 3 days a week starting the day we came home from the hospital. She played an essential role in both guiding us and easing our anxiety. Being aware of my elevated concern of postpartum depression, Mika was there for me in a way that was gentle yet strong and exactly what I needed to feel in control and supported. We couldn’t have done it without her!
- Shirley C.