Biography

FAMILY : Marie-Lou Grenier Bartish was born and grew up in Québec province but travelled a lot. She gave birth to her first child in London (England) and to her second child in Melbourne (Australia). Her third pregnancy resulted in the birth of an angel-baby which was followed by a wonderful rainbow-baby who was born here in Québec province. QUALIFICATIONS AND INTERNATIONAL EXPERIENCE : Marie-Lou obtained her qualifications internationally. She was trained as a birth doula and postnatal doula in Australia, therefore being perfectly bilingual in her field of expertise. She worked as a breastfeeding counseller and breastfeeding educator for the Australian Breastfeeding Association. Marie-Lou was certified in Sexual Health from the Medecine Faculty of Laval University. DOULA STYLE : As she was for away from her family for two of her pregnancies, she understands the pressure this situations can cause to some parents. She loves to share her calm with stressed parents and energy to tired ones. She recognizes that the needs and wishes or each family are unique and supports them differently to accomodate each of their preferences. It is important for her to really get to know the families in the prenatal period so as to give them the best of herself in the context of birth. She loves supporting parents in the discovery of their parenting and helping them to gain confidence in their capacities to care for their child. Her inclusive approach is adapted to all types of families. OTHER PROFESSIONNAL INFORMATION : Marie-Lou works with Étoile de mère Accompagnement since 2013 and is now co-director of this business. She also works as a midwifery assistant at the birthing home in Blainville and is co-founder of the Québec Trauma Recognition Coalition. She gives conferences on trauma sensitive care during birth support, as well as conferences on the impacts of sexual abuse on birth and breastfeeding experiences.