Who I Am​​

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I am a mother, doula, educator, and creative who supports families, children, and communities with care and intention. With academic studies in psychology and child development and a passion for the arts, I create spaces where people feel safe, valued, and supported, whether through birth, parenting, education, or creative growth.

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Motherhood has been my greatest teacher, giving me patience, adaptability, and the ability to listen deeply. These experiences shape how I show up today, not only with knowledge, but with true understanding. 

 

My Cultural Roots

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My Afro-West Indian Caribbean and Panamanian roots carry values shared across many cultures, the strength of family and community, the joy of storytelling, music, food, and dance, the warmth of hospitality, and the resilience passed down through generations.

 

These roots ground the way I listen, support, and celebrate others, honoring each unique story and vision while offering care that reflects both individuality and connection.

 

 

My Experience

 

For more than a decade, I’ve worked across schools, childcare and after-school programs, community organizations, and arts spaces, from Toronto to Tanzania, Colombia, and Brazil.

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My work in community arts includes serving as a board member with Prologue Performing Arts, a non-profit that expands access to creative learning for children and youth.

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At Young People’s Theatre, I helped bring stories and imagination to classrooms across Ontario, authoring the Charlie and the Chocolate Factory study guide for teachers. (published under my authored name, Denise East)

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My work has also been featured in Today’s Parent (October 2025), highlighting the importance of comfort and rest in postpartum recovery. Read the full article here 

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My Background

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I hold an Honours Diploma in Early Childhood Education, a BASc in Early Childhood Studies, and a degree in Arts Education and Community Engagement, all earned with High Honours.

 

My studies explored physiology and psychology, along with the domains of child development, cognitive, emotional, social, and physical. I also examined Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) and how trauma, epigenetics, and early environments shape long-term well-being.

 

In addition, I have training in interpreting standardized assessments and in conducting teacher/parent screening tools for ADHD, Speech Delay, and Autism Spectrum. While I do not diagnose, this training allows me to recognize early patterns and guide families toward appropriate resources and professional support.

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My Doula Path

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Long before certification, I was supporting family, friends, and community through birth and postpartum experiences rooted in cultural tradition and shared responsibility. These experiences inspired me to pursue formal training with Doula School Canada, where I became a certified birth and postpartum doula.

 

Today, I bring together lived experience, academic knowledge, and creative practices to provide care that is both compassionate and evidence-based.

 

 

Let’s Connect

 

​Every family’s journey is unique, and I’d love to hear yours. If you’re looking for support that blends compassion, creativity, and evidence-based care, you can book a consultation here.