TESTIMONIALS
Tursa F.
“Cora is my go to massage therapist pregnant or otherwise. I’ve sent many friends and family to her and they all say the same thing…’Cora is the best!’. I have had several prenatal massages from Cora. SO much tension in my hips and neck are released when I see her. With my firstborn, I was 9 days past due, so I went in for massage. I received an awesome massage ALLOVER as well as focus on the uterine trigger points. I went into labor that night. Anytime I have gone to another massage therapist while out of town, I have had a hard time enjoying them. All I am thinking about it is either ‘what a waste’, or ‘Cora is so much better’. She seems to intuitively know exactly the amount of pressure I need. A great massage to work out tight knots and muscles doesn’t have to hurt.”
Jenny K.
"Cora was put on this Earth to serve women and families. Her warmth and wisdom combined with years of experience as both a doula and massage therapist make her an incredible asset to any pregnancy and birth! Not only does Cora bring all of her passion and knowledge to the table, she has a winning personality and is just plain fun to be around. My only regret is not having known Cora when I was pregnant with my first!"
Eliza B.
“We loved taking Cora Crain’s childbirth class! It was great to connect with other moms at similar stages in their pregnancies, and I enjoyed having a safe space to come every week and talk about any and everything related to pregnancy and birth. Cora taught us a variety of exercises and movements that felt really good toward the end of my pregnancy, and by the time I actually started contractions, I felt like I was equipped with a whole set of tools to cope with the hard work of labor. My husband also appreciated all the suggestions for how he could be an active participant in helping me breathe and move through contractions. We definitely recommend this class—especially to first-time parents and anyone who might benefit from having birth reframed as a positive (rather than fearful or scary) experience."
Sarah B.
"Cora and her class gave us a sense of calm and preparedness that nothing else did when we were expecting our first child. From stretches to how to know if you’re in labor to what to expect at the hospital to breastfeeding resources- everything we wanted to know was covered in her class. This class was truly the best resource we invested in while expecting, and we are so happy to be part of the Balanced Mama family!"
Alexandra M.
"In short, Cora is wonderful!... “Every woman needs a Cora!”
Jordan V.
Working with Melanie was one of the best decisions we made for my pregnancy and birth. From day one, she was just a text away—always answering questions, offering advice, and supporting every choice I wanted to make for my birth experience. When labor came, she was by my side through more than 24 hours and an unexpected C-section. Her calm presence, encouragement, and even little touches—like candles and mint essential oil—helped me through some of the hardest moments. She moved me into better positions, advocated for me with the hospital staff (most of whom she knew by name), and made sure I felt cared for every step of the way. When she had to leave, Des seamlessly stepped in and supported me through surgery, and both Melanie and Des continued checking in postpartum. I would recommend them and their entire team a million times over—they are truly extraordinary.
Mayme H.
When I think back about my birth experience, I’m with how safe and in power I felt. Melanie was such a driving force in that. She helped me feel comfortable and confident throughout the whole birth.
Sarah S.
I cannot say enough positive things about the women of Balanced Mama. My husband and I met them through their BirthingTime Basics class, and although we didn't use a doula for labor and delivery, the knowledge shared at the class prepared us for a shockingly smooth delivery. Postpartum recovery has been a bit trickier, but with Cora's massage therapy, Desiree's lactation consulting, and Melanie's home visit, I'm starting to feel like myself again. They dote on my daughter (and pets), listen and soothe, and create space for me to heal in a cleaner home. I also appreciate the community of moms that they foster, and look forward to our weekly get togethers. My husband and I were both uncertian about what to expect from a doula, but if you're on the fence, go for it. I cannot imagine navigating... without them.