Susie Finnerty, CPD, CLC, MCHS

I am an artist, mother of four, experienced community doula, and certified lactation counselor based in Providence, Rhode Island. Currently, I serve as the co-facilitator for the Maternal Health Task Force’s Perinatal Systems Work Group, co-founder and board member of the Rhode Island Birth Worker Co-op, and director of RhodeIslandBirth.com [rhodeislandbirth.com]. Previously, I was the co-president of Doulas of RI from 2018 to 2021.

My experience includes supporting families through physiologic birth at home or in the hospital, inductions, cesarean births, birth at any size, VBAC, and experiences shaped by trauma, loss, or varying access needs. Walking alongside people as they plan, advocate, and often fight for a safe, respectful transition to parenthood has deeply shaped my advocacy and legislative work in the state.

As someone who has navigated pregnancy, parenthood, and the experience of mothering a child with a disability, I recognize dedicated, in-person doula care as life-saving for families and those experiencing pregnancy. They are my greatest teachers.