Answering the Call to Birthwork: Ty West’s Journey Into Supporting Families

PIN IT

Building Confidence Through Doula Training

At bebo mia, our full spectrum doula training helps students build confidence across fertility, birth, postpartum, and loss care. Through our doula scholarship program, we support more people in stepping into this work.

A Calling That Started Long Before Training

Some paths don’t begin with a decision—they begin with a feeling you can’t ignore.

Hi, my name is Ty. I’m a registered nurse, caregiver, soon to be LMT and someone who has always felt naturally drawn to helping/ supporting others not only physical but mentally, spiritually and emotionally. I grew up around children through my grandmother’s daycare, later worked as a nanny for several years, and have always been someone people turn to during pregnancy and early parenthood. Being in those spaces taught me early on how important it is to feel supported, seen, and cared for—especially during life transitions.

Discovering a Purpose Through Birth

My connection to birth work started early. At 12 years old, I supported my aunt throughout her pregnancy and was present for her birth, witnessing the full experience. That moment stayed with me in a way I didn’t fully understand at the time. Years later, as a nursing student, I had the opportunity to witness another birth in a clinical setting, and it reaffirmed what I already felt—that I am meant to support people during these powerful and vulnerable moments. Even now, whenever someone in my life becomes pregnant, I feel an immediate pull to be there for them in whatever way I can.

I applied for the scholarship because I wanted to take the next step in answering this calling and receive the proper training to support people in an intentional, informed, and ethical way. Being selected as a recipient of the Bridging the Gap Healthcare Award truly means a lot to me. It feels like both support and confirmation that I am moving in alignment with the work I am meant to do.

Finding a Community That Reflects Her Values

I was especially drawn to Bebo Mia because of its focus on trauma-informed care, inclusivity, and advocacy within maternal health. As a BIPOC woman and healthcare worker, I understand how important it is for individuals—especially those from marginalized communities—to feel heard and respected within healthcare spaces. I appreciate that Bebo Mia not only teaches practical skills, but also emphasizes accountability, cultural humility, and building sustainable, community-centered practices.

For me, birth work is about presence, compassion, and creating a space where people feel safe, supported, and empowered in their choices. My background in mental health nursing has strengthened my ability to remain calm, grounded, and emotionally present during high-stress situations, and I plan to carry that into my work as a doula.

Building a Practice Centered on Advocacy and Care

After completing the program, my goal is to build a sustainable, community-centered doula practice offering both birth and postpartum support. I hope to also incorporate education and advocacy into my work, helping families feel more confident navigating their care and making informed decisions.

I’m truly grateful for this opportunity and excited to continue growing into this work. This feels like the beginning of something deeply aligned, and I look forward to supporting families with intention, compassion, and care.

“What is meant for you will always find you—but you still have to be willing to answer the call.”

With love,

-Ty

A Path Into Meaningful Work

If you’re ready to begin, explore our Birth Doula training or apply for a doula scholarship to take the next step.