Guiding Gaia

Guiding Gaia is the Amsterdam birth-coaching and doula practice of Samantha van Praag, offering thoughtful support to expectant parents as they prepare for birth and early motherhood. Its approach centers on listening to each client, respecting their wishes and needs, and helping them feel informed, confident, and involved in decisions about their care. Preparation may include mindfulness, hypnobirthing, breathing exercises, birth physiology, partner practices, and guidance for working through fears.

Services range from tailored coaching for specific questions to pregnancy-preparation packages and birth support. The Gaia Pré package includes an introductory meeting, three extended sessions at home, and digital resources. Gaia Pré Compleet adds on-call availability from week 37, continuous support during birth, optional birth photos and videos, and a postpartum visit. Gaia Mid provides birth-focused support, while individual coaching can address topics such as breathing, partner exercises, anxiety, or spiritual concerns. During labour, Samantha supports both the birthing person and their partner, helps uphold the birth plan, and encourages informed choices.