I began my studies of women’s health by mentoring young women as they entered into adolesence. In 2005 I was introduced to the Midwifery Model of Care and fell deeply and passionately inspired. For the following two years I mentored with a granny-Midwife in Vermont. I was an active participant with the Vermont Midwives Alliance and attended study groups as well.
In 2008 I attended a 14-month program at Maternidad La Luz, a very busy bi-lingual birth center on the border of El Paso, Texas and Ciudad Juarez, Mexico. During my time as a student midwife at the center I cared for a variety of low and medium risk clients. I am a California Licensed Midwife and a Certified Professional Midwife. Additionally, I am a Wilderness First Responder, Reiki 1 Certified, a student herbalist and a mid-level Spanish speaker. I am also involved in studies of world history, indigenious craft, and sprituality. I carry current IV, CPR and Neonatal Resusciation Certification. In total, I have attended more than 120 births. Returning to my childhood home of Humboldt County, I have been joined by a variety of midwives in caring for clients throughout the whole county.
In January 2011, I experienced a very profound change in my role as a midwife, when I entered into motherhood, birthing our daughter in our own home. This has helped to bring me closer in humility and personal experience to each families unique unfolding story. I am guided by my mixture of experiences as a community midwife, with a strong sense of grounding, committment, open communication, and a deep trust in the processes of life. I see the family as a whole and the woman as a whole, knowing that there are depths to each being that cannot be seen on the surface. I am honored to bear witness and help hold the sacredness of this passage.
Olympia McCutchan can be contacted at midwives@madronemidwifery.com or 707-223-5322