Pregnancy, birth, and postpartum is a deeply vulnerable season of life that holds great potential for profound healing and discovering one’s own power. Birthers of all ages, races, religions, economic status, or sexual orientation deserve respect, autonomy, and support to unleash one’s inner strength.

As a midwife, I seek to nurture self-confidence so that birthers may experience empowerment that can be drawn upon throughout life. I do not “deliver” babies, rather assist and support birthers and their families. I believe that birth is a normal life process created by God that works best when allowed to unfold as naturally as possible-- only intervening when a need arises.

When I attended my first birth in 1984, I wept and was forever transformed by the overwhelming beauty of ushering in the miracle of new life. I have found tremendous joy in actively serving birthing families ever since. Ten years were spent specifically supporting pregnant minors, both those who chose to parent and those who chose to place their children for adoption.

In the 1990’s, I was blessed to birth three beautiful children, two daughters and a son, at home with midwives. As birth changed the way I see myself as a woman and mother, and provided the catalyst to heal past wounds, I desire this for all birthers. 

I am licensed as a massage therapist, certified as a placenta encapsulation specialist with PBI, and attended the MEAC (Midwifery Education Accreditation Council) accredited midwifery school, National Midwifery Institute. I feel honored to have received incredible training through wise and seasoned midwives, and continue my training with the greatest teachers of all: the birthing mamas, their partners and their babies. I have also studied under Dr. Aviva Romm and am a graduate of her Professional Training Program for Integrative and Functional Medicine for Women. I seek optimal health in pregnancy, well-woman care, and future health by uncovering and holistically addressing root causes of symptoms that arise. I am currently completing a Diploma in International Midwifery and Maternal/Child Health with Mercy in Action.  

Each birther's journey is unique, forever broadening my vision and understanding of the birth process. I invite you to discuss your circumstances and wishes with me so I can personalize your care.

We at Innate acknowledge that birthers of color have been systematically excluded from birth options and the thorough care they deserve. Racial disparities in the US have resulted in dismal rates in infant and maternal mortality. Racial health inequities exist because of racism not because there is inherently anything wrong with bodies of color. We are committed to help close this gap by supporting doulas and midwives of color whenever possible.

When not attending births, I enjoy family, friends, travel, long beach walks, massage, a good cup of tea, and dark chocolate!

Ronda Perea, Licensed Midwife

For as long as I can recall, I’ve always had an immense fascination and admiration towards the journey of birth. Perhaps it began by hearing my mother’s homebirth journeys, or watching every birth video I could get my hands on as an eight-year-old.
Even so, I soon realized it was so much more than a passion, It’s been a blessed calling!
Currently, I am a student enrolled at National Midwifery Institute and assist with homebirths under Ronda in the Santa Barbara community.
I consider it an immense honor to participate in the intimate moments as families welcome their precious babies into the world, and I look forward to many birthdays to come!

Gabrielle Lyman, Student Midwife