Care that begins with listening
For more than 27 years, I’ve worked with children and families in nursing roles that include neonatal intensive care, labor and delivery, postpartum care, pediatrics, and community and school health. I’ve been beside families during joyful introductions, difficult decisions, long nights, and the gradual process of finding their footing.
Those experiences taught me that families need someone who will listen, explain what they can, make room for questions, and recognize what matters most to them. That belief guides the way I work as a doula.
I bring a calm presence and a practical approach. I can help you prepare for birth, learn everyday newborn care, plan support at home, and feel less alone when the beginning looks different from what you imagined. Your family, values, and choices lead the conversation.
A SPECIAL PLACE FOR NICU FAMILIES
Support when the path changes
My NICU experience has stayed with me throughout my career. The sights and sounds of the unit can be unfamiliar, and parents may be taking in new information while caring deeply for a baby they are still getting to know.
I support NICU families with preparation, parent education, questions to bring to the care team, and planning for the transition home. I also make space for the feelings and everyday needs that can be easy to overlook. Your baby’s NICU clinicians remain the source for medical updates, treatment decisions, and care instructions.
WHY I FOUNDED AZURE COAST
Where Tides Meet Heart
The name Azure Coast was inspired by the blue waters of the Adriatic coast and the feeling of steadiness I found there. I wanted to create a place where families could pause, ask questions, and feel anchored in compassionate care.
To me, support is personal. It may mean a reassuring presence during labor, help learning your newborn’s cues, care during an overnight stretch, or a thoughtful plan for coming home from the NICU. We begin with what your family needs.
Thoughtful support, shaped around you
I listen first
Share your hopes, worries, preferences, and past experiences without feeling rushed.
I include the whole family.
Partners and older children are part of the change, and their questions deserve attention too.
I teach in practical ways.
We focus on skills you can use in your own home, with your own baby.
I honor your care team.
I provide nonmedical support and education. Your clinicians provide medical assessment, treatment, and advice.
Credentials and training
Heidi Terpening, BSN, RN, NCSN, CFSD, BPCE
Currently Training In:
My nursing background informs how I educate and support families. Doula services are described in your written agreement, and nursing care is not implied by my credentials.