About Me
“The peace and calmness I feel while working as a doula is something I will pursue until I no longer feel effective. I am extremely thankful for every family that has chosen to have me by their side during these vulnerable times. Creating a peaceful atmosphere for the entrance of our future generations into the world is an honor. After each experience, I leave with a tired body, an empty stomach, and a heart overflowing with the desire to contribute to my community”.
"Being a doula feels like I am the midpoint between our ancestors and the future. The strength of those before me guides me instinctively as I help guide this new life into the world".
I’m Chantel Spinner, a certified birth and postpartum doula, lactation support counselor, and PAIL (Pregnancy and Infant Loss) advocate proudly serving Lynchburg, Virginia, and surrounding areas.
A Lynchburg native, wife, and mother of two incredible daughters, I bring not just professional training, but lived experience and deep roots in this community. I hold a degree in Sociology with minors in Human Services and Gender Studies from Randolph College, and I am also a Notary Public for the Commonwealth of Virginia.
Supporting pregnant individuals is more than my profession — it’s my calling. As a strong advocate for reproductive justice, I am committed to creating safe, empowering spaces where bodily autonomy is respected, voices are amplified, and compassionate care is the norm. Witnessing the staggering disparities in maternal health — particularly the alarming maternal mortality rates among Black women — fueled my passion to become a doula.
Through The Melanin Fluent Doula, I offer culturally fluent, holistic support throughout pregnancy, childbirth, and the postpartum journey. My services are designed to nurture, empower, and educate families as they navigate one of the most profound transitions of their lives.
Beyond birthwork, I am a certified peristeam facilitator, trained through Steamy Chick, after personally experiencing the benefits of vaginal steaming for menstrual wellness. In 2021, I earned certification as a lactation support counselor, committed to bridging the gaps in breastfeeding support for Black families and creating a more inclusive, informed community. I am also a Pregnancy and Infant Loss Advocate, dedicated to providing compassionate support for those navigating grief and loss — an area where support is deeply needed and too often overlooked.
Currently, I am expanding my knowledge as an amateur herbalist, reconnecting with the healing traditions of my Black southern heritage and grounding my practice in holistic wellness.
I may not be able to change all outcomes, but I believe deeply that I can impact my community — one birth, one family, one moment at a time.