Hi, I’m Barb Buckner Suárez.
Becoming a family is one of the most life-changing events you could ever go through! For over two decades I’ve helped thousands of families navigate their parenthood journey from pregnancy to postpartum.
I'm a Lamaze Certified Childbirth Educator, a Fellow in the Academy of Certified Childbirth Educators, a Certified Becoming Us Facilitator and Mentor, I hold a Master's Level Certificate in Interpersonal Neurobiology, and most recently have become a Certified Resonant Healing Practitioner.
I believe you are already a “good enough parent” and after working with me, I hope you’ll have increased confidence in your ability to make the best decisions for your family using the most current, evidence-based information for pregnancy, birth, postpartum, and parenting.
My Approach
I’m relaxed and laid-back in my approach and use humor to increase engagement and help information “stick.”
I have zero agenda on any particular way to birth and encourage grace and flexibility around creating any set plans, as birth is just too big to fit on an 8 ½ x 11 piece of paper.
I take pride in being able to gently guide you to discover what would be most important to you to have a positive and empowered birth and parenting experience.
I believe that birth happens to more than just the birthing person. If you’re in a partnered relationship, the experience may be different for each of you, but no less important or transformational.
My attention is equally focused on both experiences and after working with me, partners often remark that they felt seen, heard, and validated.
I have a particular interest in centering and increasing the connection between the birthing person and their partner and/or other members in their circle of support.
More About Me
I’m a parent to four incredible children – Elisa, Alejandro, Lucía and Félix – and have been married to my BFF – Roberto – for 28 years (and counting!) I’m originally from Indianapolis and my husband comes from Puerto Rico, so we joke that our kids are “Hoosier-Ricans.” We met soon after college as volunteers here in Portland and have built a close-knit community of chosen "framily" in our adopted city that we love so much!
When I’m not preparing families to start their own, I’m usually hanging out with mine: camping, hiking, or enjoying dinners together – I love to cook! I also love reading, music, Peloton, Yoga, meditation… and a little whiskey from time to time (not necessarily in that order!) Most recently, I've been living a dream that I've had since I was 14 - as the lead singer in an all-femme rock band!
I mean it when I say that you are doing THE most important job ever: raising the next generation.
Thank you so much for trusting me to be your guide on this parenthood journey.