So I delivered my first child at the Orlando Tree of Life location (I can only find the Deland location on Yelp). I am new to the area, and out of all the doctors and midwives I had talked to, this place was definitely my favorite! They listened to my concerns, helped me with my birth plan, and really let me be in control over all my options and decisions. They helped guide and prep me for the natural unmedicated birth that I wanted, and gave me plenty of information to take home and look over. Pregnancy and delivery can be an overwhelming experience, but they made it so much easier. When it came to delivery, I wouldn't have been able to follow through with my birth plan without them. They kept me going when I felt like giving up, and they made sure that they did all they could to keep me and the baby healthy. I am forever grateful for their hard work and patience read more

Tree Of Life - Midwives Near Me - Altamonte Springs, Florida

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I still feel new to TOL as I just found them Jan/Feb. I found out in November that I was pregnant and went the "normal" route of going to an OB in Daytona. After having the typical office visits and finding out how much my high deductible insurance was going to cost monthly with them and their unwillingness to work with other payment plans, I looked into other birthing methods. I won't lie, the price was the leading factor. However, once I found out there is a birthing center near me I KNEW I had to check it out and I'm so very glad I did. My boyfriend wasn't as keen on the idea but was open to meeting them because he knew how excited I was over it. We met with one of the midwives and she more than answered my long list of questions. She reassured him as well so that he became excited at this experience also. I haven't given birth here yet but I'm down to bi-weekly appointments now with baby due mid-July. I've meet all of the midwives at DeLand except for Kaleen but have an appointment set up with her for later in the month. Everyone has been great so far; it's so opposite from the typical hospital visit and I love that. The atmosphere is so much better than being at a hospital. My greatest worry? That I DON'T end up giving birth here for some reason. read more

I am so amazed and inspired by each person I have met working at Tree of Life. Truly the fact that this group of caring, qualified individuals has come together, committed to creating and holding a beautiful safe space for both Mother and baby to go through this most sacred time, makes my heart sing! I just couldn't be more grateful that my daughter found them when she did. They stepped totally last minimal and saved the day, as far as I am concerned. My sincere thanks go to Kaleen for envisioning Tree of Life in the first place and gathering such a committed, knowledgeable group. Her creation is truly a gift to the planet. I also especially want to acknowledge Michelle. She absolutely went above and beyond to drop everything to be with us at the very last minute, rearrange her schedule and stretching well beyond her comfort zone. She also had the confidence to allow us to include one of my dearest friends and midwives to play a very active role in the birth and decisions. I feel this is truly selfless, and so courageous. It is evidence of the fact that she brought no ego with her, only wisdom and knowledge beyond her years of experience, as well as mighty faith and trust in both the birth process and my daughter. She is a true midwife. In this day and age, they are as rare as rare comes. My deepest respect and gratitude for her. read more

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After a big move from across the country at 36 weeks I was so worried I wouldn't be able to find a crunchy-mama midwife practice here in FL... but I was so wrong! The front desk ladies are oh so nice and conversational... my midwives are so friendly and understanding... they have an excellent billing agent, so any insurance weirdness I had from my old state she was able to figure out which was amazing. 100% if you want a birth center, choose here. I give birth in 2 weeks (or more, or less) and I owe my sense of calm about it to TOL! I can't wait to give birth here! read more

Grab a number and your paperwork and sit down, because a number is all you are to them. I was really excited to schedule my appt and meet my future midwife after conversing with Kaleen over email... but when I went in for my consult I ended up with Maggie and boy did she make my entire experience awkward as hell. First off, they have a video playing in the waiting room of women giving birth which to me... being this is my first pregnancy was unnerving. I don't feel emotionally ready to think about going through the worst pain of my life yet, let alone watching other women do so in the company of complete strangers... women, children, grandparents... awkward. Then when Maggie came to get me for my consult, she just assumed whoever was in the waiting room was with me and invited everyone back. I told her how awkward that could be seeing as we didn't know those people - some of which were children. What if they were with me and I wanted my consult alone? How uncomfortable a position to put ME in. Maggie was unorganized, not very personable and just did not relax or comfort me or educate me in the least. She told me next to nothing and asked if I had questions. I didn't even know where to begin - it's all new to me! I thought she would fill me in! I was no at all at ease with her, I found myself unable to talk to her even if I wanted to (which I didn't) and would never recommend anyone else to go here. I would have asked to see the other midwife but usually one midwife is the back up for the other and I would hate to end up with Maggie as my back up. read more

I had my daughter at TOL back in 2016,after a recent medical diagnosis that possibly could be connected and years of also remembering my experience from time to time and how negative it was I feel the need to now post about it.Ihad a good pregnancy and this was my second birth at TOL(more on that later)I went almost 2 weeks past my due date and began labor,everything was ok until I started getting severe pain in between my contractions and contractions that seemed to be all over the place and not letting up at one point I asked to be transferred,Iremember asking the MW if she was mad at me several times,clearly I was getting the vibe she was not happy about the transfer,but it's fine we got an ambulance and I was on my way.at the hospital their was a clear distain of the hospital vs the birth center staff and vice versa-didn't have time to think about that much though..despite the epidural I still had this constant pain in my left abdomen. I made it to 9cm and about ready to push and the dr checks me and I reversed, I was now back at 4cm,they prepaired the c-section quickly and when it was over the surgeon walks around pulls his mask down and starts counseling me basically...he asks me if I want more children because he goes on to tell me it will be very risky and that if this could be my last then it probably should because my uterus was partially ruptured and in his words "you had a window where I can see baby and one layer left holding everything together like a string"while I was recovering I researched a little and found out that the pain I was experiencing in between contractions was a major sign of a pending rupture, along with the recoil of the cervix.Ok so at this point I'm not blaming the birth center because I was transferred promptly,even though I was the one to ask and still,i don't know what they would have done or not done if I had progressed at home. But here lies the real issue..I go and tell the MW what the surgeon saw and what was going on so that they can learn and if another woman was maybe having a similar situation like mine it would be like something to learn from.I honestly thought they would WANT to know the outcome and Informationher reply to me was "oh, he was just trying to justify giving you a section, it's what they always do" I felt so gaslit and horrible, I hung up and cried. I didn't understand and it made my head tailspin into how horrific things probably would have gone had I not advocated for myself, Had I ruptured at home we didn't stand a chance being that far from the hospital. Here's the other issue is that looking back there were so many signs or warnings, from my babies weight,to her position, to the contraction patterns being weird, to the pain like I mentioned. the callousness in dismissing everything I was telling her the hospital told me, even the recoil being a sign etc. It was like "they knew everything" and the "hospital were all liars and didn't know what they were talking about" that's the impression...and after that I never heard from them again, even that 1 phone conversation I was the one that initiated it and in my email I even remember telling them how I felt kindof traumatized by the experience, like with the ambulance and everything else...I know moms can be emotional at this time after birth but there was like zero care for me as a person or anything that had happened . And now, circling back to how I had my other daughter with them at home I couldn't help but remember how they were more welcoming and kind and checked on me, it was almost like if you transfer to a hospital (even if needed) they dismiss you and throw you away...you are no longer part of the TOL family so to speak, I wasn't invited to their annual bbq that year and it was just weird to me, if nothing was done wrong then why be like that?? This naturally brought up thinking about my first birth and I see now there were a few red flags there as well- and this is all me learning from reading medical journals-so many things can be solved by good communication and also compassionate communication under every circumstance not just the one that went well for the center.their Reply would probably be why wait this long to say anything?I was in no state at that time and couldnt handle any potential backlash..plus I was also back in the hospital with a severe infection a week later(also related to the uterine tear I had)and had another surgery-they didn't know any of this because I no longer was "their"patient anymore even though I had paid in full but it bothered me so much over the years the details like I just tried to recount because I can't help but know that a mom maybe attempting her first vbac might not ask to be transferred herself-there is NO doubt I was going to rupture-I had one thin layer left and a 9lb baby that never even moved into proper position yet(which save us) I would just say think about this- "near misses"shouldn't be overlooked or not reported. read more

Loved them! I want to thank them for being soo inspiring and educational! I got the birth I wanted! I felt listened to and considered. Thank you for being kind hearted and patient with me, I know I can be difficult. I have found that you guys really care for us individually. I have now started on my path as a doula(Doulas of Orlando) and having worked with Diane, Kaleen and a few others in that scope... I can truly say that you guys are the best midwifery group in Orlando. Thank you for all the wonderful work that you guys do. I'm glad we can working together to give local women and their families holistic care. read more

I LOVED my experience! It was my third child, first two were delivered by doctors at hospitals. This time I still chose the hospital birth, but with a midwife! I am not opposed to home births I just felt more comfortable being at the hospital. Kaleen was amazing, she got there before me & met me at the door as my husband parked. When we went up to labor and delivery she denied all the hospital procedures that I didn't want and told them I was going to labor in my own clothes. My labor was short, my water broke at home, I labored for 2.5 hrs total, and was only at the hospital for about 30 minutes. My prenatal appointments were great too, and the rest of the staff was helpful as well. Most of my interactions were with Kaleen or Tiffany. Both are beautiful loving women. :) read more

I delivered my first daughter at a different birth center but got to work with Rebecca during several visits. When it came time to choose a place for my second birth I heard that Rebecca had moved to Tree of Life. I immediately contacted her and made an appointment. I had a successful, peaceful home birth with Kaleen and Rhonda in attendance. I had Gestational Diabetes during my 1st pregnancy and was able to control it with diet. They worked with me to try to avoid it the 2nd time around and when it did show up again I was able to control it. They welcomed my 2 year old daughter at each appointment and made me feel completely comfortable. I had such a wonderful experience with everyone at Tree of Life. I felt as if I was visiting friends each visit. I have recommended them already and will continue to do so. And if I decide to do all of this again I won't hesitate to call them. read more

Better care than I could have ever asked for! Kaleen and her team of incredible ladies have been taking care of my OB & gynecological needs for over two years now and I wouldn't dare have it any other way! I am on my second pregnancy now with Tree of Life and I am looking forward to another incredible birth experience in the center! Each visit is warm and inviting and the facilities are just beautiful. They go above and beyond to let patients and mommies feel right at home. And they truly listen to your needs. I highly recommend Kaleen Richards and her practice nearly every day!! read more

I started going to Kaleen when I was 17 years old for birth control and overall women's health appointments. At first it was a tad awkward, but definitely more comfortable than any doctors office I've ever been in. I loved that they made the waiting room more like a living room and the documentary they had playing on the TV was one I had seen and found extremely informative (The Business of Being Born). Kaleen has made my experience with birth control very easy, has even called me personally when I had to change my prescription instead of having me drive all the way to her office and even sent the prescription directly to my local pharmacy! While I don't plan on getting pregnant in the near future, when it does come time for that, Kaleen is the only person I'd have in mind to help me through the beautiful process of pregnancy and birth! read more

For our first child, my husband and I knew we wanted a natural birth at home. Being first time parents, we had high hopes but fully understood we might be disappointed by the care we sought out, as we'd been disappointed by so many hospitals and doctors thus far. Tree of Life was recommended by a friend and we could not have made a better decision. From the very first (free) consultation, every single appointment was an experience so personalized and so nurturing and so completely different from every medical encounter we've had before. Impressed is not the word. As a patient, you are made to feel as if you're the only patient there, even when they have a birth in progress right down the hall. Our daughter was born exactly as we wanted, healthy, full term and at home. The entire experience was so much more than we hoped for. We will continue to seek care at Tree of Life for our future pregnancies and highly recommend them for anyone who wants to be protected and loved through the delicate and beautiful event of birth. read more

I had a pretty good experience with Kaleen as my midwife the first time I used her. Healthy homebirth and healthy baby. There were some communication issues the first time around but I still chose her as my midwife for my next pregnancy. However, the second time around I had several issues: - she prescribed me medication my pharmacist wouldn't fill bc it was dangerous in the 1st trimester (which I was in) - I began to have miscarriage symptoms over a weekend and could not get ahold of her. When I did, she was very curt and said "it sounds like you know what is happening. I guess you could go to the hospital if you feel like you need an ultrasound." - after my first hospital visit where miscarriage was confirmed she advised me to return home and miscarry on my own and that it wouldn't hurt worse than an average menstrual cycle. I later returned to the hospital that evening and spent the weekend there under an OBs care. My blood pressure was severely low due to blood loss. - I received a bill one week later for one office visit with her, with no note of condolence. I have since had several friends interested in natural/birth center birth come to me for recommendations and I have advised them to seek another health provider (which they did and had good experiences elsewhere). read more

Kaleen is a WONDERFUL midwife. I received such personal, one on one care through my entire pregnancy and when my baby was ready to come, Kaleen let me labor and deliver in the tub, which I'd always wanted to do. It was an amazing experience. When I had a breast infection later on, I was quickly seen and prescribed medication to clear it up. Any time I've had questions for her, she has always gotten back to me as soon as possible and addressed all my concerns. Every time someone tells me they are looking for a midwife or OB doctor, I always recommend Kaleen and Tree of Life. read more

kaleen is an angel and helped me through my first home birth she's smart and honest caring not judgmental so grateful for tree of life ! read more

I would definitely recommend Tree of Life over any other Central Florida midwife (or OB)!! Rebecca and Kaleen are the best midwives around! They are knowledgable and caring. read more

It's been almost a year since my daughter was born at the birth center in DeLand. The midwives at Tree of Life are awesome. I was comfortable and well taken care of. The midwives all are great listeners and take their time. I never felt rushed. More like I was meeting with friends. When Brynn was ready, I had Rebecca and Rhonda. Thank God for those two. Rhonda was the student, but she knew just what to do. My Fiancé had never had an out of hospital experiance before and after our birth experiance in DeLand, he's a convert:). Love you guys! I almost want to get preggers again, just to come see you all, lol. read more

I delivered my second and third babies at Tree of Life Birth Center. One in 2013 and another in 2014. I've been fortunate to have healthy pregnancies and births. I first met Kaleen in 2009 when she started working at the birth center I was using for my first child. Kaleen exudes warmth, kindness, knowledge and caring. Although she has never attended any of my births personally (she was never on call when I went into labor), she is skilled at picking midwives to work at her center with the same characteristics as herself. My prenatal appointments always felt like a catch up session with a girlfriend--comfortable, relaxed, nurturing, they were never cold or sterile, like visiting a doctor's office. I truly miss the ladies in the office after I no longer need their services. If you're looking for an out of hospital birth experience, you will absolutely love the care you will receive at Tree of Life Birthing Center. read more

Great Midwifery Care! Very sweet staff.

When I was pregnant with my second son, I decided that I needed to look for a provider who would listen to my needs without rushing or pressuring me. When I visited Tree of Life, Kaleen and her team were warm, available, and informative. There were a couple minor medical issues, each one cared for quickly, effectively, and with genuine care. When my due date came and went, I was supported when I express my desire to wait for labor to begin naturally. Eleven days late, I gave birth to a perfect baby boy. He was welcomed by the birth team as if he was part of their family, and I felt safe, supported, and empowered by the experience. The post postpartum care was fantastic, I was amazed at the attention to medical details, but also the recognition of my emotional needs. read more

I delivered my son with Kaleen and had the most amazing experience. I had started my pregnancy with a typical OB GYN and at 31 weeks started to realize they were not going to be supportive of my wishes to have a natural unmedicated birth. My doula suggested I contact tree of life. After talking to Kaleen on the phone for a few minutes I knew that I needed to make the switch! Kaleen was very patient, listened, and taught me so much about my baby and pregnancy at each prenatal visit. She was very easy going but at the same time extreeeemely knowledgeable and thorough. I am a nurse practitioner and birthing safely was a huge concern of mine and I felt very comfortable with Kaleen. She made me feel at ease and very well taken care of. I never had any problems with any of her office staff, billing, or scheduling appointments. Looking forward to birthing my next little one with tree of life! read more

My experience was NOT that great. My son weighed to much to fit threw my canal (something they should have known upon examination) which resulted in my midwife having to pull him out of me and choking him a bit. He was so blue he had to have quit a bit of oxygen. And because she had to pull him out she cut my insides all up and I lost so much blood I was dizzy and soaked over 4 chuck pads before she realized where the blood was coming from. Thankfully our son is ok. But I never recommend them and never would go back. read more

I had my fourth home birth with Tree of Life in 2014. They were everything you'd want and expect in midwives: professional, knowledgeable, gentle, kind, respectful, encouraging, and supportive. I don't plan on having any more children, but if I did I'd definitely go back to Tree of Life. read more

Tree of Life is a friendly, professional miwifery practice where the health of you and your baby is always their top priority. I had my birth with them in June of 2014 and it was a wonderful experience. They were highly recommended to me by 4 other mothers who had their babies with them. I had a water birth at the birth center and delivered a healthy baby boy weighing 9lbs 6 oz with no interventions and that was my first birth! The environment was calm and intimate. If you wanted your space and for just your husband to help you with labor or if you wanted them to be right there beside you, all you had to do was ask. All of the staff at ToL are wonderful women who truly care about you, your baby, and your birth. I can promise you that your baby will be loved by them long before he or she is even born. These women are passionate about what they do and they love every part of pregnancy and birth. They earned my respect over the 8 months I was with them because they have a very hard job but they do it so well. I think it means a lot for me to say that I would not change one thing about my labor and delivery! read more

I've been seeing the ladies at TOL for my prenatal care, and so far the service is amazing! I have horrible anxiety and cry at almost every appointment, but these wonderful ladies have helped me stay calm! I've had to call the on-call midwife a few times and have been met with exceptional care, even at 3am (poor Kaleen and Audrey! haha!). With this being my first I've felt guided really well and totally in control. At my anatomy I was diagnosed with complete placenta previa and a 2 vessel cord. They explained in detail what it means, along with the ideal outcome and a worse case scenario. Going to a specialist seemed redundant when even the geneticist explained things that the midwives went more into detail with than the geneticist did at Winnie! They were surprised I knew what I knew, and I only did because of the TOL midwives. I'm looking forward to my birth with them, and I feel in control even if I know I won't really be in control of how my body works. I'm not feeling nervous or anxious about it. They've helped me feel confident! I'll update my review once our little guy is here, but I highly recommend TOL! read more