Michelle Backen, CD(DONA)
Birth Doula
Hello! I’m Michelle. I live in Minnetonka with my husband and two children.
After spending ten years in Stockholm, Sweden—where I gave birth to both of my children—I moved back to Minnesota in 2018. During my time here, I experienced incredible support, compassion, and resources available during pregnancy and birth, this had a profound impact on my own journey. It was there that I found my passion for birth work, and after my own birth experiences, I felt called to help others experience the same level of emotional, physical, and informational support that I was fortunate enough to receive.
In addition to my work as a birth doula and background in Social Work, I proudly serve as the president of The Childbirth Collective, a nonprofit organization committed to improving birth experiences and providing education, support, and advocacy for families. This role allows me to further my mission of empowering individuals and families through their unique birth journeys.
When I’m not working with families, you can find me puzzling, enjoying the outdoors, or practicing yoga. I’m excited to meet you and be part of your journey birth experience!


Erin Ursin, CD(DONA)
Birth Doula
I live in Minnetonka with my husband and our three children – Eleanor (6), Claire (4) and Robert (18 months). Each of their deliveries was unique – one was born at a hospital, one at birth center and one at home – all of them were life-changing. For me, motherhood has been transformative – every up and down has brought so much meaning and perspective to my life. I am passionate about birth and love supporting families on their journey through pregnancy, delivery and the first year of life.
In my spare time, I love being outside with my kiddos and running on the trails near our home. I am an avid reader and love listening to podcasts & audiobooks while doing projects around the house. I am also in the process of working towards my dream of becoming a RN!