Cardiologist providers include doctors, nurses, nurse practitioners, and physician assistants. They often maintain long-term relationships with you and advise and treat you on a range of health related issues.
Chiropractor providers include doctors, nurses, nurse practitioners, and physician assistants. They often maintain long-term relationships with you and advise and treat you on a range of health related issues.
Dentist providers include doctors, nurses, nurse practitioners, and physician assistants. They often maintain long-term relationships with you and advise and treat you on a range of health related issues.
Dermatologist providers include doctors, nurses, nurse practitioners, and physician assistants. They often maintain long-term relationships with you and advise and treat you on a range of health related issues.
Family Physician providers include doctors, nurses, nurse practitioners, and physician assistants. They often maintain long-term relationships with you and advise and treat you on a range of health related issues.
OB-GYN providers include doctors, nurses, nurse practitioners, and physician assistants. They often maintain long-term relationships with you and advise and treat you on a range of health related issues.
Ophthalmologist providers include doctors, nurses, nurse practitioners, and physician assistants. They often maintain long-term relationships with you and advise and treat you on a range of health related issues.
Orthopedic Surgeon providers include doctors, nurses, nurse practitioners, and physician assistants. They often maintain long-term relationships with you and advise and treat you on a range of health related issues.
Pediatrician providers include doctors, nurses, nurse practitioners, and physician assistants. They often maintain long-term relationships with you and advise and treat you on a range of health related issues.
Physical Therapist providers include doctors, nurses, nurse practitioners, and physician assistants. They often maintain long-term relationships with you and advise and treat you on a range of health related issues.
Podiatrist providers include doctors, nurses, nurse practitioners, and physician assistants. They often maintain long-term relationships with you and advise and treat you on a range of health related issues.
Psychiatrist providers include doctors, nurses, nurse practitioners, and physician assistants. They often maintain long-term relationships with you and advise and treat you on a range of health related issues.
Natalie R. Needham, MD, is a highly skilled OB/GYN who enjoys providing compassionate care to women in every stage of life. She’s currently on the team at OB-GYN Associates of Marietta and treats patients at their offices in Marietta and Woodstock, Georgia.
Dr. Needham is a proud Louisiana native who graduated from Louisiana State University in Baton Rouge. She earned her medical degree from West Virginia University in Morgantown, West Virginia, and completed her OB/GYN residency at Mercy Hospital in Chicago. During her residency, she served as the chief resident, was awarded the Academic Achievement Award, the Resident Achievement in Laparoscopy Award, and earned the title “Special Resident in Minimally Invasive Gynecology-Robotics and Laparoscopy.”
Dr. Needham joins the OB-GYN Associates of Marietta team after seven years in Alabama, where she worked in private practice in Montgomery and taught as an Associate Professor at the University of Alabama School of Medicine in Birmingham. She looks forward to continuing her practice in her new home and bringing high-quality medical care and an empathetic bedside manner to the women of Georgia.
When she’s not working, Dr. Needham loves to chase around her two-year-old son, cook with her three stepdaughters, and explore new places with her husband.
Mary L. Chappell, MD, FACOG, is a board-certified OB-GYN who provides the community of Marietta and Woodstock, Georgia with excellent medical care at OB-GYN Associates of Marietta. She was ranked as America’s Top OB-GYN for 2004-2005 by the Consumers’ Research Council of America.
Dr. Chappell graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in Mathematics from the University of Florida in Gainesville, where she was inducted into numerous honor societies, including Phi Beta Kappa, Phi Eta Sigma, Alpha Lambda Delta, Alpha Epsilon Delta, and the Golden Key National Honor Society. She stayed at the University of Florida for her medical degree, earning the Janet M. Glasgow Memorial Achievement for graduating in the top 10% of her class, as well as membership in the Alpha Omega Alpha Honor Medical Society and the Phi Kappa Phi Honor Society. She completed her residency at the University of North Carolina in Chapel Hill, where she was named Outstanding Intern and Resident of the Year.
Dr. Chappell is currently a member of the Georgia Obstetrics and Gynecology Society, the Atlanta Obstetrics and Gynecology Society (where she is a former president), the Cobb County Medical Society, and is a Fellow of the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. Dr. Chappell served as the Chairman of the OB-GYN department at Wellstar Kennestone Hospital in Marietta.
Dr. Chappell believes in providing patient care that’s compassionate and inclusive and makes sure to fully discuss medical conditions and treatment options with all of her patients in a direct and sympathetic manner. Outside of work, she likes to run, travel, and spend time with her family and friends, including her husband, Scott, and their two children, Kendall and Connor.
Bobby O. Tackitt II, MD, is a board-certified OB-GYN who provides dedicated and diligent care to his patients at OB-GYN Associates of Marietta’s office in Marietta and Woodstock, Georgia.
Dr. Tackitt earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology and his medical degree from the University of Missouri in Columbia. He relocated to Denver, Colorado, to complete an internship in internal medicine, a second internship in obstetrics and gynecology, and a residency in obstetrics and gynecology, all at St. Joseph’s Hospital.
Dr. Tackitt is currently a Fellow of the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists and enjoys membership in the Missouri State Medical Association, the St. Louis Gynecological Society, and the American Urogynecologic Society. Prior to joining the team at OB-GYN Associates of Marietta in 1999, he ran a private practice in southern Missouri.
In his practice, Dr. Tackitt specializes in pelvic floor reconstruction, the treatment of urinary incontinence, and advanced minimally invasive laparoscopy. He maintains a subspecialty interest in urogynecology and teaches pelvic floor reconstruction surgical procedures.
Outside of work, Dr. Tackitt raises Japanese koi, grows orchids, and participates in Schutzhund, a competitive dog-training sport. He also enjoys spending time with his wife and their four children.
Dr. Stephen A. Rosenberg, MD, brings a wealth of expertise as a distinguished board-certified obstetrics and gynecology specialist, dedicated to elevating women's health at North Atlanta Ob/Gyn, with convenient locations in Alpharetta, Marietta, and Atlanta, Georgia.
A proud alumnus of Emory University, Dr. Rosenberg earned his undergraduate degree before pursuing his medical education at Emory University School of Medicine, where he also completed his residency in Obstetrics and Gynecology.
While proficient in both obstetrics and gynecology, Dr. Rosenberg's current focus lies predominantly in delivering exceptional gynecological care. Whether guiding patients through the phases of perimenopause, menopause, and post-menopause, performing intricate surgeries with precision, or conducting thorough annual wellness check-ups, Dr. Rosenberg's extensive experience and compassionate approach set him apart as a leading figure in his field. His specialized knowledge in bioidentical hormone replacement therapy with Biote empowers him to offer comprehensive support tailored to each patient's needs.
Committed to remaining at the forefront of his profession, Dr. Rosenberg maintains his certification with the American Board of Obstetrics and Gynecology (ACOG), ensuring he stays abreast of the latest advancements in women's healthcare. He prioritizes individualized care, actively engaging patients in their healthcare journey and empowering them to make informed decisions.
To experience the unparalleled care of Dr. Rosenberg and the compassionate team at North Atlanta Ob/Gyn, schedule an appointment by calling the office nearest to you or conveniently requesting an appointment online today. Your journey to optimal health starts here.
Dr. Colleen Cherry, MD, is a proficient and compassionate board-certified obstetrics and gynecology physician serving patients at North Atlanta Ob/Gyn, with convenient locations in Alpharetta, Marietta, and Atlanta, Georgia.
A native of Atlanta and an alumna of Roswell High School, Dr. Cherry's educational journey led her to obtain her undergraduate degree from The University of Georgia, followed by her medical degree from the esteemed Medical College of Georgia. She furthered her training with a residency at Carolinas Medical Center in Charlotte, North Carolina, where she distinguished herself as Administrative Chief Resident.
Dr. Cherry's passion for obstetrics and gynecology is evident in her commitment to building enduring relationships with her patients. She finds fulfillment in all aspects of her field, with particular interests in pediatric and adolescent gynecology, vulvar dermatology, and high-risk obstetrics. Beyond her professional endeavors, Dr. Cherry cherishes time spent with her husband and two sons.
Certified by the American Board of Obstetrics and Gynecology and recognized as a Fellow of the American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Dr. Cherry maintains the highest standards of excellence in her practice.
Experience personalized and expert care under Dr. Cherry's guidance by scheduling an appointment with her and the skilled team at North Atlanta Ob/Gyn. Contact the office today or conveniently request an appointment online. Your journey to optimal women's health starts here.
Dr. Anamaria Uceda combines advanced surgical skills, a warm and approachable bedside manner, and deep local ties to provide exceptional women’s health care at North Atlanta OB/GYN. Fluent in both English and Spanish, she is proud to serve the diverse communities of Metro Atlanta with personalized, patient-focused care.
Born in Lima, Peru, and raised in Roswell, GA, Dr. Uceda’s commitment to women’s health is rooted in both her cultural heritage and her strong connection to the area. She earned her undergraduate degree in Biology from the Georgia Institute of Technology and a Master’s in Chemistry from Georgia State University before attending Mercer University School of Medicine in Savannah, where her passion for obstetrics and gynecology was sparked by inspiring mentors.
Dr. Uceda completed her OB/GYN residency at Henry Ford’s Warren Campus in Michigan, where she served as Academic Chief and Surgical Representative to the Graduate Medical Education Resident Council. She developed her residency’s educational curriculum and earned recognition for her leadership and dedication to teaching.
With specialized training in minimally invasive gynecologic surgery and certification in Da Vinci Xi Robotic Surgery, Dr. Uceda offers her patients advanced, evidence-based treatment options for a variety of gynecologic conditions. She has extensive experience in laparoscopic and robotic procedures, with a particular interest in gynecologic pathology and helping patients achieve wellness through less invasive, faster-recovery approaches.
Her research includes presentations on labor management in obese patients and cost-effectiveness in gynecologic surgery, and she regularly shares her expertise at national and regional medical conferences. She is an active member of the American College of Obstetricians & Gynecologists and the Society for Maternal-Fetal Medicine.
Outside of the office, Dr. Uceda enjoys spending time with her husband, young son, and Labradoodle. She loves cooking new recipes, attending outdoor art festivals, jogging, and hiking with her family.
Patients searching for a caring, highly skilled OB/GYN in North Atlanta who speaks both English and Spanish will find a trusted advocate in Dr. Uceda. She is honored to care for women through every stage of life, from adolescence and pregnancy to menopause and beyond.
Sitra Mekonnen, MD, is an adept and caring board-certified obstetrics and gynecology physician at North Atlanta Ob/Gyn, which has locations throughout Alpharetta, Marietta, and Atlanta, Georgia.
Dr. Mekonnen completed her undergraduate degree at Emory University here in Atlanta. She then received her medical degree from the University of Tennessee Health and Science Center, located in Memphis, Tennessee. She completed her residency training in obstetrics and gynecology at Orlando Regional Medical Center. During her residency training, she was recognized for Excellence in Minimally Invasive Gynecology. She is also certified to perform da Vinci robotic surgeries.
Dr. Mekonnen is originally from Memphis, Tennessee, but she has relocated and settled down in Atlanta. She enjoys all aspects of women’s health care and has special interests in high-risk obstetrics, contraceptive care, and minimally invasive surgery. Dr. Mekonnen is passionate about empowering her patients, providing individualized care, and being an advocate for women.
To schedule an appointment with Dr. Mekonnen and the team at North Atlanta Ob/Gyn, call the office or book online today.
“Dr Sitra took the time to sit with me and really ask questions. She didn’t try to rush me out of her office. I really appreciate her for taking great care of of me !”
Dr. Sitra Mekonnen, MD
OB-GYN
1523 Johnson Ferry Road
Suite 150
Marietta, GA 30062
5.0(4)
5.0
(4)
Erin Mabile
OB-GYN 6.9 mi
5.0(4)
1523 Johnson Ferry Road
Suite 150
Marietta, GA 30062
Erin Mabile, MSN, WHNP-BC, is a nationally certified women’s health nurse practitioner assisting patients at North Atlanta Ob/Gyn, which has locations throughout Alpharetta, Marietta, and Atlanta, Georgia.
Erin completed her nursing degree at Georgia State University in Atlanta. She then earned her Masters of Science in nursing from Emory University, where she was a Woodruff Scholar and graduated Summa Cum Laude. She then spent several years working in family planning prior to joining North Atlanta Ob/Gyn.
Erin’s health care approach emphasizes prevention and holistic care for her patients. She is passionate about assisting women of all ages, regardless of their gynecologic needs. Empowering patients, honoring diversity, and promoting health equity are key components of her personal philosophy. She seeks to create lasting partnerships with her patients that will improve their quality of life and sense of well-being for years to come.
When she is not working, you can find Erin exploring the outdoors with her husband and dog.
To schedule an appointment with Erin and the team at North Atlanta Ob/Gyn, call the office or request an appointment online today.
Dr. Michelle Dodder is a dedicated and compassionate board-certified gynecologist practicing at North Atlanta Ob/Gyn, conveniently located in Atlanta, Alpharetta, and Marietta, Georgia.
Dr. Dodder's academic journey began at Atlanta's esteemed Oglethorpe University, where she earned her undergraduate degree. Continuing her pursuit of excellence, she attended Emory University for medical school and residency training, where her commitment to patient care was evident as she served as Chief Administrative Resident during her final year.
Dr. Dodder offers a comprehensive range of services to address women's health needs at every stage of life. Additionally, Dr. Dodder is highly skilled in managing perimenopausal and menopausal symptoms, offering personalized treatment plans to alleviate discomfort and promote overall health and vitality during this transitional phase of life.
Recognizing the importance of contraception in family planning, Dr. Dodder provides comprehensive counseling and access to a variety of contraceptive options tailored to each patient's individual needs and preferences.
For women experiencing abnormal gynecological changes, Dr. Dodder offers thorough evaluation and diagnosis, followed by personalized treatment strategies aimed at restoring normal life and optimizing gynecological health. In addition to these specialized services, Dr. Dodder provides routine gynecological care, including annual wellness exams, preventive screenings, and management of common gynecological conditions such as ovarian cysts, fibroids, and pelvic pain.
Embark on a healthcare journey tailored specifically for you by requesting an appointment with Dr. Dodder today. Contact the office nearest to you or utilize our convenient online booking tool. With Dr. Dodder at your side, your wellbeing is her utmost priority, ensuring you receive the compassionate and capable care you deserve.
Jana Dopson Illston, MD, is a board-certified OB/GYN and urogynecologist serving patients at North Atlanta Ob/Gyn, which has locations in Alpharetta, Marietta, and Atlanta, Georgia. Dr. Illston specializes in the care of prolapse, overactive bladder, urine leakage, accidental bowel leakage, vaginal changes of menopause, painful bladder syndrome/interstitial cystitis, and pelvic floor dysfunction.
Dr. Illston was a Foundation Fellow and CURO Scholar at the University of Georgia, and her undergraduate degrees in Anthropology and Microbiology were enriched through travel study opportunities around the world. She went on to attend medical school at the Medical College of Georgia, where she developed a passion for women’s health through her involvement with the American Medical Women’s Association. She completed residency training in obstetrics and gynecology at Greenville Health System in Greenville, South Carolina, before going on to complete fellowship training in female pelvic medicine and reconstructive surgery (urogynecology) at the University of Alabama at Birmingham in Birmingham, Alabama. For the past two years, she has been practicing in Atlanta, and she is thrilled to be part of the team at North Atlanta Ob/Gyn.
As a fellowship-trained, board-certified urogynecologist, Dr. Illston is well prepared to offer the full range of available therapeutic and treatment options for pelvic floor disorders. These include vaginal prolapse repairs without mesh, prolapse repairs with mesh augmentation, midurethral slings, pubovaginal slings, bladder Botox, sacral and peripheral neuromodulation, bulking agents, and pessaries.
Dr. Illston is passionate about helping restore the quality of life for women with bothersome pelvic floor disorders and has been a wonderful addition to the team.
To schedule an appointment with Dr. Illston, call the office nearest you or book online today.
Marietta OB-GYN Affiliates provides comprehensive obstetrics and gynecology care to women of all ages in Northwest Atlanta with locations in Marietta and Powder Springs, Georgia. The expert team of board-certified physicians, registered nurse practitioners, and medical assistants offer personalized care in a comfortable environment, helping women navigate every stage of life.
Women can appreciate the office’s commitment to maintaining a clean and welcoming space. The supportive atmosphere ensures everyone feels comfortable and well cared for during their visit. Every provider undergoes extensive training to manage high-risk pregnancies and deliver babies at the state-of-the-art birthing center at Wellstar Kennestone Hospital.
Whether patients visit for contraception counseling, gestational diabetes screening, or a multifetal pregnancy appointment, they can rest assured their medical team will provide thorough and compassionate care. The team’s educational approach means patients receive clear explanations and answers to their questions, empowering them to make informed decisions about their health.
The team equips the office with the most advanced treatments and technology, ensuring patients receive the highest standard of care. From hydrothermal ablation to minimally invasive surgery (robotic surgery) with the da Vinci® Surgical System, patients benefit from cutting-edge options for a wide range of gynecological needs.
Marietta OB-GYN Affiliates’ emphasis on advanced treatments extends to gentle pain management with Pro-Nox™ — a self-administered nitrous oxide system. Pro-Nox helps ease discomfort during procedures, allowing patients to feel more relaxed and in control. This focus on pain management makes each visit as comfortable as possible.
Marietta OB-GYN Affiliates is currently accepting new patients and works with most major insurance carriers. Call or schedule an appointment online today to learn more.
I have always been drawn to women’s healthcare and health issues. I take pride and honor in being able to care for women from adolescence, to pregnancy, to post-menopause. It is a privilege to help a family bring a new life into this world but also to be there for the female healthcare issues throughout the stages of life.
Residency training in Obstetrics & Gynecology, SUNY Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, New York
M.D. Degree, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Denver, Colorado
M.P.H., M.B.S., Tufts University School of Medicine , Boston, Massachusetts
Since I was little, I can remember wanting to deliver babies. My fascination with how new life came to be only grew as I became older, and this eventually led to me pursuing a career in obstetrics. As my education progressed I began to realize how much I also loved caring for women though out their lives, not just during their pregnancies. I truly cherish the long-term relationships I am able to maintain with my patients, and help to take care of them at the best and worst of times. Being able to make even a small difference in someone’s life, especially during difficult times, is what keeps me going!
Residency training in Obstetrics and Gynecology, Saint Joseph Hospital, Chicago Obstetrics and Gynecology Residency Program, Chicago, IL
M.D. Degree, University of Illinois College of Medicine, Peoria, IL
B.S. Degree, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL
Dr Sheema Khan-Simba speaks English, Urdu and Hindi.
“I have been seeing Dr Khan for about 10 years or so and she is so wonderful! She really listens to your concerns and provides options and solutions to help with your problems. I have seen her through 2 pregnancies, an emergent hysterectomy after having my second child and now in perimenopause. Really can’t say enough good things about her.”
Dr. Sheema Khan, MD
OB-GYN
5041 Dallas Highway
Suite 115
Powder Springs, GA 30127
4.74(27)
5.0
(67)
Dr. Carlos Alarcon, MD
OB-GYN 9.0 mi
5.0(67)
5041 Dallas Highway
Suite 115
Powder Springs, GA 30127
I feel priviliged to be involved in some of the most intimate and emotional experiences in our female patients’ lives. The relationships forged during childbirth through menopause and beyond makes the practice of Obstetrics and Gynecology rewarding. It is exciting to help women implement new and innovative ways of managing these situations.
Residency training in Obstetrics and Gynecology, Emory University, Atlanta, G.A. 2006
M.D. Degree, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, 2002
B.S. Degree, Biology, University of Georgia, GA, 1998
I chose this field of medicine to make a different in the lives of women. I was drawn to this field by experiencing the miracle of birth as a medical student. It is one of the happiest times in people’s lives and being a part of that every day is truly a very rewarding experience. I am also very passionate about women’s health care and this field allows me to care for women from their teenage years until menopause and beyond. I enjoy being able to specialize care for women and help them through this journey of womanhood!
Residency training in Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wayne State University/Detroit Medical Center, Detroit, MI, 2012
M.D. Degree, Wayne State University Scholl of Medicine, Detroit, MI, 2008
B.S. Degree, Xavier University of Louisiana, New Orleans, LA, 2003
“My family and I would like to express our deepest gratitude for the exceptional care provided by Dr. Sims. Throughout my pregnancy, she demonstrated a rare balance of clinical excellence and genuine compassion. Dr. Sims ensured we were thoroughly informed at every stage, never once rushing our consultations. Given that this was my third C-section, her expertise provided an invaluable sense of security. We are incredibly grateful for her role in the safe arrival of our daughter and for her dedicated support throughout my postpartum recovery.”
Dr. Stacy Sims, MD
OB-GYN
5041 Dallas Highway
Suite 115
Powder Springs, GA 30127
4.98(57)
4.86
(73)
Dr. Elizabeth Taghechian, MD
OB-GYN 9.0 mi
4.86(73)
5041 Dallas Highway
Suite 115
Powder Springs, GA 30127
I went into medicine in order to become an obstetrician and gynecologist. I fell in love with the obstetrical part of women’s care because of the involvement in the miracle of birth. In my opinion, there is no happier part of medicine. I am also drawn to the challenges of gynecology, and I am proud to be able to aid in women’s healthcare from adolescence to post-menopause and all that falls in between.
Residency training in Obstetrics and Gynecology, Greenville Memorial Hospital, Greenville, S.C., 2002
M.D. Degree, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta, GA, 1998
Announcing Castle Connolly’s 2023 Exceptional Women in Medicine
The Exceptional Women in Medicine list recognizes female Castle Connolly Top Doctors who have demonstrated outstanding leadership, expertise and dedication in their respective fields. All Exceptional Women in Medicine are nominated by their peers, and then the Castle Connolly research team evaluates important criteria to determine who makes the list.
“Dr Tag delivered my baby via c-section while I had a broken foot. That was the start of our relationship over 12yrs ago. Since then she has become a friend that I would welcome into my home anytime. She truly cares and nurse Patty is right along her side with the same care, kindness and empathy. Thank you all for all you do! I am grateful.”
Dr. Elizabeth Taghechian, MD
OB-GYN
5041 Dallas Highway
Suite 115
Powder Springs, GA 30127
Marguerite Dorothy Doctor, MD, is an OB/GYN serving patients at Providence Women's Healthcare in Roswell, Suwanee, and Atlanta, Georgia.
Dr. Doctor was born in Cleveland, Ohio. Upon high school graduation, she matriculated to Kenyon College in Gambier, Ohio, where she majored in biology. Her educational pursuits then led her to Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine in Cleveland, Ohio. Upon completion of medical school, Dr. Doctor completed her residency training in obstetrics and gynecology at St. Luke’s Medical Center in Cleveland, Ohio.
Dr. Doctor has served in various medical communities as a clinician and an associate professor teaching medical students and residents. She has served people in the states of California, Florida, Georgia, Ohio, Pennsylvania, and South Carolina. She has also participated in medical and spiritual missions to Nairobi, Kenya, Haiti, The Bahamas, and Seoul, South Korea.
In addition to her medical pursuits, Dr. Doctor served as a Lieutenant Commander in the United States Navy, serving on both Marine and Naval bases. Dr. Doctor entered a new season in life when she was called to preach the gospel. She is an ordained Itinerant Elder in the African Methodist Episcopal (AME) Church. She completed the Master of Divinity and Master of Public Health dual degree program at Emory University’s Candler School of Theology and Rollins School of Public Health. Dr. Doctor is now equipped to effect change not only on the individual level with her patients but on the community level as well.
Dr. Doctor is a proud mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. She enjoys reading fiction and non-fiction and writing prose and poetry. She also enjoys visiting museums and listening to music including, but not limited to, contemporary jazz, classical, and gospel music.
“She is very kind, helped me a lot, and explained everything. She made the experience so easy for me. English is not my first language but I understood everything she said.”
While visiting a friend who had recently returned home from New Mexico, Ellen felt the call of midwifery for the first time as a young woman entering the adult world around forty years ago. This friend had practiced Midwifery with Traditional Hispanic midwives, the Curandera-parteras. These traditional Midwives played a vital role in Ellen’s understanding of the underserved mothers and babies of Northern New Mexico. Her heart thrilled as she listened to the stories of the mothers bringing life into the world into the sacred hands of Curandera-parteras who served this underserved region for many years.
After much prayer and contemplation Ellen decided to follow the path of Midwifery through Nursing. She lived and was raised in Nashville, Tennessee and completed her A.D. in nursing in 1988, followed by her BSN in 2009. Ellen went to work as a labor and delivery nurse at the old Metro General Hospital, which is now closed, formerly located on the Cumberland River. A team of Nurse-Midwives served the women at the Metro General, and again, Ellen heard the strong call of midwifery on her life.
Ellen worked as a labor and delivery, post-partum, normal newborn and high risk newborn nurse for over 25 years. During this time, she raised her own family and continued her education as her children obtained theirs.
In 2011 Ellen had the opportunity to return to school, and now, after many years of working as a RN and raising her family, the call of Midwifery came to her again. She was able to enter Frontier School of Nurse-Midwifery and Family Nursing, founded by Mary Breckenridge. Ellen earned her MSN from The Frontier School of Nurse Midwifery in 2014 and went on to become a certified nurse midwife, fulfilling this lifelong dream and call.
Ellen again remembered the night with her friend years ago. The stories of birthing mothers, under the vast New Mexico desert sky, rich, misty, painfully blue and purple and the love, skill, dedication and healing of the Curandera-parteras. She remembered the first call within her spirit to a path of Midwifery. Ellen has a deep belief that all birth is a sacred, spiritual experience for each mother and family and should be treated with respect and reverence. She believes in Shared Decision Making, Informed Consent, and Partnering with women. She has a long history of working in a hospital setting but has also attended home births in the traditional setting.
Fun Fact: Ellen recalls that she was born in Marietta Ga and when she was a small child she has fun memories of her family calling her a “Georgia Peach.” Ellen is excited to return to Georgia, join the team at Providence Women’s Health Care and serve Georgia, where she was born.