Meet Toria Thornton of Ohio

Today we’d like to introduce you to Toria Thornton.

Hi Toria, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
My journey into birth work began with a love for art, feminist theory, and the powerful intersections of gender that I explored while attending Wright State University. I followed my passion and earned a B.A. in Women, Gender, and Sexuality Studies in 2019, and I’ve been painting and creating ever since.

Over time, I realized this path was bigger than art; it was a calling to support, uplift, and advocate for birthing people and new mothers. I believe my purpose didn’t just come from experience; it found me.

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
It has not been a smooth road for me. I’ve experienced loss and a lot of self doubt through my journey.

Back in 2024 I had a prenatal loss that sent me in a deep depression and I stopped painting and stepped away from being a doula. Through my support system and painting I found my way back.

Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I’m a self taught painter. My favorite medium is acrylic paint.

I’m know mainly to my friends and family for painting scenery/nature, galaxy and abstract designs. I’m proud of staying true to myself and paint what I love and what I’m going through.

Is there a quality that you most attribute to your success?
As both a doula and a painter, kindness is the ultimate foundation of my success. In my doula work, kindness means creating a soft, non-judgmental space where a family feels safe, heard, and cared for during their most vulnerable moments.

As a painter, that same kindness translates into how I view the world and treat my own creative process. It means painting with a generous heart to bring comfort, beauty, and connection to others. In both fields, kindness allows me to connect with people on a deep, human level.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.toriathedoula.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lovechildbirthdoulaservice
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ThoriaTheDoula