Emily is a Chicago-based caregiver and educator offering thoughtful, safety-centered support for families and individuals at every stage. Whether in the water or during early parenthood, her goal is to help people feel confident, informed, and supported.

About Emily

Emily Mikes (she/her) is a Chicago-based caregiver and educator with a background in finance and over fifteen years of hands-on experience supporting children and families. Her work centers on helping people feel safe, confident, and supported during periods of learning, growth, and transition.

Emily has spent much of her career caring for infants and children in a variety of settings, including teaching infant swim lessons and supporting families with multiple children, such as twins and triplets. In recent years, she expanded her work to include birth and postpartum support and obtained her full-spectrum doula certification through Partum Health. Across all of her work, Emily brings a calm, steady presence and a strong belief in clear, evidence-based guidance.

Adopted herself, Emily holds deep respect for the many ways families are formed. She is especially passionate about supporting people building their families through both traditional and non-traditional paths, including adoption, assisted reproduction, and chosen family structures. This perspective shapes her work and reinforces her commitment to meeting families where they are, without assumptions or judgment.

Emily focuses on building trust, fostering confidence, and adapting her approach to each family’s unique needs, comfort levels, and learning styles. She is known for explaining things clearly, offering reassurance without pressure, and creating environments where people feel supported and capable.

Emily is certified in First Aid and CPR and carries professional liability insurance for both swim instruction and doula services. She stays current on safety guidance and best practices from leading medical and public health organizations to ensure her care reflects up-to-date standards and thoughtful risk awareness.

Emily is a proud member of the LGBTQIA+ community and is committed to providing inclusive, affirming care for families of all identities and structures. Outside of her professional work, she enjoys creating art, arranging flowers, and spending time with her two dogs.

Contact Emily for more info.