Shala McKee, formally known as the Well Rooted Doula, is a full-spectrum doula and Cultural Anthropologist. Though currently located in Houston, TX she is originally from Honolulu, HI where she officially began her doula training. Shala received her training from Doula Trainings International (DTI) and has been certified as a full-spectrum doula (which includes both birth and postpartum). Shala runs her business and centers her birth philosophy on three main principles: empathy, autonomy, and authenticity. Every Well Rooted Doula client has the right to self determination and is supported in creating the birth that they see fit. Shala believes in the body’s innate ability to birth and encourages clients to listen to and trust the signals their body sends them before, during, and after birth. Additionally, she believes that it’s her duty to help clients advocate for their birthing visions, wherever and however they take place. Clients are welcomed and celebrated regardless of race, socioeconomic status, nationality, sexuality, religion, or gender identity, etc. Shala wants to serve your family in a way that makes all parties involved most comfortable and to do so, she employs active listening, thinks critically, and creates opportunities for feedback.
Shala officially began her doula journey in 2023, but has been laying the groundwork her whole life. From starting activism clubs, to being a student campus minister for social justice during her undergraduate degree, Shala has always been dedicated to fighting against injustice and oppression. She got into this work to support the fight against the current maternal health crisis that is facing the United States, particularly the Black and Indigenous women in this country. While Shala serves everyone, she holds a special place for Black and Indigenous birthers and acknowledges the medical racism and other systemic barriers that face these populations. As a Black doula herself, her work is intentionally anti-racist, rooted in activism, and reliant upon cultural humility. Shala McKee is the Well Rooted Doula because she not only acknowledges her roots but proudly draws from them and encourages all of her clients to do the same.
Outside of being a doula, Shala enjoys learning of all kinds, whether that be academia or herbalism. She is a trained dancer (classical ballet), an avid sudoku player, and a passionate consumer of reality TV. Shala can often be found somewhere near water, the place she feels most grounded. She is warm and kind in her interactions, yet gently firm in her advocacy for friends, family, and clients alike. She’s always looking for new experiences, activities, and perspectives so I encourage you to bring your whole self with you to each and every appointment we have together!
The Well Rooted Doula 