We’re Shannon and Alba—two long (long!) time best friends, moms, and passionate advocates for redefining the journey into parenthood.
Simple Smyles was born out of late-night voice notes, honest convos, and a shared dream: to create a space where families feel truly seen, supported, and cared for—body, mind, and heart. We wanted something that blended the grounding power of doula care with the emotional support of psychotherapy. Something warm. Something real. Something simple.
We believe that birth is not just physical—it’s emotional, mental, and deeply transformational. So we built a practice rooted in compassion, education, and connection. Together, we offer holistic prenatal and postnatal support, evidence-informed workshops for those navigating the wild, beautiful ride of parenthood.
Our goal is simple: to be the village we all need. To hold space for your fears and your joy. To empower you with knowledge and kindness. And to remind you—every step of the way—that you are not alone.
Meet the Team
Shannon Marsh
RCYC, Doula
Founder
Shannon Marsh is a Registered Child and Youth Counsellor (OACYC), Doula, and proud mama to a vibrant little boy born in the heart of the pandemic. With over 15 years of experience working alongside children, youth, and families across Ottawa, Toronto, and the GTA, Shannon brings a mix of professional expertise, lived experience, and heart-forward care to everything she creates.
Simple Smyles was born from a deeply personal place—after navigating severe postpartum depression and the isolation that came with becoming a new parent during COVID, Shannon realized just how broken the “village” really was. The lack of accessible, inclusive, real support lit a fire in her, and she’s been building something better ever since.
In every workshop, guide, and conversation, Shannon weaves together evidence-informed support, fierce advocacy, and her signature warmth and humour. She believes that thriving parents create thriving families—and that no one should have to figure it all out alone.
With a background in policy development and senior leadership in the nonprofit sector, Shannon also brings a systems-level lens to her work, challenging the status quo and pushing for meaningful change in how we care for caregivers.
Her presence is rooted, relatable, and deeply empowering—here to remind you that your story matters, your feelings are valid, and your community is right here.
Alba Arteaga
MSW RSW
Co-Founder
Alba is a Registered Social Worker and psychotherapist with over 15 years of experience supporting individuals through some of life’s most tender and transformative moments. As a mother to a 3-year-old, she knows firsthand how complex the perinatal journey can be—the beauty, the exhaustion, the grief, the joy, and everything in between.
At Simple Smyles, Alba brings a deep understanding of perinatal mental health and a grounded, heart-centered approach to everything she touches. Whether we’re exploring identity shifts in new parenthood, making space for grief and loss, or unpacking the quiet anxieties no one talks about, Alba offers care that’s both evidence-informed and emotionally attuned.
She’s not here to “fix” you—she’s here to create space for you. Space to feel, to be seen, and to move forward at your own pace. In her workshops, Alba helps guide the conversations that matter—gently normalizing the hard stuff and reminding us that it’s okay to not be okay sometimes.
Her presence is calm, honest, and deeply validating, and she is honoured to be a part of your parenting journey.