Kelly Rutan, JD

Co-Owner of Doulas of Raleigh | Certified Postpartum Doula & Infant Feeding Specialist

Kelly Rutan brings a unique blend of legal expertise and heartfelt compassion to her work as a Certified Postpartum & Infant Care Doula and Infant Feeding Specialist. After earning her Bachelor of Arts in International Studies from UNC-Chapel Hill and her Juris Doctorate from American University’s Washington College of Law, Kelly spent years as a litigation attorney. But the challenges she faced balancing her demanding career with family life—and the lack of support during her own postpartum experience—ignited a new passion: supporting new families.

In 2015, Kelly co-founded Doulas of Raleigh, where she’s been providing compassionate, expert care to families navigating the postpartum period. Her mission is to ensure that every family feels seen, supported, and equipped during this transformative stage of life.

When she’s not working with families, Kelly is a proud mom to Jake and Molly and wife to Jason, the most supportive husband ever (her words!). She’s also mildly obsessed with her two rescue pups and enjoys long walks on Cary’s greenways, a good book, and plenty of strong coffee.

Fun Fact: Kelly’s journey from workaholic attorney to nurturing doula is a testament to her belief that every family deserves a village—and she’s proud to be part of that village.