Get To Know Us
Our Clinical Approach
We provide primary care for postpartum parents and newborns that is evidence-informed, inclusive, and intentionally unrushed. Our appointments are longer than standard visits, allowing time for physical assessment, feeding support, mental health screening, and shared decision-making.
We offer care from after hospital discharge through six to eight weeks postpartum, tailoring each visit to the evolving needs of the family.
Our team includes primary care providers with the skills and experience to monitor postpartum healing, newborn growth, and early family adjustment. We integrate clinical insight with respectful communication—so families feel informed, supported, and safe.
Our Values
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Respectful Collaboration — We centre each family’s values, goals, and lived experience in the care process.
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Cultural Responsiveness — We honour traditional and cultural postpartum practices and strive to provide care that feels safe.
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Practical Support — We offer realistic, budget-aware care plans and support.
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Inclusivity & Equity — We actively create space for families from equity-deserving communities, using gender-inclusive language and trauma-informed approaches.
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Time to Be Heard — We don’t rush visits. We believe feeling supported starts with being listened to.
Our Story
“Sawbona”
Bloom Collaborative Clinic was founded by Sonje Juul and Judy DeFreitas, two midwives who first met nearly a decade ago while working in different communities across the Northern Health Authority in British Columbia. Over the years, they often joked about how well they would work together—and that one day, they should open a clinic that created space for meaningful connection.
Now based in the Okanagan, that vision has become a reality. With nearly four decades of combined experience across Canada and internationally, Sonje and Judy bring a depth of clinical expertise and a shared commitment to supporting families through the early weeks of parenthood. Both come from culturally diverse backgrounds, collectively speaking five languages and share a passion for working with newcomers—whether new to Canada or simply new to Kelowna—helping families find their footing and confidence in those first weeks after birth.
Their philosophy is grounded in the Zulu greeting “Sawbona,” meaning “I see you.” It’s a reminder that care begins with truly seeing each person—recognizing their individuality, their history, and their hopes for this new chapter. At Bloom Collaborative Clinic, that spirit guides every visit: care that is both clinically thorough and deeply human.
Getting Started
Easy Enrollment Process
To join our community at Bloom Collaborative Clinic, simply reach out to schedule your initial consultation.
We would love to meet you in your third trimester before your baby arrives!
We accept both MSP-covered and private-pay patients, ensuring that all families can access high-quality postpartum care tailored to their needs.