Member Profile

The Wellness Specialist is a South African training academy dedicated to equipping practitioners with the skills required to support individuals and families through life’s most challenging transitions, including trauma, grief, bereavement, and the dying process. Founded by Keshnie Mathi, the academy combines evidence-informed training with deep lived experience in end-of-life care and practitioner development.

The academy’s flagship programme, the End of Life Doula Certification Programme, prepares compassionate practitioners to provide non-medical emotional, practical, and spiritual support to individuals facing terminal illness or approaching the end of life. End of Life Doulas work alongside families and existing care teams to help create meaningful, supported experiences throughout the dying journey.

With over a decade of experience supporting individuals and families globally, the programme integrates theory, reflection, and practical application, ensuring that graduates are prepared for real-world end-of-life support. The course includes online learning modules, live virtual training sessions, practical immersion, and supervised reflection opportunities designed to build confidence and competency.

Participants explore topics including:

The evolving landscape of palliative and end-of-life care

Ethical practice and professional boundaries

Compassionate communication with individuals and families

Cultural, spiritual, and ritual considerations surrounding death and dying

Emotional and practical support during terminal illness

Family dynamics and legacy work

Advance care planning and end-of-life conversations

Building a sustainable practice as a doula practitioner

Graduates of the programme gain access to ongoing supervision sessions, resource libraries, and practitioner networks, ensuring continued support beyond certification.