About Doula Training Opportunities
Many new initiatives and opportunities have been developed to help people get involved in this emerging field of service. Numerous training programs are currently being offered, many of them listed in NEDA’s Trainers Directory. These programs are facilitated both by private individuals and renowned educational institutions, each with their own individual strengths, philosophies, and teaching styles. Because NEDA’s purpose is to elevate the work of all of our members, we do not recommend or endorse any particular educational approach over another. Everyone listed in our directory is self-described, with no oversight or approval by NEDA. However, we do encourage people to do their due diligence before making a commitment. This includes speaking with trainers and those who have participated in training sessions.
It’s likely that each of our members has unique learning preferences, as there is no one best way to learn how to provide quality support to people preparing for or experiencing death. And the “best” program for you may not be the “best” for someone else.
Comparing Doula Training and Educational Programs
So get curious! Ask yourself why a program is recommended highly by one but not another, and apply them to your own situation—what resonates with you, what are your goals, objectives, and expectations? There are many factors to consider before making a choice. These may include:
- Content/curriculum (scope and focus, philosophy, etc.)
- Instructor’s experience, perspective, ability, accessibility, and commitment
- Platform (online or in person)
- Location
- Price
- Time commitment, availability of resources to students after course completion
Reputation Considerations
It’s important to consider that no specific class or program can ensure that someone is fully prepared for what may be asked of them when serving others. It takes time and experience to become highly skilled. Here are some tips to help you find a training that satisfies your current needs and interests:
1. Do your homework. Spend time up front doing your research, or you may be disappointed with the outcome.
2. Know your own motivation. How, when, where, and why do you want to apply what you learn—and who will be involved?
3. Consider your personal experience with aging, illness, death, and grief. What do you know already? Do you have a clinical background? Are you clear about your own core beliefs around death?
4. What do you know about end-of-life doula practice? Know that there are many different applications and approaches and understand that not every training addresses them. NEDA recognizes doulas as those who provide non-medical support according to the Doula Model of Care and Scope of Practice, Code of Ethics, Core Competencies and Study Guide.
5. What’s your learning style? Are you comfortable with online formats or do you do better interacting face-to-face?
6. Training programs vary in content, format, cost, philosophy, focus, instructor personalities, and skill. Some training programs are very well developed and filled with great material. At the same time, because there is no formal oversight of training content, it’s possible that some courses are relatively useless, if not downright dangerous. You are highly encouraged to compare and contrast program attributes before investing in a program. Review different trainers’ websites and assess their curriculum. Once you’ve narrowed it down, consider giving them a call to discuss what they offer in more detail (See List of Questions for Trainers at the end of this page.)
7. There are many opportunities that aren’t necessarily billed as doula-focused that are fantastic resources. Before you jump into a training, we encourage you to consider doing some of the following:
- Read the entire NEDA website.
- Look at other EOL care organizations (e.g., NHPCO, HFA, ADEC, INELDA).
- Volunteer with hospice.
- Read books and blogs, watch films, and look at websites that deal with EOL care.
- Attend online conferences and webinars.
- Network with other NEDA members and other EOL workers.
- If you want to do this for money—consider what you need to know about running a business.
8. Currently, there is no standardized accreditation for doulas, and no regulations or licensing exist. Many of the training programs offer certification that signifies successful completion of a course, and in some cases, certification might also verify that the student met other requirements that vary by program. These certifications can help the public understand that you have completed some formal instruction that can help with your professional credibility.
9. Certification does not always speak to experience, capability, or competency. That is one of the main reasons why NEDA was formed. We believe that for individuals and families to embrace doula services, they need assurances that those offering this work possess fundamental knowledge and skills, and there must be a basic level of continuity and consistency that defines the EOLD scope of practice.
10. Because there is no officially recognized oversight for doulas, if fees are involved (at least in the United States), any remuneration is done out of pocket as private pay. Medicare and private insurance do not provide reimbursement (see Selected Medicare CoPs).
List of Questions for Trainers
- Name of program
- Website
- Social media sites
- Primary contacts
- Year founded
- Organizational structure (LLC, 501c3, etc.)
- Affiliations
About the individual trainer(s):
- Tell us about your EOL experience.
- What drew you to this work?
- What is your educational and professional background?
- How long have you been teaching?
- Are you a NEDA Member?
- Have you earned your NEDA Badge through the Proficiency Assessment Process?
- Are you a member of other EOL-related organizations? If so, which?
- What prompted you to develop and implement a training program?
- Why do you think training is important?
- What is your teaching style?
About the program:
- Are you accredited or affiliated with any other organization or instructional institution?
- What inspired you to form this program?
- What about your program distinguishes it from others?
- Who do you want to participate in this course?
- What is the format/location/frequency/class size/platform?
- What is the number of offerings per year?
- What is the pricing?
- What are the requirements for participation?
- Objectives/approach/philosophy/outcomes?
- How do you describe the role of the doula?
- Describe your curriculum and content. What is the main focus of your training?
- Who are your instructors?
- Does your training address all the core competencies outlined by NEDA?
- Are you aware of and do you follow the Doula Model of Care, Scope of Practice, and Code of Ethics, as outlined by NEDA?
- Do you include NEDA Proficiency material in your curriculum?
- Do you inform your students about NEDA or any other doula groups?
- What are features/benefits (e.g., ongoing mentoring, directory, newsletter, networking, events, etc.)?
- How many students have participated in your trainings?
- Can you provide student references?
- What kind of support do you provide to your students upon course completion?
- If you offer “certification,” please explain what that means to you.
Submitted by Karen Reppen, NEDA Board Member, July 2021. Revised March 2022