Become a Doula

A doula is a trained support person who is not a medical professional.

People need doulas for every season in life. Doulas offer an eclectic range of offerings, fine-tuned to meet the needs of the communities they serve.

How do I become a Doula?

Ask yourself what is calling you to this work. Doula work is not for everyone. To become a doula you must first make the commitment to life long learning, and then look into organizations that provide training (OBDS training coming soon!) and see if their values align with yours. There are many doula programs to choose from that slightly vary in offerings; pick the one that works best for you. Doula care is an unregulated profession so you do not need to be certified, but it is highly recommended that you train.

Interview of Suzanne Lim, founding member and doula of 19 years, sharing about her experience in the doula profession.

 

“ Providing good care to a client is so fulfilling. It feels valuable and right…Like I am contributing to a primal process in an essential way. “

- Suzanne Lim

Types of doula trainings

  • Virtual Trainings

    fully digital learning makes the information accessible especially when looking into specialized knowledge and education. there are no in person sessions. some virtual organizations also offer certification.

  • Formal Certification

    a style of training that leads up to certification. usually required to do a certain set of assignments and in person practice hours to be certified. some certification organizations require a recurring payment to remain certified. certification is not required to practice doula care.

  • Apprenticeship

    an informal but rich style of learning where you seek mentorship style of teaching from a practicing doula/birth worker. this allows for specialized training opportunities and lived experience. the rates for this style of teaching will vary depending on the teacher.

  • Self-Directed Training

    a combination of all the previous styles. because doula care isn’t regulated there is not one specific path to building your practice, you may want to take a weekend virtual course but also combine it with a apprenticeship and self-education.

  • In Person Trainings

    there are organizations that offer in person training courses. often these courses run over a weekend and are followed up with digital/at home learnings. In person trainings give you the opportunity to practice your skills in real time with the support of a professional.

The Ontario Black Doula Society is currently not offering official trainings at this time. Follow us on social media and join our newsletter to stay up to date on our current educational workshop offerings and community support circles.