Certification
Patty Brennan is an approved doula trainer through DONA International. All Birth Doula and Postpartum Doula trainings, as well as the Introduction to Childbirth for Doulas and Professional Education in Breastfeeding & Lactation trainings offered at the Center, fulfill certification requirements. Kate Stroud has completed the birth doula trainer process through DONA and her approval as a trainer is pending. To learn more about the certification process, including associated costs beyond training, go to the DONA website. There is a separate process for birth doulas and postpartum doulas.
Certification candidates must accept responsibility for following the steps outlined by DONA regarding the certification process. These steps will be discussed in detail during your doula training. A Certification Packet must be purchased from DONA for those seeking certification. The DONA website outlines some important time restrictions and considerations regarding the purchase of Certification Packets. Please read the instructions carefully.
Is Certification Required?
Students should be aware that the pursuit of doula certification is optional. Certification is not required in any state in order for one to practice as either a Birth Doula or Postpartum Doula. Certification does represent an individual’s effort to professionalize her services and may increase public perception of the validity of the doula’s role. Certification may also enhance the ability of doulas, now and in the future, to qualify for insurance reimbursement for their services.
How CCY helps doulas complete certification requirements
- We offer all of the classes on site to help you complete certification requirement, including a professional breastfeeding class that works for both birth and postpartum doula requirements (Professional Education in Breastfeeding & Lactation), and CPR training.
- As an alternative to the Introduction to Childbirth for Doulas class, there are ongoing opportunities under a Work/Study Exchange, to observe a series of Childbirth Preparation classes offered at the Center for expectant parents. The doula helper attends the seven-week series of classes for free and, in exchange, brings a healthy snack and beverages for the couples each week. The helper is also expected to arrive a half hour early for class to help the teacher set up and stays afterward to help with clean up. If you are interested in this opportunity, please email Jamie to sign up (this email is being protected by spam bots; you need Javascript enabled to view it). You can also simply register for this class at the reduced fee of $175 or sign up with a friend at the couple price of $235.
- We also need helpers for the Breastfeeding Basics and Newborn & Infant Care classes. This is an opportunity to expand your knowledge base, while interacting with expectant parents. Email Jamie to sign up (this email is being protected by spam bots; you need Javascript enabled to view it).
- Need help completing the experiential component of the certification process? Through Doulas Care, women who have completed doula training can get hands-on experience at births or postpartum, by volunteering in this community-based program serving low-income mothers and their families.