Doula Programs: Risk Management Strategies

To reduce liability risk associated with running a doula program, program administrators may want to implement the following strategies (continued):

  • Build in support for the doulas. If the program coordinator is not an MSW, an experienced social worker should be hired as a consultant on an as-needed basis. Her job is to help resolve any high-risk situations that the doulas might find themselves in and identify community resources for special client needs. The program coordinator assists the doulas in setting and maintaining good professional boundaries, consults with the social worker as appropriate, and identifies emerging training needs.
  • Host a doula support group. A monthly doula support group can be offered as a venue for doulas to come and share tips and resources, problem solve client scenarios, and learn from each other’s mistakes. Look for ways to build a sense of community among the doulas and the program. In our program, we worked to ensure that the doulas understood that, while they had a great deal of autonomy in their one-on-one relationship with the client, they nevertheless were part of a program and were accountable to the program.

The Doula Programs blog provides a forum for doula program visionaries and implementers to consider common challenges, ask questions, and learn from each other. Patty Brennan is the author of The Doula Business Guide: Creating a Successful MotherBaby Business.

Posted by Patty Brennan on July 7, 2011 • Filed under Doula Programs
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