Choosing a doula is like choosing a therapist. You want to find a connection that feels natural to you. You will be inviting this new person into your heart, mind, relationships and space during some of the most difficult and transformational moments of life. Most end of life doulas have completed a training course either in-person or online and have backgrounds ranging from law degrees to art therapy to hospice nursing. Some doulas specialize in supporting specific religious traditions, while others prefer to work with people who value a very natural approach to care and non-traditional after death care. There are a wide range of doula options out there which I think is a great thing! My best advice is to reach out to a few whose websites appeal to you and spend time talking with them. You will likely know quite quickly if your connection is right.
My care is rooted in deep listening. My hope is to create with you an end of life plan that feels good and relieving to you and then advocate with and for you as life unfolds. My background is in hospice and palliative care nursing, so strengths of mine are navigating the hospital and outpatient medical systems, medical documents and care options. I bring a gentleness in my personality, a sense of humor and humility to each new meeting. I am open to meeting with anyone in my community who is open to meeting with me. If you feel I may be a good fit for you, please don’t hesitate to send me a message so we can schedule a time to meet over the phone or via Zoom so I can hear your story and see how I can help you.
Take a look through the National End of Life Doula Alliance Website to find a list of doulas in your area: NEDA Website
