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Where do I get training as a Doula?
There are a few organizations that offer training and certification opportunities for Doulas. Doulas of North America (DONA) is one of these organizations. CHOICES Childbirth Education and Doula Services provides Doulas of North America approved training courses in Canada.
Is there anything I need to do before I take a workshop?
There are many steps to becoming a DONA-certified Doula. One of the first steps is taking the Doula Training Workshop (DTW). As part of your certification requirements with DONA, you will be required to attend a series of prenatal classes. This must be done before you submit your certification package. If you are able to attend the prenatal classes before the Doula Training Workshop, it can be helpful, but it is not required. You can also tour the labour and delivery unit in as many hospitals as possible. All participants are required to read the following books before the workshop. Please see the "suggested readings" section for additional suggested readings.
Pregnancy, Childbirth, and the Newborn: The Complete Guide, by Penny Simkin, Jane Whalley & Ann Keppler
The Birth Partner, by Penny Simkin
The Thinking Woman's Guide to a Better Birth, by Henci Goer
Where can I get the required readings?
You can get these and many other valuable resources from Parentbooks. You can visit their web site at www.parentbookstore.com. You can order these books by phone at (416) 537-8334 or 1-800-209-9182. Let them know you are registering for a Doula Training Workshop with CHOICES and you will receive a discount.
I have no background in health care. Will I be able to keep up in the workshop?
The role of a Doula is a totally non-clinical one. Approximately 75% of the participants have no related experience. By following the guidelines for preparing for the workshop you should be well prepared.
Once I take the workshop, am I a certified Doula?
The process of certification involves many steps. Applicants for DONA Certification must complete an application that documents the following:
• Proof of DONA membership
• Attendance at prenatal classes (if required)
• Attendace at the DONA approved workshop
• Good evaluations from at least 3 clients, 3 primary caregivers (doctor or midwife) and the attending nurse if there was one
• Birth records from 3 births
• Written essay on the purpose and value of labour support (500-1000 words)
• Signatures on the DONA Code of Ethics and Standards of Practice
• Read the four required readings from DONA
How do I get evaluation forms and keep records?
Once you apply for a certification package with DONA, you will receive all forms necessary. You can also get the forms before you apply for your package from the DONA web site at www.dona.com.
How long do I have to complete all the steps of certification?
You have four years from the time you take the workshop, or two years from the time you request your certification package. We advise that you not request your package until you are ready to start attending births. If you attend a birth, you can use the records/evaluation forms from the internet, once you have taken the worksop.
How do I find clients?
The workshop covers the marketing aspect of being a Doula. New Doulas may find it helpful to volunteer their time for the first few births. Homes for teen mom's, woman's shelters and other social services agencies can often match you with possible clients. You can contact your local Childbirth Education Association and hospitals as well.
How much does the workshop cost?
The workshop varies in price depending on the location and maximum number of participants. The average price of a workshop sponsored by CHOICES Childbirth Education and Doula Services is $250 - $300.
How soon do I need to register?
The workshops fill quickly. We usually restrict registration to approximately 25 - 40 participants depending on the location. Also, an early registration fee discount is available.
How do I register?
If you would like to receive a registration brochure, please email us your postal address at workshops@birthservices.com. Click here for a registration form. We have the following workshops scheduled for 2000 and 2001:
For more information on the Doula Training Workshop, please contact CHOICES. |
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