I’ve sat and held someone’s hand while they’ve cried after being dismissed by healthcare providers and are struggling with wait times to see lactation professionals. I had to do something. I had to do something to prepare people. I had to do something to solve some of these problems before they happened. I had to figure out a way to be proactive.

Doula work is an incredible path of compassion, learning, unlearning, and growth. It is an incredibly fulfilling calling, but it can also feel overwhelming. Doula work in my opinion and in my life goes far beyond the journey of pregnancy, birth, and postpartum. It reaches into the depths of experiences such as abortion, loss, trauma, end-of-life, death and dying and grief, all of life’s big Transitions. For those who feel drawn to doula work—or for experienced doulas seeking to deepen their understanding—a mentor or mentorship program can be transformative. My program isn’t just about gaining knowledge; it’s about cultivating the compassion and skills needed to support individuals and families at every step of life’s journey. Whether you’re a new doula finding your footing, or a seasoned doula ready to deepen your practice, mentorship is a powerful way to grow, connect, and truly thrive.

In the face of this injustice, doulas have emerged as powerful advocates for people giving birth, playing a vital role in preventing obstetric violence by providing support, education, and advocacy.

The role of a doula is traditionally associated with birth—holding space for families as they welcome new life into the world. However, the scope of doula work can extend far beyond that single moment, encompassing the entire spectrum of life: birth, postpartum, trauma, grief, and even death. For those who are both full-spectrum doulas and end-of-life or death doulas, the work we do is interwoven with the sacred cycles of life and death, joy and sorrow, beginnings and endings.

Becoming a doula is often rooted in passion—a deep desire to support families during one of

the most significant moments of their lives. The role is sacred, intimate, and incredibly

rewarding, but like any profession, it comes with its share of challenges. Doula work is not just

about birth; it’s about being present in both the joyful and difficult moments of a family’s journey.

So, let’s dive into the ins and outs of what being a doula truly involves.