Become a Doula
It’s an exciting time to become a doula! DONA International has been working hard for 32 years to help doulas integrate within our birth and postpartum systems.
Today, there are more families hiring DONA doulas worldwide than ever before. It’s your time for a rewarding career making a difference in the lives of new parents.
DONA International birth and postpartum doulas practice in all kinds of settings: in hospitals, in doula agencies, in nonprofits and as independent business owners. Many of our doulas earn a great full-time living in this amazing field, while others choose a slower pace.
We’re here to help guide you on your journey toward certification. Click on through to learn more about your pathway into this amazing work.
Your pathway is up to you.
Your career is in your hands, from the hours you work to the fees you charge for your services. You can start charging for your services as soon as you finish your workshop if you’d like, and your fees are completely up to you. Your DONA-approved trainer can help you explore which professional pathway feels right for you. There’s an abundance of opportunity!
Learn About Birth Doula Training
You want to become a birth doula! It’s such an incredible time to be helping families through their births – hospital birth, home birth and birth center families all need your support. You have the potential to touch so many lives. It’s exciting to imagine the unique skills and gifts you’re going to bring to this amazing work.
Learn About Postpartum Doula Training
New families need so much support in those early weeks and months, and you can use your skills and your heart to help them get off to a great start. It’s your time to become a postpartum doula!
Our doula training process is known as the world’s best. Whether you’re pursuing birth or postpartum certification, your training will include a variety of items.
- a DONA-approved doula workshop
- a reading list developed by the world’s top doulas
- additional training in lactation and newborn feeding (online option)
- auditing a childbirth class (birth doulas only)
- hands-on support for several clients
- parent evaluation and self-reflection
- developing a resource list for your community
Find a Doula Training
DONA-approved doula workshops are your first step toward certification. DONA International offers high-quality, evidence-based doula training around the world. Search our database to find a doula training workshop near you. We have more than 100 trainers worldwide, so chances are great you will find a doula training near you or choose a virtual option.
