Doula is Greek in origin and it means “woman who serves.” However, nowadays, more than just women are getting into doula work, which I think is totally awesome! To me, a doula is someone who supports people through life’s biggest transitions. Birth doulas are becoming increasingly popular and they are those who help mother, baby and family through the birthing process. I see very little difference with the dying process and the need for support is just as great. 

We are there to offer a calming presence and emotional support to the client, their partners and family members. We are to there to offer non-biased, evidence-based information and empower our clients to make informed decisions that are right for them. We anticipate emotional, spiritual, informational and physical needs and make plans accordingly. We are generalists usually with some relevant specialties (ex. law, nursing, massage therapy experience). We are prepared to make referrals to community resources and assist with making connections. We offer non-medical comfort measures and physical support. Lastly, we offer logistical support such as family respite, meal preparation, household help, errand running, etc… Home health aides fulfill basic personal and health care needs whereas hospice volunteers primarily companion the dying but are usually available for a limited number of hours.

End-of-life doula work is a relatively new, unregulated field. A few states have passed legislation licensing birth doulas; however, there are currently no regulations for end-of-life doulas. This is a rather exciting time for the field because it’s in its infancy and is being shaped by those doing the work. Doulas have the flexibility to offer services that are specifically tailored to their unique skill sets instead of being prescribed by a certification board.

Since some states are requiring licensure of birth doulas, those states are also enabling their services to be eligible for Medicaid reimbursement. I’m hoping this trend continues and that insurance companies do the math and realize doulas save them a considerable amount of money. Our services keep patients in their homes and out of the hospital. This cost savings alone is worth reimbursing.

Well, thanks to video chats, many things can be accomplished with just a phone these days, which is wonderful. If hands-on care is needed or work that requires me to leave the Central New York area, then I’ll be more than willing to consider that on a case-by-case basis. Visit my services page for more information.

I charge $50/hour for my services. If you are experiencing financial hardship, I do accept a limited number of sliding fee scale clients based on the honor system. (Thanks to The Philly Death Doula Collective for developing the following sliding fee scale. I totally lifted it from their website because it’s so great and I like to give credit where it’s due.) I accept cash, credit card or check. Things like long distance travel, equipment rentals, or buying supplies, groceries, etc… are of course extra. Payment is expected upfront, unless previously agreed upon.