Step 1: Consider the role.
The first step toward becoming a bereavement doula is discerning – deeply considering – 1) whether the work is right for you and, 2) if so, if now is the time to pursue it.
One of our values at Haven Bereavement Doulas is sustainability, meaning that we want you to be able to do this work both well and healthily. Some folks decide not to become bereavement doulas; other folks decide to start their training right away; and still other folks decide to become bereavement doulas but to wait until they have what they need. We work to support you in any of those paths.
You can take this free short course to help you in your discernment of those options.
Step 2: Take a training.
Next, you can sign up for a Haven Bereavement Doula Training. Upcoming dates are listed below:
Monday evenings, July 22 – August 26, 2024
Fast-track: Tuesday and Saturday evenings, October 1-19, 2024
Wednesday afternoons, January – February 2025 (registration opening soon; join the waitlist here)
More information about the training
Step 3 (for some): Certify.
You do not need to become fully certified as an HCBD Haven Certified Bereavement Doula after this training. You can take the training alone. However, the cost of certification is included in your training price of $457; other than access to some books, this package accounts for every cost involved in becoming an HCBD Haven Certified Bereavement Doula.
HCBD Haven Certified Bereavement Doulas provide the highest level of research-based, grief-informed, holistic, and professional bereavement doula support. The certification requirements include:
- completion of our Bereavement Doula Training (which includes membership for 1 year),
- membership in good standing,
- agreement with our code of ethics and scope of practice,
- completion of our reading list,
- skills practicum, and
- a reflection.
Each HCBD Haven Certified Bereavement Doula will be listed on our directory, if they so choose, and will receive access to continuing education opportunities, community, and ongoing institutional support.
Certification and recertification applications are reviewed monthly. Certification in good standing requires renewal every three years.
More information about certification
Step 4: Serve.
Finally, you begin the work. As you do, our community will be behind you, supporting you every bit of the way.
Frequently asked questions
Can I take this training without being a doula already?
Do I need to belong to a particular gender or religion to become a bereavement doula?
No, not with our program. The Haven Bereavement Doula Community is made up of a diverse group of people, which is an important feature of its beauty.
What if I have other questions?
Join one of our free Bereavement Doula Q&A sessions, where you can ask these questions to one of the Haven staff!