grief - bereavementdoulas.com

In this spotlight, we feature Amanda Smith, Haven-trained bereavement doula in North Carolina.

Amanda, why did you decide to become a bereavement doula?

I was in a class to learn about becoming a birth doula. At the end of the class I heard Abby speak about how she became a bereavement doula and something just struck my heart. I have always been interested in how to support families going through loss, but never felt equipped to step in and lend an ear or a shoulder. I reached out to Abby and she had such great knowledge and share and mentor.

Why did you decide to take a Haven Bereavement Doula training?

I didn’t know much about all the ways to doula and Abby was the first to share about bereavement. I didn’t even research other teachers. Abby was so kind to answer questions and share resources I was drawn to learn as much as I could from her. When she launched Haven, I was all in.

What does serving as a bereavement doula look like for you right now?

Mostly I find myself doing virtual meetings with families that have gone through loss. I have just dipped my toes into the water of bereavement care. I am still trying to figure out how a family in need would find me.

How else do you serve your community?

I am also a birth and postpartum doula and work at the Smithfield Pregnancy Center.

What is one thing that you like to do to take care of yourself?

I take care of myself by processing my experiences with my husband and other doulas. I also do a monthly massage and am currently working on getting back into some reading. I make sure that when I give my time to a family, I also make sure to take time for myself with no expectations (ie. lazy day).

Do you have any advice for anyone who is considering becoming a bereavement doula?

Network. I believe that I would not be as knowledgeable or feel as secure to take on clients if I didn’t have a network of birthworkers and birthworker supporters. This is not a solo gig; you need to have a community of people to be able to resource and reference when you or a client needs something.

We are so grateful for the many ways Amanda supports her community!

For more information about becoming a bereavement doula, check out our guide here.

When children experience a loss, finding ways to help them understand and cope is a crucial part of the grieving process for families. This is where the power of reading comes in. But, there are many, many children’s books about grief, death, and even perinatal loss. No need to find them all; we’ve reviewed them for you.

We carefully curate our database of children’s books to help you find beautifully written and illustrated stories that will help your family discuss difficult topics of grief, death, and perinatal loss. We have evaluated each listed book on its ability to assist bereaved families (especially older siblings and other children) by offering empathic, accurate, and gentle guidance.

The database includes detailed reviews, ratings, and a description of the content and tone—including note of spiritual or religious perspectives. This information helps parents, bereavement doulas, and other support people quickly find the books that are most likely to help them navigate difficult conversations. Thus, our comprehensive guide stands as your supportive companion through the process of finding the children’s book that best fits your situation and your loved ones or clients.

Access the database here

Tag: grief

Haven Doula Spotlight: Amanda Smith

A database of children’s books about grief and loss