Wisconsin Doula Association Membership

How to become part of WDA

Thank you for your interest in joining the Wisconsin Doula Association (WDA). We are a non-profit dedicated to providing a supportive community for all birth workers interested.

Upon becoming a member of WDA you will have access to a private Facebook group for peer to peer support from doulas and birth workers in Wisconsin. From there, and the website, you can find a list of upcoming events and monthly doula meetings. Additional membership benefits include discounts on educational events, resources, and networking. We look forward to getting to know you and welcoming you to our community.

Learn about the doula skill set

Membership Benefits:

Regular meetings, including speakers and discussion
Other perks such as printing discounts, co-working space, speaking opportunities, ect
A supportive network of doulas from all types of backgrounds
Online networking, support, referrals
Exclusive content in the private Facebook group
Discounts on educational events sponsored by WDA
Doula stipend for supporting WDA clients

If you would like to support your community submit a membership application now!

Memberships

-WDA offers an annual membership, renewable each year for $50.00 for trained doulas and affiliates.
To join as a “Doula” you must be trained or working towards certification.
Affiliate members are Midwives, Doctors, Nurses, NCS, Nannies, etc. Please join us as a “Birthworker” below, and be prepared to upload a copy of your supporting documentation showing your professional affiliation in birth work.

Requirements for the applicant:

At least 24 hours of education that includes childbirth education, birth doula training and postpartum doula training.
Attendance at least 1 breastfeeding class.
Attendance at least 1 childbirth class.
Attendance at minimum 2 births.
Submission of one essay surrounding the role of doulas in the community.
Completion of cultural competency training.
Completion of HIPAA/Client confidentiality training.
Completion of maternal mental health training.

Doula Skill Set

Empathy – ability to identify with and understand another person’s experience and point of view. Stepping into their shoes and recognizing that experiences, perceptions and worldviews are unique to each individual.

Communication – both verbal and non-verbal. Ability to communicate clearly with a wide range of people is essential. Being aware of body language and other non-verbal cues and communicating appropriately and effectively with clients regardless of cultural background, age, gender, literacy skill level or disability.

Organization – Being able to maintain a wide range or responsibilities in managing and supporting multiple clients effectively.

Critical thinking – The ability to analyze information from unbiased observation and communication.

Active listening – Ability to hear a clients need and direction. Ask the right questions and utilize the proper resources for supporting clients and their families.

Cultural competence – Working effectively with clients from diverse backgrounds. Being respectful and responsive to cultural beliefs and practices. Having the necessary knowledge and skills to support families and provide non-judgement attitude based on race, ethnicity, gender, class, sexual orientation, religion, age or disability.