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.