Empowering End-of-Life Doulas Worldwide
At the International End-of-Life Care Association (IEOLCA), we understand the profound impact of supporting someone at the end of life. If you feel called to offer gentle, dignified care during this sacred time, we’re here to equip you with the skills and confidence to become a trusted end-of-life doula.
End-of-life doulas offer calm, compassionate presence. Whether you’re supporting family, community members, or clients, your work will bring light and peace to one of life’s most important transitions.
Families today are looking for care that goes beyond medical treatment—care that recognizes the emotional and spiritual dimensions of dying. As an end-of-life doula, you can meet this growing need and help create a more gentle, holistic experience for everyone involved. Read more stories from our students on our Reviews page.
Why Now Is the Time to Become a Death Doula
“I’m really enjoying this process. It’s giving me such a sense of direction and well-being. This has been an amazing journey.”
– Lisa F., IEOLCA Certified End-of-Life Doula
As more people recognize the value of personalized end-of-life support, the demand for trained doulas is growing. Families and communities are seeking care that goes beyond the clinical—care that embraces emotional and spiritual needs, honors final wishes, and brings a sense of peace to this tender time.
End-of-life doulas fill a gap in conventional medical systems, offering the kind of presence and compassion that can’t always be found in busy healthcare environments. With aging populations and more people seeking to die at home or in more personal settings, doulas are stepping in to provide gentle, holistic care that meets the whole person—mind, body, and spirit.
Becoming a death doula is about stepping into a role that invites deep listening, compassion, and presence. It’s a chance to walk beside others with courage and love, to hold space for their fears and hopes, and to honor the dignity of each unique journey.
This work can also be a profound path of personal growth and transformation. As you learn to sit with others in their most vulnerable moments, you’ll find your own understanding of life, death, and the preciousness of each day deepening. You’ll discover how to meet these final chapters with grace and empathy, cultivating a practice that touches not only the lives of those you support, but your own life as well.
About IEOLCA & Our Programs
At the International End-of-Life Care Association (IEOLCA), we offer thoughtful, heart-centered training for those who feel called to support the dying and their families. Our online programs guide you through the principles and practices of compassionate care, helping you build the confidence and skills needed to walk alongside others at the end of life.
End-of-Life Doula Certification: A comprehensive, self-paced program that covers emotional, spiritual, and practical aspects of end-of-life care. Learn to create a safe and supportive space for those at the end of life, and build a foundation of knowledge and empathy. Learn more about our Certification program here.
Doula Business Essentials: A practical training for those ready to take the next step and build their own doula practice. This program includes guidance on setting up your services, pricing, marketing, and ethical considerations to help you launch with clarity and confidence. Learn more about Business Essentials here.
Learn more about our mission and team on the About page.
Why IEOLCA? Our training isn’t just about learning skills—it’s about cultivating presence, expanding your heart, and building the confidence to offer care that truly makes a difference. We believe that end-of-life care is both an art and a calling, and we’re here to walk with you every step of the way.
- Comprehensive Training: Learn practical, real-world skills for emotional and spiritual support, advance care planning, vigil creation, and companioning—rooted in compassion and evidence-based practices.
- Flexible, Self-Paced Learning: Our online program fits seamlessly into your life. Move through the material at your own rhythm, wherever you are in the world.
- Personal Growth & Reflection: Deepen your self-awareness and grow your confidence through carefully crafted exercises, real-world examples, and reflection prompts that help you connect with your unique calling in this work.
- Meaningful Practice Tools: Access downloadable resources, exercises, and templates designed to bring your learning into practice—so you can show up in ways that matter most.
Whether you’re just starting out or seeking to deepen your practice, IEOLCA’s programs support you in becoming a more present, capable, and heart-centered companion at the end of life.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an end-of-life doula?
An end-of-life doula is a non-medical support person who offers emotional, spiritual, and practical care to those nearing the end of life and their families.
Who can become a death doula?
Anyone with a compassionate heart and a willingness to support others can train as a death doula—no prior medical background required.
How does IEOLCA’s training work?
Our program is fully online and self-paced. You’ll find videos, written materials, and real-world exercises to help you integrate what you learn. For more answers to common questions, visit our FAQs page.
Ready to begin your journey? Click the link below to get started.
