End-of-Life Doula Frequently Asked Questions
Whether you're exploring a new calling or building a sustainable doula practice, you'll find clear, compassionate answers here.
Getting Started
New to death doula work? Start here to understand the role, terminology, and how doulas differ from other end-of-life supports.
What Is a Death Doula?
A clear overview of the non-medical role and the kind of support doulas provide.
What Does a Death Doula Do?
A practical look at common supports, settings, and how scope is defined.
What Is an End of Life Doula Called?
From “death companion” to “soul midwife” — terminology and why it varies.
Why Death Doula Work Matters Now More Than Ever
The cultural shift happening in deathcare, and why informed, non-medical support is increasingly needed.
How Emotionally Ready Do You Have to Be?
A grounded look at steadiness, boundaries, and the kind of readiness that matters.
Death Doula vs. Hospice Volunteer
A simple comparison of roles, boundaries, and how support is structured.
Training & Certification
Questions about qualifications, timelines, and how to evaluate training programs.
What Qualifications Do You Need?
What matters most in training, ethics, and readiness for real-world support.
How Long Does Training Take?
A realistic look at timelines and how self-paced learning fits real life.
Top Online Death Doula Training Programs
A side-by-side overview of formats and features to help you compare options.
How to Choose the Right Training Program
Curriculum depth, scope clarity, tools, and support — what to look for.
Understanding Death Doula Certification Costs
A transparent look at death doula training costs—and what to consider when choosing a program that fits your life and budget.
Do You Have to Be a Nurse?
Why doulas come from many backgrounds, and what the role is (and isn’t).
Career & Practice
Income questions, community demand, and how doulas collaborate while staying within scope.
Do Death Doulas Make Money?
How income can work in this field, with realistic framing and scope clarity.
Is There a Demand in My Area?
How to identify gaps, build referral pathways, and serve meaningfully.
Can Doulas Work in Hospitals or Care Facilities?
Where doulas may fit, and how to collaborate respectfully within policies and scope.
Can Doulas Help With Advance Care Planning?
How doulas support values-based planning conversations alongside professionals.
Pet Death Doula
Support for companion-animal loss, anticipatory grief, and end-of-life transitions.
