Doula Mentor?

I'm a doula and childbirth educator. I received my training through DONA, which is the most recognized certifying organization. There is also CAPPA, and they have several certifications, birth & postpartum doula, childbirth educator, breastfeeding educator, etc. I don't think you can go wrong with either one. I am only familiar with DONA's requirements.

I would encourage you to become involved with our local doula group, Doulas of Greater Kansas City. That's what I did when I first moved to the area, and they are a wonderful group of women. Our next meeting is Monday the 13th. If you are interested in coming to meet some other doulas and ask whatever questions you have, please PM me and I will give you info on our meeting location. You can also find us on facebook, etc.

Doula-ing is one of the most fulfilling things I do. Let me know if I can answer any questions for you, OK?

Dr. Alyssa

I don't have any good advice, but I would contact someone at the DONA website. I was looking to become a certified Lactation Consultant and the official LC website helped me out a lot! Someone at that webpage can answer questions for you....and YA! I LOVED our Doula! Good for you! Where do you live? I have a friend in Wisconsin that is looking for some interns at her midwifery clinic. Contact me if that is something you are interested in.

I did my training 3 days after giving birth to my son. It was so fun! IMHO, DONA training is necessary. You receive credibility and community, as well as an easier time getting clients. When you register and go to the training, you will meet experienced doulas and the doors will open to be present at births and start to gain clients of your own. Things fall into place once you become a part of your local doula community.

So in my case, I went to the training which was 3 days long, had to participate in a prenatal birthing class, at which point I was ready to tag along to some actual births. The next step is to attend three births and write a little report on each of them along with something written by the mom or doctor/ midwife attending the birth that talks about your contribution.

It's such a wonderful, loving thing to do. I wish you all the best.

Alyssa below is amazing!!!! Also, Vanessa Flood is great!!! check her out on FB and http://birthingbeyond.com/